Miryang, located in South Gyeongsang Province, has been officially recognized as South Korea’s “Culture City of the Year” by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. This recognition is part of the Culture City initiative, a program launched in December 2019 to support regional cultural development and promote balanced growth nationwide.
Miryang’s Cultural Transformation
Miryang earned this title due to its exceptional efforts in revitalizing its local culture and tourism sector.
The Haessal Cultural Campus, is one of its standout projects. It repurposed the long-abandoned Miryang National University site into a vibrant cultural hub. Since its grand opening in November 2023, the site attracted 140,000 visitors in just two months, highlighting its growing popularity among tourists and locals alike.
To ensure the long-term success of its cultural initiatives, Miryang has committed additional city budget resources. The South Korean Ministry commended the city’s strategic cultural investments. These kind of initiatives have significantly contributed to boosting local tourism.
A Growing Network of Culture Cities
Miryang joins a list of 24 other cities designated as part of the Culture City initiative. Some previously recognized cities include:
- Gyeonggi Province: Bucheon, Anseong, Uijeongbu
- Gangwon Province: Gangneung, Sokcho
- South Jeolla Province: Suncheon
- North Gyeongsang Province: Andong
- South Gyeongsang Province: Gimhae
These cities have received government support to develop cultural spaces, enhance tourism appeal, and celebrate local heritage through various programs.
Government Investment in Cultural Development
In 2024 alone, the Culture Ministry allocated 1.5 billion won ($1 million) per city to enhance cultural projects and improve regional creative landscapes. Over the next three years, the government will invest 20 billion won per region to foster city collaboration and strengthen South Korea’s cultural tourism sector.
The Future of Korea’s Culture Cities
The Culture City initiative continues to be a cornerstone of the South Korean government’s efforts to enhance cultural accessibility, create engaging tourist attractions, and empower local communities. According to Culture Minister Yu In-chon, this project is designed to develop sustainable cultural programs and spaces, allowing residents and visitors alike to experience the unique charm of each designated city.
As Miryang leads the way in 2024, the Culture City initiative sets a strong foundation for regional tourism growth, ensuring that South Korea’s cultural identity thrives both locally and globally.
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