Kangwon Land: South Korea's Premier Casino and Integrated Resort
Located in the scenic mountains of Gangwon Province, Kangwon Land is a unique public state-owned enterprise that blends luxury entertainment with regional revitalization. More than just a gaming destination, it is a comprehensive resort complex designed to transform a former coal-mining region into a thriving hub of tourism and leisure.
The company specializes in real estate development, specifically the conversion of abandoned mines into world-class gaming and entertainment facilities. Today, it stands as a cornerstone of the local economy in Jeongseon-gun, offering a diverse array of activities ranging from high-stakes gaming to alpine sports.
Key Facts
- Founded: June 29, 1998.
- Location: Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon Province, South Korea.
- Unique Status: The only casino in South Korea that allows domestic citizens to gamble.
- Scale: Spans 2,800 acres of land.
- Ownership: Primarily owned by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy via the Mine Reclamation Corporation (36.27%).
- Social Impact: Provides scholarships for students in mine areas and spends 2 billion won annually on pneumoconiosis patient care.
The History of Regional Revitalization
During the 1970s and 1980s, Gangwon Province was the heart of South Korea's "coal rush," serving as the primary source of national energy. However, the shift toward gas and oil in the 1990s led to a devastating economic downturn for the mining communities. To revitalize the area, the Korean government authorized the establishment of a domestic casino in December 1995.
When Kangwon Land first opened its doors to both Korean citizens and international tourists in October 2000, it was a modest operation featuring a 199-room hotel, 30 table games, and 480 slot machines. Over the following decades, it evolved into a massive integrated resort.
Kangwon Land Casino
The Kangwon Land Casino is the largest in South Korea and generates approximately half of the country's total annual gambling revenue. The facility covers a gross floor area of 27,291 square meters and is designed to cater to both high-rollers and casual visitors.
The casino features 200 gaming tables and 1,360 slots and video gambling machines. For VIP guests, the Summitas Club provides an exclusive experience, operating daily from 10 am to 6 am. Available table games include Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, and five varieties of Big Wheels.
To maintain a safe and orderly environment, the casino enforces strict rules: guests must be 19 years or older (with mandatory identity verification), and photography and admission under the influence of alcohol are strictly prohibited.
High1 Resort and Leisure Facilities
Beyond the casino, the High1 Resort is one of Korea's most popular destinations for outdoor leisure, stretching across the Gohan mountains.
High1 CC (Country Club)
High1 CC is a high-elevation, 72-par golf course featuring 18 holes. Situated 1,137 meters above sea level, the course extends over 6,500 meters. Amenities include a 200-meter practice range, tea houses, and an integrated sauna and swimming pool.
Skiing and Accommodations
The resort boasts a ski area with 18 slopes, making it a premier winter destination. For lodging, the complex offers two hotels with 674 rooms and two condominiums with 403 rooms, with further expansions in convention hotels and condominiums underway to enhance its family-oriented appeal.
World-Class Attractions and Entertainment
Kangwon Land is home to several signature attractions that blend technology with art.
The Multimedia Fountain is recognized as Asia's largest musical fountain. Developed by the German firm Emotion Media Factory, it utilizes a complex system of water screens, lasers, 12 multi-colored fire units, and synchronized choreography.
A centerpiece of this display is the Magical Box. By day, the structure appears mirrored; by night, it transforms into a glowing globe 20 meters in diameter, depicting the five continents. Inside the globe is the "Dome Cinema," an 18-meter diameter projection area that uses a specialized laser video system to prevent image distortion.
Cultural and Nightlife Experiences
- Arari Village Theme Park: A meticulously researched historical area where visitors can experience rural life from the Joseon period, featuring traditional houses, totem poles (Jang-seung), and ox-worked millstones.
- Lumi Arte: A popular night sightseeing trail that leads visitors from a sculpture park to the lake.
- Seasonal Events: Grand fireworks displays are held every Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.
Summary of Resort Facilities
| Facility | Key Specifications | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Casino | 27,291 sq meters | 200 tables, 1,360 slots; open to Koreans |
| Hotels/Condos | 1,077 total rooms | Two hotels and two condominiums |
| High1 CC | 18 holes / 72-par | Elevation of 1,137m; 6,500m length |
| Ski Resort | 18 slopes | Premier alpine leisure destination |
| Multimedia Fountain | 180m water fountains | Asia's largest musical fountain; Magical Box |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can South Korean citizens gamble at Kangwon Land?
Yes, Kangwon Land is currently the only casino in South Korea that allows the country's own citizens to play, in addition to welcoming international tourists.
What are the entry requirements for the casino?
Visitors must be at least 19 years old and provide mandatory identity verification to enter. Additionally, admission is strictly forbidden for those under the influence of alcohol.
What is the Magical Box?
The Magical Box is a multimedia attraction featuring a mirrored cube that transforms at night into a 20-meter diameter illuminated globe containing a "Dome Cinema" for laser video projections.
How does Kangwon Land support the local community?
The company provides scholarships to students living in abandoned mine areas and allocates 2 billion won annually to support the livelihoods and treatment of patients suffering from pneumoconiosis.
What sports teams are associated with Kangwon Land?
The organization is linked to Gangwon FC (football), a High1 Ice Hockey team, and hosts the Kangwon Land Cup for Go competitions.