Published on
September 5, 2025
South Korea is renowned for its scenic landscapes, modern cities, and rich cultural heritage. However, there is one sector of the country that has been largely overlooked for tourism—abandoned mining areas. These places, once bustling with activity, now stand as forgotten relics of the past. But thanks to innovative tourism initiatives, such as the recent collaboration between Kakao VX and the Gangwon Tourism Foundation, these old mining sites are getting a second chance. By transforming them into hubs for golf and leisure travel, these areas are being revitalized, offering a fresh and unique opportunity for both locals and international tourists.
Kakao VX’s latest venture involves launching stay-type golf travel packages aimed at promoting the tourism potential of the Taebaek and Yeongwol regions, located in South Korea’s Gangwon province. These packages not only offer access to world-class golf courses but also allow travelers to explore the unique cultural and natural attractions of the area. The initiative is designed to breathe new life into these once-thriving mining areas, turning them into travel destinations that blend sport, culture, and history.
Revitalizing Abandoned Mining Areas Through Tourism
Historically, many regions in South Korea, including Gangwon Province, were built around mining industries that powered the country’s economy. However, as the mining industry declined, many areas were left behind, creating pockets of abandoned land. These sites, while rich in history, were also left unused and disconnected from the country’s broader tourism industry. Recognizing the potential to use these forgotten spaces as unique travel destinations, Kakao VX and the Gangwon Tourism Foundation joined forces to introduce golf travel packages as part of a broader tourism strategy.
The goal is to reinvigorate these regions by blending outdoor recreation, such as golf, with cultural immersion, giving visitors the opportunity to experience both. By introducing new activities like golf courses alongside historical and natural sightseeing, this initiative aims to draw in golf enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs alike, all while contributing to the economic recovery of these once-forgotten areas.
The impact of such revitalization cannot be understated. In addition to providing an influx of visitors to these remote regions, the initiative is expected to create new jobs, bolster local economies, and bring attention to the rich cultural and natural landscapes that were previously underappreciated. For the local communities, these travel packages offer a much-needed economic boost by attracting visitors who will stay longer, explore more, and contribute to the region’s growth.
The Concept Behind the Golf Travel Package
Kakao VX’s golf travel packages are designed to appeal to a wide range of tourists. The core concept is simple but effective—combine golf with the discovery of local culture and history. The two packages currently offered—one in the Taebaek region and another in Yeongwol—are strategically designed to provide visitors with a full experience of both leisure and education.
These packages include several components: green fees at local golf courses, accommodation at golf resorts, breakfast at the clubhouse, and admission tickets to prominent tourist attractions in the area. For example, the Taebaek O2 CC package includes all of the above, as well as a visit to the Taebaek Tongri Tantan Park. Similarly, the Yeongwol Donggang Sistar CC package offers access to Yeongwol Cheongnyeongpo, a historic site. By weaving together golf and cultural tourism, the packages allow visitors to experience more than just a day of sport—they offer a gateway into the heart of South Korea’s diverse regional offerings.
The emphasis on using the Kakao Golf Reservation app to book these experiences ensures ease of access for tech-savvy travelers, further modernizing the booking process. The integration of a digital platform for reservations also highlights how technology is enhancing travel experiences, allowing tourists to quickly secure their spot for an exciting getaway.
A Unique Blend of Golf and Local Culture
One of the standout features of these golf travel packages is how they combine the excitement of golfing with cultural exploration. While golf tourism is not new, the concept of using golf as a vehicle to promote regional tourism and educate visitors about local culture and history is a relatively unique approach.
For golfers, the opportunity to enjoy natural courses surrounded by breathtaking landscapes is appealing. But beyond the golf itself, the chance to explore the surrounding tourist attractions adds an extra layer of value. This is especially true in regions like Taebaek and Yeongwol, which are known for their mountainous terrain, rich natural resources, and historical significance.
In Taebaek, for instance, visitors can enjoy the stunning vistas of the Taebaek Mountains while indulging in a round of golf at O2 CC. The nearby Taebaek Tongri Tantan Park, with its beautiful natural scenery, offers a perfect complement to a day of golfing. Similarly, in Yeongwol, travelers can visit Cheongnyeongpo, a cultural landmark that provides a glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted history.
This integration of sport with local culture not only enhances the tourist experience but also promotes the preservation of these regions’ natural and cultural treasures. By attracting tourists, the initiative encourages the development of infrastructure that better supports the local community, such as improved roads, accommodations, and tourist services.
The Role of Kakao VX in Shaping the Future of Travel
Kakao VX is no stranger to transforming traditional industries with technology. As part of the Kakao Corporation, the company has a long track record of utilizing digital platforms to enhance user experiences, and its golf travel packages are no exception. The ability to book these unique experiences through the Kakao Golf Reservation app offers a seamless, user-friendly experience for travelers. This integration of digital technology into travel not only makes it easier to plan and reserve trips but also brings attention to a growing trend in the travel industry: the increasing role of technology in shaping the future of tourism.
The collaboration between Kakao VX and the Gangwon Tourism Foundation is an excellent example of how technology can be used to revitalize regions that may have otherwise been left behind. By providing a digital gateway for people to book their travel, Kakao VX has helped streamline the process and made it more accessible to a broader audience. This approach is particularly important as more tourists look for convenience, safety, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing travel environments.
Furthermore, Kakao VX’s commitment to partnering with regional tourism bodies underscores the importance of collaboration in boosting tourism. The Gangwon Tourism Foundation’s involvement ensures that the packages not only attract visitors but also showcase the area’s unique cultural and natural attractions, contributing to the long-term success of the initiative.
Long-Term Effects on Regional Tourism
In the long run, Kakao VX’s golf travel packages are expected to have a lasting impact on regional tourism in South Korea. By introducing tourists to lesser-known areas such as Taebaek and Yeongwol, the initiative diversifies the country’s tourism offerings and spreads the economic benefits of tourism to a wider geographic area. These packages also serve as a gateway for future tourism, with visitors likely to return or recommend the areas to others.
Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the initiative helps to foster a deeper connection between visitors and the local culture. As travelers learn about the history and significance of these areas, they gain a greater appreciation for South Korea’s diverse regions. This cultural engagement is likely to lead to more sustainable and responsible tourism practices, ensuring that these areas continue to thrive for generations to come.
The success of this project could pave the way for similar initiatives in other parts of South Korea. Other regions with abandoned or underutilized land may look to Kakao VX’s model as a blueprint for revitalizing their own local economies through tourism. The combination of golf, culture, and nature offers a compelling and adaptable model for future tourism development.
Conclusion: The Future of Golf Tourism in South Korea
The launch of Kakao VX’s golf travel packages marks a new chapter in South Korea’s tourism industry. By revitalizing abandoned mining areas and combining golf with local culture, Kakao VX has introduced an innovative approach to regional tourism. This collaboration with the Gangwon Tourism Foundation not only offers golfers a chance to enjoy some of South Korea’s most picturesque golf courses but also allows them to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Taebaek and Yeongwol regions.
The positive impact on local economies, job creation, and regional tourism cannot be overstated. Through this initiative, Kakao VX has demonstrated the power of blending technology with travel to offer unique experiences that benefit both tourists and local communities. As the tourism industry continues to evolve, projects like this show the potential for innovation to shape the future of travel in South Korea and beyond.
