"Hey, our wholesale costs went up 300%, so we raised it 400% because fuck you, we’re all doing it and you don’t have any other options " is still price gouging and collusion.

I live in korea and recently visited Japan. Both countries are wonderful to visit.

Went to Tokyo and Kyoto, the touristy spots were very busy. As long as you’re polite and respect Japanese social “rules”, it’s fine. And there’s plenty of other places to visit if Kyoto is too contentious right now.

Korea also has a lot to offer in Seoul and Busan. It’s a short few hours and reasonably priced high speed train between the two cities.

Plenty of other countries in the region to visit as well.