Muan county (무안군) is in South Jeolla in South Korea. It is located on the Muan Peninsula in the western center of the province. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, Muan is best known for its peaceful rural landscapes, coastal wetlands, and cultural attractions such as the Hoesan White Lotus Pond, Muan Hwangto Mudflat Land, Seungdal Mountain, and Topmeori Beach. The area offers travelers a serene mix of nature, tradition, and southern Korean countryside charm.
Understand
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Located at the southwestern edge of the Korean Peninsula, Muan serves as the administrative center of South Jeolla Province (Jeollanam-do). As of 2020, the population was approximately 88,000. This formerly quiet rural area was designated the new provincial capital, and a new city called Namak (남악신도시) is being developed as the provincial government complex and main administrative hub.
Muan’s landscape is composed of gentle hills, coastal plains, and tidal flats, with much of its farmland made up of fertile yellow soil rich in minerals. These conditions make it ideal for cultivating onions, garlic, sweet potatoes, and sesame—crops for which Muan is nationally famous. The region’s mild maritime climate and sea breezes from the Yellow Sea contribute to both its agricultural productivity and its comfortable living environment.
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History
[edit]Historically, archaeological artifacts such as polished stone axes and crescent-shaped blades from the Neolithic era indicate that human settlement in Muan dates back thousands of years. During the Baekje Kingdom, the area was known as 'Muraehye-gun', and it became 'Muan-gun' under the Silla Dynasty in 757.
Throughout the Goryeo and Joseon periods, Muan underwent multiple administrative reorganizations. After Mokpo Port opened in 1897, the county grew in importance as a regional center of trade and governance.
Get in
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Map of Muan
By train
[edit]- 1 Muan Train Station, Around 6km south of town. Nearby cities such as Mokpo and Gwangju are connected by the KTX high-speed rail. From there, you can take a local bus to Muan.
By plane
[edit]- 2 Muan International Airport (MWX IATA) (about 10 km from downtown Muan). Mostly domestic flights frm Jeju Island (with Asiana Airlines), as well as scheduled flights from Chinese cities such as Sanya, Shanghai and Zhangjiajie (with Jeju Air, China Eastern, and Sichuan Airlines respectively). There are flights from the Philippines, Cebu, Clark, and Kalibo with Jeju Air and Pan Pacific Airlines. Jeju Air also flies from Bangkok, Da Nang, Guam, Kota Kinabalu, Osaka and Taipei. There are buses and taxis available to nearby towns.
By bus
[edit]- Regular intercity buses connect Muan with Gwangju, Mokpo, and other cities in Jeollanam-do.
- The Muan Bus Terminal is located near the county office.
By car
[edit]- The Seohaean Expressway connects Muan to Seoul (about 4 hours) and Mokpo (about 30 minutes). Driving is convenient for exploring rural attractions.
Get around
[edit]- Public transportation within Muan mainly consists of local buses and taxis. Since attractions are spread out, renting a car is recommended if you want to explore lotus parks, salt fields, and nearby coastal areas.
See
[edit]- 1 Hodam Air and Space Center (호담항공우주전시장), Umyeong-gil, Sachang-ri, ☏ +82 61 452 3055. Tu-Su 10:00-17:00. Good collection of military aircraft.
- 2 Muan White Lotus Park (무안 회산 백련지), 333, Baengnyeon-ro, Illo-eup, ☏ +82 061-283-1325. It has a circumference of about 3 km and covers an area of 313,313 m². It was listed in the Guinness Book of Records in 2001 as the largest white lotus habitat in the East. Since the first Lotus Festival held in 1997, the annual event has continued every July and August. The site is also known as a major habitat for the prickly lotus, an endangered aquatic plant species. Inside the pond, visitors can admire around 30 species of lotus, including white lotus, red lotus, dwarf water lily, and yellow lotus, as well as about 50 species of aquatic plants. Free.
