Boosting Domestic Travel Through Innovative Tourism Programs

South Korea is doubling down on efforts to stimulate domestic tourism and bolster local economies with an expansion of the ‘Digital Tourism state Camp’ initiative, known as “Touristism.” This program aims to provide enhanced benefits to travelers exploring various regions across the country.

Extending the Reach of Tourism Stocks

Spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in collaboration with the Korea Tourism Association, the initiative is set to broaden its operational scope from 34 to 44 regions by the end of April. This expansion is a direct response to the challenges faced by areas experiencing population decline,aiming to inject economic vitality through increased tourism.

What is ‘Tourism Civil Affairs’?

‘Tourism Civil Affairs’ functions as a regional honorary resident card, granting visitors access to a range of travel perks. These benefits encompass discounts and special offers on accommodation, dining, attractions, experiences, and shopping. The program’s success is evident in its phased rollout, starting with pilot programs in Pyeongchang and Okcheon in 2022, followed by expansions to 15 regions in 2023 and 34 in 2024. By the close of last year,an impressive 411 million tourist certificates had been issued,demonstrating strong public engagement.

New Regions and Enhanced Benefits

The latest expansion welcomes ten new regions into the fold:

• Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon
• Boryeong-si, Chungnam
• Gimje-si, Jeonbuk
• Gurye-gun, jeonnam
• Gokseong-gun, Jeonnam
• Hampyeong-gun, Jeonnam
• Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongbuk
• Uiseong-gun, Gyeongbuk
• Milyang-si, Gyeongnam
• Dong-gu, Busan

With these additions, the number of available travel benefits nationwide will increase from 830 to an impressive 1000, offering even more incentives for exploration.

Examples of Available Discounts

Travelers can anticipate notable savings and exclusive experiences. Such as:

• A 50% reduction on entrance fees to Hantan River Jusangjeolli-gil in cheorwon-gun,Gangwon.
• A 20% discount on the Skybike experience at Daecheon Beach in Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do.
• A 30% discount at Provans Photo Land in Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongbuk.

The government is committed to securing further discounts and benefits across a diverse array of travel facilities.

Special Events and Incentives for Tourist Citizens

To further incentivize participation, a series of special events are planned for ‘Tourist Citizen’ cardholders. These include:

• An online event on April 4th, offering 50 domestic flight tickets (Jin Air Open Ticket).
• A monthly lottery providing travel benefits ranging from ₩10,000 to ₩500,000 for accommodation and experiences.
• The launch of a ‘Digital Tourism State – Special Train’ product at the end of April, facilitating visits to participating regions via KORAIL train.

How to Obtain a ‘Tourism Civil affairs’ Card

Prospective travelers can easily acquire a ‘Tourism Civil Affairs’ card through the “every corner of Korea” website and mobile application. Once issued, the card grants access to discounts at participating tourism facilities and businesses by scanning the provided QR code.

Government Perspective

Kim Jung-hoon, Director of the tourism Policy Bureau, emphasized the program’s importance, stating:

It is indeed significant in terms of the increase in the population of tourism and revitalizing the local economy in terms of population reduction area.
Kim Jung-hoon, Director of the Tourism Policy Bureau

Looking Ahead: The Future of Domestic Tourism in South Korea

The expansion of the ‘Digital Tourism State Camp’ initiative represents a strategic investment in South Korea’s domestic tourism sector. By leveraging digital tools and offering compelling incentives, the program aims to not only attract visitors but also to foster sustainable economic growth in regions facing demographic challenges. As the program continues to evolve, it holds the potential to serve as a model for other nations seeking to revitalize their local economies through innovative tourism strategies.