Jindo County Launches Island Tourism Initiative with New Direct Ferry Service to Gwanmae-do

Jindo County in South Jeolla Province is revitalizing island tourism by partnering with major travel agencies to develop tourism products connected to a newly launched direct passenger ferry service to Gwanmae-do. On February 25, the county signed a memorandum of understanding with the Korea Domestic Travel Agency Association and the Korea Leading Travel Agency Association, with Governor Kim Heesu and approximately 20 travel agency representatives in attendance.

Under the agreement, the organizations will jointly plan and operate tourism packages linked to the direct ferry service, developing both day-trip and multi-day package products while leveraging travel agency networks to promote tourism nationwide. The move comes as Gwanmae-do, known for its exceptional natural scenery including the “Eight Scenic Spots of Gwanmae” and pristine marine areas, has experienced limited accessibility with only twice-daily ferry service, restricting opportunities for day visitors.

The county has invested 4 billion won to build a new 184-ton passenger vessel and plans to commence three daily direct ferry services starting April 1. This increased frequency will significantly improve accessibility to the island, making day trips more practical and enabling longer-stay tourism experiences. The county plans to develop high value-added tourism products that combine Gwanmae-do’s nature tours and marine activities with the culinary and cultural attractions of Jindo’s main island.

Governor Kim Heesu emphasized that the direct ferry is more than transportation infrastructure—it represents a strategic catalyst for revitalizing island tourism. The county plans to conduct familiarization tours and pilot product operations before launching comprehensive promotion and sales of tourism packages upon the ferry service’s commencement. This initiative positions Gwanmae-do and Jindo County as a premier destination for island and marine tourism in Korea.

Suncheon Drama Filming Site Hosts Special Pet-Friendly Seollal Festival

Traditional games, retro 70s-80s performances, and companion animal experiences create comprehensive family holiday celebration

A city representative stated: “For this Seollal holiday, we have prepared a festival space where not only parents and children but even companion animals can enjoy together. We hope visitors will spend a warm and happy holiday at the drama filming site, as if traveling back in time.”

The city of Suncheon is launching an innovative five-day Seollal holiday program at the historic Suncheon Drama Filming Site from February 14-18, 2026. The event represents a groundbreaking approach to Korean traditional celebrations by specifically accommodating families traveling with their pets alongside classic holiday activities.

Revolutionary “Petfam” Programming

The festival significantly expands programming for the growing “petfam” demographic – families who consider their companion animals full family members. Unique offerings include:

Retro Partner Experiences: Visitors can dress in matching vintage school uniforms with their dogs and explore the authentically recreated 1960s-80s alleyways together.

Creative Workshops: A dedicated DIY zone allows participants to craft custom accessories for their pets.

Professional Photography: Social media event participants receive professional black-and-white photo sessions in nostalgic styling, plus specialized “pet welcome kits.”

Cultural Programming: Nostalgia Meets Tradition

The historic Sunyang Theater will host performances throughout the holiday period, featuring:

  • Musical theater troupes performing in the nostalgic “7080” style (1970s-80s era)
  • Live emotional band concerts that evoke memories of Korea’s rapid modernization period

Multigenerational Activities

Traditional Korean games will operate continuously throughout the filming site:

  • Giant Yutnori (traditional Korean board game in oversized format)
  • Gonggi (Korean jackstones) and rubber band jumping games
  • Winter sledding experience utilizing the slopes of the recreated “Daldongne” (hillside shantytown area)

These activities are designed to offer nostalgic memories for parents while providing new entertainment for children.

Culinary Time Travel

A nostalgic food market will feature classic Korean snacks from past decades:

  • Eomuk (fish cakes) and roasted sweet potatoes
  • Dalgona (honeycomb candy) and jjondeuki (traditional chewy sweets)

The market aims to engage all five senses and complete the immersive historical experience.

Semiconductors Open the Way to a Grand Renaissance of the Gwangju–Jeonnam Special City with 4 Million Residents

Gwangju and Jeollanam-do are jointly advancing the development of a large-scale semiconductor cluster, aiming to establish the region as a new core base of Korea’s semiconductor industry. Governor Kim Young-rok presented the vision of a “Grand Renaissance of the Gwangju–Jeonnam Special City with four million residents.”

