South Korea Launches Half-Price Travel Initiative, Offering Travel Cost Reimbursements to Rural Areas, Boosting Tourism Growth and Local Economies

Published on March 1, 2026

Image generated with Ai

The country is on the verge of launching an historic program that will seek to boost tourism in areas that are experiencing declining populations. From April, the Korean government has announced plans to pay 50% of the costs incurred in traveling to 16 rural areas that have been chosen to participate in the program. This is in an attempt to boost the economies of the areas experiencing declining populations.

Image generated with Ai

What is the Half-Price Travel Initiative?

The program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with the Korea Tourism Organization, is designed to incentivize tourism to specific rural areas. The goal is to provide financial relief to travelers while also supporting the regions in need of an economic boost. The initiative will run from April to June as a pilot project, offering travelers 50% reimbursement on their travel expenses. The refunded amount will be provided in the form of mobile regional gift certificates, which can be used at local businesses or for purchasing regional specialties online.

Participating Regions in the Half-Price Program

A total of 16 localities across South Korea have been selected to take part in this innovative initiative. These areas were chosen due to their struggles with population decline and the subsequent need for economic revival. The selected regions are:

• Gangwon Province: PyeongChang, Yeongwol, and Hoengseong
• North Chungcheong Province: Jecheon
• North Jeolla Province: Gochang
• South Jeolla Province: Gangjin, Yeonggwang, Haenam, Goheung, Wando, and Yeongam
• South Gyeongsang Province: Miryang, Hadong, Hapcheon, Geochang, and Namhae

Each of these areas offers unique local attractions, ranging from nature reserves to historical sites, and will benefit greatly from the tourism boost that the initiative is expected to bring.

How to Participate in the Half-Price Travel Scheme

The program is open to all Korean citizens aged 18 and above. To participate, travelers must first submit a travel plan to a municipality that is part of the initiative. Once approved, they can go ahead and visit the designated area. After the trip, participants can submit their receipts and proof of expenditure for reimbursement. Upon verification, they will receive a 50% refund of the total cost, up to 100,000 won for an individual or 200,000 won for groups of two or more.

How to Use the Reimbursed Amount

The reimbursed amount will be issued as mobile gift certificates, which must be spent by the end of the year. These vouchers can be redeemed at participating local stores or online marketplaces selling regional products. This helps promote local businesses and ensures that the funds stay within the community, further supporting the local economy.

Budget and Expansion Plans for the Travel Initiative

The total budget allocated for the initiative is 6.5 billion won, which will be distributed among the participating regions to cover the cost of reimbursements. While the project is currently set to run as a pilot program until June, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism plans to expand the initiative later in the year. The government aims to include four additional local governments, and based on the results of the pilot phase, the scheme could be rolled out nationwide in the following year.

Key Benefits for Rural Areas

This initiative is particularly beneficial for rural areas that are struggling with population decline. By attracting tourists, the program will help create new economic opportunities, particularly for local businesses in hospitality, food, and retail sectors. It also fosters a deeper connection between urban residents and rural communities, creating an opportunity for cultural exchange and awareness of the unique local traditions, landscapes, and history that these areas have to offer.

What Travelers Can Expect From Their Experience

The selected rural areas provide a range of experiences that cater to various interests, from outdoor adventures in the mountains and forests to discovering local traditions and cuisine. Whether visitors are interested in scenic hiking trails or visiting traditional markets, these regions offer a welcome escape from urban life, promoting both relaxation and exploration.

For example, PyeongChang, famous for hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics, offers visitors a chance to experience world-class ski resorts and breathtaking landscapes. Jecheon, known for its beautiful natural reserves, attracts nature lovers seeking peace and tranquility. Areas in South Jeolla Province offer seaside views and opportunities to immerse in the cultural heritage of the region, making them ideal for anyone looking to explore the richness of Korean traditions.

A Positive Step Towards Sustainable Rural Development

The half-price travel program is not just about promoting tourism; it also represents a significant step toward sustainable development in rural regions. The initiative encourages travelers to explore and support areas that are often overlooked in favor of the more popular destinations. It helps ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared more equitably across South Korea, contributing to the long-term viability of these communities.

Check Local Websites for More Information

Each of the 16 participating municipalities has specific details concerning the application process and requirements for proof of travel expenses. For the latest information and details concerning the application process, the public is encouraged to visit the Korea Tourism Organization’s official website at visitkorea.or.kr or the individual municipality’s website. These sites will offer all the information required to make the application process smooth and the trip successful.

With the increase in the number of participants in this initiative, the rural areas in South Korea not only get revitalized but also the tourism industry receives a boost, attracting visitors to explore the hidden gems in this amazing country.