Everland offers art circus, Lotte World brings game world to life
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- South Korean theme parks Everland and Lotte World are undergoing major renovations to attract visitors.
- Everland is introducing a new circus performance, 'Wings of Memory,' and enhancing its zoo and garden attractions.
- Lotte World is collaborating with Nexon to integrate the game 'MapleStory' into its attractions, targeting both nostalgic adults and younger gamers.
South Korea's premier theme parks, Everland and Lotte World, are embarking on ambitious revamps to capture the attention of visitors in a competitive market. Everland, facing the departure of its beloved panda Fu Bao and challenged by accessibility issues and summer heat, is pivoting towards a richer cultural content strategy. The park has launched 'Wings of Memory,' a spectacular circus show featuring world-class performers from Cirque du Soleil alumni, aiming to transform its image from a ride-centric destination to a hub of diverse entertainment.
The park has launched 'Wings of Memory,' a spectacular circus show featuring world-class performers from Cirque du Soleil alumni, aiming to transform its image from a ride-centric destination to a hub of diverse entertainment.
Beyond the circus, Everland is also bolstering its animal welfare initiatives with an AZA-accredited zoo and expanding its botanical offerings, including vibrant floral displays and engaging plant-themed content. These efforts reflect a broader trend in the industry to offer more than just thrilling rides, catering to a wider audience seeking immersive experiences. The park's 50th anniversary is marked by this strategic shift, signaling a commitment to evolving with visitor expectations.
Everland is also bolstering its animal welfare initiatives with an AZA-accredited zoo and expanding its botanical offerings, including vibrant floral displays and engaging plant-themed content.
Meanwhile, Lotte World is tapping into the powerful nostalgia of a generation by integrating the beloved game 'MapleStory' into its adventure park. The 'Maple Island Zone' brings characters and the game's world to life, appealing to both 30-40 somethings who grew up with the game and younger audiences drawn to its retro charm. This collaboration with Nexon addresses Lotte World's challenges of limited space and the need for fresh attractions, offering a unique blend of gaming culture and theme park fun. This strategic use of intellectual property is seen as a key to future growth, especially in the face of declining birth rates, as it provides a compelling reason for repeat visits and attracts diverse age groups.
Lotte World is tapping into the powerful nostalgia of a generation by integrating the beloved game 'MapleStory' into its adventure park.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.