400,000 Views: A Digilog Journey

Between Analog Memory and Digital Testimony, A City Finds Its Voice Kang, Daehoon. - C.E.O, WalkintoKorea An email arrived from Google, brief yet momentous: the photo and words I had once uploaded about Daejeon’s Doan Ecological Lake Park had been viewed 400,000 times. It was a number, yes—but more than that, it was a testament. A Hobby Disguised as a Mission I have often said I have no hobbies. I do not play golf, nor do I join clubs. My life has been consumed by work—founding WalkintoKorea, leading Open Policy News, and navigating the currents of global trade and marketing. Yet somewhere between the demands of business and the rhythms of daily life, I discovered a small indulgence: recording my world on Google Maps.

Jazz, Makgeolli, and Memory There are evenings when I pour a glass of makgeolli and let jazz fill the room. In those moments, the streets I walked earlier, the newly opened park, the shifting skyline of the city return to me. I write in English, upload a photograph, and leave a trace. Not as a consultant or media executive, but as a traveler—one who shares the quiet value of places and moments. Thus I became a writer in another language, and a Local Guide, Level 7. Cities Seen Through a Digital Lens In 2025, Gapcheon Ecological Lake Park opened in Daejeon’s Doan district. I strolled along the water, captured reflections of people and scenery, and posted them online with a few simple words. I forgot about it. Until today, when the number returned: 400,000. That figure means that the park beloved by my city’s citizens has been glimpsed by hundreds of thousands across the world. Some were planning journeys, some were curious, some were simply drawn to the idea of a Korean city beyond Seoul. On their screens appeared the lake, the paths, the sunset. And the number will grow taller than the trees themselves.

How Brands Are Born While writing How Cities Become Brands, I encountered Hegel’s notion that quantity transforms into quality. Cities, like people, are shaped by stories—by the traces left behind, the emotions felt, the testimonies shared. Google Maps, that digital diary, becomes a platform for such testimony. Millions of Local Guides introduce their cities not with official slogans, but with lived experience. Their voices are more persuasive than any tourism board. Between Work and Calling To inform has become both my profession and my vocation. Consulting on city strategies and running media are my “official” duties. Writing on Google is my “personal” pursuit. The boundary between them blurs, and from that blur arises a single question: How can I bring more value to more of the world? The Digilog Way of Travel My map has been seen 400,000 times. Someone will plan a trip, someone will save it, someone will share it. Thus a small analog pleasure becomes fixed in the digital realm. Biological memory fades, but in the cloud it endures, influencing others. This is how I travel: through the overlap of analog and digital, through testimony and trace, through the quiet act of turning a personal moment into a shared horizon.

Yuseong-gu, 30 Years of Emotion: 'Yuseong Hot Spring Culture Festival' Begins with a Grand Fanfare

Yuseong-gu, 30 Years of Emotion: 'Yuseong Hot Spring Culture Festival' Begins with a Grand Fanfare A three-day extravaganza of performances, experiences, and parades along Oncheon-ro starting May 2. The Yuseong Hot Spring Culture Festival, the largest festival in Yuseong-gu and one of Daejeon's signature events, is set to unfold in spectacular fashion.

