Content Writer: Janice Chew • Tuesday, 25/12/2025 - 18:24:57 - PM
Kangwon Land is accelerating its diversification strategy, aiming to lift its non-gaming revenue contribution from the current 20% to 40%. This move aligns with a broader industry trend where integrated resorts increasingly depend on hotels, entertainment, and MICE facilities to balance volatility in gaming income. Kangwon Land—the only casino allowed to accept local residents—face pressure to demonstrate more sustainable, tourism-driven growth even while their gaming floors remain strong.
The company’s leadership explained that the strategy hinges on boosting length of stay, a critical metric that directly drives spending beyond the casino. Kangwon Land plans to expand event offerings, introduce more family-oriented programs, and enhance resort attractions to encourage visitors to stay multiple nights rather than making short gambling-focused trips. Local tourism studies highlight that extended-stay guests typically generate at least 2–3× more non-gaming spend across dining, retail, spa, and recreation.
A portion of this shift will be supported by Kangwon Land’s ongoing hotel upgrades and resort-wide refurbishment, which earlier government filings confirmed are being phased through 2025–2026.
Kangwon Land is also looking at strengthening partnerships with local businesses to broaden its non-gaming ecosystem. Reports from KBS News indicate discussions with regional tourism agencies around co-developing cultural experiences, nature excursions, and winter sports packages—initiatives that align with South Korea’s national goal of revitalizing rural tourism zones. Such collaborations aim to transform the resort from a gambling-centric venue into a multi-day vacation hub.
Overall, the plan to double non-gaming revenue marks one of the company’s most ambitious pivots in recent years. While changes will be gradual, industry observers believe the strategy could position Kangwon Land more competitively against Asian integrated resorts and future Korean IR developments. If executed well, this evolution toward a 40% non-gaming mix could significantly reduce long-term revenue risk and anchor Kangwon Land as a full-fledged leisure destination rather than a primarily gaming-driven property.