South Korea’s New Half-Price Travel Programs Revitalize Regional Tourism And Boost Local Economies

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In a bid to boost regional tourism and invigorate local economies, South Korea has introduced innovative “half-price travel” programs that are attracting tourists to rural areas. These initiatives offer substantial reimbursements to travelers, providing up to 50 percent back on travel expenses in the form of gift certificates for use at local businesses. As the first of its kind in Korea, Gangjin County in South Jeolla has led the way with its highly successful program, which is now inspiring other regions to adopt similar models. This move is bringing economic growth and greater visitor numbers to previously overlooked destinations.

Gangjin County’s Groundbreaking “Half-Price Travel” Program

Gangjin County, located in South Jeolla Province, has pioneered the “half-price travel” initiative, offering travelers a chance to explore the area’s cultural and historical sites at a fraction of the cost. Visitors to Gangjin can receive a 50 percent refund on their travel expenses, up to 200,000 won, in the form of Gangjin Love gift certificates. The program has been incredibly successful, with tourists from across the country flocking to the region to take advantage of the offer.

Kim Suk-hee, a 26-year-old resident from Gimpo, Gyeonggi Province, shared her positive experience. She and her group spent three days and two nights in Gangjin, enjoying local attractions such as Dasan Chodang and Baeknyeon Temple, as well as activities like zip-lining on Gau Island. Despite spending 460,000 won ($331) during their trip, Kim’s group received 200,000 won back, leaving them with an out-of-pocket cost of just 260,000 won ($187).

Kim described the trip as not only affordable but also enriching, as they were able to explore the region’s historic sites and enjoy regional delicacies like Byeongyeong-style bulgogi. The financial relief provided by the mobile coupons issued by Gangjin County made the experience even more enjoyable, as tourists like Kim were able to bring home local specialties like salted freshwater shrimp and paprika.

Significant Economic Impact: How the Program is Revitalizing Gangjin’s Economy

The success of Gangjin’s program is evident in the substantial economic impact it has had on the region. As of August 17, 2025, more than 33,000 travel groups had participated in the initiative, collectively spending over 4.13 billion won. In the first year of the program, 15,291 travel groups participated, spending a total of 2.19 billion won. The 2.2 billion won invested in the program in 2024 has led to a 24 billion won production impact and generated more than 10 billion won in added economic value.

The program’s direct effect on tourism has also been significant. Gangjin County recorded a 11.6 percent increase in total visitors last year, with the number of tourists growing from 6.35 million in 2023 to 7.09 million in 2024. The number of visitors specifically attracted by the program jumped from 2.39 million to 2.82 million, marking an 18 percent increase. This surge in visitor numbers has provided much-needed revenue to local businesses, especially those in the hospitality, dining, and tourism sectors.

Local Businesses Benefit: How Gift Certificates are Spurring Economic Growth

The half-price travel initiative has created a positive ripple effect for local businesses, with tourists using the Gangjin Love gift certificates to pay for accommodations, meals, and local products. Popular products such as agricultural, marine, and livestock goods have seen increased sales as tourists use their gift certificates to purchase souvenirs. In fact, a large portion of the spending through the program has gone toward dining and local specialty products, directly supporting local farmers and artisans.

In addition, Gangjin’s success story was recognized at the national level. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety awarded the program as the top regional economic recovery policy in the country, a testament to its positive impact on the local economy. Even President Lee Jae Myung acknowledged the program during his campaign visit to Gangjin, encouraging voters to “enjoy your half-price trip.”

A National Trend: Other Regions Adopt Gangjin’s Model

The success of Gangjin’s “half-price travel” program has inspired other regions across South Korea to adopt similar initiatives. Wando County, also located in South Jeolla, launched the “Wando Healing Pay” program earlier this year, offering travel groups of two or more people up to 210,000 won in coupons based on their local spending. This initiative has already shown results, with Wando attracting 3.72 million tourists in the first half of 2025, an increase of 6.0 percent from the previous year. Popular destinations like Sinji Myeongsasimni Beach, Cheongsan Island, and the Wando Marine Healing Center have seen a significant uptick in visitor numbers, with increases between 40 and 50 percent.

Between March and June 2025, 9,320 travel groups applied for the Wando Healing Pay program, spending a total of 3.3 billion won in the region. Of that, over 700 million won was refunded in the form of coupons. These initiatives have not only boosted tourism but have also enhanced the local economy, providing a much-needed boost to the hospitality and retail sectors.

Yeongam County Joins the Movement

Yeongam County, also in South Jeolla, has followed suit with its own program, offering “Yeongam Travel 1+1” incentives. Travel groups of two or more can apply for a refund of up to 240,000 won in local currency within seven days of their trip. These programs are providing even more options for travelers looking to explore the hidden gems of South Korea, all while supporting the local economy.

The Future of Half-Price Travel: A Sustainable Solution for Regional Tourism

The success of Gangjin’s program has set a new precedent for regional tourism in South Korea. By offering financial incentives and making travel more affordable, local governments are helping to revitalize rural economies and spread the benefits of tourism beyond the major cities of Seoul and Busan. The programs not only attract visitors to lesser-known areas but also foster long-term economic growth by increasing the number of repeat visitors and encouraging sustainable tourism practices.

As more regions across South Korea look to implement similar initiatives, the “half-price travel” concept is poised to become a cornerstone of the country’s tourism strategy. With more local governments exploring ways to adapt the model to their unique regions, this innovative approach is transforming South Korea into a more equitable and accessible destination for both domestic and international travellers.

Local Economies, Sustainable Travel, and Tourists – All Benefiting Together

South Korea has developed new half-price programs for travellers, and it’s a win for both local economies and tourists. These initiatives make travel to South Korea easier and more affordable, while also acting as a stimulus for remote area tourism. As more South Korea regions adapt, it’s clear that sustainable development along with ample features tourism growth will exist for continuing dire years.