Exploring Tourism Contents Utilization of Local Cultural Resources from a Soundscape Perspective: A Case Study of the National Center for Forest Therapy, Daegwallyeong

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the concept of soundscape through its ecological, social, and cultural characteristics, exploring its value as a local cultural resource and strategizing its utilization as a region-specific resource. This study highlighted the significance of soundscapes as local resources, emphasizing their integration with regional cultural assets and proposing strategies for their expansion and future use to enhance regional interaction. Methods: The study was conducted through field research and focus group interviews (FGI) at the National Center for Forest Therapy, Daegwallyeong, targeting six local cultural activists in the arts sector from August 2, 2021, to December 20, 2021. This study explored the potential connections and utilization strategies between soundscapes and local cultural resources, based on theoretical considerations. Results: The findings revealed a connectivity between local cultural resources and soundscapes. Soundscapes interact with the history, traditions, and cultural activities of communities, suggesting that they can serve as unique tourism content that enhances a region's identity and competitiveness, offering various uses and value. Secondly, soundscapes serve as a bridge between a region's past and present, highlighting their potential for expansion as a local cultural resource. From this foundation, key discussions on scalability generated practical and applicable ideas for using soundscapes as tourism attractions. Conclusion: This research identified a positive correlation between utilizing soundscapes and enhancing regional identity and competitiveness, as well as stimulating the local economy through tourism.