Seomjin River Dam
Seomjin River Dam (섬진강댐; map), located in Imsil County, is South Korea’s first multipurpose dam. Completed in 1965 after years of planning and interrupted construction, the dam represented a step forward in addressing Korea’s flood control, irrigation, and energy needs.
The concrete gravity dam, standing 64 meters tall and stretching 344 meters across, has become a resource for the region and a feat of engineering. It’s also a cultural hub and a popular starting point for cyclists embarking on the Seomjingang Bike Path.
History
Seomjin River Dam was a milestone in South Korea’s post-war reconstruction and economic development. Construction began in 1961 as part of Korea’s First Economic Development Plan, a series of initiatives aimed at modernizing the nation’s infrastructure and boosting industrial growth.
The dam replaced the earlier Unam Dam, which had been operational since the 1920s but was too small for the region’s growing needs.
The project faced multiple delays, including material shortages in the years following and was completed far behind schedule in December 1965.
Its design, a concrete gravity structure, represented advanced engineering for its time and set the standard for future multipurpose dams in Korea.
Key specifications:
- Height: 64 meters
- Length: 344 meters
- Reservoir Capacity: 466 million cubic meters
- Reservoir Surface Area: 26.5 square kilometers
Impact
Seomjin River Dam was built to address the region’s needs, including flood control, irrigation, hydropower generation, and water supply.
- Flood Control: Prior to the dam’s construction, the Seomjin River’s lower reaches were prone to frequent flooding, causing significant damage to farmlands and nearby settlements. By storing excess water during heavy rains, the dam effectively regulates water flow and minimizes the risk of floods. The reservoir has a flood control capacity of 32 million cubic meters.
- Irrigation: The dam plays a pivotal role in agricultural development. By redirecting water to the Dongjin River and its tributaries, it provides irrigation for over 40,000 hectares of farmland, including the reclaimed Gehwa Plains and surrounding areas. This reliable water source transformed the region into one of Korea’s key agricultural hubs.
- Hydropower Generation: The Chilbo Hydropower Plant, connected to Seomjin River Dam, generates an annual output of approximately 120 million kWh. This stabilizes the power grid in Jeolla Province, reducing the region’s dependence on fossil fuels.
- Water Supply: In addition to agricultural and industrial uses, the dam provides essential drinking water to nearby towns and cities, including Jeonju, Iksan, and Gimje. Its storage capacity of 466 million cubic meters ensures a steady supply of water, even during periods of low rainfall.
Cycling and Tourism
Seomjin River Dam is a key starting point for cyclists embarking on the Seomjingang Bike Path, one of Korea’s most scenic and accessible cycling routes. The Seomjin River Dam Certification Center (섬진강댐 인증센터; map), seated several kilometers downstream near a rest stop and coffee shop, marks the beginning of their journey along the 149-kilometer path that follows the river to its estuary.
Okjeong Lake
Okjeong Lake (옥정호; map; Okjeongho) was formed as a reservoir by the construction of the Seomjin River Dam. Originally a major water source for North Jeolla Province, its role has shifted to serving the city of Jeongeup following the development of other regional dams. The lake is now a growing tourist destination.
One of its key attractions is the Okjeong Lake Suspension Bridge (옥정호 출렁다리; map), completed in 2023. This 420-meter-long bridge connects the lakeside to Bungeo Island, an ecologically restored area known for its seasonal flower displays and walking paths.
Surrounding the lake, visitors can also explore the Mulangae-gil walking trail and a network of cycling-friendly roads. During spring, cherry blossoms line the lakeside drive, making it a popular route for sightseeing.
Nearby Highlights
In addition to the dam and its reservoir, several attractions nearby make this area worth exploring:
- Water Culture Center: Situated near the dam, the Water Culture Center is an educational facility that offers exhibitions about the Seomjin River, the history of the dam, and Korea’s broader efforts in water management.
- Cherry Blossom Tunnel: During spring, a stretch of road near the dam transforms into a tunnel of blossoms, attracting cyclists and visitors for leisurely rides and scenic drives.
- Jirisan Mountain: From certain vantage points near the dam, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Jirisan Mountain, Korea’s largest national park and an iconic landmark in the region.
