Iksan City is injecting new vitality into the rural economy by maximizing the appeal of rural tourism. On May 8, the city announced a comprehensive set of support policies aimed at promoting sustainable rural development through both population inflow and regional revitalization.
The city is strengthening its rural tourism infrastructure through a multi-pronged strategy that includes operating certified rural tourism businesses, fostering youth rural activity networks, providing subsidies for experiences, accommodations, and transportation, and launching creative tour packages.
A standout initiative is the "Rural Creatour" program, which was selected for funding by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs for two consecutive years. Under this program, ten young individuals take the lead in planning and operating rural tourism content, fostering stronger community ties while simultaneously creating youth jobs and settlement opportunities in the countryside.
Tourism infrastructure has also seen significant improvements. In addition to ten rural experience villages designated last year, fifteen more certified tourism businesses have been selected this year, greatly enhancing available lodging and activity options. The creation of themed photo zones adds to the charm, encouraging visitors to stay longer and enjoy more.
Substantial financial support is also being offered to attract tourists. Starting this month, subsidies of up to KRW 10,000 per person per day are available for groups of four or more. Larger groups of 20 or more can receive bus rental support—up to KRW 200,000 for Iksan-based tours and KRW 400,000 for tours from other areas—significantly reducing travel costs.
In celebration of Family Month, the city is launching special programs targeting family visitors under the slogan “A Rural Trip More Beautiful Than Heaven, Iksan!” One highlight is a costume experience program where visitors can rent dresses and tuxedos to create lasting memories.
Additionally, Iksan has achieved the notable feat of being selected for the Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province’s “Rural Tourism Economic Vitalization” project for three consecutive years. In 2023, the city established a glamping site in Dasong Rainbow Plum Village, followed in 2024 by a nighttime landscape project along the Seongdang Port Windmill Road. This year, a nature-friendly accommodation facility will be built in the Mireuksan area, allowing visitors to sleep under the stars.
Kwon Hyuk, Director of the Bio-Agricultural Policy Bureau, stated, “We are pursuing a comprehensive rural development strategy that links tourism promotion with support for returning and new residents. We will continue diversifying tourism content to make Iksan’s countryside a happy place for both youth and families.”
Source: Iksan City Hall