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Sustainable Tourism in South Korea

South Korea's Sustainability Vision

South Korea, a modern and dynamic country, is known for its vibrant cities, historical landmarks, and diverse natural landscapes, from the iconic peaks of Jeju Island to the bustling streets of Seoul. With tourism contributing over 4% to the national GDP, South Korea has seen a steady rise in both international and domestic tourism. The pre-COVID boom saw over 17 million international visitors annually. However, as the country recovers from the pandemic, the focus is shifting towards more sustainable, inclusive, and environmentally-conscious tourism development.

Key Challenges

Despite its global appeal, South Korea faces several sustainability challenges related to tourism. Overcrowding in popular destinations, particularly Seoul, Jeju Island, and Gyeongju, places strain on infrastructure, public services, and the environment. The rapid growth of short-term accommodation services and large-scale festivals has also led to waste management issues and urban sprawl.

Cultural commodification, particularly in traditional villages, and the commercialization of indigenous practices are additional concerns. These challenges must be addressed to ensure that tourism benefits all communities while preserving both natural and cultural heritage.

Ecotourism and Rural Development

South Korea’s rural regions, which often face depopulation, are increasingly seen as key to the country’s sustainable tourism strategy. Ecotourism initiatives, especially in areas like Gangwon-do, Jeolla, and the wetlands of Suncheon Bay, focus on connecting tourists with nature through activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and eco-farming.

The “Slow City” (Cittaslow) movement has gained traction, promoting smaller towns and villages as travel destinations for those looking to experience a more authentic, unhurried pace of life. This approach seeks to attract visitors who are interested in both nature conservation and cultural immersion, while supporting local economies.

Additionally, Jeju Island is at the forefront of South Korea’s sustainable tourism efforts, with initiatives aimed at preserving its UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve, limiting large-scale tourism infrastructure, and focusing on renewable energy and eco-friendly practices.

Strategic Framework and National Policy

The South Korean government is actively working to incorporate sustainability into its tourism sector through policies that encourage responsible travel. The “Green Tourism Promotion Act” (established in 2018) lays out guidelines for eco-friendly tourism and encourages local governments to develop low-impact travel options. In addition, the government has launched programs such as “Visit Korea Year”, which promote sustainable tourism by advocating for environmentally conscious travel options.

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is also working closely with industry stakeholders to integrate sustainability into their tourism models, with a focus on preserving cultural landmarks, promoting green accommodation, and reducing carbon footprints.

Post-COVID Shift and Innovation

In post-COVID recovery, South Korea has emphasised “Safe and Smart Tourism.” Using technology and data to manage visitor flows, the country has launched tourism apps that provide real-time information, crowd management strategies, and recommendations for lesser-known destinations. This smart tourism initiative aims to mitigate overcrowding while providing more balanced tourism experiences across the country. South Korea is also embracing the rise of wellness tourism, with spas, traditional medicine, and nature experiences becoming more central to sustainable tourism offerings. The focus on mental and physical health aligns with a broader trend of ecotourism and responsible travel.

Outlook

South Korea’s focus on smart tourism, rural revitalisation, and cultural preservation holds great promise for creating a more sustainable tourism sector. As the country transitions from mass tourism to more responsible, value-driven travel experiences, the challenge will be balancing modernity with tradition and ensuring that tourism contributes to both environmental protection and local development. The country’s combination of digital innovation, community-based tourism, and environmental commitment makes it well-positioned to thrive in the post-pandemic era, offering meaningful experiences for both locals and visitors.
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