Jeju Island is making significant strides to boost its tourism sector through innovative climate technology initiatives and improved public transport. Recently, the island hosted workshops aimed at aligning local policies with ambitious climate action goals, particularly the goal of carbon neutrality by 2035.
Held over two days, from March 6-7, the strategic workshop was attended by representatives from more than 30 climate tech companies as well as officials from the Jeju provincial government and the Jeju Carbon Neutrality Support Center. This gathering stemmed from a memorandum of cooperation established last year. During this strategic meeting, participants aimed to discuss and flesh out actionable plans to utilize climate technology for carbon reduction projects within Jeju.
Im Hong-cheol, who heads the Environmental Policy Division of Jeju Province, emphasized the importance of these collaborations, stating, "Jeju aims to be the central city for the role expansion of climate tech companies and the practice of carbon neutrality." This statement encapsulates the provincial government’s vision of elevting Jeju to become not only a tourist destination but also a hub for climate-friendly innovations.
But it doesn’t end there. Alongside these climate initiatives, the Jeju government is also refining its transportation policies to make it easier and more affordable for families, especially those with children. On the same day as the workshops, Jeju officials announced comprehensive changes to its vehicle registration laws, responding to public grievances and recent legal challenges surrounding the parking lot proof system. This law initially required proof of parking spaces for vehicle registrations but has attracted various criticisms for being overly restrictive.
Kim Tae-wan, head of the Jeju Transport and Aviation Bureau, commented on these changes, noting, "This system improvement reflects the practical difficulties of residents and emphasizes the fundamental purpose of parking lot proof system." Under the revised rules, small vehicles and certain eco-friendly vehicles are exempt from these proofs, which could remove about 187,000 vehicles from the registration requirement—potentially alleviating numerous hardships for local residents.
Further changes include adjustments to rules around renting parking spaces for vehicle registration purposes, aimed at increasing compliance and ensuring residents can manage their vehicles affordably. Officials anticipate increased flexibility will lead to smoother vehicle registrations and less frustration among residents.
Adding to this supportive environment for families, the Jeju government has expanded its public transportation rebate programs. Initially launched to subsidize transportation for the general public and low-income families, the "K-pass" refund system now includes additional support for families with multiple children. Starting this year, households with two or more children under 19 can receive up to 50% of their transportation costs reimbursed.
For example, families spending about 100,000 won monthly on public transportation will see their refund increased from 20,000 to 50,000 won under the new provisions, significantly easing their financial burdens. Residents must register through specific card issuers to access these benefits.
Meanwhile, the province is also laying down plans for advanced transportation projects, including the construction of hydrogen trams aimed at modernizing transport infrastructure. This initiative aligns closely with Jeju’s ambitions to integrate eco-friendly technologies throughout its urban planning, reinforcing its environmental commitment. Discussions around this project are set to advance with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, with hopes for official approval within the year.
These interconnected developments highlight how Jeju Island is not only seeking to capitalize on its natural appeal to tourists but is also working tirelessly to establish itself as a leader in sustainable tourism. The dual focus on climate technology and efficient transportation serves as the backbone for enhancing its attractiveness to both local residents and visitors alike.
With ambitious climate tech initiatives and inclusive transportation policies, Jeju is setting the stage for lasting tourism development, ensuring its rich natural beauty thrives alongside technological advancement and community welfare.