Yeosu is a charming coastal town in Jeolla Province's southern region. Renowned for its pleasant climate, island-dotted coastlines, and light spectacles at dusk, it makes for a delightful stopover during your journey through this part of the peninsula. Blessed with a picturesque setting, this hidden gem is a destination not to be missed during your stay in Corée du Sud.

History

Yeosu's history is strongly tied to naval heritage. Indeed, it was an important port that housed the naval section during the Joseon dynasty era. It also served as an operational base for Admiral Yi Sun-sin during the great naval battle of the Imjin War. As a reminder, Yi Sun-sin is renowned for saving the country from Japanese invasion through the invention of the Geobukseon (turtle ship).

When peace returned, around the mid-17th century, Yeosu welcomed Hendrik Hamel, the first European to provide a written account of Corée du Sud. However, in 1894, the city participated in the Donghak peasant rebellion, an uprising that sparked the First Sino-Japanese War. Subsequently, in 2007, Yeosu was selected to host the 2012 International Exposition. Most recently, in 2014, an extensive tourism-focused cable car was constructed. It ranks among the city's top attractions.

Today

Located in the southwest of the country, Yeosu, whose name literally translates to "beautiful waters," is part of an archipelago composed of 317 islands. These are connected by brilliantly illuminated architectural bridges offering splendid evening spectacles. The city is known and appreciated for its natural beauty, its one-of-a-kind neighborhoods, as well as its ancient temples, making it a premier tourist destination.

Among the activities awaiting you on site, beach activities offered by kilometers of volcanic black sand beaches are not to be missed. Take time as well to stroll through its streets lined with magnificent flowers. Next, acquire a Korail pass (Korea Railroad or the national railway company) to discover a different facet of the island, particularly Odongo Island and its 70 species of wild flowers.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city aboard the cable car that connects the city to Dolsan Island. After that, treat yourself to a picnic in one of the city's many parks. Then once night falls, reserve a table at a restaurant of your choice to savor fine seafood. And to end the day beautifully, admire the beauty of the urban landscape with its vivid color lighting from Dolsan Bridge.

Climate

Yeosu enjoys a warm temperate climate. The average annual temperature hovers around 14°C. Moreover, its proximity to the sea gives it a noticeably more pleasant climate compared to the rest of the peninsula. The best time to visit is during summer. You'll thus enjoy sunny days for all the activities this charming coastal town has in store for you.

How to Get There?

By Air:

From Seoul, Yeosu is served by numerous domestic flights (8 times daily) by Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.

By Bus:

From Seoul, take the express bus from Central City Terminal to Yeosu. The journey requires 5 hours 30 minutes.

By Train:

Since October 1st, 2011, the KTX (Corée du Sud's high-speed train) serves Yeosu. The journey from Seoul takes approximately 3 hours 20 minutes.

What to See and Do?

• Beach
• Strolling
• Picnicking in the parks
• Admire the city from the cable car
• Contemplate the urban landscape at night