Beyond the City: Tourism as a Driver for Rural Development in South Korea.

This research explores how rural tourism drives socioeconomic development in rural South Korea, focusing on government-supported initiatives. Rapid urbanization is one of the instigators of the problem and has led to population inequality and developmental disparities between urban and rural areas, necessitating balanced regional development strategies. Rural tourism uses unique cultural and natural resources to attract visitors, create jobs, and stimulate local economies. Government policies and initiatives promoting rural tourism will be analyzed, particularly the "Local Life Club" program under the Youth Village Creation Project, which engages young South Koreans in rural activities. Through a case study approach, participants' motivations, experiences, and the program's impacts were analyzed. This research provides valuable initial observations into the potential usage of rural tourism for rural development through government supported programs aimed at attracting South Korean...Show moreThis research explores how rural tourism drives socioeconomic development in rural South Korea, focusing on government-supported initiatives. Rapid urbanization is one of the instigators of the problem and has led to population inequality and developmental disparities between urban and rural areas, necessitating balanced regional development strategies. Rural tourism uses unique cultural and natural resources to attract visitors, create jobs, and stimulate local economies. Government policies and initiatives promoting rural tourism will be analyzed, particularly the "Local Life Club" program under the Youth Village Creation Project, which engages young South Koreans in rural activities. Through a case study approach, participants' motivations, experiences, and the program's impacts were analyzed. This research provides valuable initial observations into the potential usage of rural tourism for rural development through government supported programs aimed at attracting South Korean youths to rural areas and preventing the outflow of local youths. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of policies, effective marketing, infrastructure development, and community involvement are critical for the success and sustainability of rural tourism initiatives.Show less

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Beyond the City: Tourism as a Driver for Rural Development in South Korea.