I’m Lily, your friendly Korean guide here to help you enjoy your trip to Korea with ease! Let’s explore together! 🚀
In this post, I’d like to introduce you to Gunsan, a city located in the northwestern part of Jeollanam-do, South Korea!
Gunsan is a charming port city where the past and present coexist, creating a unique atmosphere. It’s also a famous filming location for many movies and dramas, making it the perfect place to take a nostalgic time trip back to 1930s Korea.
Now, let’s begin our journey! 🚗✨
✅ 1. Where is Gunsan located?
✅2. How to Get to Gunsan (Transportation)
Here’s a guide on how to travel to Gunsan from Korea’s major cities, Seoul and Busan.
| Departure | Train Type | Transfer Station | Travel Time | Fare (Standard Seat) | Direct Train |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 서울 (Seoul) |
KTX + Mugunghwa (무궁화) |
Iksan(익산) | About 2h 10–30m | Around 34,900 KRW | ❌ (Transfer Required) |
| 서울 | Mugunghwa | (Direct) | About 3h 30m | Around 17,600 KRW | ✅ |
| 부산 (Busan) |
KTX + Mugunghwa |
Iksan(익산) | About 3h 30–40m | Around 52,600 KRW | ❌ (Transfer Required) |
| 부산 | Mugunghwa | (Direct) | About 5h 30m | Around 26,800 KRW | ✅ |
✅ 3. Must-Visit Places in Gunsan
Gunsan played a significant role as an economic hub during the Japanese colonial period, with many Japanese settlers living in the area. As a result, the city retains historic buildings and streets, offering a glimpse into the past. These sites serve as a reminder of history, preserving the memories of that era. Thanks to its nostalgic and atmospheric charm, Gunsan has also become a popular filming location for movies and dramas.
1️⃣ 군산근대화거리 Gunsan Modern History Street
📍 240 Haemang-ro, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
2️⃣ 신흥동일본식가옥 Shinheung-dong Japanese-style House
📍 Shinheung-dong, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
This historic two-story wooden house, built by a Japanese textile merchant named Hirotsu during the Japanese colonial period, has been designated as a National Heritage Site. It is a well-preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture, complete with a beautifully maintained Japanese-style garden.
The real charm of this place lies in its interior, so I highly recommend visiting in person to fully appreciate its unique atmosphere! 🏡🌿✨
3️⃣ 초원사진관 Chowon Photo Studio
📍 12-1, Guyeong 2-gil, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do (1st floor)
This charming photo studio was the filming location for the 1998 Korean movie Christmas in August. Inside, you'll find various props and photos from the film, preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of the story.
For visitors to Gunsan, this is a must-visit spot—perfect for reliving cinematic moments and capturing your own memories! 📸✨
In addition to the movie Christmas in August, Gunsan is also famous as the filming location for various other films and dramas! Here are some notable ones:
Movies
- '밀정' The Age of Shadows (2016)
- '도리화가' The Handmaiden (2015)
- '국제시장' Oasis (2014)
- '타짜' Tazza: The High Rollers (2006)
Dramas
- '응답하라 1988' Reply 1988 (2015)
Gunsan’s beautiful scenery and historic charm make it the perfect backdrop for these unforgettable productions! 🎬✨
4️⃣ 경암동철길마을 Gyeongam-dong Railroad Village
📍 14, Gyeongchon 4-gil, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
Gyeongam-dong Railroad Village is a unique attraction where an old, unused train track has been transformed into a tourist destination. Visitors can stroll along the railway and explore shops selling traditional Korean snacks from the past.
There are also fun experiences like making Dalgona (a traditional Korean sweet) and the opportunity to rent old-school Korean uniforms (교복) for a nostalgic photoshoot! 🚂🍬📸
1️⃣ 비응항 Bieung Port
📍(91, Bieung-dong, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do)
You can also visit the nearby fish market, where you can savor fresh seafood right from the ocean! 🦞🌊
1️⃣ 고군산군도 Gogunsan Archipelago
📍 Daejang-ri, Okdo-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do (Includes Daejangdo, Jangjado, Seonyudo)
(대장도, 장자도, 선유도)
The Gogunsan Archipelago is a collection of stunning islands that offer breathtaking views. The islands are connected by skywalks and bridges, making it easy to stroll and explore the beauty of each one.
Be sure to visit Daejangdo—a highlight of the archipelago. As you hike up a hill for about 20 minutes, you'll reach the peak of Daejangbong, where you’ll be greeted with a spectacular panoramic view of the blue sea!
Nearby Jangjado offers something unique: delicious hotteok (sweet pancakes). While enjoying the beautiful scenery, you can try one of the many sweet hotteok shops on the island! 🌊🍯
✅ 4. Must-Try Restaurants in Gunsan
Gunsan is home to not only a significant Japanese community but also a large Chinese population, which is why you'll find many Chinese restaurants in the city. One of the most popular dishes here is jjambbong (spicy seafood noodle soup). Additionally, there are many restaurants serving local specialties made with fresh seafood, such as sundubu jjigae (tofu stew with seafood) and grilled fish or eel. Here are a few popular spots to check out:
1️⃣ 지린성 Jirinseong
📍 87, Miwon-ro, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
2️⃣ 선유도 안정식당 Seonyudo Anjeong Restaurant
📍 81, Seonyu Buk-gil, Okdo-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do (Building 2)
At Seonyudo Anjeong Restaurant, you can enjoy a seafood sundubu jjigae (tofu stew with seafood) and grilled fish (such as bokdae, gajami, and jogi), all of which are incredibly fresh and wonderfully savory. Don’t miss out on their delicious seafood pajeon (savory pancake with seafood) as well—it's a perfect dish to complete your meal! 🦞🍲
3️⃣ 경원아나고 Gyeongwon Anago
📍 22, Ssajeon-gil, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
✅ 5. Cafes and Desserts in Gunsan
1️⃣ 이성당 Iseongdang Bakery
📍 177, Jungang-ro, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
2️⃣ 둔율담 Dunyuldam
📍 12-4, Dunbaemi-gil, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
3️⃣ Gunsan Confectionery Union
📍 68, Guyeong 5-gil, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do (2nd floor)
If you add Gunsan to your Korea travel itinerary, I’ll be so happy to know that this information helped you plan your trip! I hope it was useful for you, and I’ll be back with more helpful tips in the future! ✨
Safe travels and enjoy your adventure in Gunsan! 🌏💖
