South Korea tightens control on car camping in public parking lots, recommends official campsites

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.

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.

Yongin Natural Recreation Forest, located in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, charges an adult admission fee of 2,000 won. The park features forest trails, streams, a lawn, and accommodation including cabins and caravans (4 caravans). Zip-line and eco-adventure facilities are currently suspended since January 2024 due to no new operator.

Authorities in Yuzhnoukrainsk have banned long-term parking of motorhomes and caravans in city areas. The decision follows complaints from residents that campers occupy parking spots for weeks, hindering other drivers. Violators face fines.