- 3 Oseungu Museum of Art (오승우 미술관), 7 Choeui-gil, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 061-450-5481 ~ 3. 09:00~17:30 (last admission at 17:00); closed: Mondays, daily from 12:00–13:00 (lunch break), and on January 1, Lunar New Year’s Day, and Chuseok. Opened in 2003, the Oh Seung-woo Art Museum was established after the renowned Korean painter Oh Seung-woo (1930–2023), a member of the National Academy of Arts, donated his works to Muan County. The museum symbolizes Muan’s vision as a “future city of culture and art” and serves as an open cultural space loved by local residents. The collection spans over half a century of Oh’s artistic journey—from early depictions of Buddhist temples and Korean folk life to the fantastical 'Flower and Girl' series of the 1960s and the monumental 'Hundred Mountains of Korea' landscape series exhibited at the Seoul Arts Center. His later works, including the 'Ten Symbols of Longevity' series, reinterpret traditional Korean motifs through vibrant colors and abstract symbolism. Free.
- 4 The Birthplace of Cho Eui Seon Sa (무안 초의선사 탄생지), 943, Wangsan-ri, Samhyang-eup. M-F 09:15-18:00, closed on weekend. Cho Eui Seon Sa, a Buddhist monk from the Joseon Dynasty, is widely regarded as the “tea master” of Korea. He played a major role in developing Korea’s traditional tea culture and Buddhist tea rituals. The site is geographically closer to Mokpo. It features a small memorial hall, traditional-style pavilions, and a peaceful garden where visitors can learn about Korean tea history and Cho’s life. Free.
- 5 Sikyeongjeong Pavilion (식영정), Isan-ri, Mongtan-myeon, ☏ +82 061-450-4094. Open year-round. Built in 1630 by scholar Hanho Im Yeon, Sikyeongjeong Pavilion served as a place for study, writing, and scholarly discussions. The name “Sikyeongjeong” means “a place where shadows rest for a moment,” reflecting the owner’s appreciation for tranquility and leisure. Surrounded by scenic views of the Yeongsan River, the pavilion became a gathering place for poets and scholars of the Joseon period. Later, Im Yeon’s descendant Im Sang-deok, a noted scholar and author of Dongsahoe-gang, also used it as a cultural meeting spot. The site’s serene setting and architectural beauty continue to attract visitors interested in Korea’s Confucian heritage. Free.
- 6 Topmeori Beach (톱머리해수욕장), Piseo-ri, Mangun-myeon (from Mokpo Intercity Bus Terminal, take a local bus bound for Mangun-myeon and get off at Piseo-ri near Topmeori Beach; by car, take the Seohaean Expressway, exit at Mokpo IC, and follow the signs toward Muan and Mangun-myeon), ☏ +82 061-454-5224. About 15 minutes west of downtown Muan, Topmeori Beach is one of the county’s most scenic seaside spots. It features a long, wide sandy shore that appears dramatically during low tide, creating a perfect environment for mudflat exploration and shellfish gathering. The shallow and gently sloping beach makes it ideal for families with children, while the clear waters attract many swimmers in summer. A 200-year-old pine forest, designated as a protected area, stretches along the coast, offering natural shade and beautiful walking trails. At the entrance, a lighthouse shaped like an airplane serves as a unique landmark, and colorful night lights along the coastal road create a pleasant seaside atmosphere after dark. The surrounding sea is rich in fish such as red sea bream and mullet, making the area a popular spot for fishing and summer recreation. Free.
