Jarando, an island in Goseong-gun, Gyeongnam province known for its heart-shaped appearance from the air, has officially been designated as a Gyeongnam provincial tourist destination.

The designation is expected to accelerate efforts to develop Jarando into a marine healing tourism island.

This marks the second time in 41 years that a site in Goseong-gun has received such a designation, following Danghangpo in 1984.

The move is closely linked to Goseong’s broader plan to create a “Jarando Marine Healing Zone,” envisioned as a southern coastal resort destination centered on ocean-based wellness.

Jarando, home to roughly 20 residents and a five-minute boat ride from the mainland, sits within FDA-certified clean waters and has been the focus of development planning since 2019. The designation is expected to boost investment opportunities and attract public and private sector participation.

A total of 310.6 billion won is set to be invested in transforming Jarando into a tourism-focused island, including 190.6 billion won in public funds and 120 billion won in private investment.

The main phase of the project includes constructing a complex resort by 2032 featuring 256 accommodations (30 villas and 226 resort condos), along with marine leisure, entertainment, and commercial facilities.

Key facilities are already underway. A 35.4 billion won Marine Healing Center, supported by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, has begun construction. This facility will utilize the natural marine environment, such as sea breezes and wave sounds, for therapeutic programs and is expected to be completed by 2026.

In addition, a 1.5 km marine wellness trail with forest paths and an ocean-view meditation zone will be completed this year at a cost of 4.2 billion won. To improve accessibility, a sea bridge measuring 820 meters in length is also in the works, with a 29.5 billion won budget and a target completion date of 2030.

As part of a related initiative, the province will invest 42.6 billion won in the Jarando Tourism Bay project, which will link Jarando with the mainland and support the development of urban air mobility (UAM) systems to connect the island with nearby coastal and island areas.

Officials view the designation as a significant step in developing Jarando into a long-term marine tourism destination that blends ecological healing with accessibility and modern infrastructure.

Fleet Chinhae

USAG Daegu