Jung Gwanseop of Chungnam Provincial Council: "Rural Homestays Must Be Revitalized for Stay-Type Tourism"

"Despite Pristine Environment and Rich Historical Resources,
Chungnam Severely Lacks Accommodation Infrastructure"

Assemblyman Jung Gwanseop of Chungnam Provincial Council advocating for the revitalization of rural homestays to boost tourism in Chungnam./Provided by Chungnam Provincial Council

Assemblyman Jung Gwanseop (People Power Party, Taean 2) of the Chungnam Provincial Council is advocating for attracting tourists by supporting rural homestay facilities in order to boost stay-type tourism during the 2025?2026 Visit Chungnam Years.

On the morning of April 22, during the 4th plenary session of the 358th temporary session held at the council's main chamber, Assemblyman Jung delivered a five-minute speech urging the province to support rural homestay facilities.

He emphasized, "2025?2026 marks the Visit Chungnam Years, and although Chungnam boasts a pristine natural environment and abundant historical and cultural resources, its accommodation infrastructure is severely lacking." He added, "To attract tourists and promote stay-type tourism, it is urgent to support rural homestays."

He continued, "According to data from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, as of 2023, Chungnam has 41 registered tourist accommodation businesses with 4,615 rooms, placing it in the lower-middle ranks among the 17 provinces and metropolitan cities nationwide." He argued, "In order to strengthen stay-type tourism in rural areas, revitalizing rural homestays is essential."

He also pointed out, "Rural homestays are facing difficulties due to aging facilities, hygiene management, and safety standards." He explained, "Active support is needed based on the 'Ordinance on Supporting Rural Homestay Businesses in Chungcheongnam-do.'"

Furthermore, he stressed, "Rural homestays are an important tourism infrastructure that not only creates income for local farmers and fishermen but also offers unique experiences to tourists. Therefore, systematic support is needed to foster them as a new driving force for tourism in Chungnam."

As measures to revitalize rural homestays, Assemblyman Jung proposed: expanding remodeling subsidies for facility modernization; strengthening promotion and marketing, including the establishment of online platforms; and providing education and management consulting for operators.