The Gwangju Metropolitan City has extended its 'Half-Price Island Travel' program until December 15 to promote island tourism and boost the local economy.
Travelers can receive a refund of up to 100,000 won for half of their expenses incurred while visiting designated islands, attracting interest from tourists planning trips in late autumn and early winter.
Originally set to conclude on November 4, the program will now run until December 15, according to Gwangju officials.
This extension aims to sustain demand for island tourism even after the conclusion of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo and to encourage local spending by tourists.
The Half-Price Island Travel initiative allows tourists from outside Gwangju to receive a refund of 50% of their travel expenses, up to a maximum of 100,000 won, in the form of mobile local love gift certificates.
Eligible areas include 21 islands across eight cities and counties, including Mokpo, Yeosu, Goheung, Boseong, Gangjin, Yeonggwang, Jindo, and Sinan.
This year, five additional islands—Sonjukdo, Chodo, Ando, Yeondo, and Yeoja-do—were added to the program in conjunction with the Yeosu World Island Expo, expanding options for tourists.
Tourists wishing to participate must apply in advance through the integrated tourism platform 'JG TOUR' and obtain approval from the respective city or county.
After receiving approval, travelers can visit the designated islands and submit a refund application for their expenses, which will be reviewed before the refund is issued as mobile local love gift certificates.
Notably, expenses incurred at local businesses in the city or county where the island is located will also be eligible for refunds if the travel is verified.
This approach aims to ensure that tourist spending benefits not only the islands but also nearby restaurants and accommodations, thereby stimulating the local economy.
However, it is important to note that the refund is not a full cash reimbursement; only 50% of the verified expenses, up to 100,000 won, will be provided as mobile local love gift certificates. Therefore, applicants should check the conditions and refund procedures in advance.
The travel period extends until December 15, and tourists must complete their refund applications by December 18.
The Gwangju Metropolitan City plans to enhance guidance through the tourism platform and social media to ensure tourists do not miss the application and refund deadlines.
This initiative is significant not only for attracting island tourists but also for linking consumer spending during travel to the local economy.
By extending the support period into late autumn and early winter, it is expected to help increase consumption in tourism-related sectors such as accommodations and dining in island areas.
Oh Mi-kyung, head of the tourism policy division at Gwangju Metropolitan City, stated, "The extension of the half-price travel program focuses on making it easier for more tourists to visit our beautiful islands without financial burden. We hope this travel experience will invigorate both local residents and tourists as they enjoy the unique natural scenery, culture, and cuisine of each island."
Meanwhile, Gwangju Metropolitan City is implementing tourism policies aimed at reducing the financial burden on tourists and expanding local consumption through the Half-Price Island Travel program. During the extended period, support will still require advance applications, city or county approvals, travel verification, and refund procedures, and tourists should confirm the eligible islands and refund conditions before their trips.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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