
Updated at 2023-05-23
In the 13th century, the Goryeo moved its capital to Ganghwa Island to escape the Mongol army. The relocation drove the textile industry on the island. However, the industry was driven to near extinction during the 1970s with the unstoppable rise of synthetic fibers. To combat the decline, the Sochang Experience Hall was built on a former textile factory site, allowing visitors to create their own accessories, appreciate century-old textile machines, and personally experience the exquisite Ganghwa Island textiles that were once the pride of South Korea's textile industry.
Agreement date: Sep 14, 2009
Area: 1065 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 2,940,000
Main industries/features: Biotechnology, Warehousing