- 7 Muan Octopus Park (무안 낙지 공원), Songhyeon-ri, Mangun-myeon, ☏ +82 061 453 8399. Open year-round. Located along the tidal flats of Jogeumnaru Beach, Muan Octopus Park is a seaside camping park built to celebrate Muan’s famous local specialty—octopus. At the center of the park stands a 14-meter-tall octopus-shaped observatory, connected to a long slide bridge that both children and adults can enjoy. The park also features coastal walking trails, flower paths, and scenic sunset viewpoints overlooking the sea. Visitors can try mudflat experiences, enjoy the coastal breeze, or stay overnight at the Noeul-gil Campground, which offers three caravans and ten deck camping sites equipped with showers, sinks, and other facilities. With its wide-open ocean view and peaceful natural surroundings, Muan Octopus Park offers family camping, leisurely strolls, and sunset watching. Free.
Do
[edit]- 1 Muan Ecological Tidal Flat Land (무안황토갯벌랜드), 88, Hwangto-gaetbeol-gil, Haeje-myeon, ☏ +82 061-450-5636. Muan Hwangto Mudflat Land is an eco-park located along the coast of Muan, famous for its expansive tidal flats and unique yellow clay soil. The site offers educational exhibits about Korea’s mudflat ecosystem and provides hands-on experiences such as clam digging and barefoot mud walking. It’s a popular destination for families and tourists interested in nature, ecology, and healing activities.
- 2 Military Theme Park (밀리터리테마파크), 21 Umyeong-gil, Mongtan-myeon, ☏ +82 061-452-3055. 09:00-18:00, closed on Monday. Military Theme Park is an interactive military museum and outdoor exhibition where visitors can see real combat aircraft, transport helicopters, training planes, tanks, and armored vehicles up close. The park recreates scenes that feel like stepping into a movie, allowing guests to climb inside large helicopters and explore military equipment firsthand. It’s especially popular with children and families, who enjoy the rare chance to experience life-size military displays and photo zones. Adult ₩2000, child ₩1000.
Festivals
[edit]- 3 White Lotus Festival (무안연꽃축제). This representative summer festival held annually in Muan County. Taking place at Hoesan White Lotus Pond, the largest white lotus habitat in Korea, the festival attracts many visitors who come to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of blooming lotus flowers. During the festival, visitors can also participate in various cultural events and hands-on programs themed around the lotus.
- 4 Muan Mudflat Octopus Festival (무안 갯벌 낙지축제), Jungang-ro and Nakji Alley area, Muan-eup. Hosted by Muan County, the event promotes the region’s signature mudflat octopus and diverse seafood culture. Highlights include hands-on octopus catching and auction experiences, where visitors can touch live octopuses and take part in fun, family-friendly bidding games. These programs have become especially popular with children for their novelty and educational value. In addition to octopus dishes, local seafood, and traditional food stalls, the festival offers live music, cultural performances, and regional product markets. The festival has evolved into a broader celebration of Muan’s coastal resources, highlighting the county’s connection to its mudflats, fishing heritage, and culinary creativity.
Hiking
[edit]- 5 Seungdal Mountain (승달산), Cheonggye-myeon and Mongtan-myeon, ☏ +82 061-450-5114. Seungdal Mountain, rising 332.5 meters above sea level, stretches across Cheonggye-myeon and Mongtan-myeon and forms the southwestern tip of Korea’s Baekdudaegan mountain range. Although not very high, its location near the coast offers sweeping views of the Dadohae archipelago and the western sea. The mountain is famous for its mild climate, allowing visitors to enjoy pleasant hiking conditions even in winter. Seungdal Mountain is also known as a natural habitat for wild orchids due to its ideal soil and climate conditions. The name “Seungdal” originates from a legend in which a monk named Wonmyeong from the Goryeo Dynasty (12th century) preached Buddhism here, and about 500 of his disciples attained enlightenment on the spot. Scattered across the mountain are historic Buddhist sites such as Beopcheonsa Temple, Mok-u Hermitage, and Chongji Temple ruins, adding spiritual depth to the mountain’s serene landscape. From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Muan, Mokpo, and the surrounding islands of the Yellow Sea.
