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South Korea Guide

Jeolla

Yeosu

YEOSU is by far the most appealing city on Jeonnam's south coast. Sadly, it sees few tourists now that ferry services to Jeju Island have been discontinued, despite there being more than enough here to eat up a whole day of sightseeing. Beautifully set in a ring of emerald islands, the wonderful views over the South Sea would in any case justify a trip down the narrow peninsula. Though parts of the coast remain rugged and pristine, the area around Yeosu has been heavily industrialized, especially the gigantic factory district to the city's north, and consequently many of Yeosu's foreign visitors are here on business. However, in 2012 Yeosu plays host to an international Expo, an event set to take place in the area between the mainland and the islet of Odongdo that could put Yeosu firmly back on the tourist map.

Despite the city's sprawling size, many of the most interesting sights are just about within walking distance of each other in and around the city centre. These include Odongdo, a bamboo-and-pine island popular with families, and a replica of Admiral Yi's famed turtle ship. Beyond the city limits, Hyangiram is a magical hermitage at the end of the Yeosu peninsula.

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