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[Yanolja Research Insights] Vol.24 Revitalizing Local Economies through Activation of Regional Tourism

Revitalizing Local Economies: The Power of Regional Tourism

Regional tourism is emerging as a vital force for economic growth and balanced development across the country. Discover how targeted strategies and innovative policies are transforming local communities and unlocking new opportunities for sustainable prosperity.


Why Regional Tourism Matters

  • The tourism sector is a major economic driver, supporting millions of jobs and contributing significantly to national GDP.
  • Countries that invest strategically in tourism see not only increased visitor numbers but also broader economic benefits, including job creation, business growth, and revitalized local economies.
  • Success stories from abroad, such as Southern Europe and Japan, demonstrate how tourism can help regions recover from economic challenges and foster long-term growth.


Key Economic Impacts

  • Even a modest increase in tourist numbers can have a measurable impact:
    • A 1% rise in regional tourists leads to a 0.11% boost in local GDP, more businesses, and new jobs—especially in the service sector.
    • Local governments that actively promote tourism see stronger economic ripple effects compared to large urban centers.
  • For example, Yangyang County experienced a dramatic increase in tourism from 2019 to 2023, resulting in:
    • Over 200 billion KRW in additional production activity
    • Nearly 2,200 new jobs created
    • Significant growth in local income and business opportunities


Lessons from Global Leaders

  • Japan’s approach offers valuable insights:
    • Decentralizing tourism from major cities to regional areas through specialized organizations (DMOs)
    • Investing in infrastructure, such as regional airports and convenient transport options
    • Creating unique regional themes and experiences, from winter sports in Hokkaido to marine tourism in Okinawa
  • These strategies have helped distribute tourism benefits more evenly and strengthened local economies nationwide.


Next Steps for Nationwide Growth

To maximize the benefits of regional tourism, several key actions are essential:

1. Strengthen Tourism Governance

  • Elevate tourism as a national priority, with strong leadership and collaboration between central and local governments.
  • Empower regional DMOs to coordinate stakeholders and tailor strategies to local strengths.


2. Promote Regional Linkage Tourism

  • Develop tourism hubs and “hub-and-spoke” models to connect major cities with surrounding towns, offering diverse experiences and encouraging repeat visits.


3. Enhance Transportation Infrastructure

  • Improve accessibility to regional destinations through revitalized airports, shuttle services, and travel passes, making it easier for visitors to explore beyond the capital.


4. Create Unique Regional Products

  • Highlight each region’s distinctive culture, natural beauty, cuisine, and modern attractions.
  • Foster public-private partnerships to develop creative tourism offerings that set each area apart.


Looking Ahead

Tourism is more than leisure—it’s a strategic engine for revitalizing local economies and ensuring balanced national development. By learning from global best practices and leveraging Korea’s unique assets, there is immense potential to transform the tourism landscape and improve quality of life for all.

Ready to explore the full story and discover how your region can benefit?

Visit our official website for in-depth insights and the latest updates on regional tourism innovation.

Yanolja Research Insights Vol.24


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Location: Seoul, South Korea

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