Kim Hyangran of Geochang County Council: "Attracting 10 Million Tourists During the Year of Visiting Geochang Is Fully Achievable"

Time to Showcase Geochang's True Value
Strategies Needed to Ensure Return Visits

Kim Hyangran, a member of the Geochang County Council in South Gyeongsang Province, strongly urged the implementation of practical measures to attract 10 million tourists ahead of the "Year of Visiting Geochang 2026."

During a five-minute free speech at the 291st extraordinary session of the Geochang County Council, Assemblywoman Kim emphasized, "The Year of Visiting Geochang 2026 should not be a mere promotional event, but rather a turning point that transforms Geochang's tourism paradigm." She added, "We need strategies that truly showcase the value of Geochang and ensure that visitors are compelled to return."

Photo of Kim Hyangran, member of Geochang County Council.

Assemblywoman Kim first proposed the systematic development of the "Nine Scenic Spots of Geochang," which span the east, west, south, and north of the county. She stated, "Geochang should no longer be a place that tourists simply pass through, but a destination where they stay for at least two to three days and enjoy immersive experiences."

She went on to highlight the achievements of the Forest Leisure Sports Park, noting, "The Forest Leisure Sports Park has already proven itself as a tourism asset, attracting 160,000 visitors just during the peak season." She continued, "Now is the time to actively open up a new market for pet-friendly tourism."

In particular, Assemblywoman Kim stressed the importance of pet tourism, saying, "The number of pet owners in Korea has already surpassed 15 million. Even if only 10% of them visit Geochang, that would mean attracting 1.5 million tourists annually." She emphasized, "Providing pet-friendly accommodations, exclusive tourism courses, and hands-on services is not optional but essential."

Additionally, Assemblywoman Kim proposed the establishment of a park golf course within Changpowon, stating, "Park golf is a stay-type tourism content that can appeal not only to middle-aged and older adults but also to seniors." She argued, "If combined with the natural environment of Changpowon, it will become a key facility that attracts tourists year-round."

Regarding the joint hosting of the 66th Gyeongnam Provincial Sports Festival in 2027, Assemblywoman Kim remarked, "The Provincial Sports Festival is not just a sporting event, but a golden opportunity to imprint Geochang's city brand and tourism capabilities on all provincial residents." She added, "We must ensure a successful joint hosting through a comprehensive strategy that organically links accommodations, transportation, tourism, and local businesses."

In closing, Assemblywoman Kim stated, "The Year of Visiting Geochang 2026 is not just a one-time event, but an important turning point that will determine the direction of Geochang's tourism for the next decade." She strongly urged the administration to take active measures to create a Geochang that guarantees return visits and is full of vitality.