Gwangyang, city of Jeollanam-do, South Korea
Gwangyang is a city in the southern part of South Jeolla Province that serves as a major port and industrial hub. The city features a mix of flat areas and hills, with simple buildings in the center and modern facilities including large steel plants and a busy waterfront.
Gwangyang began as a small fishing village and grew into a trading center because of its port location. The city was transformed when large steel plants were built, making it a major industrial city that connected the region to global trade.
The name Gwangyang comes from its roots as a port city where trade shaped daily life. Today you can see this heritage in the local markets and along the waterfront, where fishing and commerce remain part of the rhythm of life.
The city is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle in the center, where markets and local shops are located. Buses connect different parts of the city, and there are parks and open spaces where visitors can walk or rest.
Gim Yeo-ik from Gwangyang was the first person to cultivate seaweed in Korea, and his legacy is honored at the Gwangyang Seaweed Cultivation Site. Visitors can learn about this practice that continues to shape local traditions today.
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