Cruise ships flock to Sokcho, bringing smiles and economic buzz

Every time a cruise ship calls at port, Sokcho's economy gets a lift. With vessels arriving in quick succession, the city is enjoying a boom.

"We are very pleased that The World, one of the world's premier luxury cruise ships, has formed a connection with Sokcho," Sokcho Mayor Lee Byung-sun said.

Sokcho welcomed tourists from The World on Tuesday as the ship made its maiden call at Sokcho Port, with the city rolling out tailored transport and tourism services for the visitors. Similar hospitality is planned for the Westerdam and the Seven Seas Encore, both scheduled to call at the port next month.

The World departed from Kanazawa, Japan, and arrived at Sokcho Port at 9 a.m. Tuesday. Carrying about 500 passengers and crew, the ship is set to depart for Busan at 8 p.m. Thursday after a two-night, three-day stay.

The city is operating four shuttle buses connecting the cruise terminal to Sokcho Tourist and Fisheries Market. The buses run at 30-minute intervals, with schedules adjusted flexibly based on passenger flow, and foreign-language guides are stationed at boarding and alighting points to assist travelers.

Tourist information centers are providing directions to major attractions and walking tour maps. Volunteers stationed near the market are also on hand to guide visitors to local food and sightseeing spots throughout the city.

Entertainment has been arranged alongside the transport services. Working with the Korea Tourism Organization and other agencies, the city plans to offer traditional performances and hands-on hanbok and calligraphy experiences, as well as locally made souvenirs, to give visitors a memorable taste of Sokcho.

On-site management has also been stepped up to ensure tourists can travel safely. Event facilities were inspected in advance, and guides have been deployed around the terminal and market to assist pedestrians and vehicle traffic. An ambulance is on standby and communication channels among relevant agencies are in place to handle any emergencies.

At around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Mayor Lee and Deputy Mayor Tak Yeon-mi toured key facilities aboard the ship before visiting the arrival welcome event to conduct an on-site inspection.