South Korean regions launch workcation and rural living programs

Regional authorities in South Korea are launching new programs to encourage extended stays through workcation and rural living experiences.

The Chungnam Economic Promotion Agency is recruiting participants for the ‘2026 Chungcheongnam-do Rural Working Holiday’. This program aims to help urban residents experience rural life and work by staying in areas like Hongseong-gun. A 2-night, 3-day program will take place from October 16 to 18 in Mundang Village, featuring activities such as organic farming experiences, local food making, and networking. A longer 5-night, 6-day program is also planned for November.

In Busan, the Busan Creative Economy Innovation Center is expanding accommodation subsidies for its ‘Huenwork Seo-gu Workcation’ program in Songdo. In collaboration with the Korea Tourism Organization’s ‘Travel Month’ campaign, participants staying for four nights or more during October and November can receive up to 300,000 won in additional accommodation support. The initiative seeks to boost the local economy by linking work-travel stays with regional festivals and tourism content.