Published on
August 31, 2025
South Korea is making progress in promoting balanced regional development while supporting ecotourism, a sector known for its sustainable approach to tourism. A new project led by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) in partnership with the Ministry of Environment focuses on three regions: Buan County in Jeollabuk-do, Boryeong City in Chungcheongnam-do, and Yeongwol County in Gangwon-do. This initiative aims to boost ecotourism in these areas, connect with the country’s national policies, and utilise the unique features of each region for sustainable growth and environmental preservation. The collaboration between these ministries, as part of a larger effort to shift development away from the capital region, seeks to ensure that local areas thrive through the creation of green spaces, nature reserves, and eco-friendly tourism programs.
Buan County: Harnessing Ecological Riches for Sustainable Tourism
Buan County, located in the Jeollabuk-do province, has emerged as a prominent location for ecotourism in South Korea. This region, rich in ecological resources and natural beauty, boasts key attractions such as the Julypo Bay Wetland Protection Area, the Buan Julypo Bay Sunset Garden, the Buan Sea Road Tourist Area, and the Mudflat Healing Centre Project. These locations are central to the region’s eco-friendly tourism offerings, attracting visitors eager to experience the beauty of nature while participating in environmental preservation efforts.
Buan’s ecological initiatives have garnered widespread recognition, particularly its efforts in integrating nature conservation with tourism. The Mudflat Healing Centre is one of the highlights, offering visitors educational experiences about wetland ecosystems and the vital role they play in biodiversity conservation. The county’s strategy involves creating a unified ecotourism system that connects different natural and cultural sites into a cohesive and sustainable visitor experience. This system not only attracts tourists but also educates the public about the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems, making Buan a shining example of how ecotourism can be integrated into a region’s growth plan.
Boryeong City: A Blend of Culture, Nature, and Community Engagement
Boryeong City, located in Chungcheongnam-do, is well known for its rich natural landscapes and vibrant cultural offerings. The city’s most famous landmarks include the ecological conservation area of Sohwang Sand Dune, Wonsando Island, Daecheon Beach, and the Sunset Observatory. These areas not only draw visitors due to their natural beauty but also because of the community’s active role in preserving and promoting these sites. The city’s collaborative efforts, involving groups such as the Sustainable Development Council and the Sohwang Sand Dune Preservation Management Council, have significantly contributed to the successful integration of environmental conservation into the local tourism industry.
The ecological conservation efforts in Boryeong focus on preserving the area’s diverse ecosystems while promoting sustainable tourism activities. The Sohwang Sand Dune, one of the largest coastal dunes in South Korea, offers visitors a rare chance to witness a unique coastal landscape. Visitors can engage in educational programmes that explain the importance of dune ecosystems and their protection. In addition to its natural attractions, Boryeong is also home to cultural events and initiatives that connect visitors with the local community and its sustainability goals. This mix of nature, culture, and community involvement makes Boryeong a model for ecotourism that emphasises the importance of sustainable practices in both environmental and social contexts.
Yeongwol County: Ecotourism in Harmony with Forests and Rivers
Yeongwol County, nestled in the province of Gangwon-do, has been recognised for its commitment to ecotourism, particularly in how it integrates natural landscapes with cultural heritage. The county’s key attractions include the Byeolmaro Observatory, the Bongraesan Forest Bathing Area, and the Bongraesan Landmark Project, which is focused on creating forest play areas and ecological spaces for visitors. These locations offer a unique opportunity for tourists to experience the connection between forests, rivers, and local traditions in an immersive way.
One of Yeongwol’s standout features is its focus on forest- and river-based ecotourism activities. The Bongraesan Forest Bathing Area, for example, is a prime location for forest therapy, which is becoming increasingly popular as people seek to reconnect with nature and benefit from the therapeutic effects of forests. Additionally, the county is home to the Byeolmaro Observatory, where visitors can enjoy stargazingin one of the clearest skies in South Korea, offering another way to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. These offerings are not only a draw for eco-conscious tourists but also contribute to preserving the cultural and natural heritage of the region.
Inter-Ministerial Collaboration: Building a Sustainable Future for Ecotourism
The collaborative project between the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Ministry of Environment is a significant step toward ensuring the long-term sustainability of ecotourism in South Korea. Through this partnership, the two ministries are conducting region-specific ecotourism diagnostics to assess the current state of ecotourism infrastructure in each of the selected regions. These evaluations focus on improving the conditions for ecotourism, such as the integration of local resources and infrastructure into tourism strategies and enhancing the capacity of local communities to manage and operate ecotourism programmes.
As part of this initiative, the ministries aim to develop tailored ecotourism activities that are specific to the unique features of each region. By doing so, they hope to promote not only the conservation of natural areas but also the cultural heritage of these communities. The emphasis is on creating a more balanced tourism model that benefits both the environment and local economies. This model is designed to reduce the over-concentration of tourists in the capital region, which has long been a challenge for South Korea’s tourism sector. By encouraging travel to less-explored regions, the government aims to reduce pressures on urban areas while boosting the economies of rural communities.
A Bright Future for South Korean Ecotourism
South Korea’s effort to develop its regions through ecotourism is a positive step that shows the country’s growing focus on environmental sustainability. By choosing Buan, Boryeong, and Yeongwol for this joint ecotourism project, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Ministry of Environment are making important strides toward building a fairer and more sustainable tourism sector. These areas, with their distinct ecological and cultural resources, are set to become top spots for environmentally aware travellers.
With ongoing teamwork and investment, South Korea can become a model for ecotourism in Asia. It can show how regions can balance tourism with the preservation of the environment and culture. With Buan, Boryeong, and Yeongwol leading the initiative, the prospects for South Korean ecotourism are bright and encouraging.
