- Residents can travel to Yeonpyeongdo Island for just KRW 1,500 and explore its message of peace and security -

Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) has announced the pilot launch of the “Lively City Policy: Treasure Island Field Trip – Yeonpyeongdo Island”, a new program linked to the Incheon i-Sea Pass—the nation’s first initiative allowing residents to travel to and from islands at the cost of a standard city bus fare (KRW 1,500).

As the name “Treasure Island” suggests, the program aims to rediscover the unique value and charm of Incheon’s islands. Launched on April 1, the initiative extends the scope of city policy field trips from land to sea, offering participants a firsthand exploration of Incheon’s maritime heritage. 

Yeonpyeongdo Island, situated near the Northern Limit Line (NLL), is a frontline location in the West Sea where the stark memories of artillery attacks coexist with ongoing efforts for peace. Previously requiring an overnight stay, the Peace and Security Education Program at the Yeonpyeong Peace and Security Training Center has now been streamlined into a one-day course, significantly improving accessibility. 

The field trip includes a guided itinerary through key sites: the Security Education Center, Peace Park, Early History Museum, Sergeant Seo Jeong-wu’s Memorial, Peace Observatory, and the 7th Artillery Company. With vivid commentary from official supporters and expert lecturers, along with a security briefing by Yeonpyeong military personnel, participants gain a comprehensive, immersive understanding of the importance of peace and national security.

One participant stated, “I was amazed that such a beautiful and historically significant island could be visited for just KRW 1,500. I look forward to exploring more of Incheon’s hidden islands and uncovering the untold stories of our region.”

Since its launch in 2012, the Lively City Policy Field Trip has become one of Incheon’s flagship civic engagement programs, attracting around 47,000 participants to date. This year, the number of local tour sites has expanded from 40 to 47 across five districts, and the Yeonpyeongdo Island course through the i-Sea Pass will be piloted ten times throughout the year.

Jeong Seung-hwan, Manager of Incheon’s Local Autonomy Administration Division, stated, “Firsthand experiences of seeing, hearing, and feeling create empathy and understanding deeper than any words.” He added, “We hope the Incheon i-Sea Pass and Treasure Island Field Trip offer a meaningful opportunity to appreciate the value of Incheon’s islands.”

The program is open not only to Incheon citizens but also to residents from other regions. Each session accommodates between 15 to 20 participants. Interested organizations may apply through the Incheon City website (www.incheon.go.kr/IC021006) from 90 to 10 days prior to their preferred tour date. For more information, visit the website or call +82-32-440-2495/2427.

○ Period: April to May 2025 / September to October 2025 (10 sessions) 

○ Location: Yeongpyeongdo Island * An ideal destination for a day trip combining national security education and historical exploration.

○ Eligibility: Open to Incheon residents and citizens from other regions interested in experiencing the cultural and historical value of Incheon’s island communities. 

○ Capacity: Up to 20 participants per session (individual and groups welcome) 

○ Details: A one-day guided tour designed to raise public awareness of peace and national security through firsthand experiences and expert commentary.

○ Course Itinerary: 

- Security Education Center → Peace Park → Early History Museum → Peace Observatory → 7th Artillery Company → Sergeant Seo Jeong-woo’s Memorial