Pyeongchang

PyeongChang is a rural county in Gangwon Province, South Korea. It is situated in the Taebaek Mountains, roughly 180 kilometers east of Seoul, and comprises a landscape of forests, high valleys, and alpine terrain. The region experiences cold winters with substantial snowfall, supporting a long tradition of farming and, in modern times, winter sports.

Historically, PyeongChang has been known for agriculture and forestry within the Gangwon highlands. Its international profile rose dramatically when it hosted the 2018 Winter Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. Venues such as Alpensia Resort, Yongpyong Ski Resort, and Bokwang Phoenix Park were developed or expanded for the event, and the Games spurred improvements in transportation and regional tourism.

Geographically, the area includes natural attractions such as Odaesan National Park and the Daegwallyeong Pass. The region is home to several ski resorts that attract domestic and international visitors, alongside traditional rural communities that maintain agricultural practices and seasonal tourism activities.

Economy and demographics in PyeongChang are dominated by agriculture and tourism. The county supports crops typical of the highlands and offers guest accommodations, ski facilities, and cultural experiences related to Gangwon Province. Population figures are modest, with communities concentrated in towns and villages that serve as hubs for farming, festivals, and winter sports.

Accessibility is provided by expressways and regional rail connections linking Wonju and Gangneung, with PyeongChang acting as a gateway to eastern Gangwon’s mountainous landscapes.