The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced on November 28 that three beaches—Haeundae Beach in Busan, Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung, and Samcheok Beach in Samcheok—have been selected as South Korea’s top coastal destinations of the year. The recognition highlights their outstanding amenities, safety measures, and region-specific attractions.

Each of these beaches received praise for enhancing visitor experiences with facilities such as foot-washing stations, water play areas, and themed zones. The ministry emphasized their proactive efforts to ensure safety, including installing protective barriers against hazardous marine life and setting up surveillance towers.

Haeundae Beach stood out for its year-round festivals that embrace the changing seasons. Events like Spring of Blossoming Culture, Healing Summer, Romantic Autumn Seas, and Winter Ocean Stories offered visitors diverse cultural and entertainment experiences, including music festivals and themed celebrations.

At Gyeongpo Beach, the focus was on interactive water activities. The beach introduced expansive water recreation facilities, including a giant water slide, pools, and underwater play structures. For nighttime visitors, illuminated water attractions provided a unique evening experience, further enhancing the beach’s appeal.

Samcheok Beach, located along the East Coast, emphasized its family-friendly offerings. Children enjoyed building sandcastles at specially designated play zones, while parents found comfort in shaded resting areas with traditional-style roofs. This approach to creating a welcoming environment for families was particularly well-received.

As a recognition of their achievements, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will award the respective local governments overseeing these beaches with ministerial awards. Additionally, municipal staff members responsible for these projects will receive commendations for their contributions.

The ministry highlighted that these beaches excelled not only in providing recreational opportunities but also in promoting local culture and ensuring safety. “These efforts set a benchmark for other coastal destinations,” a ministry official remarked.

The selection of these outstanding beaches underscores the importance of integrating safety, accessibility, and cultural relevance in coastal tourism. As these destinations continue to innovate and attract visitors, they reinforce South Korea’s position as a leader in sustainable and family-oriented coastal tourism.

Sayart / Jack Lee, wangjb77@gmail.com