North Gyeongsang tourism body unveils AI-curated dessert map for 'bread pilgrimage' travelers

The North Gyeongsang Province Culture and Tourism Corporation has released a "North Gyeongsang Dessert Map," using social media big data and an AI algorithm (Gemini) to analyze tourist preferences, the corporation announced Wednesday.

The map was developed in response to a growing dessert tourism trend in which travelers increasingly value visual experiences and atmosphere alongside the pleasure of eating.

An analysis of major social media data over the past year found that mentions of "dessert hot spots" rose 15 percent compared with the previous year, reflecting a nationwide dessert boom.

The corporation also divided dessert destinations into three themes — traditional, trendy and unique — to cater to a range of tourist tastes.

The traditional category features a cream cheese bread destination in Andong, widely known as one of the country's top three bakeries, along with a representative old-school bakery in Pohang with a 70-year history and a storied confectionery in Yeongju famous for its castella-injeolmi.

These spots, long cherished by locals and visitors alike, are also recommended as "bread pilgrimage" routes to enjoy with older family members.

Unique desserts made with local specialty ingredients are also drawing attention.

Crab-shaped bread from Uljin, omija (five-flavor berry) bread from Mungyeong, and dessert cafes featuring Seongju oriental melon offer menus that capture each area's distinct character, adding to the travel experience and proving popular as souvenirs.

The corporation has also proposed customized themed routes to help travelers get the most out of their visit.

Highlights include a walking-friendly route centered on Hwangni-dan-gil in Gyeongju, a tour of notable long-established shops in northern North Gyeongsang Province, and a dessert tour along the East Sea coastal road.

Full details of the North Gyeongsang Dessert Map are available on the corporation's official website.

Kim Nam-il, president of the North Gyeongsang Province Culture and Tourism Corporation, said the map captures "the candid voices of actual tourists and the latest dessert tourism trends" through AI and social big data analysis. "We hope visitors will follow the themed recommended routes and experience the sweet and special dessert destinations scattered across North Gyeongsang Province firsthand," he added.