Gunsan history

The history of the city of Gunsan, situated on the fertile Honam plains by the Yellow Sea, is closely tied to its strategic location. Originally, a settlement known as Gibeolpo existed on these lands, which was part of the ancient Korean kingdom of Baekje. For centuries, it was a small fishing village at the mouth of the Geumgang River, where life centred around the sea and agriculture.

The key moment that defined the city's destiny was the opening of the international port in 1899. This decision, influenced by external trade interests—particularly Japan's need for rice supplies—transformed Gunsan into a major logistical and economic hub. Its geographical proximity to fertile rice-growing lands and a convenient harbour facilitated the city's rapid growth as Korea's main export port at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.

In the first half of the 20th century, Gunsan experienced rapid expansion. The city became a centre of trade, attracting many Japanese settlers. This period left a significant mark on the architecture and layout of the city centre, where buildings in Japanese and mixed Western styles still remain. The primary economic activity was the processing and export of rice, which drove the development of related infrastructure. Today, the historical heritage of that time, including the Old Customs House, forms an important part of Gunsan's cultural identity and attracts tourists wishing to connect with the city's past.

Key Dates in Gunsan's History

The history of Gunsan is a journey from an ancient coastal settlement to a vital international port and industrial centre. Key events reflect its strategic importance on the west coast of the Korean Peninsula.

• Three Kingdoms Period (until 660): A port settlement named Gibeolpo (기벌포) existed on the site of the modern city, serving as part of the Baekje Kingdom.
• 663: The Battle of Baekgang took place at the mouth of the Geumgang River. It was one of the largest naval battles in ancient East Asia, where the Tang-Silla alliance fleet defeated the forces of Baekje and their allies from Japan.
• Goryeo Period (918–1392): The settlement was known as Jinpo (진포) and served as an important naval base for defence against pirate raids.
• 1380: The Battle of Jinpo occurred, where the Korean fleet under the command of Choi Mu-seon used ship-mounted gunpowder artillery for the first time in the world, achieving victory over Japanese pirates.
• Joseon Period (1392–1897): Gunsan remained primarily a small fishing village, playing a modest role in the country's maritime trade.
• 1 May 1899: Under pressure from foreign powers, primarily Japan, Gunsan Port was officially opened to international trade, marking the beginning of its rapid growth.
• 1908: Construction of the Old Customs House was completed; today, it stands as one of the city's main architectural symbols from the colonial period.
• 1912: A railway line was opened, connecting Gunsan with the inland regions for the more efficient transport of rice.
• 1945: Following Korea's liberation from Japanese rule, the city and port returned to Korean control.
• 1951: During the Korean War, the United States Air Force was stationed at the existing air base, which was named Kunsan Air Base.
• 1991: Construction began on the Saemangeum Seawall—one of the most ambitious engineering projects in the world, aimed at reclaiming coastal lands.
• 2010: The Saemangeum Seawall was officially completed, creating new land for industrial and agricultural development.

Stages of Gunsan's Transformation

The development of Gunsan is a story of transformation: from a humble fishing village to a key port of the colonial era, then into an industrial hub, and finally into a modern tourist city that carefully preserves its complex past. The major milestones of this journey reflect the economic and cultural shifts that have shaped the face of today's Gunsan.

• Opening of the International Port (1899). This event was a turning point in the city's history. Previously a small settlement, Gunsan quickly turned into the main centre for rice exports from Korea to Japan. This led to rapid economic growth and laid the foundation for future urban development.
• Formation of the Colonial Centre (Early 20th Century). During the period of Japanese rule, the city underwent massive reconstruction. Administrative buildings, banks, and residential quarters in the Japanese style were erected, many of which survive to this day. This period defined the unique architectural appearance of Gunsan's central area, which is now its main tourist attraction.
• Post-War Industrialisation (1970s). As part of a national programme to develop heavy and chemical industries, a large industrial complex was established in Gunsan. The city became a centre for automotive manufacturing and shipbuilding, diversifying its economy which was previously dependent on agriculture and port logistics.
• Construction of the Saemangeum Seawall (1991–2010). The implementation of one of the world's most ambitious engineering projects changed the coastline and geography of the region. The 33.9 km long seawall created vast new territories for industrial, agricultural, and tourism development, opening a new chapter in the city's growth.
• Economic Crisis and Factory Closures (2018). The closure of a major General Motors automotive plant and the Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard dealt a serious blow to Gunsan's economy, causing a rise in unemployment. This crisis forced the city to seek new paths for development.
• Focus on Cultural Tourism (2010s – Present). In response to industrial challenges, Gunsan successfully reoriented itself towards tourism. The city transformed its colonial heritage into a popular tourism product by creating the "Modern History Street" and thematic museums. This attracted a new flow of visitors and gave impetus to the development of the service sector.

