Where Are Gyeongbuk's Top Tourist Spots Recommended by AI? Gyeongbuk Culture and Tourism Corporation Unveils New Travel Courses

by Gu Daeseon

Published 08 Mar.2026 10:43(KST)

Gyeongbuk Culture and Tourism Corporation (President Kim Namil) announced on March 8 that it has released "Customized Travel Courses by Region in Gyeongbuk," utilizing AI technology to analyze rapidly changing travel trends and provide tourists with optimized travel experiences.

This initiative is the result of integrating and analyzing real-time social data from platforms such as Instagram and YouTube, as well as statistical data from the Korea Tourism Data Lab, using a specialized AI for social analysis. The AI learned from the vast array of visitor reviews, incorporating the actual voices of tourists, and selected the most relevant "representative and recommended keywords," thereby increasing the reliability and precision of its analysis.

Gyeongbuk Culture and Tourism Corporation

According to the analysis of social data for 2026 compared to the same period in 2024 (January 1 to February 20), there has been a surge in keywords that reflect clear purposes and preferences, rather than the previously vague notion of "domestic travel." For example, "#HealingTravel" increased by 748%, "#TempleTravel" by 376%, and "#HotSpringTravel" by 239%. In line with these trends, the corporation divided Gyeongbuk into four regions (East, West, South, North) and suggested representative courses recommended by AI.

In the eastern region, the highlight is a drive and gourmet journey along the East Coast. The itinerary includes Yeongildae Beach in Pohang, Yeongdeok Snow Crab Street, and Deokgu Oncheon Spa World in Uljin, making it ideal for a one-night, two-day trip with parents or family.

The western region offers a course for those seeking active experiences in nature. Destinations such as the old trail trekking at Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park, the observation deck at Gyeongcheondae in Sangju, and the suspension bridge at Buhang Dam in Gimcheon have been selected, allowing visitors to walk and have fun with children. The southern region features an emotional course for enjoying the night views and culture of this ancient capital. Highlights include the night tour of Bulguksa Temple and Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond in Gyeongju, as well as a stargazing experience at Bohyeonsan Astronomical Science Museum in Yeongcheon, making it perfect for memorable trips with friends or a stroll with parents.

The northern region is also recommended for travelers seeking reflection and relaxation. It features tranquil destinations where visitors can feel the depth of Gyeongbuk's traditions, including Baekdudaegan National Arboretum in Bonghwa, Buseoksa Temple in Yeongju, and Hahoe Folk Village in Andong, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Kim Namil, President of Gyeongbuk Culture and Tourism Corporation, stated, "Data analysis shows that tourists are increasingly preferring 'purpose-oriented' travel destinations tailored to their tastes," and added, "I hope you can enjoy the hidden charms of Gyeongbuk in a more systematic way through these AI-recommended courses."