Jeolla and its main city Gwangju, in Korea’s southwest, are rich in tradition, democratic history, and an amazing food culture. Let’s dive in!
About Gwangu & Jeolla Region
Comprised of Jeollabuk-do and Jeollanam-do Provinces, and the Gwangiu Metropolitan City, the Jeolla region covers the southwestern part of South Korea. It is bordered by the Yellow Sea on the west and the Korea Strait on the south, and due to its expansive fertile plains, it has a very well-developed culinary culture. The unique food offerings make it an ideal desination for a gastrónomic adventure.
Gwangiu is a thriving hub of culture and art, hosting the Gwangju Biennale, a biannual world-class art exhibition. In Jeollabuk-do, visitors can experience the charm of traditional Korean culture and cuisine, while Jeollanam-do features breathtaking coastal views.
Jeollabuk-do
Jeollanam-do
Flight
Jeolla is home to four airports. While taking a bus and enjoying the scenic views on the way to Korea’s southern region can be a great experience, the ride takes about four hours. If you’re short on time, flying is a convenient and time-saving alternative
(You can search for the names below on Google Maps)
- Muan International Airport (Estimated Time from Seoul : 1hr 10min)
- Gwangju Airport (1hr)
- Yeosu Airport (1hr)
- Gunsan Airport (1hr)
Train(KTX)
KTX is Korea’s high-speed rail system, offering fast travel to cities across the country. With smooth connections to local public transportation networks, KTX is often a more convenient option for travelers than domestic flights. There are a total of six KTX stations located in Seoul.
(You can search for the names below on Google Maps)
- Jeonju Station (2hr)
- Suncheon Station (3hr)
- Yeosu Expo Station (3hr 20min)
- Gwangju Songjeong Station (2hr)
- Mokpo Station (2hr)
Bus
Since the Jeolla region is quite a distance from Seoul, traveling by bus can take over four hours. It might sound like a long trip, but the buses are very comfortable, making the journey quite manageable. Taking a bus also gives you the chance to enjoy the scenic drive down south and stop at rest areas along the way for snacks and a bit of local flavor.
Buses in Korea are incredibly convenient, with terminals in every city and town. You can easily travel to the Jeolla region from any terminal across the country, including several major ones in Seoul.
Bus Terminal Information in Seoul
Popular Tourist Spots
All of these cities are part of the Jeolla region. Just search them on Google to see where they’re located!
Gwangju
Gwangju is the largest and most central city in the Jeolla region. It is often referred to as the birthplace of Korean democracy. In the 1980s, during a time of military dictatorship, the government attempted to suppress citizens who were calling for democracy. However, the people of Gwangju rose up, leading to the historic May 18 Democratic Uprising—an event that symbolizes the power and resilience of the people.
- 1913 Songjeong Station Market
- Yangnim History and Culture Vilage
Jeonju
Jeonju is one of the major cities in the Jeolla region, especially famous for its delicious food.
- Jeonju Hanok Village
- Gyeonggijeon Shrine
- Samcheon-dong Makgeolli Alley
- Jeonju Nambu Market
Wanju
- O Sung Hanok Village
Muju
- Deogyusan National Park
Imsil
- Imsil Cheese Theme Park
Namwon
- Gwanghalluwon Garden
Sunchang
- Fermentation Theme Park
Gochang
- Seonunsa Temple
- Borinara Hagwon Farm
Jeongeup
- Naejangsan National Park
Gunsan
- Gyeongam-dong Railroad Village
- Gunsan Time Travel Village
Buan
- Byeonsanbando National Park
Iksan
- Mireuksa Temple Site
Damyang
- Juknokwon
- Metasequoia Road
Gokseong
- Seomjingang Train Village
Gurye
- Ssangsanjae
Suncheon
Suncheon is a city full of attractions, including natural ecological sites along Korea’s southern coast.
- Suncheonman National Garden
- Suncheonman Wetland
- Seonamsa Temple
- Naganeupseong Folk Village
- Suncheon Filming Location
Yeosu
Yeosu, just below Suncheon, is a popular tourist destination with even more attractions and stunning coastal views.
- Expo Ocean Park
- Hyangiram Hermitage
- Yeosu Maritime Cable Car
- Odongdo Island
- Dadohaehaesang National Park
- Yeosu Artland Resort
Mokpo
- Mokpo Maringe Cable Car
Wando
- Cheongsando Island
Boseong
- Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation
Shinan
- Purple Island
Naju
- Bitgaram Lake Park