10만 방문객 돌파! 청양 칠갑타워가 바꾼 지역 관광의 미래

Chilgab Tower, a striking new landmark in Cheongyang County, South Chungcheong Province, reached 100,000 visitors just four months after opening — a milestone that’s already reshaping the local tourism scene.

According to county officials, Chilgab Tower, which opened in November, drew roughly 100,000 visitors in about four months. To celebrate, they surprised the 100,000th guest with a souvenir, traditional goji berry tea, and a Cheongyang tour pass.

The lucky visitor, Im Yeon-ok from Yesan County, said she was “so happy to share this special moment with my family” and plans to actively promote Chilgab Tower and Cheongyang tourism to others.

Chilgab Tower features a skywalk overlooking Chilgab Lake and a media theater. Since opening, it has quickly become the area’s must-see attraction.

The influx of out-of-town visitors has also given nearby businesses a noticeable boost, creating tangible economic benefits for the community.

The county plans to complete nighttime lighting by May and extend operating hours to 9 PM to capture evening tourism demand.

Officials are fast-tracking upgrades to the tourism infrastructure around Chilgab Tower. After an eight-month remodel, Chilgabsan Observatory now showcases immersive media art to strengthen its nighttime offerings, and the Myeonam Choi Ik-hyun Memorial Hall near Modeoksa has reopened as a multi-use space with educational programs and lodging.

Cheongyang intends to connect these attractions to transition from a stopover destination into a place where visitors want to stay longer.

Kang Hee-seon, head of tourism promotion, said the 100,000-visitor milestone proves Cheongyang’s tourism potential and growth prospects. “We will keep expanding tourism infrastructure to become a sustainable destination where people want to linger,” she said.