Hiking information:
There are multiple hiking trails on Seungdal Mountain, ranging from short climbs to full ridge treks:
Dalsan Reservoir Circular Trail (달산수원지 원점회귀 코스): A 6.8-km round-trip route to Gitdae Peak, taking about 2 hours 30–40 minutes.
Dalsan Reservoir–Gitdae Peak–Saja Peak–Taebong Ridge–Beopcheonsa Loop: About 6.8 km and 2 hours 40 minutes, suitable for moderate hikers.
Mokpo University–Seungdal Mountain–Saja Rock–Gitbong–Guribong–Taebongjae–Mahyeopbong–Dongam Village Trail: A longer 12.9-km ridge course taking about 5 hours including rest breaks.
Seungdal Junction–Summit Round Trip: A 40-minute climb, recommended for those seeking a quick hike.
The summit offers limited views and a rough trail, so unless you hike for sport, it’s often better to take the scenic ridge routes. Hiking time varies depending on fitness and rest intervals.
From the top or ridge paths, hikers can enjoy views of Muan, Mokpo, and the distant islands of the Yellow Sea. Free. - 6 Oryongsan (오룡산), Namak-ri, Samhyang-eup. A 228-m-high mountain on the boundary between Imseong-ri and Yongpo-ri in Samhyang-eup. According to Muan Gunji, the ridge descends about 3.9 km from Guksabong Peak, while its name “Oryong” (Five Dragons) derives from the shape of five dragons playing with a pearl. The summit was once said to feature a small iron sculpture of a heavenly horse.
Buy
[edit]Muan is not a shopping destination like major cities, but it offers a range of local specialties and traditional markets that reflect the region’s agricultural and rural charm. Visitors can find onion-based products, lotus souvenirs, and seasonal seafood at local markets and roadside stores.
- 1 Muan Traditional Market (무안전통시장), Seongnam-ri, Muan-eup. 10:00-19:00, closed on Sundays. Opened in 1983, this market has over 40 years of history and remains one of Muan’s busiest shopping spots. It combines a permanent marketplace with a traditional five-day market held on the 4th and 9th of each month. The renovated market features a modern roof structure that keeps it cool in summer. You can find fresh local produce, seafood, homemade side dishes, and street snacks such as "steamed onion buns" made from Muan’s famous onions. On the second floor, there is a youth shopping area featuring small local brands and cafés. The nearby Nakji Alley is also worth a visit for food lovers. entry for free.
- 2 Illo Traditional Market (일로전통시장), 11-22 Sijang-gil, Illo-eup, toll-free: +82 061-450-5601, +82 061-450-5714. Daily 08:00-19:30. Located in Ilro-eup, this traditional market showcases the local lifestyle of western Muan. The market is held every 1st and 6th day of the month and features a wide range of fresh agricultural products, seafood, and homemade side dishes. Visitors can find specialties such as Muan onions, sweet potatoes, and local octopus. Small eateries inside the market serve simple Jeolla-style meals. entry for free.
- 3 Lotte Mart Namak (롯데마트 남악점), 80 Namak-ro 162beon-gil, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 061-740-2500. 10:00-23:00.
- 4 Tutbat Mart Namak (텃밭마트 남악점), 248 Hugwang-daero, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 061-247-4445. 08:30-23:00.
- 5 Emart Everyday Muan Oryong (이마트에브리데이 무안오룡점), 9-3 Onam-ro 1-gil, Il-ro-eup, ☏ +82 02-380-5060. 10:00-23:00.
- 6 Hanaro Mart Namak (하나로마트 남악점), 264 Hugwang-daero, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 061-289-7700. 09:30-22:00.
- 7 Lotte Super Oryong (롯데슈퍼 오룡점), 153 Oryongbeonyeong-ro, Illo-eup, ☏ +82 061-287-9171. 09:00-23:00.
Eat
[edit]Muan is known for its rich agricultural products, clean mudflats, and unique local food culture. From straw-grilled pork to soft octopus and savory eel dishes, Muan’s cuisine reflects both its rural traditions and coastal environment.
