Cheongsando, a picturesque island in Wando County, South Jeolla Province (Image courtesy of BENTHOS Lab)
MUAN, Dec. 19 (Korea Bizwire) – Cheongsando, a picturesque island in Wando County, South Jeolla Province, has been recognized as a 2024 “Star of Korean Tourism” in the eco-friendly tourism category by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization, according to a December 18 announcement.
Renowned as Asia’s first “Slow City” since 2007, Cheongsando is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and its promotion of the slow-paced lifestyle.
The island was praised for its community-led tourism initiatives, including plogging (a combination of jogging and litter-picking) and other environmental protection campaigns, which embody the harmonious coexistence of nature and people.
The nomination process involved meticulous planning and evaluation by experts in the tourism field, with the province highlighting Cheongsando’s commitment to sustainable tourism during on-site assessments by the central review panel.
Joo Soon-seon, director of tourism and sports for South Jeolla Province, emphasized the region’s commitment to preserving its natural environment, calling it a “treasure trove of wellness tourism” with its blend of marine and forest resources.
“We will continue to support efforts to conserve the environment and promote sustainable tourism development,” she said.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
