Yeosu-si, located in the southeastern part of Jeollanam-do, is a city that consists of the Yeosu Peninsula and the western region. It borders Namhae-gun in Gyeongsangnam-do to the east, Suncheonman to the west, the southeastern part of Goheung Peninsula and the sea to the west, Namhae to the south, and Suncheon-si to the north. With a total area of 508.84㎢ and a population of 291,680 (as of 2015), Yeosu-si is divided into 1 eup, 6 myeon, 20 administrative neighborhoods (51 legal neighborhoods), and 208 administrative villages (63 legal villages), with the city hall located in Hakdong, Yeosu-si. Yeosu-si is known for its historical relics related to Admiral Yi Sun-sin and its numerous islands scattered over the clear blue sea along the southern coast. The city is rich in tourism resources.
Why visit Yeosu-si:
- Historical Relics: Yeosu-si is home to many historical relics related to Admiral Yi Sun-sin, including the Seonso (a historical site in the Seonjeong-dong area where Admiral Yi Sun-sin is believed to have built his turtle ships) and Mangmasan (a mountain in Jeonjeon-dong where Admiral Yi Sun-sin is said to have built his turtle ships).
- Scenic Beauty: Yeosu-si offers stunning natural scenery, such as the beautiful mountains and valleys, the clear waters of the Yeongchwi River, and the picturesque coastline of Gwangyang Bay.
- Islands: Yeosu-si is surrounded by numerous islands of various sizes, each offering unique attractions and recreational activities. These islands are perfect for island hopping, beach activities, and exploring the untouched natural beauty of the area.
- Festivals: Yeosu-si hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Jinam Festival, which showcases traditional folk games and art performances from May 3rd to 8th, the Odongdo Camellia Festival, the Yeosu Sunrise Festival at Hyangilam Hermitage, the Yeongchwisan Azalea Festival, and the Geomundo Baekdo Biennale Festival.
Plan your Visit:
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Yeosu-si is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best.
- Transportation: Yeosu-si is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The city has its own airport, Yeosu Airport, which is served by domestic flights. It is also well-connected by train and bus services from major cities in South Korea.
- Language: The official language spoken in Yeosu-si is Korean. English may be limited, especially in rural areas, so it is recommended to learn some basic Korean phrases or carry a translation app.
- Currency: The currency used in Yeosu-si is the South Korean Won (KRW). Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
- Safety: Yeosu-si is generally a safe city to visit. However, it is always important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant festivals, Yeosu-si is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of South Koreas southern coast.