Local specialties
[edit]- Straw-grilled pork (돼지짚불구이) – In Myeongtan-myeon, it was once a tradition to grill food over burning rice straw to pray for a good harvest. Originally, grey mullet caught in the Yeongsan River was grilled this way, but after the construction of the estuary dam, locals began grilling pork instead. The result was so flavorful that it became a regional specialty. The intense heat (up to 1,000°C) seals in the meat’s juices while infusing a smoky straw aroma. Only organic straw is used, creating a clean yet deep flavor that makes this dish a must-try in Muan.
- Muan thin-legged octopus (무안세발낙지) – “Sebal nakji” doesn’t mean an octopus with three legs, but rather one with very thin ones. Muan’s mudflats, rich in germanium and minerals, are ideal for nurturing this tender yet chewy octopus. The dish is renowned for its fresh taste and energizing qualities—local folklore even says an ox once stood up after eating it! You can find many octopus restaurants around the Muan Bus Terminal area, which is famous as the “Nakji Alley.”
- Myeongsan grilled eel (명산장어구이) – The village of Myeongsan in Mongtan-myeon, along the Yeongsan River, is famous for its savory eel dishes. Myeongsan eel, raised in the nutrient-rich mudflats, has a soft yet chewy texture and a mild, clean flavor. The secret lies in the sauce made from over 20 ingredients, including local garlic grown in Muan’s fertile yellow soil.
- Doripo mullet sashimi (도리포 숭어회) – Doripo, a small fishing port in Muan, is famous for its fresh grey mullet, a winter delicacy. The sashimi has a firm texture and a nutty flavor that deepens with every bite. The clean tidal flats of Muan make the mullet here especially tasty compared to other regions. Grilled mullet is also a local favorite during the colder months.
- Onion-fed Korean beef (양파한우고기) – Muan produces about 20% of Korea’s onions. To reduce waste, local farmers use surplus onions as cattle feed, creating tender, flavorful, and nutrient-rich beef. The onions, grown in mineral-rich red-yellow soil and sea-breeze conditions, give the meat a mild sweetness and exceptional tenderness. This eco-friendly method also reduces feed costs and environmental impact, making Muan’s onion-fed beef both sustainable and delicious.
Restaurant
[edit]- 1 Muan Aekkot Nakji Hanjeongsik (무안애꽃낙지식당), 3083 Yeongsan-ro, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1434-2288. 17:00-20:00. It offers full-course meals that include dishes made with octopus and other local ingredients. Examples include yukhoe (seasoned raw beef), hong-eo samhap (fermented skate served with pork and kimchi), and tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties). The “Muan Aekkot Surasang” menu includes nakji mulhoe (cold octopus sashimi soup), nakji jjikhwa jjim (spicy grilled octopus), nakji tangtangi (chopped live octopus), and nakji yachaejeon (octopus vegetable pancake).
- 2 Ppeol Nakji Paengi Seom (뻘낙지팽이섬), 163 Seongnam 1-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1341-3368. 11:00-21:00. A seafood restaurant that serves a variety of octopus-based dishes, including yeonpotang (octopus soup with vegetables), nakji tangtangi (chopped live octopus), nakji chomuchim (spicy octopus salad), galnak-tang (beef and octopus hot pot), and nakji bokkeum (stir-fried octopus). In autumn, the restaurant also offers jeoneo hoe (raw gizzard shad), a seasonal dish commonly eaten on Korea’s southwest coast. The menu reflects regional seafood preparation styles.
- 3 Yoon Hee-ne Ppeol Nakji Jeonmunjeom (윤희네뻘낙지전문점), 167 Seongnam 1-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1486-9993. 10:30-21:00. Located in Muan’s octopus alley, this restaurant serves various dishes prepared with locally sourced octopus. The menu includes nakji tangtangi (chopped live octopus), yukhoe tangtangi (raw beef mixed with octopus), nakji bokkeum (stir-fried octopus), and horong gui (grilled skewered octopus). The dishes reflect common regional cooking styles.
