Among the coal-industry transition zones in southeastern Gangwon Province, Dogye-eup in Samcheok has long felt somewhat overlooked compared to Taebaek, Jeongseon and Yeongwol. The township once supported a population of 40,000 to 50,000. Unlike Taebaek and Jeongseon — where flat terrain sits at around 800 meters above sea level — Dogye lies at a lower altitude, making it easy to forget that coal mines once operated there too.
The Samcheok Tourism and Culture Foundation and Kangwon Land's Hi-one Chuchu Park have joined hands to breathe new life into the area.
Under a newly signed MOU, the two organizations agreed to cooperate on developing and promoting Samcheok tourism content, pursue joint marketing and tourism promotion, and expand programs that broaden public access to tourism — all aimed at fostering regional vitality and boosting visitor numbers.
The partnership carries particular weight given that Dogye is at a critical juncture as a coal-industry transition zone actively seeking new avenues for tourism development.
Hi-one Chuchu Park was built along the old switchback rail corridor in Dogye. The park, along with attractions such as Miin Falls, is expected to enrich visits to Samcheok for travelers from across the country.
"This agreement is a starting point for effectively linking Dogye's tourism resources while strengthening Samcheok's overall competitiveness as a destination," said Yoo Jae-hyeon, secretary general of the Samcheok Tourism and Culture Foundation. "Going forward, the two organizations will maintain ongoing communication to build a tourism revitalization model rooted in regional cooperation."
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