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GMP destination photo
KWJ destination photo

GMPKWJ

Which side of the plane to sit from Gimpo International Airport (Seoul) to Gwangju Airport (Kwangju)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer views of the Korean Peninsula's diverse landscape, the right side is superior for its stunning perspective of the jagged West Sea coastline, expansive tidal flats, and the massive Saemangeum Seawall.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Yellow Sea Coastline

Enjoy views of the complex Rias coastline with its countless small islands and bays that define South Korea's western edge.

🌾

West Coast Tidal Flats

Observe the massive 'Getbol' tidal flats, which are globally recognized UNESCO World Heritage sites, stretching along the shore.

🏗️

Saemangeum Seawall

Witness one of the world's longest man-made seawalls, a massive land reclamation project near Gunsan that has reshaped the map.

🏝️

Byeonsanbando National Park

Spot the beautiful combination of coastal cliffs and forested mountains where the land meets the Yellow Sea.

🚜

Honam Plain

Glimpse the vast rice paddies of the Honam region, known as the breadbasket of Korea, as you approach the airport.

The right side is best during morning flights for clear, well-lit views of the coastline without glare. The Saemangeum Seawall is an unmistakable straight line in the water mid-way through the flight. During low tide, the patterns in the tidal flats are incredibly photogenic from high altitude.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Seoul & Gyeonggi Urban Sprawl

View the dense high-rise apartment complexes of southern Seoul, Suwon, and the Gyeonggi province shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Gyeryongsan National Park

Visible mid-flight, this mountain range is famous for its unique rock formations and spiritual significance in Korean culture.

🏢

Daejeon Cityscape

The central science and technology hub of Korea can be seen inland, showcasing its orderly urban layout and Expo Park.

🌳

Mudeungsan National Park

As the plane descends into Gwangju, the majestic peaks and columnar joints of Mudeungsan dominate the left horizon.

Sit on the left for evening flights to avoid direct sunlight and catch the city lights of Daejeon and Gwangju. Watch for the sharp contrast between the industrial zones of Gyeonggi-do and the rugged interior mountains. Mudeungsan is most beautiful in autumn when the foliage turns red and gold.

Top Activities in Kwangju
Route Information

Distance: 271 km (168 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 27 min

Departure: GMP (37.5583, 126.791)

Arrival: KWJ (35.123173, 126.805444)

Route Type: Domestic

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