- 4 Seungdal Garden (승달가든), 27 Myeonseong 2-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 061-454-3400. 17:00-21:00. A Korean barbecue restaurant that serves various hanwoo (Korean beef) dishes. The menu includes set-course options such as the Hanwoo Course (raw beef, grilled beef, and shabu-shabu) and the Sonak Course (raw beef, chopped octopus, and grilled beef). Individual items such as raw beef, assorted grilled cuts, bulgogi, pork belly, and rice dishes like bibimbap are also available.
- 5 Todamgol Hanwoo Gomtang (토담골한우곰탕), 32-5 Seongnae 1-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 061-454-7733. 08:00-21:00. A traditional Korean restaurant that serves two main dishes: hanwoo gomtang (Korean beef bone soup) and suyuk (boiled beef slices). The menu focuses on simple beef-based preparations. The restaurant has a hanok-style exterior, and a parking area for visitors.
- 6 Muan Anchang Jangeo (무안안창장어), 40 Seongnam 2-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1436-0366. 10:00-22:00. A Korean restaurant that serves a combination of grilled eel (jangeo) and beef skirt steak (anchangsal). The menu includes both grilled items and soup dishes such as eel soup. The facility includes a parking area and private rooms.
Dining pub
[edit]- 7 Jaehoe (재회), Room 102, 31 Daejukdong-ro 16beon-gil, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1415-8363. 18:00-05:00. A Korean dining pub that serves a mix of Korean and Western-influenced dishes. The menu includes items such as miso-marinated pork belly cooked sous-vide and grilled, hanwoo yukhoe (seasoned beef tartare), basil oil pasta, perilla oil pasta with hanwoo beef, seafood cream sujebi, and several Korean stews including chicken nurungji hot pot, spicy beef shank stew, and fish cake jeongol.
- 8 Hitoshizuku (히토시즈쿠), 1F, Hyopseung Plaza, 21 Daejukdong-ro 16beon-gil, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 010-9339-0827. 18:00-02:00. An izakaya-style restaurant that serves a variety of sashimi and Japanese-influenced dishes. Menu items include the Chef’s Daily Sashimi, hanwoo yuk sashimi (Korean beef tartare), beef tataki, Jeju sweet shrimp, grilled mero (Patagonian toothfish), and assorted rolls. A complimentary seaweed soup is provided at the beginning of the meal.
- 9 Gwalho (괄호), Room 102, 32 Daejukdong-ro, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1360-2796. 18:00-02:00. A Korean dining pub that serves various hanwoo-based dishes and bar-style menu items. The offerings include Hanwoo Yuk Sashimi (raw Korean beef), brisket yukhoe, and a combination platter of yuk sashimi and brisket. Other dishes include gochujang minari yukhoe (spicy beef tartare with water dropwort), ankimo maki (monkfish liver rolls), and stews such as gopdoritang (spicy chicken and tripe stew) and beef tendon fish cake soup. The drink menu includes a selection of traditional Korean liquors, including a three-glass tasting option, as well as house cocktails.
- 10 Namak Eunpa (남악은파), Units 105–106, Edgar 8th Building, 25 Daejukdong-ro 16beon-gil, Samhyang-eup, ☏ +82 010-8271-0900. 17:20-01:00. An izakaya-style restaurant that serves a range of seafood and Japanese-influenced dishes. The menu includes items such as the golden tilefish rice bowl, steamed abalone in sake, aged flatfish sashimi, and seafood jjamppong soup. Additional options include beef sirloin steak, cod cheek soup, and mulhoe (cold spicy raw fish soup). Seating consists of a bar area and four-person tables.
