Jo Woong-hee, the chair of the Hwachun County Council in Gangwon Province, visited Rovaniemi, Finland, to explore winter tourism and local industry best practices.
On September 10, the Hwachun County Council reported that Jo attended the 21st World Winter Cities Mayors' Conference in Rovaniemi with a delegation that included Hwachun County Mayor Kim Se-hoon.
On September 7, Jo visited LAPPSET, a global amusement facility company, and Apukka Resort, examining family-oriented tourism facilities and stay-type content that utilize the natural environment.
On September 8, during the World Winter Cities Mayors' Conference, he reviewed winter tourism and regional development policies from participating cities. He also assessed the 'Hwachun Sunshine Pension' concept presented by Mayor Kim.
This visit focused on comparing overseas examples of utilizing winter climate conditions as tourism and industrial resources with the realities of Hwachun. A key interest is whether existing tourism resources, such as the Sancheoneo Festival, can be expanded into family-oriented amusement facilities, accommodations, and forest content.
Jo stated that the examples observed will not only attract tourists but will also be linked to policies aimed at increasing stay duration, local spending, and residents' income.
As related projects are developed, the county council will evaluate their feasibility, financial burden, and economic ripple effects through budget reviews, ordinance enactments, and administrative audits. It is noted that rather than directly importing foreign facilities, it is essential to consider Hwachun's population, accessibility, climate, and the potential for integration with existing tourism resources.
Jo remarked, “Rovaniemi effectively connects the region's nature and unique content with the tourism industry. I will actively work within the council to ensure that these best practices enhance Hwachun's tourism competitiveness and lead to policies that provide tangible benefits to the local economy.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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