Pyeongchang
Geography
Pyeongchang, officially known as Pyeongchang County, is a county in the Gangwon province of South Korea. It is located in the Taebaek Mountains region, and is part of the Eastern Korea inland region. The county spans an area of approximately 1,463.64 square kilometers, making it the third largest county in South Korea.
Climate
Pyeongchang has a humid continental climate, with long, cold winters and short, warm summers. The county experiences heavy snowfall due to its location in the Taebaek Mountains, which makes it an ideal location for winter sports.
Administrative Divisions
Pyeongchang County is divided into 1 eup (town) and 7 myeon (townships). These include Pyeongchang-eup, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Yongpyeong-myeon, Bongpyeong-myeon, Jinbu-myeon, Daehwa-myeon, Yongsan-myeon, and Mitan-myeon.
Economy
The economy of Pyeongchang is primarily based on agriculture, with the main crops being potatoes and cabbages. The county is also known for its livestock industry, particularly cattle farming. In recent years, tourism and winter sports have become increasingly important to the local economy, especially after the county hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Culture
Pyeongchang is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional Korean music, dance, and art. The county is also home to several historic temples, including Woljeongsa Temple, which is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Korea.
Sports
Pyeongchang has a strong association with winter sports, thanks to its cold climate and heavy snowfall. The county has several ski resorts, including Alpensia Resort and Yongpyong Resort, which are among the largest ski resorts in South Korea. Pyeongchang was the host city for the 2018 Winter Olympics and the 2018 Winter Paralympics, which significantly boosted its profile as a winter sports destination.
Education
Pyeongchang County has several elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as a campus of the Kangwon National University. The county also has a public library and a museum, which are important resources for local education and culture.
Transportation
Pyeongchang is well-connected by road and rail. The county is served by the Yeongdong Expressway and the Jungang Expressway, as well as the Gyeonggang Line of the Korean national railway network. The county also has several bus routes that connect it to other parts of Gangwon Province and the rest of South Korea.