완도해양치유센터 개관 2주년, 차별화된 콘텐츠로 경쟁력 UP

title: Commemorating Two Years of Wando Marine Healing Center: Unique Contents Boost Competitiveness Two years ago, the Wando Marine Healing Center opened its doors to the public, marking a new era in marine healing in South Korea. With only two years having passed since the establishment of this nation's first marine healing specialized facility, Wando County has been leading as a pioneering local government through investments and operational systems. Since its opening in November 2023, the Marine Healing Center has gone through an operational stabilization phase, subsequently upgrading its programs. It has recorded a total of 1.2 million visitors, with individual, family, elderly, long-term healing patients, corporate training, sports teams' rehabilitation, and other diverse user groups forming its demographics. The marine healing industry has not only gained recognition but also contributed to the local economy. According to Wando County's analysis, the regional economic impact of the marine healing industry in the previous year was approximately 181 billion won. This figure is a result of direct and indirect effects, including the use of the center by visitors for accommodation, food, and purchases of local specialties, as well as the ripple effect on related industries such as tourism. As other local governments are now in competition with Wando County, they are focusing on building a "Wando-style marine healing model" to differentiate themselves and maintain their competitive edge. They plan to create a "marine healing big data platform" to scientifically verify the effectiveness of their programs and introduce health data-based customized healing services. Additionally, Wando County aims to enhance its facilities, develop marine, forest, and leisure integrated content, operate "Marine Healing Stay" programs for chronic disease patients and elderly citizens, and commercialize local specialty-infused therapeutic products. Wando County Governor Shin U Cheol stated, "We will further solidify our leading position in the marine healing industry through the development of marine healing content, scientific verification, and operational strategies. We will do our best to ensure that the economic impact of the marine healing industry benefits our local residents." The Wando Marine Healing Center is the nation's first marine healing facility, with 16 therapy rooms utilizing local marine resources such as seawater, seaweed, and mud. The county is working on transforming each island into a healing theme, aiming to evolve into a "healing island city" when the National Wando Nan-dae Forest Arboretum opens.