Korean Culture and Tourism Institute Head Calls for Tough Debate on Local Tourism
Creatrip Team
25 days ago
Hwang Gyo-ik, newly appointed president of the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, used his first public remarks on June 1 at the 100th Korean Tourism Society international conference to urge frank discussion about local tourism policy. He said he wants “uncomfortable” critiques aired, arguing that assuming tourism always drives local growth is misleading. While tourism can be an engine for national economy, regional realities differ: many local areas face population decline and fading livelihoods, and if communities are poor “there is nothing to visit.” Hwang called for shifting priorities from treating tourism as mere growth fuel to improving residents’ quality of life and rethinking research and governance for sustainable, locally rooted tourism. The session included presentations on regional tourism competitiveness, transport access (including development of local airports), and a panel with government officials, academics, and industry leaders. (Korea Culture and Tourism Institute: 문광연)