At the heart of the initiative is a three-axis semiconductor cluster that integrates the complementary strengths of both regions and offers a sustainable alternative to the heavy concentration in the Seoul metropolitan area. The project is further supported by the recently enacted Semiconductor Special Act, which allows priority cluster designation and exemptions from preliminary feasibility studies.

Under the plan, Gwangju will serve as an innovation and talent hub, leveraging universities, research institutes, and planned testing and R&D facilities. Western Jeollanam-do will be developed as a production base, centered on the Solaseado enterprise city, supported by stable industrial water supply, large-scale renewable energy, and logistics access via Muan International Airport. Eastern Jeollanam-do will function as a convergence hub for semiconductors and AI, upgrading existing industrial clusters and linking them with advanced technologies such as batteries and physical AI.

Through this three-axis cluster, Gwangju and Jeollanam-do aim to attract global companies, create high-quality jobs, and retain young talent, positioning the region as a key driver of balanced national industrial growth.

Jeonnam Agricultural Cooperative Expands Low-Cost Smart Farms to 100 New Farms

The Jeonnam Agricultural Cooperative is accelerating the large-scale expansion of low-cost smart farms, with plans to extend the program to 100 additional farms within this year. The initiative aims to increase agricultural productivity despite climate change and labor shortages.

The smart farm model significantly reduces initial investment costs and enables farmers to manage their operations more efficiently through remote monitoring, environmental control, and data-driven crop management. Particular emphasis is placed on its user-friendly system, which allows even elderly farmers to adopt digital farming technologies with ease.

The smart farm installed in Gokseong has been operating successfully since last year and is regarded as a best-practice model. With subsidies of up to 60% and additional support from local governments, farmers are required to cover only 10% of the total costs.

Through close cooperation with local governments and partner institutions, the Jeonnam Agricultural Cooperative aims to accelerate the spread of smart agriculture and strengthen the competitiveness of rural communities.

Jeollanam-do and Naju Launch “Artificial Sun – Phase 2” – Preparations Accelerate as Project Enters Key Evaluation Stage

Naju City and Jeollanam-do Province have officially launched “Phase 2” of the Artificial Sun project, a major national initiative to establish a large-scale nuclear fusion research facility in Korea. The project has entered a critical stage, as the Ministry of Science and ICT conducts a technology feasibility assessment, the first key gateway toward full project approval.

Following the successful selection of Naju as the project site in December, the provincial and city governments have strengthened their joint implementation framework to ensure smooth progress toward passing the preliminary feasibility study. While the site selection process marked “Phase 1,” the current phase focuses on administrative procedures, land preparation, and institutional coordination.

To support this effort, Naju City has reorganized its administrative structure by establishing a dedicated Artificial Sun Support Team, while Jeollanam-do has formed a specialized Task Force to coordinate provincial-level actions. Personnel exchanges between the city and province have been put in place to enhance close collaboration.

The Artificial Sun project, officially titled “Development of Core Nuclear Fusion Technologies and Advanced Infrastructure,” is a large-scale national initiative scheduled for implementation from 2028 to 2036, with a planned government investment of approximately KRW 1.2 trillion. The research facility will be constructed in Wanggok-myeon, Naju, and is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing Korea’s future energy technologies.

Local and provincial authorities emphasized that the project will serve as a future growth engine for Naju and position Jeollanam-do as a key hub for next-generation clean energy research. The governments pledged to continue close cooperation to advance the project swiftly and respond to the strong public interest and expectations surrounding the initiative.

Naju Accelerates Push for RE100 Semiconductor Cluster

Naju City is accelerating efforts to develop an RE100-based semiconductor cluster, aiming to position itself as a leading hub for renewable-energy-driven advanced industries.

Backed by a strong energy ecosystem—including the headquarters of Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), advanced research facilities, talent and startup hubs, and the Korea Institute of Energy Technology (KENTECH)—the city offers high credibility and feasibility for an RE100 industrial complex.

