[K-TRAVEL] 2025, week 4 of 11 Discover Tongyeong, the Naples of Korea!

👋 Welcome to Tongyeong! The Naples of Korea

Hey K-Travelers! BonoHyung here for your weekly dose of Korean travel inspiration. This week, we're skipping the bustling cities and heading south to a coastal gem that many foreigners miss: Tongyeong. Nestled on the southern coast, this port city is a stunning tapestry of sparkling blue seas and hundreds of picturesque islands. It’s a place where art, history, and nature collide, offering a truly unique and refreshing Korean experience.

Why Tongyeong? Because it’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. You can soak in breathtaking ocean views from a cable car, get lost in colorful mural villages, and feast on the freshest seafood you've ever tasted. It’s a city that moves at the pace of the tides, inviting you to slow down and savor every moment.

🗺️ Your Perfect Tongyeong Itinerary

This itinerary is all about soaking in the coastal beauty and artistic vibes. No need to rush; just enjoy the sea breeze!

Course 1: The Scenic Heights

Start your journey by getting a bird's-eye view of the city's stunning landscape. Take the Hallyeosudo Viewing Ropeway (Cable Car) up to the peak of Mireuksan Mountain. The view from the top is absolutely spectacular, showcasing the Dadohae archipelago (sea of many islands). It’s a moment of pure awe you won't forget.

Course 2: The Artistic Soul

Next, head down to Dongpirang Mural Village. This hillside village was once slated for demolition but was saved by artists who painted vibrant murals on every wall. Wander through the narrow, winding alleys, discover charming cafes, and take photos with the whimsical artwork. It's a living gallery with the sea as its backdrop.

Course 3: The Historic Harbor

Make your way to Gangguan Port, the heart of the city. Here, you'll find the famous Geobukseon (Turtle Ship) replicas, the iron-clad warships used by the legendary Admiral Yi Sun-sin. It's a fascinating glimpse into Korea's naval history. The port area is also home to the bustling Joongang Market, which is our next stop!

Course 4: The Island Escape

From the ferry terminal, take a short boat ride to Jangsado Sea-Park. This beautiful island is famous for its lush camellia forests, which create a stunning red carpet in winter and early spring. The entire island is a beautifully landscaped garden with walking trails that offer incredible ocean views at every turn. It's a peaceful escape that feels a world away.

🍜 Must-Try Foods in Tongyeong

Being a port city, Tongyeong is a seafood lover's paradise! Here are some local delicacies you absolutely cannot miss.

  • Chungmu Gimbap: Don't expect the usual colorful gimbap roll. This local specialty consists of plain rice rolls served with spicy radish kimchi and squid salad on the side. It's simple, addictive, and a true taste of Tongyeong.
  • Honey Bread (Kkul-ppang): A famous local snack! It's a sweet, red-bean-filled pastry that's deep-fried and coated in a sticky, sweet syrup. Perfect for a sugar boost while exploring.
  • Fresh Oysters & Seafood: Tongyeong is a major oyster producer in Korea. You can have them raw, steamed, grilled, or in a savory pancake (gul-jeon). Head to Joongang Market for the freshest seafood bowls (haemul-ttukbaegi) packed with the day's catch.

💡 BonoHyung's Pro Travel Tips

  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially up the hills of Dongpirang Village and on the island trails.
  • Check the Ferry Schedule: If you plan to visit Jangsado or other islands, check the ferry times in advance as they can be affected by weather and season.
  • Visit Joongang Market in the Morning: For the most vibrant atmosphere and the freshest seafood, try to visit the central market in the morning when the daily catch comes in.
  • Travel by Bus: Tongyeong is well-connected by intercity buses from major cities. Locally, the city buses are convenient for getting to the main tourist spots.

✨ Key Points of Your Tongyeong Trip

  • The View: The panoramic view from Mireuksan Mountain is the defining image of Tongyeong.
  • The Art: The creative energy of Dongpirang Village provides endless photo opportunities and charm.
  • The Taste: The unique flavors of Chungmu Gimbap and fresh-off-the-boat seafood.
  • The Sea: The constant, calming presence of the sea and the adventure of island hopping.

That's a wrap for this week! I hope you're inspired to explore the beautiful port of Tongyeong. It’s a city that will capture your heart and fill your camera roll.

Until next time, keep exploring and stay adventurous!

- BonoHyung

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