From May 2 to May 4, the ‘2025 Yuseong Hot Spring Culture Festival’ will take place along Oncheon-ro, celebrating its 30th anniversary. This festival reinterprets Yuseong’s identity as a hot spring town and a hub of science and technology with a modern twist. On the first day, May 2, the festival kicks off with 'Sushinje,' a ritual honoring Yuseong’s traditions, followed by performances of the Yuseong crane dance and traditional hot spring games. The opening ceremony will feature top-tier musicians such as Guckkasten and Ali, along with special performances commemorating the festival’s milestone. A highlight of the evening will be a drone light show featuring 700 drones, paired with a grand fireworks display over Gapcheon, marking the dazzling beginning of the three-day celebration. On the second day, May 3, the festival’s signature street parade will be held under the theme ‘30 Years of Yuseong Hot Spring Culture Festival.’ Spectacular floats, giant cranes, marionettes, and flash mob dance teams will transform Oncheon-ro into a vibrant cultural boulevard. Adding to the excitement, the festival will feature popular character performances for children, along with a hot spring water DJ party, where attendees can enjoy music while splashing in refreshing mineral water. On the final day, May 4, contestants from across the country will showcase their talents in the Yuseong Hot Spring Music & Dance Competition. The closing ceremony will culminate with VR performances, pop opera concerts, and a grand finale. Throughout the event, visitors can participate in daily water gun battles at 3 PM, one of the festival’s signature activities, or explore over 100 interactive booths and relaxation areas like the Forest Healing Zone. To enhance the hot spring experience, a pop-up swimming pool will be installed along Oncheon-ro, while guests can unwind in the Yuseong-themed foot spa train, featuring wine and aroma foot baths. This year’s Yuseong Hot Spring Culture Festival promises to be a thrilling celebration, blending tradition, modern entertainment, and immersive experiences! (사진출처,유성구청제공)

Introducing themed tourist resources every month in celebration of the 2025-2026 Year of Visiting Chungnam.

And visit Yuseong Hot Springs in Daejeon. Chungnam Province announced on the 18th that it would produce promotional materials for 'Monthly Chungnam,' introducing local tourist resources with a different travel theme each month to celebrate the 2025-2026 Year of Visiting Chungnam.

This month's travel theme is 'Filling Warm Moments,' introducing hot spring attractions in Chungnam that are great to enjoy with family, friends, and lovers. Asan Onyang Hot Spring is the oldest hot spring in Korea, boasting a 2,000-year history. It is famous for having been visited by King Sejong of the Joseon Dynasty for the treatment of his eye disease. Nearby attractions include Hyeonchungsa Temple, Sinjeongho Garden, Environmental Science Park, and Onyang Folk Museum, which are all selected in the Korea Tourism Top 100. Asan Dogo Hot Spring has been famous for its mineral water since the Silla Dynasty and is known for its rich sulfur and silica content, which is excellent for skin health and relieving fatigue. Paradise Spa Dogo, the first national public health hot spring in Korea, is popular with people of all ages. Asan Spavis, a comprehensive resort with water play and hydrotherapy facilities, is also a popular destination for family travelers. Yesan Deoksan Hot Spring is known for its germanium-rich hot spring water containing various mineral components such as silica, calcium, and magnesium. Splas Resom is a comprehensive resort where you can enjoy a water park, spa, and resort all at once. Deoksan Hot Spring is a health hot spring designated by the government, supplying hot spring water to rooms and the water park, allowing visitors to enjoy hot springs all year round. Nearby attractions such as Yesan Market Plaza, Sudeoksa Temple, Yedang Reservoir, Chungyeolsa Shrine, and Naepo Merchant Village are also worth visiting. Monthly Chungnam can be found on the Chungnam Tourism website, social network services (SNS), and tourist information centers.

Can Yuseong Hot Springs Become the Eureka Hot Springs of Science?

The New Possibilities of Yuseong Hot Springs: A Harmony of Science and Relaxation In Daejeon’s Yuseong District lies the Daedeok Research and Development Special Zone, a cradle of South Korea's scientific and technological research.

Daejeon has developed into a hub city for transportation since the opening of the Gyeongbu Line railway in 1905. It has established itself as a central point for national transportation, and Yuseong Hot Springs has been developed as a popular leisure destination attracting tourists from across the country. In 1973, the government established the Daedeok Research Complex to carry out national research projects. Interestingly, this complex is located very close to Yuseong Hot Springs, where national research institutes and corporate research centers were built on a large scale.

