Damyang Gamagol Ecological Park to Open Free of Charge Starting in October

Operating as a Nature-Friendly Ecological Space for Tourists
Aiming to Revitalize the Local Economy and Expand the Resident Population

Yongso (left in the photo) and Siwon Bridge (suspension bridge) within Gamagol Ecological Park in Damyang. Provided by Damyang County

Damyang County in South Jeolla Province (Governor Jeong Cheolwon) announced on September 15 that Gamagol Ecological Park will be open to the public free of charge starting October 1, allowing both residents and tourists to relax and enjoy nature.

This measure aims to operate Gamagol Ecological Park as a public ecological space where residents and tourists can experience nature, thereby revitalizing the local economy and expanding the population of tourism-oriented residents.

Opened in 1989, Gamagol Ecological Park spans 4 kilometers around Yongchusan Mountain (523 meters above sea level) in Yongmyeon, Yongyeon-ri, Damyang. The park is renowned for Yongso, the source of the Yeongsan River, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year, as well as its approximately 2-kilometer-long natural valley, lush forests, and abundant streams.

Main facilities include Siwon Bridge (suspension bridge), Siwonjeong Pavilion, three hiking trails, and two nature exploration paths. Nearby traditional mountain restaurants offer local specialties such as chicken dishes and catfish stew.

The county plans to strictly restrict activities that harm the ecological environment, such as damaging facilities, bringing in or cooking food, camping, capturing animals or plants, digging up trees, smoking, and littering, in order to preserve the environment and ensure sustainable operation alongside free admission.

Governor Jeong Cheolwon stated, "Gamagol Ecological Park is a space that represents the natural beauty of the region. Through free admission, residents and tourists will be able to enjoy it more closely. We will continue to implement various policies to establish Damyang as a sustainable eco-tourism city."

Meanwhile, the county will continue to maintain and improve tourist attractions that blend nature and culture, such as Gamagol Ecological Park, Juknokwon, Metasequoia Land, and the Korea Bamboo Museum, in order to enhance Damyang's appeal as a travel destination.