Korea Expands 'Barrier-Free Tourism' to Include Wheelchair-Friendly Activities like Canoes and Hot Air Balloons
Creatrip Team
18 days ago
South Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) are calling for applications from local governments from July 7–30 for the '2027 Barrier-Free Tourism Environment' project. The program combines upgrading individual accessible sites ('open tourism sites') with strengthening region-wide accessibility, focusing on travel chains—transport, access, and experiences—for people with disabilities, seniors, and pregnant travelers. For 2027, the initiative adds funding for experience-based activities (e.g., wheelchair-accessible boats and hot-air balloons) at prepared open tourism sites. KTO has already developed accessible experience attractions such as the 'King Canoe' at Uiam Lake in Chuncheon, the Kim Yu-jeong rail bike (레일바이크) in Chuncheon, and the pontoon boat (폰툰보트) at Gyeongcheon Island in Sangju. The contest will select 30 sites (each receiving 250 million KRW) and one local government project for connectivity (up to 4 billion KRW over three years). Winners also get expert consulting, marketing support, and staff training. A project briefing will be held on the 3rd at the LW Convention Grand Ballroom in Seoul; anyone can join with prior registration.
