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Islands of Korea, Islands of the World Live the Island: Stories of Island Enthusiasts ISLAND Scene

Essays by Participants of

the Institution-Funded

Island Vacation

Discovering the Beauty of Gogunsan Islands

Yoon Ji-hoon “There is a saying that the best complaint is improvement. But improvement
doesn’t happen out of nowhere. The first step to improvement is to make
Travel Period: Oct 11–14, 2022
something better.” This quote from Seth Godin’s This is Marketing has stayed
https://blog.naver.com/ with me as I reflect on my travels. Compared to the variety of places I’ve been,
jihun19221 I often find myself gravitating toward islands. Perhaps it’s the unique blend of
nature—sea, mountains, marine life, and fields—that draws me in.
Vol.01 Take Gureopdo Island, a camping paradise, as an example. Reaching it is no

easy feat: two boat rides and a trek to the dock, often with the help of kind
locals. Yet, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views and unforgettable
encounters with deer.

For me, the Gogunsan Islands exemplify everything wonderful about island
travel while minimizing its inconveniences. Unlike other remote destinations,
these islands boast excellent accessibility, infrastructure, and natural charm.
Public transportation, well-maintained roads, and affordable electric scooter
rentals make exploring islands like Seonyudo, Jangjado, and Munyeodo a
breeze.

The beauty of the Gogunsan Islands extends beyond convenience. Their
landscapes are a photographer’s dream, offering surprises at every turn—
roadside flowers, serene beaches, and the quiet magic of island life. These
marvels weren’t created overnight. The transformation of these islands into
premier destinations is the result of dedicated collaboration among KIDI, the
Ministry of the Interior and Safety, Gunsan City, and the islanders.

Korea’s 3,400 islands are like brushstrokes on a vast canvas, each adding a
unique hue. As someone who has been touched by the beauty of the Gogunsan
Islands, I’m confident that their value, painted in countless colors, will continue
to grow.

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