Top 10 Korea Tourism Stars 2025 | Best Destinations Selected by MCST

⭐ Top 10 “Korea Tourism Stars of 2025” Announced

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) has officially announced the 2025 Korea Tourism Stars, recognizing ten destinations, programs, and contributors who played a major role in advancing Korea’s tourism industry this year.

➡️ Ceremony Information:
• Date: November 27, 2025
• Venue: Seoul Shilla Hotel
• Hosted by: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism & Korea Tourism Organization
• Presented by: Vice Minister Kim Dae-hyun

Since its launch in 2010, the “Korea Tourism Stars” program has annually selected and honored outstanding tourism resources and contributors based on recommendations from the public, local governments, and industry experts. This year marks the 15th ceremony, continuing a legacy of recognizing Korea’s most impactful tourism achievements.

🏆 2025 Award Categories & Final Honorees

1️⃣ Tourist Destinations

Category	Selected Site	Location
Destination of the Year	Hwangridan-gil	Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk
Emerging Destination	Sayuwon	Daegu
Eco-friendly Destination	Biyangdo Island	Jeju
Accessible Destination	Kim You-jung Railbike	Chuncheon, Gangwon

2️⃣ Tourism Content

Category	Program	Region
Local Signature Content	Haman Nakhwa Nori Firefall Festival	Haman, Gyeongnam
Regional Cooperation Model	Sangha Farm	Gochang, Jeonbuk
Innovative Tourism Policy	Gangjin Half-Off Travel Program	Gangjin, Jeonnam
Urban Marketing Activation	Daejeon “Ggumssi” Family Project	Daejeon

3️⃣ Contributors to Tourism Development

Category	Honoree	Notes
Contribution to Tourism Industry	Jeju Olle Foundation	Jeju
Honorary Contributor to Korean Tourism Promotion	Author Im Sang-chun	Writer of “You’ve Been Tricked for Real”

🌟 Highlights of the Top Honored Destinations

📍 1. Destination of the Year – Hwangridan-gil, Gyeongju

Hwangridan-gil is celebrated for its harmonious blend of ancient heritage and modern lifestyle. Known for:

• Traditional hanok cafés and art studios
• Trendy fusion restaurants and boutique shops
• Picturesque alleys surrounding Gyeongju’s iconic tumuli parks

This unique contrast of history and youth culture makes Hwangridan-gil one of Korea’s most photogenic streets.

📍 2. Emerging Destination – Sayuwon, Daegu

Sayuwon has quickly risen as a premier “K-garden” destination offering:

• Scenic walking paths curated by world-class designers
• Seasonal gardens emphasizing natural aesthetics
• Art installations promoting reflection and emotional healing

Its ongoing growth reflects the trend toward slow, immersive eco-travel.

📍 3. Accessible Destination – Kim You-jung Railbike, Chuncheon

This railbike attraction provides one of Korea’s most inclusive travel experiences. Highlights include:

• Wheelchair-friendly “companion railbikes”
• Lift-equipped scenic observation cars
• Complete barrier-free movement pathways

Visitors enjoy calm forest scenery and lakeside views along the historic Gyeongchun Line railway.

📍 4. Eco-friendly Destination – Biyangdo Island, Jeju

Biyangdo earned recognition for its preservation-focused tourism programs and its commitment to environmental sustainability. Visitors can explore volcanic landscapes, marine conservation zones, and quiet eco-walking trails.

📌 Final Thoughts

The 2025 Korea Tourism Stars showcase the diverse, beautiful, and innovative travel experiences Korea continues to offer. From heritage-rich streets to breathtaking natural sanctuaries and ingenious local tourism programs, these honorees represent the future direction of Korea’s tourism landscape.

As Korea’s tourism industry continues to recover and evolve, these award-winning destinations and contributors will play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s global tourism identity.