MCST and MOLIT Seek Ways to Revitalize Yangyang Airport and Link It to Gangwon Tourism

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) discussed ways to develop regional airports into gateways for foreign tourists and connect them with nearby tourist attractions.
MCST and MOLIT held the Regional Tourism Revitalization Cooperation Forum Linked to Regional Airports at Yangyang International Airport on the 7th, seeking ways to connect the airport with tourism in Gangwon.
The forum, held for the third time following events in Daegu in April and Gimhae in May, was attended by local governments including Gangwon State, Yangyang County, Chuncheon, Gangneung, and Sokcho City, as well as the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), Korea Airports Corporation (KAC), Gangwon Tourism Foundation, Korea Association of Travel Agents, and representatives from airlines and the travel industry.
Participants assessed the slow recovery of international passenger traffic at Yangyang International Airport and discussed ways to attract and spread foreign tourists throughout Gangwon.
In particular, they examined improvement measures needed throughout the foreign tourist journey after arrival, including not only attracting routes but also transportation between the airport and tourist attractions, local capacity to accommodate visitors, tourism content, and promotion and marketing.
MCST and MOLIT plan to continue managing the issues identified at this forum and in Daegu and Gimhae through the Tourism and Transportation Policy Council. They also plan to hold a public debate in November, gather opinions on revitalizing regional airports and spreading foreign tourists to local areas, and reflect them in policy.
Kim Dae-hyun, Second Vice Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said, "We will provide comprehensive support so that the process does not stop at attracting foreign tourists, but naturally continues with their travel from airports to tourist attractions and their experiences and spending in Gangwon."
[email protected] Jeong Sun-min Reporter