If you mention Yeosu
(여수) to any Korean, they will immediately start humming a song.
That song is "Yeosu Night Sea" by the band Busker. Since it was released, this quiet coastal town has become Korea’s capital of romance, famous for its glowing coastline, calm waves, and incredible seafood.
Hi everyone! I’m your InWorld Unnie. If you need a break from the fast pace of Seoul, let me take you to the southern coast for some "healing" time.
Yeosu might look far on the map, but it is incredibly easy to reach.
- Take the KTX: You can take a high-speed train directly from Seoul Station or Yongsan Station to Yeosu Expo Station.
- Time: Approx. 3 hours.
- Cost: Around ₩47,000 (approx. $35 USD).
➕ Bonus: The station is right next to the ocean. You step off the train and immediately smell the salt air!
Yeosu is famous for its views. Here is your must-see list:
- The "Night Sea" (여수 밤바다): Walk along the Jongpo Marine Park at night. You’ll see the Dolsan Bridge light up in changing colors. This is the exact view that inspired the famous song.
- Maritime Cable Car: This is the first cable car in Korea to pass over the ocean.
💡Pro Tip: Spend the extra ~$5 for a Crystal Cabin (glass floor) and try to ride exactly at sunset for the most magical photos.
- Hyangiram Hermitage (Sunrise Spot): This temple is perched on a cliff edge. It requires a bit of a steep hike (about 20 minutes of stairs), but the ocean sunrise view is legendary. Take Bus 111 or 113 from the city center to get there.
In Korea, Jeolla Province is known for having the best food, and Yeosu is the crown jewel. You cannot leave without trying:
- Ganjang Gejang (간장게장): Raw crab marinated in soy sauce. Yeosu is famous for serving this with unlimited refills at many restaurants!
- Dolmuneo (Stone Octopus): Often served in a spicy ramyeon by the water at the "Pocha" (street food cart) street.
- Gat-Kimchi (Mustard Leaf Kimchi): A special type of kimchi unique to this region. It has a spicy, wasabi-like kick!
If you are renting a car, Yeosu pairs perfectly with
Namhae, another stunning island just a
1-hour drive away. It’s a popular route for a scenic coastal road trip.
💡Planning a road trip? Check out our guide on How to Rent a Car in Korea (Coming Soon).
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You will see these words on every sign in Yeosu.
- 바다 (Ba-da) — Sea / Ocean
- 섬 (Seom) — Island (e.g., Odong-do = Odong Island)
- 야경 (Ya-gyeong) — Night View
- 케이블카 (Ke-i-beul-ka) — Cable Car
- 게장 (Ge-jang) — Marinated Crab
Yeosu is slower and more local than Seoul, which means fewer English signs and more authentic experiences.
Don't let the language barrier stop you from ordering the best crab of your life.
Start our free Hangul Basics course at
InWorldKorea.com today. Being able to read the menu is the difference between pointing at pictures and eating like a true local.
