Integrated casino resorts are big business. As a corporate model, they might not be anything new, but they are seeing a resurgence in popularity across Asia. Between Inspire Entertainment officially opening in March 2024 and MGM Osaka breaking ground in April 2025, operators are beginning to market these properties as all-in-one tourist destinations, rather than a quick flutter at your local casino. Kangwon Land, although known for being Korea’s only casino that allows citizens to play, refuses to be left behind in this resort rush. 

Moving beyond casino  

Since first being established in 1998, Kangwon Land has already seen several iterations of itself. Over the past 27 years, a new hotel, condo, golf course, ski resort and water world have all been opened at the property located in the Gangwon Province highlands. Although they are new and exciting, non-gaming revenue at the property still only accounts for approximately 13%. Specifically, the hotel was responsible for 7% of non-gaming revenue in 2024, and condos brought in 3%, but the rest brought in 1% respectively. The remaining 87% can be attributed to the casino.   

However, Kangwon Land is now committing to a KRW3tr (US$2.04bn) revamp of the property. Named the “K-HIT 1.0 Project,” the new resort has an estimated completion date of 2035 and will include a new domed entertainment venue, musical fountains, a K-Culture studio and three new hotel towers. Executives believe this will attract 13 million visitors annually to the property and create KRW3.5tr in yearly revenue. The media venue will be used for concerts and other large-scale events in a similar way to Inspire’s Arena, which has already hosted some of Korea’s biggest musical acts and awards ceremonies since opening two years ago. Fans have traveled from all over the world to attend these shows, with many of them staying in Inspire’s accommodation and spending time in the adjoining facilities. 

All in one and one for all 

One small issue, though. Kangwon Land is a four-hour journey by shuttle bus from Incheon International Airport, while Inspire is 20 minutes. Additionally, travelers will have to spend six hours if coming from Busan or three hours from Dong Seoul. It is no surprise, then, that the resort is looking to market itself as an all-in-one resort. 

In addition to the golf course, ski resort and water world already mentioned, Kangwon Land also has plans for a spa resort, guided walks, night-sky observation talks and seven new sports facilities. Rather than encouraging fans to spend one or two days at the resort while catching their favourite artist in concert, Kangwon Land is banking on people making a full holiday out of the experience. And, when considering Kangwon Land is the only land-based casino welcoming locals, it would not be surprising if the operator is targeting domestic holidaymakers alongside international ones.  

The first two aspects of the revamp, the transportation links and the casino, are expected to be completed by 2028. The first will include an 846-meter-long cable car route, as well as 1,880 additional car parking spaces. This will encourage more people to make the trip, especially customers who may prefer driving rather than taking public transport. 

Opening things up 

As for the gaming section, the new casino building will have five levels, with two of these located underground for extra space. While having too many visitors is a hypothetical scenario most operators would dream of, Kangwon Land has been concerned that the casino floor has become cramped in recent years. By introducing an entirely new building, the operator hopes it will encourage players to explore everything the casino has to offer in a more relaxed, open atmosphere. 

Ultimately, the revamp has the potential for powerful synergy between the different operations. More casino patrons will lead to an increase in revenue that can be used for marketing and resort upgrades, which will then lead to more visitors for both gaming and non-gaming ventures. Kangwon Land may be known primarly among keen casino players, but it is never too late to invest in diversification – especially when the competition is stronger than ever.