Exploring the Impact of Integrating Industrial Tourism and Regional Cultural Tourism Contents on Attracting Foreign Tourists

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the positive effects of a strategy that integrates industrial tourism and cultural tourism content on revitalizing the local economy through attracting foreign tourists. Methods To achieve the research objective, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 experts working in the tourism field in Korea, particularly in the industrial tourism sector. Data analysis was conducted using the repetitive comparative analysis method widely used in qualitative research, and the results were derived through the processes of open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. Result Research Results First, Korea's robust economy, diversified industrial base, and globalized cultural content, such as the Korean Wave, strengthened the motivation of foreign tourists to visit and contributed to the differentiation of local tourism resources. Second, the educational and experiential characteristics of industrial tourism provided unique experiences to foreign tourists, increased their satisfaction, and helped revitalize the local economy. Third, regional-level collaborations such as the Haeoreum Alliance were creating synergistic effects by linking unique industrial and cultural assets. Conclusion This study presented the positive effects of the convergence of industrial tourism and regional cultural tourism on attracting foreign tourists and revitalizing the local economy, supported by practical cases. Additionally, it demonstrated that industrial tourism is a strategic asset that goes beyond mere sightseeing to create differentiated tourism experiences linked to local resources, and is effective in strengthening educational and immersive regional identity.