Gogunsan Islands consist of 63 islands and islets, 50㎞ southwest of Gunsan in Jeollabukdo. Some of the islands, such as Sinsido, Munyeodo, Seonyudo, Jangjado, and Daejangdo, are connected to the mainland with the 33.9㎞-long Saemangeum seawall and bridges.
At the center of the Gogunsan Islands is Seonyudo. Originally called Gunsando Island, Seonyudo earned this name, meaning gods’ playground, for its scenic views. During Goryeo (918-1392), it served as a port of call for trade between Korea and China and as a strategic base for naval forces. It was also the place where Admiral Yi Sun-shin (1545-1598) of Joseon re-arranged battle lines after his victory against the Japanese Navy in the Battle of Myeongnyang in 1597. Besides its strategic location, Seonyudo is known for clear water, fine sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and stunning sunsets. Most water surrounding of the Gogunsan Islands is suitable for swimming, fishing, and other water recreational activities because it is clean, soft, sandy, and full of marine life.
Rich with beautiful natural features and a meaningful history, the Gogunsan Islands are now preparing for a new future through the Saemangeum Reclamation Project. This ambitious long-term project involves reclaiming a massive coastal area of 409㎢, including the construction of the Saemangeum seawall in 2010. It is still ongoing to make this region an economic and tourist hub of Northeast Asia.