Paju City announced that the ‘Gondola Skywalk Installation’ project has been selected for the 2025 Gyeonggi-do tourist destination and cultural tourism resources development project. Accordingly, the city secured 260 million won in design costs out of the total project cost of 3.89 billion won.
The gondola skywalk is scheduled to be 268m long and 3m wide and installed on the upper part of the pedestrian path connecting the Imjingak Peace Gondola and Camp Greaves.
When the project is completed, it is expected that a barrier-free pedestrian path will be created gently connecting the upper gondola stop to Camp Greaves, allowing anyone to enjoy the trip safely and conveniently.
The gondola skywalk is scheduled to begin basic and detailed design in 2025 and be completed in 2026.
Paju Mayor Kim Gyeong-il said, “We expect that the installation of the gondola skywalk will create a barrier-free tourism environment that anyone can enjoy safely and conveniently, which will not only revitalize the Imjingak Peace Gondola, DMG’s representative tourism product, but will also be of great help to the local economy of Paju.” said.
Meanwhile, Paju City announced that it has created two additional children’s forest experience centers in Lantern Flower Park (2115 Dongpae-dong) and Wollong Neighborhood Park (1641 Naepo-ri).
The Children’s Forest Experience Center is a forest education facility where children can play freely in the forest, communicate with nature through their five senses, and help their holistic growth. With the addition of two children’s forest experience centers, the total number of children’s forest experience centers within Paju City has increased to eight.
The newly created Children’s Forest Experience Center installed play facilities such as rope play facilities and log play facilities and a forest classroom to develop children’s curiosity and senses while maintaining the existing terrain and trees as much as possible. Additionally, safety rope railings and walking mats were installed to ensure the safety of children.
In particular, the Campanula Children’s Forest Experience Center is a place that has long been anticipated among local residents in Unjeong District 3, and was created so that children can have a variety of ecological experiences through experiential programs. In addition, the Wollong Children’s Forest Experience Center boasts a comfortable space and was created so that children can spend more time in nature and strengthen their bodies and minds through various play and experience activities in the forest.
Kim Jong-un, head of the Forest Garden Department, said, “By creating two additional children’s forest experience centers this year, Paju City has the best infrastructure for children’s forest experience centers among the 31 cities and counties in Gyeonggi-do, and will continue to expand nature-friendly education infrastructure to help raise children. “We will make Paju a good city,” he said.
Starting with Yulgok Arboretum in 2015, Paju City has established children’s forest experience centers in Geumchon, Tanhyeon, Unjeong Lake Park, Haknyeongsan Mountain, and Munsan and is operating experience programs for free. For inquiries about use, contact the Forest Garden Department at Paju City Hall (☎031-940- 4632).
Economy Queen Reporter Kim Hong-mi / Photo Paju City
What is the significance of the Gondola Skywalk in promoting cultural tourism in Paju City?
Title: Bridging Nature and Culture: An Interview with Paju’s Tourism Visionary
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into Paju City’s exciting latest project—the Gondola Skywalk. Joining us is an expert in cultural tourism and urban development, Dr. Lee Min-soo. Thank you for being here, Dr. Lee!
Dr. Lee: It’s a pleasure to be here! I’m excited to discuss the Gondola Skywalk and its implications for Paju City.
Editor: So, we understand that the Gondola Skywalk has been selected as part of the 2025 Gyeonggi-do tourism destination project. Can you explain how this project fits into the broader picture of cultural tourism in Korea?
Dr. Lee: Absolutely! The Gondola Skywalk is not just a physical structure; it’s a concept that enhances the tourist experience by connecting natural beauty with cultural heritage. Located between the Imjingak Peace Gondola and Camp Greaves, the skywalk will act as a bridge, both literally and figuratively, leading visitors through the rich history and stunning scenery of Paju. It promotes cultural understanding by offering a unique perspective on sites significant to both local and national narratives.
Editor: That’s fascinating! How does the design of the skywalk enhance accessibility for all visitors?
Dr. Lee: The project’s design focuses on creating a barrier-free environment. This is crucial for inclusivity in tourism, allowing people of all abilities to enjoy the experience safely and conveniently. Paju Mayor Kim Gyeong-il noted this potential impact on creating a more accessible tourism environment. The width and elevation of the skywalk, along with its integration into the surrounding landscape, are designed specifically to accommodate everyone—families, seniors, and those with mobility challenges.
Editor: It sounds like both functionality and aesthetics are priorities here. What other benefits do you foresee for Paju City with the completion of the gondola skywalk in 2026?
Dr. Lee: This project is expected to stimulate local economic growth significantly. By attracting more tourists, we can boost local businesses, from restaurants to hotels and shops. Additionally, the skywalk will enhance the profile of Paju as a cultural tourism destination, positioning it alongside other prominent locations in Korea. It will also provide opportunities to educate visitors about the local ecosystems and history, further enriching their experience.
Editor: Speaking of education, Paju City recently established two new Children’s Forest Experience Centers. How do initiatives like these complement the gondola project?
Dr. Lee: The Children’s Forest Experience Centers are a fantastic addition, as they embody the spirit of engaging with nature and education. They create a hands-on learning environment that encourages children to explore their surroundings and understand the importance of conservation. These centers will complement the gondola skywalk by attracting families and educational groups, creating a comprehensive tourist experience that balances leisure with learning.
Editor: It seems Paju City is crafting a multifaceted approach to tourism development. How can the successful implementation of projects like the gondola skywalk set an example for other cities in South Korea?
Dr. Lee: Other cities can learn a great deal from Paju’s approach. It highlights the importance of integrating cultural, natural, and educational resources into urban development. By considering accessibility and sustainability, cities can create environments that foster tourism while promoting community well-being. It’s about building a holistic experience that residents and tourists alike can enjoy.
Editor: Dr. Lee, it’s been enlightening to hear your insights on Paju City’s initiatives. Thank you for your time and expertise!
Dr. Lee: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to seeing how these projects will evolve and contribute to Korea’s vibrant tourism landscape.
Editor: And to our readers, stay tuned for more updates on exciting developments in cultural tourism and urban projects in your area!