Forested trails overtake beaches as top island travel attractions in Korea
For many in Korea, summer getaways have involved packed ferry rides, crowded beaches and seafood dinners along bustling shorelines. But travelers are gradually turning their backs on sandy shores and venturing inland toward the quiet shade of island forests. According to a survey released Monday by the National Institute of Forest Science — a research agency under the Korea Forest Service — 47.4…
In Korea, summer vacations typically entailed crowded ferry journeys, bustling beaches, and seafood feasts along waterfronts. However, travelers are now increasingly opting for island forests over sandy shores. A survey conducted by the National Institute of Forest Science, a research organization under the Korea Forest Service, reveals that 47.4 percent of respondents considered forests and woodlands as their primary reason for visiting an island.
This is a sharp contrast to beaches and coastal waters, which were previously the dominant attraction, now ranking at just 28.9 percent. The nationwide survey, which included 2,000 adults aged between 20 and 75, underscores a significant shift towards slow-paced tourism that allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature. This change is more than just a superficial alteration to vacation plans; it indicates a growing preference for profound, rejuvenating travel experiences.
Around 63 percent of those surveyed expressed that island forests possess unique ecological and aesthetic features, including isolated microclimates, distinct coastal flora, and breathtaking panoramas of the ocean.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
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