Naju plans to provide 1.2 million pyeong (approx. 4 million m²) of industrial land with secured water and power infrastructure. The proposed development includes multiple semiconductor clusters, such as power semiconductors, renewable energy semiconductors, mobility-related semiconductors, bio- and agri-food semiconductors, and AI-based power semiconductors.

By reducing the renewable energy transition burden for companies and supporting ESG management through shared renewable energy use, the RE100 industrial complex is expected to attract major Korean conglomerates and global firms.

Naju City aims to leverage this initiative to establish itself as a flagship high-tech and clean-energy industrial hub.

Jeollanam-do Declares 2026 the “First Year of Scientific and Technological Advancement”– Province Announces Major Leap Toward a Global Innovation City Driven by AI, Energy, and Advanced Industries

Jeollanam-do has officially designated 2026 as the “First Year of Scientific and Technological Advancement,” signaling a bold transformation toward becoming a global innovation hub based on artificial intelligence, clean energy, and cutting-edge technologies. The announcement was made during the provincial New Year Kickoff Ceremony held on January 5.

Governor Kim Young-rok emphasized that Jeonnam has strengthened its national position by securing 10 trillion KRW in national funding for the first time, overcoming last year’s political challenges, and emerging as Korea’s center for AI and energy, attracting world-class companies. Building on these achievements, he declared a “Golden Grand Leap” that will reshape the province’s future industrial landscape.

Key priorities outlined in the address include:

  • Expanding renewable energy such as solar, wind, and agrivoltaics to significantly raise farm income and establish an inclusive model of energy-based basic income.
  • Advancing future technologies—fusion energy, artificial intelligence, aerospace, advanced materials—through close collaboration with major universities, while establishing regional AI data center clusters and a southern semiconductor innovation belt.
  • Promoting AI-based transformation across traditional core industries such as petrochemicals, steel, and shipbuilding, as well as in agriculture, fisheries, and livestock through the “Jeonnam-model AX.”
  • Strengthening global presence by ensuring the success of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo and pursuing the 2028 G20 Summit and COP33, while building a Southern Coast tourism belt leveraging nature, culture, and improved nationwide transport links.

Governor Kim concluded by reaffirming the province’s vision of becoming the AI and energy capital of Korea, advancing administrative cooperation with Gwangju, and positioning Jeonnam at the heart of the southern semiconductor belt.

Haenam Declares 2025 the Year of Its Rise as Korea’s “AI and Energy Capital”– Major national projects open historic opportunities for the region

Haenam County has identified 2025 as a decisive turning point in its emergence as Korea’s leading hub for artificial intelligence and energy innovation. In his year-end address, Governor Myeong Hyun-gwan stated that Haenam is “no longer the land’s end, but the heart of Korea’s new AI and energy era.”

Key achievements include securing the National AI Computing Center, a mega-scale project expected to generate significant economic impact, and LS Group’s decision to build a dedicated offshore wind power port in the Hwawon Industrial Complex. The likelihood of additional flagship projects—such as the OpenAI–SK large-scale AI Data Center and the RE100 National Industrial Complex—is increasing, positioning Haenam at the forefront of Korea’s technological and energy transformation.

Haenam also made notable progress in agriculture, tourism, and regional development: construction of major agricultural research and climate centers is set to begin, smart-farming initiatives are advancing, large-scale festivals and international sports events boosted visitor numbers, and the Haenam Love Gift Certificate surpassed 820 billion KRW in cumulative sales.

The county achieved high national recognition as well, receiving the top grade in the national public-sector integrity assessment for the first time and maintaining the highest rating for seven consecutive years in the manifesto fulfillment evaluation.

Governor Myeong expressed gratitude to Haenam’s residents for their role in these accomplishments, pledging to build “an even more vibrant and livable Haenam” together in 2026.

