South Korean Delegation Visits Oñati to Explore Sustainable Tourism Model

The visit follows Oñati's recognition as a Best Tourism Village 2023 by the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

Image of Oñati's town hall, bathed in sunlight.
IA

Image of Oñati's town hall, bathed in sunlight.

An institutional delegation from Jeju region, South Korea, visited Oñati today to closely examine the municipality's sustainable and responsible tourism model, following its recognition by the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

This visit is a direct result of Oñati receiving the Best Tourism Village 2023 award from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). This recognition has garnered international interest, leading several Korean tourism destinations, such as the villages of Dongbaek and Sehwa in Jeju, and Mosan island in South Jeolla province, which have received similar accolades, to travel to the Basque Country to exchange experiences.
Oñati was chosen for its rich cultural and natural heritage, as well as its proven ability to promote sustainable tourism in rural areas. This morning, the delegation was welcomed in the plenary hall of Oñati's town hall, where councilor Xabier Igartua greeted them with a few words in Korean: "Hwan-yeong-ham-ni-da," meaning "welcome."
The delegation was presented with Oñati chocolate and txakoli as gifts, and in return, they brought several valuable presents from their country for Igartua. Following the reception, a guided tour commenced, with the first stop at the Tourism office, followed by a visit to San Miguel parish.
The itinerary also includes several other stops, such as exploring Txokolateixia with explanations from Anton Azpiazu, ascending to the Arantzazu sanctuary, and visiting the Arrikrutz cave. This day has provided an invaluable opportunity to share perspectives on tourism between both countries and to explore avenues for future collaboration.