Travel companions communicating in sign language have helped lower the travel barriers that have long been invisible in our society.
The Korea Tourism Organization, led by President Park Seong-hyeok, announced on July 16 that it has launched a barrier-free travel program in collaboration with Big Ocean, a three-member idol group of hearing-impaired individuals serving as honorary ambassadors for open tourism.
This program aims to promote barrier-free infrastructure that reduces physical obstacles and to spread the value of 'open tourism,' which allows everyone, regardless of ability, to enjoy travel.
The first itinerary began in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province. Participants, including both deaf and hearing individuals, walked together along the fortress trail from Hwaseong Yeonmudang to Banghwasuryujeong, followed by experiences in traditional archery and hand-painted pottery.
During the visit to Hwaseong Haenggung, a professional sign language docent accompanied the group to assist hearing-impaired participants. Meals and travel routes were designed to prioritize barrier-free establishments, enhancing convenience for wheelchair users.
The next day's activities continued in Gangneung, Gangwon Province. A total of 36 participants, including those from vulnerable tourism groups and volunteers, engaged in an environmental cleanup (plogging) at the renowned open tourism site, Yeongok Beach and Solhyanggi Camping Ground.
Participants concluded their journey by visiting the Gangneung Art Museum and enjoying an outdoor mini-concert by Big Ocean against the beach backdrop. The Gangneung Barrier-Free Tourism Center provided accessible transportation, including specially equipped vehicles, to ensure safe travel for participants throughout the event.
Moon Ji-young, head of the open tourism content team at the organization, stated, “This trip was a meaningful opportunity to demonstrate that disability should not be a barrier to travel. We will produce promotional videos capturing this journey to widely promote open tourism that everyone can enjoy.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.