This summer, Zagreb County became the centre of one of the most exciting cultural and music collaborations connecting Croatia and South Korea. In Samobor, at the Cantilly restaurant, a unique encounter took place between Korean rock stars and the Croatian band JELUSICK, filmed as part of the international Odyssey project — a reality show set to be watched by millions of viewers across South Korea. More than a musical collaboration, Odyssey is a project that showcases Croatia as a destination offering far more than natural beauty. Through the performances of YB (Yoon Do Hyun Band), the female rock group Rolling Quartz, and Croatian virtuoso Dino Jelusić, the show highlights Croatia as a country where music, gastronomy, culture and sustainable development open new doors to international cooperation.
Samobor, as the music hub of Zagreb County, proudly presented its finest qualities. Cantilly Restaurant, renowned for its elevated interpretation of traditional cuisine, proved the perfect setting to showcase the region’s rich food and wine identity. Through local dishes, wines and products from family farms, Korean guests experienced the authentic spirit of the destination. The event also provided an opportunity for Zagreb County to demonstrate how it strategically implements the principles of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, of which it is a signatory. By engaging local producers, promoting sustainable food practices and short supply chains, and blending culture, tradition and modern experiences, the county confirms that tourism can be both economically strong and environmentally responsible. In doing so, Zagreb County is not only building a tourism product but also an entire sustainable development model that benefits the local community, the economy, and visitors alike.
The Odyssey project brings multiple advantages to Zagreb County. The reality show and accompanying media coverage will significantly increase global visibility and strengthen the region’s tourism image, while also showcasing local gastronomy and family farm products to Korean audiences. This opens new economic opportunities — from cultural and creative collaborations to export growth and future investment links between Croatia and South Korea. For this reason, Odyssey is not merely a cultural and music event, but a strategic milestone for tourism and economic development throughout Zagreb County.
“The Odyssey project has demonstrated that Zagreb County can truly become an authentic host for international events. The blend of music, culture, and gastronomy not only showcases our region but also sends a strong message about the values we uphold—sustainability, tradition, and innovation. By signing the Glasgow Declaration, we are showing that it is possible to gain international recognition while also boosting the local economy and community. We take pride in supporting this project and are confident that its outcomes will yield lasting benefits for both tourism and the broader economy,” stated Ivana Alilović, Director of the Zagreb County Tourist Board.
Just as the reality show Sisters Over Flowers brought thousands of Korean tourists to Croatia in 2014, Odyssey now has the potential to spark a new wave of interest — this time with Zagreb County at the forefront. Authenticity, sustainability and international recognition take centre stage, reaffirming Zagreb County as a leader in sustainable tourism and regional economic development.
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