Seomjin River Suspension Bridge

Seomjingang Bike Path

The Seomjin River Suspension Bridge (섬진강출렁다리; map), located near the retired Gajeong Station in Gokseong County, spans the Seomjin River near Seomjingang Rail Bike, Gajeong Rural Experience Village, and the Gokseong County Youth Campground.

This pedestrian-only bridge, open to walkers, cyclists, and those with strollers or wheelchairs, offers an unobstructed vantage point to appreciate the river and its surroundings.

History

Before its construction, villagers relied on ferry boats, often at the mercy of the weather. In 1976, a tragic accident killed six residents in a tethered boat. So the local community came together to build a suspension bridge, the Duga Bridge, in 1981. But severe floods repeatedly damaged the bridge, requiring major repairs in 1997 and 2010.

The latest bridge, the Seomjin River Suspension Bridge, was completed in 2012. With its cable-stayed architecture, it became a popular tourist attraction.

From the center of the span, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Seomjin River. Sections with transparent glass panels allow visitors to gaze at the river directly beneath their feet. At night, the bridge transforms with subtle lighting that highlights its design.

Visitors often pair their bridge visit with activities in the area, including:

Riding the Seomjin River Rail Bike,
Exploring the nearby Seomjin River Astronomical Observatory,
Enjoying the rural ambiance of Gajeong Rural Experience Village,
Or staying at the Gokseong County Youth Campground.

Seomjin River Rail Bike

The Seomjingang Rail Bike (섬진강레일바이크; map) uses pedal-powered railcars to ride along a section of retired tracks.

Beginning at Gajeong Station, the 3.6-kilometer round trip route allows riders to pedal along the Seomjin River, passing through tree-lined paths, colorful scenery, and open views of the waterway.

The ride features both manual and automated sections, where the bikes cruise on its own power through uphill stretches, letting participants focus on the views. Highlights of the route include glimpses of the nearby Seomjin River Suspension Bridge and the surrounding landscape.

Information

Starting Point: Gajeong Station
Distance: 3.6 kilometers round trip
Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
Operating Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (closed for maintenance from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
Pricing:
- 2-seater: 20,000 won
- 3-seater: 25,000 won
- 4-seater: 30,000 won
Reservations can be made online or at the site, and tickets are typically available without long wait times.

Seomjin River Astronomical Observatory

Seomjin River Astronomical Observatory (곡성섬진강천문대; map) is a public observatory located near the Seomjin River. It offers facilities for stargazing, scientific exploration, and education.

Unlike most observatories, which sit on high mountain peaks to minimize light pollution, this facility is built on flat terrain, surrounded by small villages. To counteract potential light interference, local residents and the observatory have implemented measures such as shielding streetlights and encouraging drivers to dim headlights during observation hours.

The observatory is equipped with a 600mm Ritchey-Chrétien telescope, the first of its kind developed domestically by the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute. It also houses several auxiliary telescopes and an advanced planetarium featuring immersive astronomical projections.

Visitors can participate in daytime solar observations, viewing sunspots and solar flares through specialized filters. Nighttime programs focus on celestial objects such as the moon, planets, and deep-sky star clusters.

In addition to telescope-based observations, the facility offers a range of interactive exhibits, VR experiences, and 4D astronomical films.

Gajeong Rural Experience Village

Nestled along the Seomjin River, the Gajeong Rural Experience Village (가정농촌체험휴양마을; map) lets visitors explore rural Korean life while enjoying the surrounding landscapes. Its roots trace back 300 years to the beginning of the Mil-yang Park Clan (밀양 박씨).

Gajeong Village derives its name from the Korean word for “tree branch,” symbolizing its location amidst lush forests. Rich in biodiversity, the riverside and surrounding area host various fish species such as yellow croaker, trout, and freshwater crab.

The village offers numerous hands-on experiences that highlight Korea’s rural traditions:

Food Crafting: Visitors can make traditional foods such as tofu, rice cakes (인절미), and soy-based donuts.
- Price: 7,000 won per person
- Minimum participants: 20
Seasonal Harvesting: Activities include picking seasonal fruits such as peaches, plums, and persimmons, along with making traditional plum extract (매실청).
- Price: 10,000 won per person
- Minimum participants: 50
Outdoor Adventures: In summer, enjoy catching freshwater clams (다슬기) and cooling off in the river, followed by cooking the catch into a local stew.

Gokseong County Youth Campground

The Gokseong County Youth Campground (곡성군청소년야영장; map) is a nature-focused campground designed to promote fitness, teamwork, and outdoor education.

Seated on the Seomjin River near the Seomjin River Suspension Bridge, it offers a variety of recreational and educational programs for youth groups, families, and organizations, including:

Outdoor Adventures:
- Rafting along the Seomjin River
- Hiking through nearby trails
- Cycling on dedicated bike paths
Skill Development:
- Archery at the on-site range
- Artificial rock climbing for beginners and advanced climbers
- Camping skills and survival training
Community Programs:
- Team-building exercises and group activities to strengthen cooperation and camaraderie.

Facilities

Accommodation:
- Glamping Tents: Fully equipped for a comfortable stay.
  - Youth rate: 60,000 won
  - General rate: 75,000 won
- Indoor Lodging: Dormitory-style rooms for larger groups.
  - Youth rate: 80,000 won
  - General rate: 90,000 won
Amenities:
- On-site shower facilities, including a heated shower area.
- Designated areas for campfires and communal gatherings.
- Dining facilities with healthy, locally sourced meals.