Gangwon Province Launches Marine Tourism Products Based on East Sea Line Railway

Customized Railway Travel Products Targeting Busan and Gyeongnam Region
Expanded Itineraries: One-Day and Two-Day Options
Online Reservations and Sales Now Open

Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Governor Kim Jin-tae) announced that it will officially launch marine tourism products based on the East Sea Line Railway starting September 10. These new offerings go beyond simple transportation, combining hands-on and participatory content, and are expected to revitalize regional tourism.

East Sea Line Railway Marine Tourism Product Poster. Provided by Gangwon Province

The product has been designed as a railway travel course that departs from Bujeon Station in Busan and connects major tourist destinations along the East Coast, including Samcheok, Donghae, and Gangneung. The itinerary is available as both a one-day trip and a two-day, one-night option, providing tourists with a wider range of choices.

To meet the needs of various age groups, the program incorporates emotional experiences, nature tourism, and visits to traditional markets. It is planned as a "journey with locals," with local residents serving as guides. In addition to major attractions such as Hwanseon Cave, Mureung Byeol Yucheonji, and Dojjaebigol Haerang Observatory, the itinerary includes local content such as meals at traditional markets and woodworking experiences, which are expected to have a positive impact on both residents and visitors.

The province has partnered with Korail, as well as accommodation, food and beverage, and experience providers, to differentiate the product as a themed offering that encompasses "railway + sea + culture." In addition, SNS hashtag events and souvenir giveaways are planned to encourage participation from younger generations.

The product will be available for purchase through various online channels, including the Korail website, Naver Store, and Bauttle, starting September 10.

Meanwhile, since the opening of the East Sea Line, the cumulative number of users reached approximately 1.18 million as of July 2025, with about 250,000 of them entering Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province.

Kim Gwon-jong, Director of Tourism for Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, stated, "The significance of this product lies in expanding the tourism flow, which has been centered on the Seoul metropolitan area, to the southern region, and maximizing the advantages of the East Sea Line Railway, which directly connects Busan and the Gangwon East Coast." He added, "It is especially meaningful that local residents participate directly and the structure is linked to local businesses, helping to build a sustainable tourism ecosystem."