A competition has been launched to discover unique experiential travel products that utilize Sejong City's unique resources, aimed at enhancing the region's tourism competitiveness. The Sejong Cultural and Tourism Foundation announced that it is accepting participants for the '2026 Western Inland Local Specialized Experiential Tourism Content Contest' until July 19.
The theme of the contest is 'Sensory Sejong,' which emphasizes satisfying the five senses. The initiative aims to move away from traditional sightseeing and focus on participatory content that allows travelers to experience and enjoy the local culture directly.
The competition is divided into six categories to reflect the diverse preferences of travelers: 1) Culinary tours using local ingredients (taste), 2) Tours of natural landscapes and unique spaces (sight), 3) Walking courses and activities (movement), 4) Traditional and handmade craft experience education (creation), 5) Wellness-based relaxation stays (rest), and 6) Other free proposals.
Individuals, groups, or local creators who have or operate experiential content utilizing Sejong City's resources are eligible to apply. Applications can be submitted until 11 p.m. on July 19 via email after downloading the application form from the foundation's website.
The foundation will provide practical commercialization benefits to the content selected through external expert evaluations. This includes opportunities to enter major domestic online travel agency (OTA) platforms, expert consulting to enhance product viability, and promotional photography support. Programs to develop sales channels, such as influencer-led promotional trips (fam tours), will also be conducted.
Notably, a total prize of 20 million won will be awarded to the best content selected based on future sales performance and user reviews. Additional benefits include an extended waiver period for OTA platform fees and the publication of planned articles.
An information session for the contest will be held on July 9 at 7 p.m. at the foundation's office, where details about the project direction and evaluation criteria will be provided.
Kim Ji-hoon, head of the tourism business team at the Sejong Cultural and Tourism Foundation, stated, 'This contest is a project that organically supports the entire process from idea development to commercialization, sales, and promotion. We hope to see many capable businesses participate to invigorate the local tourism ecosystem.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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