What changed at Hwacheon's park golf courses?

Hwacheon County in Gangwon Province raised the adult entry fee at all of its park golf courses from 5,000 won to 15,000 won, effective September 28, 2026, according to Yonhap News. To soften the increase, paying visitors receive a 10,000 won Hwacheon Sarang gift voucher, so their real out-of-pocket cost stays at about 5,000 won.

How does the voucher refund work?

The refund is paid in Hwacheon Sarang vouchers, a local currency that can only be spent in the county. Visitors can use them at member stores for meals and drinks. The county aims to keep the money circulating in local shops rather than leaving the area.

| Item | Amount | |---|---| | Adult entry fee | 15,000 won | | Voucher refund | 10,000 won | | Effective cost | about 5,000 won |

Can I play more than one course in a day?

Yes, at a reduced price. If you play another park golf course the same day, show your original payment receipt and you can enter for 5,000 won.

Do overnight guests still get a free round?

Yes. The one-time free entry offered to guests staying overnight in Hwacheon remains in place.

What does the county expect?

The county estimates that if 200,000 outside visitors a year each receive a 10,000 won voucher, about 2 billion won in vouchers will circulate locally. It plans to extend the vouchers to local festivals, tourism sites, and sports competition prizes, and says it will crack down on misuse.

For international fans

Hwacheon is a mountain county in northern Gangwon, known for its outdoor activities. Park golf is a short-course sport popular with older Koreans and is a common leisure activity in regional towns. Check with the county or the course before you visit for current booking and payment methods, since local currency rules can differ for non-residents.