A Joint Campaign by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, "Going to the Sea Month," Offers Accommodation Discounts and Unique Culinary Experiences

As the vibrant energy of spring fully blossoms in May, the azure waves of Korea's seas beckon travelers. In an unprecedented collaboration, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) are jointly launching the "Going to the Sea Month" campaign throughout May. This initiative promises a diverse array of marine tourism programs and generous benefits across the nation's islands, ports, and beaches, aiming to revitalize local tourism and boost domestic consumption.

This campaign transcends mere travel encouragement; it is designed to develop Korea's stunning marine resources into multifaceted content, establishing them as attractive marine tourism destinations year-round. By blending the allure of islands and the sea with urban experiences, the campaign seeks to create unforgettable memories for visitors.

Nationwide Discounts on Accommodation and Leisure in 79 Coastal Areas, Tailored Packages for Novice Travelers

Throughout May, accommodation vouchers offering discounts of up to 30,000 KRW will be available in 79 coastal administrative districts nationwide. Additionally, discount vouchers worth 15,000 KRW for marine leisure activities or tourist attraction admissions will be provided, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the sea at more affordable prices.

For those new to marine tourism, "Easy-to-Go Marine Package Tours" offer approximately 80 diverse itineraries. These packages provide convenient access to unique marine tourism destinations across the country, including tours of the northernmost islands in the West Sea, premium 3-day trips to the South Sea's Dadohae (archipelago), pilgrimages along Shinan's Somtiago 12 Apostles Trail in Jeollanam-do, and marine healing trips in Wando. Notably, significant discounts of up to 50,000 KRW or 30% are expected to reduce travel costs and enhance satisfaction.

Developing Marine Tourism Content with 8 Regional Themes: Ushering in an Era of Year-Round Marine Travel

Building on this campaign, the MCST plans to actively transform Korea's marine resources in eight regions into compelling marine tourism content. Focusing on diverse themes such as ecology, accessible tourism, islands, healing, pet-friendly travel, nightscapes, and local culture, the initiative seeks new avenues for regional tourism. It also aims to uncover the hidden charms of fishing villages and small islands, developing them into tourist products. This strategy is projected to play a crucial role in creating sustainable marine travel destinations that can be enjoyed throughout all seasons, not just specific times of the year.

Special "Sea Table" by Star Chefs: An Invitation to Culinary Delights and Romance

A highlight of the campaign is the "Chef's Sea Table." Renowned chefs Ahn Yu-sung and Kim Mi-ryeong, who gained popularity through the OTT cooking entertainment program "Black and White Chefs," will present special gastronomic experiences in Yeosu and Busan, utilizing local specialty seafood and fresh ingredients. The Yeosu event is scheduled for May 17th, and the Busan event for May 24th.

Participation is also unique. Applicants can share their special sea travel stories on the official "Going to the Sea Month" website (https://바다가는달.kr). Following a thorough evaluation, 50 individuals will be invited to the Yeosu event, and a total of 60 people (30 domestic and 30 international) will be invited to the Busan event. The creative dishes prepared by the star chefs against the backdrop of the beautiful sea are expected to provide participants with unforgettable culinary experiences and romantic memories.

"Sea Week" Commemorating "Sea Day": Abundant Marine Festivals and Experience Programs

The MOF will further amplify the campaign's enthusiasm by operating "Sea Week" in commemoration of "Sea Day" (May 31st). Over 100 diverse programs will unfold along the coastlines nationwide, including nine regional marine festivals such as the Busan Port Festival, yachting experiences, beach camping, nighttime marine film festivals, and marine cleanup activities. This initiative aims to offer meaningful "sea experience" opportunities that go beyond simple tourism, fostering awareness of marine ecology and environmental protection while allowing participants to enjoy local culture.

Yoo In-chon, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, stated, "Surrounded by sea on three sides, Korea possesses unparalleled marine tourism potential globally. We hope that through this 'Going to the Sea Month' campaign, everyone will dive into the endless charm of marine tourism." Kang Do-hyung, Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, emphasized, "The 79 coastal local governments each boast unique and attractive marine landscapes and rich content. We hope that this campaign will allow more people to feel closer to the sea and revitalize their lives through marine tourism."

The "Going to the Sea Month" campaign, taking place for just one month in May, is poised to unlock new possibilities for marine tourism in Korea and positively impact local economies. It is anticipated that this opportunity will encourage many to visit Korea's beautiful seas, experience its diverse marine culture, and create lasting memories.