South Korea’s Yesan County to Kick Off 2026 with Sunrise Event as Part of Tourism Revitalization

Published on December 31, 2025

South Korea’s Yesan County is set to kick off 2026 with a grand sunrise event, marking the beginning of the county’s ambitious tourism revitalization efforts. This event, taking place on January 1, 2026, at Yesandangho Lake, is a key part of Yesan’s strategy to enhance its appeal as a premier destination for wellness, cultural, and eco-tourism. With a focus on healing and traditional experiences, the sunrise event, complete with drum performances and complimentary warm refreshments, highlights the region’s commitment to blending its natural beauty with rich cultural heritage, ensuring an unforgettable start to the new year for visitors.

South Korea’s Yesan County, located in South Chungcheong Province, is set to welcome the new year with a spectacular event to kick off 2026. The 2026 Yesandangho Sunrise Event, scheduled for January 1, 2026, will take place at the beautiful Yesandangho waterfront stage, starting at 7:00 a.m. This event is a key part of Yesan County’s tourism revitalization efforts, aimed at enhancing the region’s appeal as a healing and wellness destination.

The sunrise event will feature a traditional drum performance by the national music group Sadang, followed by a performance by the band Bunrisugo, adding a cultural touch to the festivities. Visitors will be treated to complimentary rice cake soup, warm beverages, and hand warmers, starting from 6:40 a.m., ensuring a warm and festive atmosphere for everyone. This initiative forms part of a larger tourism strategy to showcase Yesan County’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Yesan County, already a popular tourist destination, boasts stunning attractions such as Yesandangho Lake, which features a suspension bridge, music fountain, observatory, and electric motor-powered boats. The lake has become a must-see location for both locals and visitors, attracting nearly 9.45 million visitors as of November 2025. This tranquil and scenic location will be at the heart of the sunrise event, offering a perfect backdrop for the new year celebration.

As part of its strategy to revitalize tourism, Yesan County is also focusing on wellness tourism. Deoksan Hot Springs, one of the county’s top attractions, is renowned for its medicinal qualities and is ranked among South Korea’s top three medicinal springs. To further enhance the wellness experience, Yesan County has recently opened a 650-meter yellow soil path within the Deoksan Hot Springs tourist area. The path, designed for leisurely walks, now features a foot bath facility where visitors can relax their feet in the soothing hot spring water after a peaceful walk.

Yesan County is also planning to build a high-end resort complex in the Deoksan Hot Springs area, following a recent agreement signed between the Chungnam Province, Chungnam Development Corporation, and Hoban Hotel & Resort Co. The new resort will provide accommodation and conference facilities, aiming to attract more visitors and enhance the region’s standing as a premier wellness tourism destination.

In addition to Yesandangho and Deoksan Hot Springs, Yesan County plans to connect several other local attractions into a cohesive tourism experience. The Yesan Market and rural experiential programs will be incorporated into a unified tourism route, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. This integrated approach aims to create a seamless flow of tourism through Yesan County, attracting both domestic and international travelers seeking a mix of cultural, natural, and wellness experiences.

Yesan’s ambitious plans for 2026 reflect a strategic focus on sustainable tourism development, aiming to balance economic growth with preservation of the county’s natural and cultural resources. By combining wellness tourism with traditional cultural offerings, Yesan County is positioning itself as a destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

South Korea’s Yesan County will kick off 2026 with a spectacular sunrise event, marking the start of its tourism revitalization efforts. This celebration combines cultural performances and scenic views, enhancing the county’s appeal as a top wellness and travel destination.

The 2026 Yesandangho Sunrise Event is not just a celebration but a significant step in Yesan County’s effort to revitalize its tourism industry. With new attractions, improved facilities, and a focus on wellness and healing, the county is poised to become a leading tourism destination in South Korea. Whether it’s a serene boat ride on Yesandangho, a relaxing soak in the medicinal waters of Deoksan Hot Springs, or a lively cultural performance, Yesan County is ready to offer unforgettable experiences for all who visit in 2026 and beyond.