JEONGSEON, Aug. 8 (Korea Bizwire) – The Jeongseon County government in Gangwon Province announced on August 7 its plans to renovate the aging facilities surrounding Najeon Station, a small railway stop that has become an unexpected tourist attraction.
Najeon Station, once a bustling hub when it opened in 1969, saw its fortunes decline with the closure of nearby mines. By 1993, it had been downgraded to an unmanned stop. The station narrowly escaped demolition in 2011 when passenger services were discontinued.
However, riding a wave of nostalgia for all things retro, Najeon Station found new life as South Korea’s first “small station cafe.” This transformation has turned it into a popular destination, attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually.
The station’s appeal lies in its preservation of a bygone era, with its quaint appearance complemented by the surrounding natural scenery. This combination has made Najeon Station a catalyst for local tourism in the area.
“The station has become a cornerstone for our community’s tourism efforts,” said Kim Sung-soo, the head of Bukpyeong Township. “It hosts the Mangeuljang Rail Market and local food festivals, solidifying its place as a key attraction in our township.”
The renovation project, set to be completed by the end of this month, will focus on refurbishing various installations in the station’s plaza. These include a hand-operated rail car, wooden sculptures, directional sign sculptures, and ticket-shaped art installations.
Kim emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “We are committed to meticulously improving the environment around Najeon Station. Our goal is to ensure that tourists visiting this retro-inspired spot can create special memories.”
Image credit: Jeongseon County / photonews@koreabizwire.com
