A Deeper Encounter with Saemangeum: A Travel Course in Jeonbuk
Saemangeum is an unmissable destination when traveling in Jeonbuk. While it may be easy to just pass by and enjoy the expansive sea, endless roads, and refreshing landscapes, my recent visit to the National Saemangeum Reclamation Museum allowed me to appreciate Saemangeum on a deeper level.
I previously knew it only as the site of the largest reclamation project in South Korea, but the museum's exhibitions were well organized to help me understand Saemangeum's past, present, and future.
The National Saemangeum Reclamation Museum preserves and exhibits the history and culture of reclamation. It became clear that reclamation is not just about expanding land but is also connected to people's lives, industries, and regional changes.
As I walked through the exhibits, I encountered depictions of ancestors who relied on the West Sea, lifestyles that utilized mudflats and the sea, and how reclamation technology has evolved over time.
Notably, the museum also showcases reclamation efforts from various regions in South Korea, broadening the understanding of the theme beyond just Saemangeum.
One of the most impressive aspects of my visit was the inclusion of reclamation projects from around the world. Typically, when thinking of reclamation, one might only consider South Korea's West Coast or Saemangeum, but the exhibition revealed how various countries have connected land and sea in diverse ways to create urban and living spaces.
The exhibition hall was dark yet calm, with videos, models, and materials arranged in a way that kept the experience engaging. The visual presentations of the sea, mudflats, tidal differences, and the reclamation process made it easy to understand, even for children.
Seeing everything firsthand made me realize that Saemangeum is not just a development site but a living place where nature, people, and technology have intertwined throughout history, present, and future.
Currently, the museum is hosting a special exhibition titled 'New York! The City of Dreams Built on Water,' running from November 21, 2025, to May 31, 2026. This exhibition showcases how the city of New York has built its dreams on water, intertwining stories of reclamation, immigration, and urban growth.
The exhibition features charming displays of the Statue of Liberty, New York taxis, street signs, and skyscrapers, making it appealing for children as well. There are many photo zones that create the feel of a mini trip to New York.
Included are records of Annie Moore, images of immigrant workers, and materials showing the expansion of New York's harbor and the construction of skyscrapers. Although Saemangeum and New York are far apart, the exhibition meaningfully connects the stories of water, land, cities, and people.
The museum is well-maintained inside and out, with spaces like the Children’s Reclamation Research Room where kids can engage and experience. Utilizing booklets and activity sheets allowed for direct participation, which was a nice touch.
Often, visitors to Jeonbuk pass through Saemangeum as a mere driving route. However, stopping by the National Saemangeum Reclamation Museum offers a new perspective on the landscape. It transforms a journey that merely looks at the sea into one that considers how the land was created and what possibilities lie ahead.
If you plan to travel through Saemangeum or visit Buan and Byeonsan, consider including the National Saemangeum Reclamation Museum in your itinerary. Especially with the special exhibition 'New York! The City of Dreams Built on Water' being time-limited, it is a recommended stop for those seeking unique exhibitions during their May travels in Jeonbuk.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224292113231
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