Korea’s first nudist forest is scheduled to open in Jangheung County, South Jeolla Province in late August.

The county said Friday that it is working on a therapeutic park, surrounded by chamaecyparis obtusa trees, and will test-run the nudist forest, named “Vivid Ecotopia” in the near future.

“We will soon complete construction of the facilities and people can enjoy nature and release stress in the nude,” Park Kwang-ho, an official of the country office told The Korea Times.

The official said although the park operator will provide visitors with thin gowns, ultimately all will be encouraged to undress.

“We have already received legal advice that there will be no problems with the park as long as it is built in a shielded area. The main purpose of the park is to treat people suffering from skin diseases such as atopicallergy and help them meditate,” he added.

Jeju Island sought to build a nudist beach last year, but failed to carry through the plan due to strong resistance from various interest groups.

The county has invested 4.5 billion won ($3.8 million) for the establishment of the park and six huts will accommodate approximately 50 people. The administration will not charge visitors this year and decide on the admission fee after the test period.  [The Korea Times]

I am guessing the USO won’t be offering tours here any time soon.