Changnyeong-Miryang Expressway Opens, Boosting Travel and Tourism in Gyeongnam

Changnyeong, South Korea — The much-anticipated Changnyeong-Miryang Expressway officially opened on December 28, marking a transformative milestone in Gyeongsangnam-do’s transportation network. This new route is set to significantly reduce travel times, enhance connectivity, and boost regional tourism and economic activity.

The 28.5-kilometer stretch of highway, part of the Hamyang-Ulsan Expressway, links Changnyeong County to Miryang City, providing a safer, faster alternative to the historically challenging Route 24. Costing KRW 1.68 trillion, this project aims to redefine east-west travel in the region, benefiting both residents and businesses.

For decades, travelers between Changnyeong and Miryang have faced daunting terrain and winding roads that extended commutes and increased logistical costs. The Changnyeong-Miryang Expressway eliminates these hurdles, cutting travel time from 63 minutes to just 17 minutes and reducing the journey distance from 42 kilometers to 28.5 kilometers.

“This new expressway is not just a road but a bridge connecting communities, cultures, and economies,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. Officials believe the project will breathe new life into Gyeongsangnam-do by easing movement and reducing transportation costs for goods and services.

The opening ceremony, held at the Miryang Yeongnamnu Rest Area on December 27, was attended by key government officials, including the Second Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, local lawmakers, and enthusiastic residents. During the event, officials highlighted the expressway’s role in fostering regional growth.

“This expressway is a catalyst for change, not only improving mobility but also invigorating the local economy,” the Second Vice Minister remarked, emphasizing the government’s commitment to completing the remaining sections of the Hamyang-Ulsan Expressway by 2026.

The ceremony also included a moment of recognition for the engineers and construction workers who made this project possible, underscoring its importance to the region.

The expressway is expected to generate annual economic benefits of KRW 4.03 trillion through enhanced logistics and expanded tourism opportunities. Improved access to renowned destinations like the UNESCO-designated Changnyeong Upo Wetland, the Yeongnam Alps, and Miryang Eoreumgol Valley is anticipated to draw more visitors, fueling the local tourism industry.

Residents and businesses alike are optimistic about the road’s potential to stimulate economic growth. “We’re already seeing inquiries from tour operators eager to add Upo Wetland to their itineraries,” shared a local shop owner in Changnyeong.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport also emphasized efforts to preserve the ecological integrity of the region during the construction process, particularly near environmentally sensitive sites like Upo Wetland.

While the Changnyeong-Miryang Expressway is now operational, its full potential will be realized with the completion of the Hamyang-Changnyeong section by 2026. This development will further solidify the east-west axis of South Korea’s transportation network, connecting major cities like Busan, Ulsan, and beyond.

“We are committed to ensuring that the benefits of this project extend to every resident and visitor in the region,” said an official from the Korea Expressway Corporation. The broader goal is to create a seamless transportation corridor that reduces barriers to mobility and enhances quality of life.