Drink
[edit]Café
[edit]- 1 Eplee Dessert (이플리디저트), 1F, 13-1 Seongnam 2-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 010-3484-4562. 10:00-21:00, closed on Sunday. A dessert café that offers a selection of handmade pastries. The menu includes macarons, financiers in varieties such as almond caramel and fig cream cheese, and walnut pecan Levain-style cookies. Beverage options include milk Vienna coffee with almond cream and standard coffee choices such as Americano.
- 2 Muan Salon (무안쌀롱), 13-18 Changpo-ro, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1325-6561. 10:00-21:00. A café that serves a variety of Korean-style desserts and drinks. Menu items include red bean bingsu (shaved ice with sweet red beans), Oreo strawberry cookies, and ssanghwa-cha (herbal tea). Other beverages include Hallabong ade, a cocktail-inspired drink called Jeju’s Blue Night, and standard coffee options such as caffè latte and Americano.
- 3 Bake Mode (베이크모드), 111 Myeonseong 1-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 061-453-0435. 08:00-22:30. A bakery that offers a variety of handmade breads, pastries, and desserts. The menu includes items such as panettone made with a long fermentation process, Mont Blanc pastries with syrup-filled layers, white chiffon cake, macadamia pie, garlic baguette, and honey cream bread. The bakery also sells items using local ingredients, including sweet potato bread made with Muan-grown sweet potatoes and Cheongyang chili sausage bread. The products are prepared without added artificial additives.
- 4 Sigol Bread House Nubbang (시골빵집누빵), 19 Seongnam 2-gil, Muan-eup, ☏ +82 0507-1350-9076. 10:00-19:00. A bakery producing naturally fermented breads made with Korean wheat and traditional yeast starters. All items are handmade without additives. The menu includes Namunnip Bread, Sweet Potato Ciabatta made with local sweet potatoes, salt bread, jambon-beurre sandwiches, whole wheat country bread, fig ciabatta, and seasonal varieties such as sweet pumpkin ciabatta. Coffee, honey castella, and house-made fruit drinks are also available.
- 5 Prejeong (프레종), 915 Cheongun-ro, Mangun-myeon, ☏ +82 061-452-2589. 10:00-20:00. A large ocean-view café. The menu offers drinks, brunch items, and desserts, including salads, sandwiches, and ciabatta bread.
- 6 Muan879 (무안879), 879 Cheongun-ro, Mangun-myeon, ☏ +82 0507-1382-0879. 09:00-20:00. A café by the coast with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Holtong Beach and the nearby airport. The menu includes various drinks and baked desserts.
Local specialities
[edit]- Muan Hwangto Sweet Potato Makgeolli (무안황토고구마 생막걸리). A signature traditional rice wine of Muan, made with sweet potatoes grown in the region’s rich yellow clay soil. This unpasteurized makgeolli has a smooth texture and mildly sweet flavor with earthy notes. It was selected as “Namdo Traditional Liquor of the Month” by Jeollanam-do in October 2023, recognized for its quality and local character.
- Lotus tea (연잎차). Made from lotus leaves and seeds harvested at the Hoesan White Lotus Pond. The tea has a delicate fragrance and a soothing taste, known to help relaxation and detoxification. Available in local cafes and souvenir shops near the pond.
- Muan Hwangto Onion Peel Tea (무안 황토 양파껍질차). A unique herbal tea made from the peels of onions cultivated in Muan’s yellow soil. The tea has a gentle roasted aroma and a slightly sweet aftertaste. It’s a healthy souvenir choice and is often served in local tea houses and markets.
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Muan Paradise Pension (무안파라다이스펜션), 1177-6 Hyeonhae-ro, Hyeongyeong-myeon, ☏ +82 010-7530-0468. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A seaside pension with rooms featuring ocean-view terraces, barbecue facilities, and standard amenities. The outdoor swimming pool is open in summer (mid-July to mid-August), 1.25 m deep, and operates from 11:00 to 21:00. The pool may close due to weather or local conditions. From ₩150,000.
