APEC Boosted Tourism in Gyeongbuk — But Benefits Are Lopsided
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
Gyeongsangbuk-do (Gyeongbuk) saw a clear tourism uptick after the APEC summit held in Gyeongju, with the Gyeongju National Museum reporting a 45% year-on-year rise in visitors and local cultural events (like the rare exhibition of six Silla golden crowns) drawing international attention. The provincial government claims foreign tourists increased by 33% and that about 3.8 trillion won in investments were attracted. However, experts and local lawmakers warn the gains appear concentrated in Gyeongju and question whether increases reflect a short-term event spike or durable growth across other cities and counties in the province. Officials plan a five-year, 100 billion won program to expand tourism beyond Gyeongju—recreating the Bomun resort complex, creating historical-cultural tourism belts, linking district stay-courses, and adding AI/digital content—but critics call for clearer data on counting methods (time period, criteria, and share of genuine tourists) and for comprehensive strategies covering transport, lodging, content, and workforce to avoid widening regional gaps. Researchers note that sustainable benefits from mega-events typically take 3–5 years to materialize and are often limited in converting visitor spikes into lasting jobs and industry change.
