Gwangyang Gubongsan Observatory Selected as This Month's Recommended Tourist Destination

by Heo Seonsik

Published 06 Dec.2023 14:50(KST)

Updated 14 Aug.2025 23:08(KST)

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Selected as a ‘Sunset & Sunrise’ Spot in Jeollanam-do

Gubongsan Observatory has been selected as the recommended tourist destination of the month for December by Jeollanam-do, under the theme "Sunset & Sunrise with Precious People."

Located at an altitude of 473 meters, Gubongsan Observatory offers an unobstructed panoramic view where visitors can fully experience the refreshing scenery of Gwangyang Bay, the beautiful sunset, and the majestic sunrise.

[Photo provided by Gwangyang-si]

Stretching over a winding 5km road, Gubongsan Observatory provides the fun of a serpentine coastal road and every year attracts crowds of citizens and tourists who come to witness the last sunset and the hopeful first sunrise.

During the day, a panoramic view unfolds centered on the deep blue Gwangyang Bay, including the Yi Sun-sin Bridge, Yeosu Industrial Complex, Suncheon Waeseong Fortress, and Namhae Bridge. At dusk, the dark red sunset colors the bay, creating a spectacular scene.

The plum blossom-shaped metal art beacon tower installed at the summit shines silver during the day and glows golden at night, emitting a mysterious aura.

Offering an open view that grants infinite freedom, Gubongsan Observatory harmonizes with the nightscape of Gwangyang Bay, including the Yi Sun-sin Bridge and Gwangyang Steelworks, and has been listed among the "Top 100 Night Views in Korea."

Additionally, it appeared as the final mission location for identifying the "rice thief" on KBS’s flagship variety show "1 Night 2 Days," capturing the attention of viewers nationwide.

Jung Gu-young, head of the Tourism Division, said, "Selected as a sunset & sunrise spot, Gubongsan Observatory is a healing destination where you can overlook the entire southern coast area including Gwangyang Bay. Photographers and tourists seeking to capture the spectacular sunrise and sunset scenes visit year-round, not just during the year-end and New Year holidays."

He added, "I highly recommend Gubongsan Observatory in Gwangyang, which shines both day and night, as a place to watch the last sunset of the outgoing Year of the Rabbit and the first sunrise of the upcoming Year of the Dragon with your precious ones."