Gunsan is a relatively small port town on the western coast of South Korea. Before the 1900s there was not much development there. It experienced rapid growth when the Japanese started to colonize Korea. They needed to develop another port to export all the rice and other produce coming from the Jeollabuk-do region. There is a lot of history to visit in this town especially from the Japanese colonial period. It is about 2 hours away from Seoul by bus, and 40 minutes from Jeonju.
10. Gunsan Modern Art Museum
Just along the waterfront is the modern art museum. Converted from an old colonial building, this place is worth a visit from those art aficionados. There is many display and a visit only costs 500 won. However if you buy a pass for 3,000 won which gets you into the Jinpo Maritime Museum, the former Joseon Bank and some other places.
9. Japanese Imperialism Museum
Just down the road from Dongguk temple there is a small museum on the second floor of a building. It is only small but it gives a good insight into how Gunsan developed during the colonial period. There is some fantastic photos showing what life was like back in the early 1900s. It is currently free to visit and walk around however there might be plans to start charging a fee.
8. Try Jjampong
Jjampong, brought to Gunsan by Chinese immigrants this is a Chinese noodle dish with Korean influences. It is either made with a thick black soy bean sauce or a spicy soup. It generally comes with shrimp or pork and a variety of vegetables. Be aware if you get the chili or spicy version it can be extremely hot as the locals like their spicy food!
7. Dongguk Temple
The last remaining Japanese style Buddhist temple remaining in Korea is definitely worth visiting. Located not far the other tourist sites, it is easy enough to walk here. It is interesting to see the difference between traditional Japanese and Korean architecture here as they have also built some Korean style buildings next to the main temple.
6. Gowodang
A group traditional Korean styled guesthouses built in the 1930s can be found near the center of town. If you are planning to stay the night, stay here for an authentic experience. Apart from the awesome cultural experience staying here, it is also central to all the sights and some great restaurants and bars.
5. Sinheung-dong
Sinheung-dong is a Japanese style house located in Gunsan, an interesting insight into how the Japanese lived during the colonial period. From the tatami mats, the garden and the roofing there are many differences to the traditional Korean housing. Free tours are offered by the city during certain times of the year, so make sure to check before you visit otherwise you might not be able to walk through.
4. Visit Lee Sung Dang Bakery
If your are visiting Gunsan, its a must to visit the Lee Sung Dang bakery and try some of their famous bread. Their most famous products are their vegetable and red bean bread pockets which can require a long line up to get. However we would recommend trying some of their other foods, especially the blueberry tart which is fantastic.
3. Visit a Chic Cafe
Gunsan has a booming chic cafe culture. The streets are lined with cafes with cool and interesting designs. Mijeu Cafe near the waterfront has fantastic interior and exterior set up with an awesome garden accompanying it. They also have a traditional style tea room on the second floor where you can relax and drink your beverage.
2. Jinpo Maritime Theme Park
While not really a theme park, this is a great visit for anyone with a passing interest in Korea’s naval or military history. There are many pieces of military equipment on display from tanks and troop carriers to training planes and fighter jets. They have also built a naval museum into an old moored troop carrier ship. There is a full history of the Korea navy as well as a small section in particular about the Korea war.
1. Former Joseon Bank Museum Gunsan Branch
This museum has been built in the former Joseon Bank Gunsan Branch building. It has history about the whole of Gunsan, how it transformed from a tiny little village to a bustling port town during the Japanese colonization. It also has some specific sections with information about the Joseon bank and how the Gunsan Branch building was restored
Hopefully this list will be helpful for those people looking to visit Gunsan. It is definitely worth visiting if you have a spare day and are traveling down the western coast of Korea.
Alche is a passionate writer about many topics and wants to share knowledge in a simple way so all readers can enjoy and learn.