Archimedes and Baths: Daedeok Scientists and Yuseong Hot Springs Around 200 BC, during the Greco-Roman era, the scientist Archimedes from Syracuse received a royal command to determine the ratio of gold in a crown. After pondering the solution for several days, he suddenly had an epiphany while taking a bath. Overjoyed by his discovery, he ran out into the street without even dressing, exclaiming "Eureka!" Might the scientists in Daedeok have also found inspiration and breakthroughs while soothing their minds and bodies at Yuseong Hot Springs? Scientists at the Daedeok Research Complex have frequently utilized Yuseong Hot Springs. Many have testified that soaking in the springs has helped relieve their physical and mental fatigue, thus enhancing their research activities. Dr. Kwak Sang-soo from Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology(25th President of the Korean Society for Plant Biotechnology) stated, "I have been using the public bath at Yuseong Hotel for over 20 years. When foreign friends from Japan, China, or the UK visit, we hike up Gyeryongsan and go to the hot springs in the evening." For Dr. Kwak, Yuseong Hot Springs served as a place for building closer relationships.

Dr. Ha Won-kyu, a veteran who served as the head of the Future Technology Strategy Research Team at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, reminisced, "On weekends, I would relieve my fatigue in the sauna at Libera Hotel. I used the hotel's coffee shop like my study, enjoying coffee or draft beer while brainstorming research ideas or reading. After many years of using it, I feel like both the Libera Hotel and the culture and atmosphere of Yuseong Hot Springs have disappeared due to its closure and the Covid pandemic." For scientists, Yuseong Hot Springs is not just a place for bathing. Other researchers mentioned that since the establishment of the Daedeok Research Complex in the 1980s, they frequently visited Yuseong Hot Springs with colleagues or seniors. They used to relax their minds and bodies in the hot springs when research did not progress well. It was said that scientists even referred to Yuseong Hot Springs as the "Eureka Hot Springs."

In the Yuseong Hot Springs area, there are hotels and motels that operate using hot spring water. In 2005, the Daedeok Research Complex was renamed the Daedeok Research and Development Special Zone. This special zone is located adjacent to KAIST and Chungnam National University, separated by the urban river Yuseongcheon. Today, Yuseong is becoming a city of scientific entrepreneurship, with active research and development as well as startup activities. Research institutions, along with KAIST and Chungnam National University, are leading this initiative, supported by Daejeon City, Yuseong District, and the Korea Startup Promotion Agency, fostering active participation from private enterprises. Yuseong's startup ecosystem is a representative case of regional innovation in South Korea and has attracted interest from financial capital in Yeouido.

Yuseong District must revitalize and activate the Yuseong Hot Springs area. It would be wonderful if anyone, not just scientists and entrepreneurs, could find relief and solutions in the hot springs when faced with problems in business, study, or life. Furthermore, Yuseong Hot Springs, located next to the research and development special zone, can establish itself as a healing district for citizens and scientists, providing urban welfare. Yuseong District and Daejeon City should strategically promote the expansion of cultural hot spring facilities and the development of related areas. It is hoped that Yuseong Hot Springs can become a "Eureka District," inspiring vitality and creativity for both citizens and the scientific community. source : WalkintoKorea - Your Glocal Partner(http://www.walkintokorea.com)

Have A Fun Relaxing Time at Free Outdoor Footbath in Yuseong, Daejeon

Yuseong free outdoor footbath places with fun and relaxation for people to enjoy If you go to Yuseong in Daejeon City, you easily encounter free outdoor footbath hot springs zones and a Korean medicine foot bath café in Yuseong Hot Spring Park. Natural hot spring water (39-42℃)service is available year-round.

Especially in May, white flowers blossoming from fringe trees add to the charm of the outdoor footbath zones. Footbath is known to be good for your blood circulation and effective in relieving stress and pain as you immerse your feet in hot water. Besides, you can wash your feet and dry them so that you can relax anytime without stress. Just bring yourself and get ready to relax for your special footbath in Yuseong.