The Architectural Look of Gunsan: A Reflection of Turbulent History

The architecture and urban development of Gunsan act as a visual history book, where each page tells of a specific era. Unlike many ancient Korean cities, its appearance was formed not so much in the Middle Ages, but as a result of rapid modernisation at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Today's Gunsan represents a unique blend of traditional Korean motifs, Japanese colonial heritage, and modern industrial development.

Pre-Colonial Period: A Humble Beginning

Until the late 19th century, Gunsan was a small fishing village. The built environment consisted mainly of traditional Korean hanok houses—single-storey structures made of wood, clay, and stone with characteristic tiled roofs. While almost no traces of this architecture remain in the central, modernised part of the city, it laid the foundation for understanding how radical the subsequent changes were.

Japanese Colonial Period (1899–1945): Urban Planning Boom

The opening of the port in 1899 was the starting point for the complete reconstruction of Gunsan. The city developed according to a clear plan focused on the needs of the port and rice exports. In the central part, now known as the "Modern History Street," entire quarters emerged whose architecture vividly demonstrates the influence of the era.

• Western Eclecticism and Neoclassicism. For administrative and financial institutions, the Japanese used Western architectural styles. A prime example is the Old Gunsan Customs House, built of red brick with elements reminiscent of Romanesque architecture. The former Joseon Bank building is also an example of the monumental neoclassical architecture of that time.
• Traditional Japanese Style. Wooden houses in the Japanese style were built for Japanese settlers. The most famous surviving example is the Hirotsu House, a large two-storey building with a garden, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy Japanese family of that era.
• Functional Development. Around the port, numerous warehouses for storing rice, offices, and industrial facilities were erected, the architecture of which was subordinated exclusively to practical tasks.

Post-War and Modern Periods (from the 1950s)

After Korea's liberation and during the rapid industrialisation of the 1970s, Gunsan's architectural landscape was supplemented with elements of modernism. Large industrial complexes, shipyards, and functional apartment blocks for workers appeared. This stage focused on economic development rather than aesthetics.

In the 21st century, the city entered an era of post-modernism and urban revitalisation. Instead of demolishing old buildings, the focus shifted to their preservation and reinterpretation. Colonial structures were restored and turned into museums, galleries, cafes, and tourist sites, forming a popular cultural district. In parallel, the realisation of a massive engineering project—the Saemangeum Seawall—radically changed the coastal landscape, creating new territories for future development.

Distinguished Figures Associated with Gunsan

The city of Gunsan, with its rich and multifaceted history, has been the birthplace or place of activity for many famous individuals who have left their mark on Korea's culture, history, and sports.

• Choi Mu-seon (14th Century)

  A medieval military commander and scientist who played a key role in defending Korea against Japanese pirates. It was in the bay near Gunsan, then called Jinpo, that a fleet under his command successfully used ship-mounted artillery for the first time in world history in 1380, achieving a crushing victory.

• Chae Man-sik (1902–1950)

  One of the most significant Korean writers of the 20th century, a recognised master of satire. He was born in Gunsan, and the city, especially during the period of Japanese rule, often served as the backdrop for his works, in which he sharply and ironically described the social problems of the time. Today, a literary museum dedicated to his life and work operates in Gunsan.

• Kim Soo-mi (1949–2024)

  A famous South Korean actress born in Gunsan. Over her long career, she appeared in dozens of films and television series, becoming one of the most recognisable and beloved actresses of the older generation in the country, known for her vibrant and charismatic roles.

• Park Myung-soo (born 1970)

  A popular comedian, TV presenter, and singer, and a native of Gunsan. He gained nationwide fame as a regular cast member of the cult entertainment show "Infinite Challenge" and remains one of the most influential figures in the Korean entertainment industry.

• Song Sae-byeok (born 1979)

  A talented theatre and film actor, also born in Gunsan. He is known for his distinctive and memorable supporting roles in many successful films and dramas, such as "The Servant" and "My Mister". His acting performance has been repeatedly recognised with prestigious awards.