Wonju plans caravan parking lot near Barammori Park, faces resident opposition

The city of Gunsan, South Korea, announced plans to build its first campsite for dog owners. The 8,400 sq m facility will be located in the Geumgangho tourist area. The project budget is 2 billion won (1 billion from national funds, 1 billion from city funds). The campsite will feature 13 motorhome pitches, a dog playground, restrooms and showers. A flea market for pet supplies is also planned. Construction is set to begin in September 2026, with opening expected in the first half of 2027.

Ulleung County (North Gyeongsang Province) installed posts and barriers at entrances to popular car-camping (chabak) spots on the northern coast after a drowning incident in 2024, but did not create alternative campsites or designated camping areas. The tourism industry complains that the ban lacks supporting infrastructure. Visitor numbers to the island fell from 461,375 in 2022 to 380,522 in 2024, and by December 25, 2025, reached 346,314 — a 9% drop year-on-year. In contrast, neighboring cities Gyeongju and Pohang operate campsites and combine safety management with tourist attraction.

Endersview, a resort in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, offers family trips focused on relaxation without long-distance travel. The complex includes forest caravans, a heated water park called Timoni Beach, barbecue areas, and outdoor lounges. Guests stay in caravans equipped with kitchen, bathroom, and air conditioning, with all activities on-site. Prices and booking are available on the official website.

The public parking lot at Yangsan Station (Busan Metro Line 2), free since 2008, will switch to paid operation in the first half of 2025. The decision addresses long-term parking by campers and trucks, which has caused a shortage of spaces, double parking, and accident complaints. After a 300 million won renovation including CCTV and layout changes, the lot will be managed by a public facility corporation. Fees: first hour free, then 800 won per hour, max 6,000 won per day, free from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. The city may extend paid parking to three other stations.

On the night of July 18, campers were rescued from a camper in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, after a sudden river overflow. In Uiseong County, a road collapse forced the evacuation of over 150 people, including residents and campers. In Yangju, Gyeonggi Province, a retaining wall collapse injured a 60-year-old woman who fell 3 meters. In Suwon, a 10-year-old boy drowned while swimming on June 18.

In Wonju, Gangwon Province, the holiday season has seen a rise in 'alpakki' — long-term occupation of public parking lots and campsites by tents and campers. At the Chilbong Recreation Area parking lot, two campers have been parked since June, while the closed Seomgang Dukkeobi Auto Camping site is also illegally occupied. Local authorities lack legal grounds for forced removal or penalties, except on beaches where recent amendments allow removal without administrative procedures. Concerns grow that displaced 'alpakki' may shift to riverside areas.