Naju Accelerates Follow-Up Measures After Securing Korea’s National Fusion Energy Project– City Launches Taskforce and Prepares Infrastructure to Pass Government Review by 2026

The City of Naju is moving swiftly to position itself as a leading hub for next-generation clean energy after being selected by the Ministry of Science and ICT as the final site for Korea’s major national fusion-energy project—often referred to as the “artificial sun.” The project will receive approximately 1.2 trillion KRW in national funding and will run from 2027 to 2036, covering core technology development and the construction of large-scale demonstration infrastructure.

Following the site selection, Naju has launched full-scale follow-up actions aimed at successfully passing the government’s pre-feasibility study (PFS) by the end of 2026. Key measures include establishing a dedicated municipal taskforce, accelerating site preparation, and strengthening communication with local residents.

Key Initiatives:

  • Site Preparation & Compliance:
    The selected location within the Naju Energy National Industrial Complex allows rapid development using existing infrastructure.
    The site meets government requirements, including provision of a fully prepared building site by 2028, a 250-MVA power line, and a four-lane access road.
  • Infrastructure & Utilities:
    Proximity to the Wang-gok substation and industrial water facilities ensures the ability to supply large-scale power and water.
    Additional expansion areas adjacent to the main site meet criteria for sustainability and scalability.
  • Building a Fusion Research & Innovation Ecosystem:
    Naju plans to form a Fusion Science–Industry–Academia Cluster centered around the research facility.
    Collaboration will leverage the strengths of KEPCO, the Korea Power Exchange, and the Korea Energy Engineering University (KENTECH) located in Naju Innovation City.
    The goal is to attract energy-tech companies and create strong synergies between research and industry.
  • Talent Development & Science-City Strategy:
    The city aims to attract top international researchers and support their settlement in Naju.
    Initiatives include a “Fusion Young Scientist Program,” an Energy Gifted Youth Center, and development of new residential, educational, and research environments to build a globally competitive science city.
  • Citizen Communication & Transparency:
    Naju will hold public briefings and regional information sessions to explain the project’s goals and timeline.
    Continuous disclosure of progress and active collection of resident feedback will ensure transparency and public trust.

The national fusion project is expected to drive profound structural changes across Naju’s economy and urban landscape. The city anticipates the inflow of around 2,000 high-skilled professionals and more than 300 related companies, which could generate over 10,000 jobs. Population growth, revitalized local commerce, improved residential environments, and strengthened educational and research sectors are also expected.

Naju views this project as a historic turning point—one that will anchor the city’s rise as a global center for energy science and sustainable development.

Jeollanam-do Declares 2026 the “First Year of the Eastern Region’s 100-Year Grand Leap”– Major Industrial, Energy, and Tourism Transformation Announced

Jeollanam-do has officially designated 2026 as the “First Year of the 100-Year Grand Leap of the Eastern Region,” unveiling a comprehensive development strategy aimed at transforming the eastern part of the province into a core hub for future industries. The announcement was made during the year-end press briefing held at the Eastern Regional Headquarters.

Governor Kim Young-rok emphasized that although the petrochemical and steel industries are undergoing a period of crisis, this moment presents a significant opportunity. He stressed the need to fundamentally upgrade industrial structures, secure future competitiveness, and deliver visible, meaningful changes for residents.

Key Strategic Initiatives:

  • Industrial Transformation:
    Modernization of the petrochemical and steel industries through AI, decarbonization, and high-value technologies.
    Establishment of a battery and semiconductor cluster in the Gwangyang Bay area, including a National Advanced Battery Strategic Industry Complex (12.6 trillion KRW) and an RE100 Future Industrial Complex (12 trillion KRW).
  • Hydrogen & Future Energy Development:
    Creation of an integrated hydrogen platform based on LNG terminals, hydrogen pipelines, and a hydrogen port (5.03 trillion KRW).
    Promotion of the South Coast Hydrogen Industrial Belt and the transition of Gwangyang Steelworks to hydrogen-based steelmaking.
  • Clean Energy & Space Industry Cluster:
    Development of a “Clean Energy Hub” using the province-wide designation as a Distributed Energy Special Zone, including offshore wind projects in Yeosu and Goheung (13 GW) and pumped-storage hydropower plants in Gokseong and Gurye.
    Establishment of a K-Space & Defense Innovation Belt in Goheung, featuring a Space-Defense Innovation Cluster, a second national space center, and private launch vehicle testing facilities.
  • Agriculture & Fisheries Innovation:
    Introduction of AI-driven models for agriculture and fisheries across Suncheon, Gokseong, and Goheung, focusing on smart farms, blue food, and green bio industries.
  • Tourism, Global Events & Infrastructure:
    Development of an interconnected mega-regional SOC system to link industry, tourism, and logistics.
    Major projects include the completion of the Jeolla and Gyeongjeon high-speed railways, upgrades to the Namhae Expressway, and construction of the Yeosu–Namhae undersea tunnel.
    The province will also pursue large-scale international events such as the 2026 Yeosu World Island Exhibition, the 2028 G20 Summit, and COP33.
    Additionally, a wellness and marine tourism belt connecting Jirisan, Seomjingang, and the Dadohae archipelago will be created.

