The Korea National Park Service (KNPS, President Joo Dae-yeong) under the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment (MCEE) announced that it will offer 22 premium guided national park experiences, combining the unique natural resources of national parks with distinctive activities, completely free of charge throughout October.

※ The 11 regular guided programs at the National Park Nature Centers are normally offered for a fee of KRW 5,500-11,000 per person.

The program, operated by 16 national park offices and national park nature centers nationwide, was designed to reflect the needs of visitors seeking more immersive experiences and healing, rather than simply participating in conventional park tours. 

In particular, the programs are distinguished by the fact that they are directly planned and operated by interpreters who have built up years of experience and expertise in the field at national parks. Based on each interpreter’s expertise in ecological and cultural resources and their field experience, the KNPS plans to provide differentiated guided exploration services.

The premium guided programs will be offered under three themes, allowing visitors to choose and enjoy programs based on their interests: Ecology & Exploration (eight programs); Healing & Rejuvenation (nine programs); Unique Experiences & Culture (five programs). 

First, the “Ecology & Exploration” programs offer a variety of experiences, from wildlife expeditions to stargazing, for visitors seeking an in-depth look at nature. At Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park, “Wild Finless Porpoise Expedition” allows visitors to observe mother and calf porpoises based on four years of experience tracking and recording their movements. At Sagimak Campground of the Bukhansan National Park, “Turn Off the Lights, Turn On the Stars!” offers stargazing through an astronomical telescope. 

  

Other programs include listening to birdsong and observing insect ecology in Jirisan National Park, learning about ecosystem cycles in Naejangsan National Park, and exploring halophytes and dune plants in Dadohaehaesang National Park, offering visitors opportunities to learn about the value of nature.

The “Healing & Rejuvenation” programs offer opportunities to care for the body and mind through silence and meditation in the forest. Representative programs include “Green Consolation: Let the Forest Rest Your Mind” at the Chiaksan National Park, “Log In to the Forest” at the Bukhansan National Park, and “Namcheon Forest Journey: A Comma for the Mind” at the Sobaeksan National Park, which use forests and valleys to provide opportunities for relaxation. At Jirisan National Park, visitors can enjoy rest in nature, while Naejangsan National Park offers healing experiences through sound and scent. Other nature-based experiences include exploring the Machilus thunbergii groves and enjoying seawater foot baths at Byeonsanbando National Park, as well as island and sea meditation at Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park.

The “Unique Experiences & Culture” programs, which combine local ecological and cultural resources with sign-language interpretation and other distinctive elements, are also drawing attention. At Jirisan National Park, programs include sign-language interpretation for visitors with hearing impairments, cultural heritage photography, and ecology and mountain safety experiences. At Naejangsan National Park, visitors can enjoy “Immortal Ssanghwa Tea,” made with Jeongeup’s traditional specialty products, while Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park offers “The Hallyeohaesang Trivia Guide,” an engaging introduction to the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

The “22 Premium Guided National Park Experiences” are designed to provide visitors with an in-depth experience of national park nature, supported by specialized equipment and careful guidance. Individuals wishing to participate can make an advance reservation through the National Park Reservation System (reservation.knps.or.kr) and join free of charge.

KNPS President Joo Dae-yeong said, “The 22 Premium Guided National Park Experiences are special guided services that bring together the pride and field experience of our national park interpreters. We hope visitors will make special memories amid the beautiful nature of our national parks.”