Byeungsanpogu Coastal Park

변산포구

A scenic coastal area near Seonunsan featuring dramatic cliff formations, fishing villages, and beautiful sea views along rugged terrain. The area combines natural beauty with authentic fishing culture and fresh seafood.

Things to do

• Cliff Trail Hiking — Trek along dramatic red-toned coastal cliffs with panoramic sea views and wind-sculpted rock formations that stretch for kilometers above the water.
• Fishing Village Stroll — Walk through the working harbor and narrow streets lined with fishing boats, nets, and small homes to experience authentic daily life of local fishermen.
• Sunrise at Coastal Overlook — Wake early to watch the sun rise over the Korea Strait from the eastern-facing cliffs, casting golden light across the rocky coastline.
• Fresh Seafood Market Browse — Visit the small harbor-side stalls and market stands where fishermen sell their morning catch including live squid, anchovies, and local white fish.
• Seonunsan Temple Access — Hike inland to the nearby Seonunsan Provincial Park and its historic Buddhist temple nestled in forested mountains just beyond the coastal area.
• Coastal Photography Spots — Capture dramatic compositions of jagged rock formations, fishing vessels, and sea stacks from multiple elevated viewpoints along the cliff edge.

Food to try

• Fresh Jjim (steamed seafood) — Order fresh locally-caught fish or squid steamed with vegetables and doenjang sauce at harborside restaurants, served steaming hot in traditional bronze pots.
• Myeolchi Jeot (anchovy fermented side dish) — Sample the region's signature salted and fermented anchovies that are caught offshore and preserved as a pungent, deeply umami banchan.
• Grilled Agujjim (grilled monkfish) — Experience the local specialty of grilled monkfish with spicy gochujang sauce, a rich and warming dish unique to this fishing community.
• Fresh Sashimi (hoe) — Enjoy pristine raw fish prepared same-day from the morning catch, typically served with soy sauce, wasabi, and sesame oil at waterfront establishments.
• Seafood Jjigae (stew) — Warm yourself with a bubbling pot of mixed seafood stew containing squid, clams, shrimp and vegetables in a savory broth, perfect after coastal hiking.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit During Fish Unloading Hours — Arrive early morning (5-7am) to witness fishermen returning with their catch and the lively auction activity at the harbor for an authentic experience.
• Respect Working Fishing Areas — Avoid walking on active dock areas or interfering with boats and nets; photography should be done respectfully as fishermen are conducting daily business.
• Bring Proper Footwear — The coastal paths and cliff trails feature uneven, slippery rock surfaces—sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential for safety on wet terrain.
• Learn Basic Fishing Terms — Locals appreciate visitors who show interest in their craft; simple Korean terms for boat types and fish varieties help create genuine connections with residents.