CHEONGJU, South Korea – The Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Assembly has taken a significant step toward boosting regional tourism and enhancing the well-being of its residents by approving a partial amendment to the "Chungcheongnam-do Natural Recreation Forest and Campground Management and Operation Ordinance." The legislative change, spearheaded by Representative Jeong Gwang-seop (Taean 2, People Power Party), passed a standing committee review on June 18th, 2025, during the 359th regular session, and is slated for final approval at the 4th plenary session on June 24th.

This amendment is a direct outcome of a mutual agreement among the four Chungcheong region provinces and metropolitan cities—Chungnam, Chungbuk, Daejeon, and Sejong—to offer reciprocal discounts on tourism facility usage fees. Under the newly revised ordinance, residents of all four Chungcheong jurisdictions will enjoy free admission to natural recreation forests operated by Chungnam Province. Furthermore, they will receive a 30% discount on accommodation facilities within these forests, including popular options like forest houses and forest recreation centers. This initiative is expected to foster shared growth and encourage inter-regional tourism within the Chungcheong area.

Representative Jeong Gwang-seop emphasized that the ordinance revision serves as a follow-up measure to align with higher-level laws, inter-city agreements, and the province's own award ordinances. "This amendment aims to ensure that all residents of the Chungcheong region can enjoy the benefits of Chungnam's forest recreation welfare," Jeong stated. He further added that with "Visit Chungnam Year" approaching (2025-2026), the Provincial Assembly is committed to taking the lead in revitalizing the local economy by encouraging more people to experience the natural beauty of Chungnam.

Beyond the regional reciprocity, the amendment also clarifies the fee reduction criteria for various social contributors, including individuals who have made donations under the Hometown Love Donation system and recipients of the "Proud Chungnam Citizen Award." This provision aims to enhance fairness and the practical effectiveness of provincial policies, recognizing and rewarding those who contribute to the community.

Chungnam Province boasts a diverse array of natural recreation forests, each offering unique experiences. Popular destinations include Yeonginsan Natural Recreational Forest in Asan, known for its tranquil escape and picturesque landscapes, and Bongsusan Recreational Forest in Yesan, which offers various forest recreation facilities and hiking trails near the Yedang Reservoir. Other notable locations across the Chungcheong region, such as Maninsan Recreational Forest in Daejeon and Jangtaesan Recreational Forest in Daejeon, known for its unique metasequoia and German spruce trees, attract visitors seeking respite in nature. These forests provide opportunities for activities like forest bathing, hiking, and camping, contributing to both physical and mental well-being.

The mutual agreement for tourism facility discounts is a strategic move to leverage the collective appeal of the Chungcheong region. By making natural attractions more accessible and affordable, Chungnam Province anticipates an increase in visitor numbers, which will, in turn, stimulate local businesses, including accommodations, restaurants, and various tourism-related services. This collaborative approach among the Chungcheong jurisdictions is a model for regional development, promoting not only tourism but also a sense of shared community and mutual prosperity.

The final decision on the amended ordinance is highly anticipated, with its approval expected to usher in a new era of enhanced forest recreation and tourism for the residents of the entire Chungcheong region.

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