Shinan County in South Jeolla Province, working with the Arts Island Foundation, will run a pilot tourism program called the 2026 Shinan Seomcar (SeomCAR) Pilot Project from October 31 to December 28, 2026. The product pairs island transportation with overnight lodging by letting visitors drive a camper van between Shinan's islands and sleep in it.
How the Seomcar Model Works
The name combines "island" and "car," and the program is built around staying rather than day-tripping. Visitors pick up a camper van near Mokpo Station, travel among Shinan's islands, and return the vehicle to the same location. Because the vehicle covers both getting around and sleeping, it addresses two of the most common frustrations of island travel: limited transport between islands and a shortage of lodging.
The vehicles come with basic travel gear, including a camping table and cooking utensils. According to the county and the foundation, that makes the setup relatively practical for families, friends, and couples.
Why Officials Want Visitors to Stay Longer
The project is meant to move visitors beyond trips that begin and end on the same day. Organizers encourage at least one overnight stay on the islands and hope visitors will use local restaurants, tourist facilities, and specialty products. Officials present this as part of Shinan County's broader effort to promote stay-oriented tourism, since overnight visitors typically spend more in the local economy than day visitors.
What Travelers Should Know Before Booking
- The pilot runs from October 31 to December 28, 2026.
- Weekday visitors receive a 10 to 30 percent discount on high-speed rail (KTX) fares.
- Reservations can be made online or by phone, and the county's information line can explain how to use the service.
- Vehicles must be returned to the original pickup location near Mokpo Station.
Limits of the Pilot and What Comes Next
This is a trial, not a permanent program. During the pilot period, the Arts Island Foundation plans to study visitor satisfaction, travel routes, and vehicle operations. The results will inform whether the product launches officially in 2027 and how the service is refined. Until that evaluation is published, the program's long-term pricing, capacity, and availability remain unknown, and prospective travelers should confirm current details directly with the county or the foundation before planning a trip.