HADONG, GYEONGSANGNAM-DO – Hadong-gun has announced the selection of 17 additional locations for its "Hot Place Designation Project," a strategic initiative launched in 2023 to unearth the region's unique charm and significantly boost tourist influx. With these new additions, the total number of designated "hot places" has expanded to 60, firmly establishing Hadong as a premier destination under the brand image of "Must-Visit Places in Hadong."
The "Hot Place" designation, referring to popular and noteworthy locations, has been actively integrated into Hadong's local tourism strategy. This year's selection process, which commenced in February, saw a robust response, with dozens of local businesses applying. Following rigorous on-site inspections and expert evaluations, 17 locations were ultimately chosen. These sites were evaluated based on their popularity on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, their distinctive spatial characteristics, and their embodiment of Hadong's unique identity. Of the newly selected sites, 11 are private establishments, with the remaining six being public spaces.
Prominent private hot spots include:
Dallae Mansion: A private guesthouse in Hwagae-myeon, known for its serene garden and a private terrace overlooking a tea field. This establishment, lovingly built by a couple over three years, offers a tranquil retreat. Guests can enjoy private rooms with dedicated bathrooms and terraces, access to shared kitchen and garden spaces, and a special barbecue experience.
Seolleongseolleong Stay: A pet-friendly pension.
Hadong Chalet: A unique accommodation offering.
Sosohwagae: A glamping site nestled in Jirisan.
Maison de Hadong: A charming bakery cafe.
Milbat: A distinctive establishment.
Kkotpineunsangol Cafe: A scenic cafe.
Hadong Haenggung: A historical-themed site.
Hadong Winery: Located in Akyang-myeon, this is Korea's first stay-type winery tour program. It specializes in wines made from "Daebong Persimmon," a local specialty. The 1-night, 2-day program, including accommodation at "Dasuk," offers wine enjoyment, exploration of local tea plantations and Hwagae Market, and regional culinary experiences such as the haekchop set meal and traditional rice cake soup. The program also features activities like tea field trekking, cultural performances, and networking opportunities, making it ideal for small groups, families, and corporate retreats.
Bonrae Restaurant: A culinary highlight.
Vivace Resort: A leisure destination.
In the public sector, the selected locations are:
Cafe Donggwang: Offering panoramic views of Hadong-eup and handcrafted wooden items.
Pyeongsa-ri Toji Market Tavern: A recreation of the tavern from the famous novel "Toji."
Narim Ecological Park: Situated on the former Bukcheon Middle School site, this park is named after the renowned writer Lee Byeong-ju, whose pen name "Narim" means "some forest." The park showcases over 130 plant species indigenous to Jirisan, including various trees and flowering plants. While reports indicate some maintenance challenges, the park remains a significant natural attraction.
Cheonghak-dong Cheonjedang and Hadong Traditional Seodang: The Cheonjedang is a sacred hall in Mungye-ri, Cheongam-myeon, where important rituals honoring heaven, earth, and humanity are performed biannually on the lunar calendar dates of April 8th and October 8th. This area is part of the larger Samsunggung complex, which seeks to revive the ancient Sodo traditions of Gojoseon, and is known for its residents who uphold traditional Korean lifestyles, living in thatched-roof homes and wearing Hanbok.
Horibyeong Sokui Byeolcheonji-gil: A scenic pathway.
Duyang-ri Ginkgo Tree: An approximately 900-year-old tree in Duyang-ri, Okjong-myeon, standing at 27 meters tall with a circumference of 9.3 meters. Designated as a Gyeongsangnam-do Monument in 1983, it is revered by locals as a sacred entity, particularly by mothers praying for their children's academic success. Despite suffering significant damage in a forest fire in March 2025, the tree has recently begun to sprout new leaves, symbolizing resilience and recovery for the community.
Hadong-gun plans extensive promotion of these newly designated hot spots through its official website, social media channels, and various promotional materials. Furthermore, the county intends to provide incentives for interior and facility enhancements to ensure a high-quality visitor experience.
"The designation of these hot places is instrumental not only in attracting tourists but also in bolstering the self-sufficiency of local small business owners," a county official stated. This project is noteworthy for its success in intertwining public and private sector contributions, transforming what began as a simple promotional effort into a foundational component of Hadong's tourism infrastructure. This initiative highlights a growing understanding that while many places offer temporary stays, true success lies in creating destinations that visitors are eager to return to.
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