Governor Kim highlighted the historical strength of the region’s land, sea, and industrial sites—foundations that powered Korea’s economic rise. He affirmed the province’s commitment to leveraging this strength to build the next 100 years of prosperity and focusing all resources on delivering tangible improvements that residents can feel.

Suncheonman National Garden Transforms into a Winter Christmas Village

Suncheonman National Garden has launched its large-scale Christmas season program “Santa Garden – A Place Even Santa Takes a Break,” transforming the nation’s first national garden into an experiential winter village for citizens and tourists.

A 13-meter premium Christmas tree—previously displayed at Seoul’s landmark Lotte Tower—now welcomes visitors at the East Gate, marking the garden’s first metropolitan-level holiday installation. From mid-December, the surrounding area will operate as Santa Village with themed exhibition and hands-on spaces inspired by Christmas sweets, toys, and festive storytelling.

Key attractions include the redesigned Santa Bus, a florist-collaboration carousel, “Red Christmas” and “White Christmas” thematic zones, nighttime lighting along the French Garden and Bald Cypress Path, and Christmas diffuser workshops. From December 20–25, Santa Garden Week will feature family events, treasure hunts, and interactive programs.

Mayor Noh Kwan-gyu emphasized that the project “turns the entire garden into a single Christmas narrative,” aiming to offer visitors both winter romance and a warm seasonal retreat.

Suncheonman National Garden has surpassed 4.5 million visitors in 2024, with projected annual revenue exceeding 12 billion KRW, reinforcing its role as a driver of gardenomics and urban brand value.

Jeollanam-do Accelerates International Efforts to Secure Hosting of the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026

Jeollanam-do is intensifying its efforts to secure the hosting of the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026 in South Korea, working closely with the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and key international climate institutions. Following its selection as the national host candidate, the province is now actively advancing final-stage international lobbying and preparation.

The Climate Week, launched in 2021 under the leadership of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is one of the world’s most significant climate platforms. Delegations from 198 member countries, international organizations, NGOs, and global experts participate to engage in preliminary discussions that shape the official agenda of the COP.

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Jeollanam-do presented its carbon-neutrality strategy and highlighted the importance of hosting the Climate Week in Yeosu. A formal letter from the Governor of Jeollanam-do was delivered to UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, expressing South Korea’s commitment and request for hosting rights.

In December, a delegation led by Jeollanam-do’s Ambassador for International Relations, Park Cheol-ju, visited the UNFCCC Secretariat in Bonn and the ICLEI World Secretariat. During meetings with UNFCCC Deputy Executive Secretary Noura Hammamaji and ICLEI Secretary General Gino van Begin, the delegation emphasized Jeollanam-do’s readiness and the global importance of holding the 2026 Climate Week in South Korea. UN officials acknowledged Jeollanam-do’s strong capabilities and commitment.

The official host decision is expected later this December. Jeollanam-do is already preparing high-quality conference venues, meaningful side programs, and secure and convenient accommodation and transport systems.

Governor Kim Young-rok stated:
“Hosting the UNFCCC Climate Week 2026 would not only position South Korea as a global leader in climate response, but also serve as a crucial opportunity to showcase Jeollanam-do’s long-standing commitment and capacity in the field. We will continue to work with all relevant institutions to successfully secure the hosting.”