- 2 Stay Janzan (스테이잔잔), 154-55 Wow-ro, Unnam-myeon, ☏ +82 0507-1375-2539. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A pet-friendly accommodation in Muan with views of the sea and rice fields. The property is self-service. The outdoor swimming pool is available to guests, and private barbecue or bonfire use is optional for an extra fee. ₩105,000~.
- 3 Pine Forest Pension Resort (소나무숲 펜션 리조트), 72 Topmeori-gil, Mangun-myeon (809-63, Piseo-ri), ☏ +82 0507-1314-9444. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. KRW 160,000~.
- 4 Goodnight Dog (굿나잇도그), 164-21 Bokgil-ro, Cheonggye-myeon, ☏ +82 0507-1310-5774. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A seaside pension for guests with dogs. Breakfast is provided, and there is an outdoor BBQ terrace, dog-friendly pool, and water-play area. From ₩270,000.
- 5 Haneulbyeol Bada Pension & Byuldabang (하늘별바다첸션 & 별다방), 313-56 Haean-ro, Cheonggye-myeon (By car: From Seoul, Gyeonggi or Chungcheong regions, take the Seohaean Expressway, then transfer to the Gwangju–Muan Expressway and exit at Muan Airport IC. Drive 1 km to Topmori Beach, continue 1 km toward Muan Country Club, and follow signs for another 6 km to reach the pension. From Gwangju or Hwasun, either take the same route via Muan Airport IC, or exit at Muan IC, turn right at the Mokpo University intersection, and drive about 4 km to the destination. From Gyeongsang, Suncheon, Gangjin, or Mokpo, use the Namhaean Expressway, exit at Mokpo IC, drive 8 km toward Mokpo University, turn left at the intersection, and continue 4 km to the pension. Public transportation options are limited in this area, so driving or using a taxi from Muan Airport (about 15 min away) is recommended.), ☏ +82 1555-5553. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A seaside pension-café complex on the coast. It has a heated infinity pool and open-air bath, a café named “Byuldabang,” and outdoor activities including mudflat experiences and yard fishing. From ₩89,000.
Connect
[edit]- Emergency Numbers
- Police, ☏ 112.
- Fire Department, ☏ 119.
- Tourist information Hotline, ☏ 1330.
- Hoesan Baekryeon Ji, ☏ +82-61-285-1323.
- Hodam Aerospace Exhibition, ☏ +82-61-452-3055.
- The Birthplace of Cho Eui Seon Sa, ☏ +82-61-285-0300, +82-61-285-0302.
- Muan Ecological Tidal Flat Center, ☏ +82-61-450-5632.
- Doripo Beach, ☏ +82-61-454-8737.
- Topmeori Beach, ☏ +82-61-450-5628.
- Muan Station, ☏ +82 1588-7788.
- Busan Ferry Terminal, ☏ +82 51 465-3471.
- Muan Bus Terminal, ☏ +82 1668-2518.
- Muan International Airport, ☏ +82 1661-2626.
Go next
[edit]- Mokpo – A vibrant port city only 25 minutes away by car or bus. Known for its seafood markets, marine cable car, and scenic coastal views.
- Yeongam – About 40 minutes east of Muan, home to the historic Wolchulsan National Park and the Korea International Circuit (Formula 1 track).
- Hampyeong – 30 minutes north, known for its butterfly festival and eco park in spring.
- Yeonggwang – A quiet coastal county north of Muan, known for its fresh yellow corvina (gulbi) and Beopseongpo Beach.
- Gwangju – The largest city in the Honam region, about 1 hour away by express bus, famous for its art scene, democracy history, and food culture.
- Jeonju – Around 2 hours northeast, known for its traditional hanok village and famous bibimbap.
- Jeju Island – Reachable in about 1 hour by flight from Muan International Airport, Korea’s most beloved domestic travel destination with beaches, volcanic landscapes, and unique island culture.