Gangwon’s Goseong and Yeongwol selected as top travel destinations for June by the Gangwon Tourism Organization
As early summer gently unfolds across Korea, Gangwon Province invites travelers to immerse themselves in the calming scent of lavender and the wonder of stargazing under crystal-clear night skies.
To celebrate the “2025–2026 Visit Gangwon Year,” the Gangwon Tourism Organization has named Goseong and Yeongwol as June’s recommended travel destinations.
The Goseong Lavender Festival, set to run from June 5 to 25, turns the landscape into a sea of purple hues. Accompanied by vibrant poppies and rye fields, this festival delivers a European-style ambiance that is rare to find in Korea.
Visitors can also enjoy the serene Songjiho Beach, scenic Observation Tower, and the historic Cheongganjeong Pavilion, all highlighting the rich natural beauty of the region.
When night falls, the journey continues to Yeongwol, home to Byeolmaro Observatory, the largest stargazing facility in Korea. Located at the top of Mount Bongrae, the observatory offers breathtaking views of the night sky, living up to its name, which means “a quiet peak for watching stars.”
For thrill-seekers, rafting along the Donggang River is a must. The river’s mix of calm stretches and thrilling rapids creates a perfect route for both beginners and seasoned adventurers.
The Eorayeon Valley, with its towering rock cliffs and mystical forest canopy, adds a touch of magic to the experience.
Yeongwol also offers cultural enrichment at the Yeongwol Tourism Center, where visitors can explore the region’s mining history and artistic exhibitions.
Don’t miss a chance to savor local specialties such as Kondure-namul rice, Korean pancakes (jeonbyeong), and arrowroot noodles — all part of Yeongwol’s unique culinary heritage.
To make the experience even better, visitors can enjoy exclusive benefits.
In Goseong, holders of the Gangwon Lifestyle Resident Pass (easy.gwd.go.kr) can enjoy discounts, while Yeongwol offers perks for those who register for a Digital Tourism Resident Pass (korean.visitkorea.or.kr).
“The charm of Goseong and Yeongwol lies in their ability to offer meaningful experiences within nature,” said Choi Sung-hyun, CEO of the Gangwon Tourism Organization. “We hope travelers will share unforgettable moments here with loved ones.”