Home » TRAVEL NEWS » Seomjin River Stay Project: Signature Tourism Initiative Offers Deep Cultural Renewal Through Temple Talks For Global Scholars Published on
December 15, 2025A carefully curated program, identified as the Seomjin-River Stay Signature Tourism Product Promotion Project, was recently undertaken, effectively presenting the profound cultural depth and serene natural beauty of the region spanning South Jeolla and South Gyeongsang provinces. The two-day, one-night experience was meticulously organized by the South Jeolla Tourism Organization with the explicit purpose of offering an opportunity for deep relaxation and cultural immersion. Focus was placed on providing a restorative journey for participants, allowing them to gain distance from the perpetual hustle and pressure associated with academic life and professional preparation in the nation’s capital. The experience, which seamlessly blended spiritual reflection with tangible engagement in traditional Korean culture, was described by attendees as being deeply healing and highly enriching.A Journey Commenced: The Signature Tourism ProductThe Seomjin River region, known for its tranquil environment and historical resonance, was purposefully selected as the backdrop for this distinctive travel experience. The primary goal of the initiative was to foster a more intimate understanding of local customs and historical practices, moving beyond the superficial engagement often associated with conventional tourism. This specialized two-day itinerary, which officially commenced on December 2, was designed to introduce participants to several of the area’s most cherished sites and traditions. From the outset, the sheer scope of the program, which included visits to a storied Buddhist monument and hands-on workshops focused on cultural etiquette, indicated that a truly comprehensive exploration was to be provided.Advertisement The Art of Tranquility: Tea Ceremony and Cultural EtiquetteThe journey into Korean tradition began with an insightful visit to the Hadong Wild Tea Museum, situated in Hadong County, South Gyeongsang. Here, the profound world of the traditional Korean tea ceremony was meticulously introduced to the international cohort. The gathering was instructed in the precise, time-honored practices governing the art of tea, an activity long esteemed as central to meditative practice and social decorum. Every detail of the ceremony was covered, ranging from the correct method of greeting guests, which includes the respectful use of both hands, to the careful preparation and presentation of the final brew. A comprehensive 13-piece set, comprising the teapot, kettle, cups, and strainer, was provided to each small group, allowing for practical, step-by-step engagement. Following the explicit guidance of the instructor, the nuanced process of brewing the tea was patiently undertaken by the students.Reflection and Spirituality at the Thousand-Year TempleThe spiritual core of the program was encountered at Hwaeom Temple, a monumental, thousand-year-old structure located in Gurye County, South Jeolla. Upon arrival, the participants were provided with comprehensive instruction regarding the temple …
