South Jeolla Province

Region ·🇰🇷 South Korea

Population 1,790,352

Area 11,470 km²

Time zone Asia/Seoul

Official website english.jeonnam.go.kr

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Explore South Jeolla Province

Jeollanam-do's Essential Treasures

Jeollanam-do features a diverse collection of cultural and natural landmarks, from the terraced rows of the Boseong Green Tea Field to the extensive coastal wetlands of Suncheon Bay. The region's history is preserved at the Nagan Historical Village, a Joseon-era fortress town, and the 5.18 Gwangju Democratic Movement Archives. Religious architecture is represented by the ancient Hwaeomsa Temple on Jirisan mountain, while the remnants of Suncheon Japanese Castle provide insight into 16th-century military history.

11 places

Beautiful Beaches

The coastline of South Jeolla Province is defined by the Dadohaehaesang National Park, an archipelago of thousands of islands offering diverse seaside environments. This collection features a range of coastal landscapes, from the expansive tidal flats of Hampyeong and the fine white sands of Sinan’s islands to the unique cobblestone shores of Goheung. Many of these locations are characterized by 'Solbat'—ancient pine groves planted as windbreaks that now provide natural shade along the water's edge.

20 places

Historic Fortifications

This collection of historic fortifications in South Jeolla Province highlights the region's strategic military evolution from the Baekje Kingdom through the Joseon Dynasty. The list features diverse defensive architecture, including the Suncheon Japanese Castle—the only remaining 'waeseong' in the province—and the sprawling stone walls of Damyang Geumseongsanseong. From provincial army headquarters to coastal naval bastions in Yeosu and Goheung, these sites preserve the stone walls and gates used to defend the peninsula for centuries.

8 places

Majestic Mountains and Viewpoints

This collection highlights the diverse topography of South Jeolla, ranging from the rugged granite peaks of Wolchulsan National Park to the coastal vistas of Jindo and Yeosu. Notable sites include the historic Myeongnyang Strait, famous for its powerful whirlpools, and the expansive reed beds of Suncheonman Bay visible from Mount Yongsan. Visitors can explore Joseon-era architecture at Unjoru, traverse the iconic Gureumdari suspension bridge, and view celestial displays at the Gokseong Seomjingang Observatory.

19 places

Cultural Hubs and Art Spaces

This collection highlights the diverse cultural landscape of South Jeolla and Gwangju. It features significant historical archives and memorial centers dedicated to the May 18th Democratic Movement alongside specialized venues like the National Namdo Gugak Center in Jindo, which preserves traditional Korean folk music. The list includes major regional theaters in Mokpo and Suncheon for orchestral performances, as well as unique galleries like the Nampo Art Museum, housed in a repurposed elementary school.

20 places

Sacred Sites and Places of Worship

This collection highlights the spiritual heritage of the South Jeolla region, spanning centuries of Buddhist and Christian traditions. It includes UNESCO World Heritage sites like Seonamsa and Songgwangsa, renowned for their mountain architecture and monastic history. Visitors can explore unique structures such as the three-story wooden pagoda at Ssangbongsa, the cliffside Hyangiram hermitage in Yeosu, and historic cathedrals. These sites offer insights into Korea's religious evolution, artistic craftsmanship, and traditional mountain temple layouts.

20 places