Jeonju

Jeonju is the capital of North Jeolla Province in southwestern South Korea and one of the country's most important centres of tradition, food and culture. The city is best known for Jeonju Hanok Village, a dense neighbourhood of more than 700 traditional Korean houses, and for its reputation as the birthplace of bibimbap.

Historically, Jeonju was the capital of the Later Baekje kingdom and the ancestral home of the Jeonju Yi clan, which founded the Joseon Dynasty. Landmarks such as Gyeonggijeon Shrine, Pungnammun Gate, Jeondong Cathedral and Omokdae pavilion reflect this layered royal and religious heritage.

Beyond the hanok village, Jeonju offers a mix of traditional markets, craft workshops, museums and neighbourhoods. Nambu Market's night market, the Jeonju Hanji Museum, traditional wine and makgeolli experiences, and streets filled with teahouses and artisan shops give visitors a hands-on introduction to Korean culture.

Jeonju is also a regional hub for education, design and events, home to the annual Jeonju International Film Festival and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors football club. Its dining scene, recognised by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy, attracts food-focused travellers alongside leisure visitors.

With convenient rail and road connections from Seoul, Jeonju works well as a short cultural break and as a gateway to wider North Jeolla, making it relevant for both independent leisure travellers and business visitors attending regional events.