The role of mobility apps in memorable tourism experiences of Korean tourists: Stress-coping theory perspective

Mobility, which refers to all available modes of transportation in a tourism destination, is an essential element of the tourism service and can increase memorable tourism experiences. Paradoxically, mobility is also considered a significantly stressful factor in tourism experiences. Unfamiliar mobility at a local destination can evoke tourists' anxiety, which can have a negative impact on their memorable tourism experiences and stress levels. This study examined tourists' mobility app use behavior to search for and obtain mobility information by applying the Stress-Coping Theory perspective. The results show that perceived behavioral control, based on mobility app quality, comprising usefulness, trust, and interactivity, positively influences memorable tourism experiences and mobility app reuse intention by reducing stress from mobility. Thus, mobility apps can reduce tourists' stress and enhance memorable tourism experiences by causing tourists to feel that they have control over local mobility. When those positive effects arise, tourists have an intention toward mobility app reuse. Based on these results, we present theoretical and practical implications for understanding tourists' mobility app use behavior.