Yeongsan River Estuary Bank & Yeongsan Lake
The Yeongsan River Estuary Bank and Yeongsan Lake are key landmarks in the transformation of the Yeongsan River’s lower reaches. Built to prevent saltwater intrusion and protect farmland from tidal flooding, the 4.35-kilometer-long embankment reshaped the region’s water systems. Behind it, Yeongsan Lake spans 34.6 square kilometers, serving as a vital freshwater reservoir for irrigation, flood control, and recreation.
Yeongsan River Estuary Bank
Completed in 1981, the Yeongsan River Estuary Bank (영산강하구언; map) was designed to halt the brackish water intrusion from the Yellow Sea, which had historically reached as far inland as Naju. Before the embankment, tidal flows carried saltwater upriver, disrupting agriculture and threatening crop viability. By cutting off the saltwater, the embankment converted the estuary into a stable freshwater system, ensuring a reliable supply for 227 square kilometers of farmland and enabling large-scale agricultural expansion.
In addition to its engineering significance, the embankment offers recreational and scenic attractions:
- Observation Towers – Located above the drainage gates, these towers provide panoramic views of the river and Yellow Sea. Open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
- Landmark Tower – A 58-meter tower, designed to resemble a bird in flight, includes a modern observation deck overlooking the estuary.
- Recreational Paths – The embankment connects to cycling and walking trails, making it a popular rest stop for visitors and cyclists.
While the estuary bank stabilized the region’s water supply, it also caused ecological shifts. By sealing off the estuary, it disrupted the natural exchange of freshwater and seawater, leading to habitat loss for brackish-water species and altering sedimentation patterns. To counteract these effects, modern drainage and water management systems were installed to improve flow regulation and ecological balance.
Yeongsan Lake
Created by damming the Yeongsan River, Yeongsan Lake (영산호; map) holds 253 million tons of freshwater, ensuring agricultural and industrial stability while preventing seasonal flooding. The lake’s formation reclaimed 55 square kilometers of former tidal wetlands, converting them into productive farmland.
Beyond its utilitarian role, Yeongsan Lake is now a recreational and ecological hub:
- Yeongsan Lake Tourist Area – Features walking trails, cycling paths, and lakeside picnic spots.
- Water-Based Activities – While primarily a protected freshwater reserve, the lake offers limited boating and fishing.
- Ecosystem Conservation – Restoration efforts focus on improving water quality, reducing pollution, and reintroducing native aquatic species.
Environmental & Historical Impact
The closure of the estuary brought major environmental changes:
- Loss of brackish-water habitats, impacting fish species that relied on tidal flows.
- Increased sedimentation, affecting water clarity and quality.
- Stagnant water conditions, contributing to algal blooms and oxygen depletion.
Efforts to mitigate ecological shifts include improved sediment control, habitat restoration projects, and community-led conservation programs. The transition from saltwater to freshwater ecosystems reflects both the success and challenges of large-scale environmental engineering.
Historically, the embankment reshaped local industries:
- Agriculture flourished, but traditional fishing communities declined due to the loss of estuarine resources.
- Flood risks decreased, allowing for stable settlement and regional development.
Yeongsan River Estuary Bank Certification Center
The estuary bank marks the final checkpoint of the Yeongsangang Bike Path (146 km), which starts in Damyang County and ends at the embankment. Cyclists can stamp their Bike Passports at the Yeongsangang Estuary Bank Certification Center (영산강하굿둑 인증센터; map). The area includes rest stops, cafés, and amenities designed for long-distance riders.
