Okjeongho in Imsil Surpasses 1.76 Million Visitors... "10 Million Tourists" Within Reach

A Record-Breaking Year with 9.2 Million Visitors Last Year

The suspension bridge at Okjeongho Crucian Carp Island Ecological Park in Imsil County, Jeonbuk, has surpassed 1.76 million cumulative visitors three years after its opening. The photo shows tourists using the suspension bridge. Provided by Imsil County, Jeonbuk. Photo by Jeonbuk Imsil County

The Okjeongho Suspension Bridge and Crucian Carp Island Ecological Park, key projects of Imsil County in Jeonbuk, have established themselves as premier tourist destinations representing not only Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province but all of South Korea, driving the era of “10 million tourists in Imsil.”

According to Imsil County on January 5, the number of tourists who visited Okjeongho Crucian Carp Island Ecological Park in 2025 was estimated at approximately 440,000. Since the opening of the suspension bridge in October 2022, cumulative visitors have reached around 1.76 million. Notably, during last year’s National Assembly audit, the site was officially cited as a nationwide tourism success story, demonstrating its value both domestically and internationally.

The economic ripple effect has also been significant. As of 2025, total operating revenue-including admission fees to the Crucian Carp Island Ecological Park and sales from on-site cafes, restaurants, and other amenities-amounted to 3.8 billion won. This is considered to be a substantial driving force for revitalizing the local economy.

Diversification of tourism content is also cited as a key factor in its success. The “Pet-Friendly Admission” program, introduced in March of last year, attracted 1,603 groups, receiving enthusiastic support from households with pets. Additionally, the Okjeongho Cherry Blossom Festival and seasonal flower plantings in autumn have provided attractions throughout all four seasons, earning continued praise from visitors.

Meanwhile, to prevent accidents and maintain facilities, the county will close the Okjeongho Suspension Bridge and Crucian Carp Island Ecological Park for the winter season from January 1 to February 28. During this period, thorough inspections will be conducted, and the park is scheduled to reopen on March 1.

Shim Min, Governor of Imsil County, stated, “Last year, the total number of visitors to Imsil County reached 9.2 million, bringing us to the threshold of the 10 million tourist era,” and emphasized, “In 2026, we will further enhance core tourism resources such as Okjeongho to ensure that Imsil becomes a premier tourist city attracting 10 million visitors.”