5 Ways to Enjoy Yuseong Hot Springs District Recommended by Work in Korea

Post 1: The Climbing Mecca - Base Camp Boulder Spot Located near Yuseong Oncheon Park, Base Camp Boulder Spot is a favorite destination for climbing enthusiasts. The climbing routes in Daejeon are known for their difficulty, providing a stimulating challenge for climbers. With convenient transportation and proximity to the intercity bus terminal, this place offers unforgettable experiences for young climbers. Challenge yourself with various difficulty levels at this exciting spot!

Post 2: A Gathering Place for Runners - Yuseong Oncheon Yuseong Oncheon is also an ideal location for running enthusiasts. With Yuseong Oncheon Station and Gapcheon Riverside Park nearby, it provides safe and scenic running routes. The beautiful night views from Hanbit Tower and Expo Bridge are sure to impress visitors at any time of year. The flat terrain makes it accessible for beginners, attracting many runners to this area.

Post 3: Culinary Adventures - Yuseong Oncheon Food Scene Around Yuseong Oncheon, you can find famous eateries such as Seongsim-dang, Taeppyeongso Gukbap, Nakwon Galbi, and Oncheon Son Kalguksu. Recently, Bongmyeong-dong food street has become a hot spot for young people, featuring a variety of international cuisines. Take a break from your busy life and enjoy the diverse flavors this area has to offer!

Post 4: A Retreat for Business Travelers - Gyeryong Spatel Yuseong Oncheon is also popular among business travelers. Gyeryong Spatel, with its spacious lawn and natural hot spring facilities, provides a relaxing environment to unwind after a busy day. It serves as an ideal spot for individuals visiting Daejeon for work, allowing them to enjoy some leisure time in nature.

Post 5: Hot Spring Healing - Yuseong Oncheon Finally, Yuseong Oncheon is a center for healing, featuring various hot spring facilities. Places like Gyeongha Oncheon Hotel, Dae On Tang, and Gyeryong Spatel offer unique ways to enjoy hot springs. Taking the time to soak in the soothing waters can relieve stress and fatigue, providing a much-needed escape from daily life. If you're looking to unwind and find some relaxation, Yuseong Oncheon is the perfect destination!

A New Turning Point for the Yuseong Hot Springs District Revitalization

Yuseong District Launches 'Yuon' Brand and Tourism Hub Project to Attract Young Foreign Tourists The Yuseong Hot Springs District has faced serious challenges in recent years due to the decline of hot spring tourism and the deterioration of local businesses. The closure of the Libera Hotel and the Adria Hotel served as a warning sign for the decline of hot spring tourism in Yuseong. As a result, the number of hot spring users in the Daejeon area plummeted from 8 million in 1997 to just 1.24 million in 2021, significantly impacting the local economy. In response to this situation, Yuseong District has collaborated with local management company 'Wingwing', branding agency 'Josri', and marketing firm 'Work in Korea' to implement a revitalization project for the hot springs district in 2024.

The core of this initiative is the 'Yuseong Hot Springs District Tourism Hub Project', which began in 2020 and aims to invest 26 billion won by 2026 to develop tourism content and build related infrastructure. As part of this effort, a hot spring experience center will be established in the Hot Spring Cultural Park, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of hot spring tourism services.

Through this project, Yuseong District has launched a new brand called 'Yuon' to attract young foreign tourists with various marketing strategies. They are offering appealing experiences to visitors through initiatives such as utilizing foreign tourists for image-making and hosting various experiential events, including yoga in the city. Yuseong District Mayor Jeong Yong-rae stated, "The Yuseong Hot Springs District Tourism Hub Project aims to attract tourists through diverse hot spring tourism content, and we will do our best to ensure that the hot springs district becomes a year-round tourist destination with attractions available at any time."

As these efforts unfold, attention is focused on whether they will successfully attract tourists and revitalize the local economy, with hopes for the successful rejuvenation of the Yuseong Hot Springs District.