A Trip to Where the Past Still Breathes: Visit to Korea 4.2: Honam 2

This book documents my travels through Honam, a region in Korea renowned for its rich cuisine, beautiful landscapes, and deep cultural and historical roots. Honam is a land where art, nature, and tradition harmonize—its abundant natural resources, including fertile plains, wild greens from Jirisan, and seafood from the West and South Seas, have long supported a tradition of flavorful, fermented dishes. Combined with the leisurely pace of life and stunning scenery, Honam offers the perfect setting to enjoy life’s pleasures—eating, singing, dancing, and appreciating art.The first volume, Visit to Korea 4.1: Honam 1, begins in Seonyudo, an island off Gunsan once said to have hosted immortals. From there, we cross the Saemangeum Seawall, travel through Buan, Imsil (famous for its cheese park and graceful cranes), and Sunchang, where we brave the suspension bridge of Chegyesan. We admire the stone pagodas of Maisan, the late-autumn beauty of Gangcheonsan and Naejangsan, and trace the legacy of Admiral Yi Sun-sin in Haenam and Jindo. In Jindo, we witness sites of resistance to Mongol invasions, enjoy the traditional art of the Heo family, and explore the Jindo Cultural Center, capturing the festive soul of the southern provinces.The second volume, Visit to Korea 4.2: Honam 2: A Trip to Where the Past Still Breathes, continues this journey with a deeper focus on historical and cultural exploration. We begin in Beolgyo and Mokpo, exploring the surrounding islands of Sinan, capturing sunsets, and tasting Yeonpotang (octopus soup). In Mokpo, we hike Yudalsan, visit Gatbawi, and delve into the city’s cultural legacy through museums dedicated to art, literature, ceramics, and natural history. The Kim Dae-jung Nobel Peace Prize Memorial also serves as a highlight.Next, in Hampyeong, we admire chrysanthemums; in Yeonggwang, the red spider lilies at Bulgapsa Temple; and in Hwasan, the white lotuses of Baekryeonji. Passing through Mongtan—famous for the romance of Wang Geon and Queen Janghwa—we visit the Gwana (government office) in Naju, revealing traces of Joseon-era and colonial history. In Yeongsanpo’s old streets, we sip tea among preserved colonial buildings.We then head to Byeongyeong to follow the footsteps of Dutch sailor Hamel and savor pork bulgogi at Seolseong Restaurant before returning to Busan. The fifth part takes us to Gangjin Bay. From Baekryeonsa, we enjoy the serene view with tea, visit a camellia grove, Dasan Chodang, and the Dasan Museum. Continuing along the bay, we stop at Yeongrang’s birthplace, cross a swinging bridge at Gaudo, sample clams, and appreciate traditional culture at the Goryeo Celadon Museum and the Folk Painting Museum.We also retrace the legacy of Dr. Wang In in Wolchulsan, explore a prehistoric site in Jangcheon-ri, and admire the uniquely Korean stone pagodas at Unjusa in Hwasun.Finally, we visit Naganeupseong Folk Village in Suncheon, which preserves traditional Korean ways of life. At the Deep-rooted Tree Museum, we witness ongoing cultural preservation efforts. We then enjoy a scenic coastal drive between Yeosu and Goheung, visit the Naro Space Center, and conclude with visits to Odongdo Island and Hyangiram Hermitage in Yeosu.Though the journey unfolded over several trips, Honam always greeted us with delicious food, inspiring views, and a deep sense of history. This region truly is a feast for the senses—offering nourishment for the body, eyes, and soul. Whether you plan a short visit or a longer stay, these books are not exhaustive guides but heartfelt companions for anyone wishing to explore Honam and experience the timeless spirit of Korea.Why not come to Korea and experience the pure beauty of traditional Korean culture and art, where the past still breathes, all while enjoying the most breathtaking scenery of Jeolla Province alongside its delicious cuisine?Come, and enjoy here in Korea! Read more