The southern coast of Jeolla Province is a picturesque mosaic of rugged terrain and scattered islands, where fishing villages and coastal roads create postcard-worthy landscapes. The ocean route connecting cities such as Yeosu, Suncheon, Gwangyang, Boseong, and Goheung is like a watercolor painting, filled with both refreshing openness and lyrical charm. In this post, we’ll explore the theme of “Jeolla Travel Along the Southern Coastal Road,” taking a slow and enriching journey through sea towns full of local warmth and abundance.
Yeosu: City of Night Sea and Romance
No trip along Korea’s southern coast is complete without visiting Yeosu. Popularized by the famous song “Yeosu Night Sea,” this city is beloved for its romantic nightscapes and coastal views. Its marine park and ocean cable car, developed further after the Yeosu Expo, have become must-visit attractions. At night, the colorful lights reflecting on the sea create a surreal and dreamy atmosphere.
Seafood lovers will find Yeosu a culinary delight. Local specialties like marinated crab, grilled eel, and pen shell clam shabu-shabu are highly sought after, along with unique regional dishes like Dolsan gat kimchi and seodaehoe (raw fish salad). Dining by the night sea or taking a boat from the dock to nearby islands is highly recommended for those wanting to immerse themselves in the charm of island village life.
Jeolla Travel: Suncheon and Gwangyang, Harmony of Ecology and Industry
Moving slightly inland from Yeosu, you’ll find Suncheon and Gwangyang. Suncheon is a leading eco-tourism city known for Suncheon Bay National Garden and Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve. The silver mudflats, dancing migratory birds, and golden reeds offer breathtaking landscapes. At sunset, the sky paints the wetland in brilliant hues of gold. A walk along the wooden deck path provides a front-row view of this natural spectacle. With quaint fishing villages and kind-hearted locals, many visitors find peace and tranquility in Suncheon.
In contrast, Gwangyang is a city where industry and nature coexist. Home to the massive Gwangyang Steelworks, it also boasts pristine valleys flowing from Baegunsan Mountain and the famous Maehwa Village (known for its plum blossom festival). During peak bloom, the city transforms into a dreamy scene bathed in white blossoms, making it a top destination for photography enthusiasts.
Jeolla Travel: Goheung and Boseong, Rest Shaped by Islands and Tea Fields
At the southern tip of Jeolla, the areas of Goheung and Boseong await. Goheung is a peninsula-like region protruding into the sea, offering endless scenic views of islands along its coastal road. It is home to the Naro Space Center, where visitors can take part in a rocket launch tour and discover futuristic science. Neighboring islands like Geogeumdo and Sorokdo have also developed into charming resorts, adding extra excitement to your coastal road trip.
Boseong, on the other hand, is famous for its lush green tea fields. The vast terraced landscapes of Daehan Dawon and other tea farms have often served as dreamy backdrops in TV shows and films. Tasting green tea ice cream here or joining a hands-on tea-making experience is a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate yourself. Nearby spots such as Deungnyang Station’s Memory Lane and Beolgyo’s cockle dishes also deserve a visit.
Jeolla Travel: Coastal Drive, a Road of Serenity and Sentiment
Driving along Jeolla’s southern coast offers not only breathtaking ocean views but also a leisurely pace of life. The curving coastal roads often wind around hills and cliffs, revealing an expansive horizon beyond your car window. Taking quick breaks at seaside rest areas to enjoy seafood ramyun or traditional Korean beverages adds to the charm of the journey. Slowing down your thoughts with the sound of waves allows you to let go of stress and reconnect with yourself.
During these drives, discovering local eateries becomes a highlight. Restaurants serving handmade kalguksu (knife-cut noodle soup) made with freshly dug clams, sashimi, and seaweed bibimbap are abundant. Checking Google Maps or social media for well-reviewed spots will ensure a satisfying culinary stop. A simple meal followed by a beach walk easily fills up half a day—and this humble pleasure is what makes a coastal road trip truly unforgettable.
Conclusion: Serenity Found by the Sea
The southern coastal route of Jeolla Province offers a glimpse into a “slow yet abundant way of life.” The dazzling nightscape of Yeosu, the serene and mystical mudflats of Suncheon Bay, the pure valleys of Baegunsan in Gwangyang, the verdant green tea fields of Boseong, and the vibrant island views along Goheung’s coast each greet travelers in their own unique hue. These colors come together to provide weary travelers with a sense of comfort and peace found only here.
The rich local seafood and delicacies satisfy the palate, while the warm greetings from coastal villagers kindle a small flame in the heart. When you slow your thoughts with the sea breeze, you’re finally able to reflect on yourself and let go of small worries. We encourage you to experience this gentle, generous journey that the southern seaside of Jeolla offers—at least once. Whether you’re a foreign traveler visiting Korea or a resident looking to explore, a trip along Jeolla’s southern coast is a perfect way to recharge and reconnect.
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