The Jeonnam Wind Energy Association successfully held the “2025 Jeonnam Wind Energy Night.”

The Jeonnam Wind Power Industry Association hosted the “2025 Jeonnam Wind Power Night” forum on the 18th of November , bringing together industry stakeholders to discuss development strategies for the province’s offshore wind sector. During the event, the association emphasized that this year marks a pivotal moment for advancing offshore wind power in South Jeolla Province.

2025 Energy Sector Achievements:

  • March: Enactment of the ‘Special Act on Offshore Wind Power’ and the ‘Special Act on National Power Grids’ to simplify complex licensing procedures and establish a legal foundation for power grid expansion
  • April: The 3.2 GW Shinan Offshore Wind Power Complex was designated as the largest in Asia-Pacific
  • April: Commercial operation of the Jeonnam Offshore Wind Power Complex 1 and Yeonggwang Yaksu Offshore Wind Power
  • Initiative:
    • Construction of the OpenAI-SK data center
    • Selection of Samsung SDS as a candidate site for the National AI Computing Center
    • Signing of an investment agreement for the nation’s first dedicated offshore wind power installation port
    • Designation of the entire Jeollanam-do region as a distributed energy special zone

Key Topics Presented at the Forum:

  • Key evaluation indicators for offshore wind power bidding
  • Current state of the offshore wind power market
  • Future direction of the bidding system
  • Jeonnam-specific supply chain strategy amidst the global supply chain restructuring and outlined ways to improve the corporate investment environment
  • Strategy for introducing support vessels and a plan to build hinterland ports and O&M bases
  • Infrastructure demand in preparation for the expected construction of approximately 7.9 GW in the Jeonnam region by 2030
  • Technical issues across the entire offshore wind power cycle, including business development, licensing, supply chain, and infrastructure

South Jeolla Province and Mokpo Port Join Forces to Develop Industry, Energy, and Tourism Complex Port

South Jeolla Province convened a meeting on the 14th of November with relevant organizations to discuss strategies for transforming Mokpo Port into a multifunctional hub that integrates industry, energy, and tourism. Participants reviewed development plans aimed at strengthening the port’s role as a key support base for industrial growth across the southwestern region.

Development strategies:

  • Reestablishing the functions of Mokpo Port and expanding the wharf
  • Establishing a hub port to support the offshore wind power industry
  • Regenerating the port and linking it with tourism and the city
  • Renewing old wharfs
  • Strategies to respond to preliminary feasibility studies

Direction for advancing Key Development Projects:

  • The development of dedicated and shared offshore wind power wharves in the Hwawon Industrial Complex
  • The expansion of Mokpo New Port’s support wharf and hinterland complex
  • The inner harbor regeneration project and passenger wharf expansion
  • The development of a comprehensive Mokpo Port development plan and feasibility study

Through these initiatives, the province seeks to transform Mokpo Port into a multifunctional hub that integrates automotive, steel, general cargo, recycling, and tourism functions, while strengthening Jeollanam-do’s maritime competitiveness as a key industrial and energy center for the southwestern region.

Goheung County Honors Legacy of Sorok Island’s “Angels” During Visit to Austria

Goheung-gun, Jeollanam-do, paid tribute to the lifelong dedication of Marianne Stoeger and the late Margaret Pissarek – widely known as the “Angels of Sorok Island” – during an official visit to Austria on the 13th of November.

The delegation met with Marianne’s family, as well as representatives of the Austrian Catholic Women’s Association, which had provided financial support for the nurses’ volunteer work decades earlier.

Marianne and Margaret, both trained nurses, devoted themselves to caring for patients on Sorok Island beginning in 1962, providing compassion and medical service for more than 40 years before returning to Austria in 2005. Margaret passed away in 2023, while Marianne continues to reside in her home country.

The county, which named them honorary citizens in 2016 and provides a monthly pension, is also promoting their legacy through initiatives such as the Marianne and Margaret Sharing Training Center and youth volunteer programs.