Kangwon Land: South Korea's Premier Casino and All-Season Resort
Located in the heart of Gangwon Province, Kangwon Land has transformed from a region once defined by coal mining into a thriving hub for tourism and entertainment. Originally established to revitalize local economies following the decline of the coal industry in the 1990s, the company has grown from a single hotel and a modest gaming floor into a massive, multi-faceted destination known as the High1 Resort.
Today, Kangwon Land operates as a public state-owned enterprise, managing a vast landscape of gaming, leisure, and outdoor activities. Whether visitors are seeking the thrill of the casino, the adrenaline of a ski slope, or the tranquility of a high-elevation golf course, this resort offers a comprehensive experience for both domestic and international travelers.
Key Facts
- Location: Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon Province, South Korea.
- Primary Function: Largest casino in South Korea, uniquely allowing domestic citizens to play.
- Resort Scale: Spans 2,800 acres of land including hotels, condominiums, and ski slopes.
- Gaming Capacity: Features 200 gaming tables and 1,360 slot/video machines.
- Signature Attraction: The Multimedia Fountain, considered Asia's largest musical fountain.
The Kangwon Land Casino Experience
The Kangwon Land Casino is a cornerstone of the region's economy, accounting for approximately half of South Korea's annual gambling revenue. It is distinguished by being the only casino in the country that permits South Korean citizens to participate in gaming, alongside its large international clientele.
The facility covers a gross floor area of 27,291 square meters. Guests can choose from a wide variety of table games, including Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, and five different types of Big Wheels. For those preferring slot machines, the casino offers 99 different kinds of machines. To maintain an exclusive atmosphere, the Summitas Club serves as a dedicated VIP area, operating from 10:00 AM to 6:00 AM daily.
Casino Rules and Regulations
To ensure a safe and professional environment, the casino enforces strict policies:
- Visitors must be at least 19 years of age (identity verification is mandatory).
- Taking photographs inside the casino is strictly forbidden.
- Admission is not permitted to individuals under the influence of alcohol.
High1 Resort: Beyond the Gaming Floor
Kangwon Land has successfully diversified its offerings to become a year-round destination. The High1 Resort encompasses a massive area between Gohan and Sabuk, providing diverse recreational opportunities.
Outdoor Leisure and Sports
For nature enthusiasts and sports lovers, the resort provides several high-quality amenities:
- High1 Ski Resort: Features 18 slopes for winter sports enthusiasts.
- High1 CC: An 18-hole, 72-par golf course situated at an elevation of 1,137 meters. The course is over 6,500 meters long and includes a 200-meter practice range and an integrated sauna.
- Arari Village Theme Park: An exhibition area where visitors can experience life in a rural village from the Joseon period, featuring traditional houses and historical tools.
The Multimedia Fountain and Magical Box
One of the resort's most spectacular features is the Multimedia Fountain, designed by the German company Emotion Media Factory. Recognized as Asia's largest musical fountain, the system utilizes 180 meters of water fountains, water screens, lasers, and 12 multi-colored fire units to create a synchronized show.
Central to this display is the Magical Box. This massive cube system features a 24m x 24m automatic screen. At night, the box is illuminated to reveal a 20-meter diameter globe that appears to rotate, displaying the five continents. Inside this globe lies the Dome Cinema, an 18-meter diameter projection area that uses a specialized laser video system to prevent image distortion.
Summary of Resort Amenities
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 2 Hotels (674 rooms) and 2 Condominiums (403 rooms) |
| Gaming | 200 tables and 1,360 slot/video machines |
| Golf | High1 CC (18 holes, 72-par) |
| Winter Sports | Ski resort with 18 slopes |
| Major Attraction | Multimedia Fountain and Magical Box |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can South Korean citizens visit the casino?
Yes, Kangwon Land is currently the only casino in South Korea that allows domestic citizens to play, provided they meet the age requirements.
What is the age limit for the casino?
The minimum age to enter the casino is 19. Mandatory identity verification is required for all guests.
What makes the Multimedia Fountain special?
It is considered Asia's largest musical fountain, utilizing a complex system of water, lasers, fire, and a massive "Magical Box" screen to create synchronized shows.
Are there family-friendly activities at the resort?
Yes, the resort offers various family-oriented attractions, including the Arari Village Theme Park, a water park, and the High1 Resort's various leisure facilities.
What kind of dining is available?
The resort features several notable dining options, including the World Fusion Restaurant, Mint Bar, Restaurant PANGE, Crystal Lounge, and the Summitas Club & Lounge.