Fifty-two beaches across 12 cities and counties in South Jeolla Province will open to the public starting July 10, with more to follow in the coming weeks.
Jangheung's Sumun Beach will be the first to open, with other regional favorites — including Mokpo's Oedaldo, Yeosu's Manseongni, Boseong's Yulpo Solbat and Wando's Sinji Myeongsasimni — set to follow in sequence.
The South Jeolla-Gwangju Special Integrated City has invested 7.2 billion won ($4.63 million) to upgrade amenities and renovate aging shower facilities and restrooms, targeting 600,000 beachgoers over the season.
Authorities also released water quality, sand soil and radiation test results for the beaches.
On Tuesday, officials held a final pre-opening inspection meeting with representatives from all 12 cities and counties to review readiness, safety management plans and visitor convenience measures.
Preventing casualties is the top priority: 411 safety personnel will be deployed at the beaches, along with more than 3,400 pieces of rescue equipment and safety installations.
A joint operations center will run throughout the season and for two weeks after closing, in coordination with the fire department, coast guard and police.
Visitors to Yeosu's Ungcheon, Wando's Sinji Myeongsasimni and Jindo's Gagye beaches will be able to try water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding and windsurfing.
A national surfing competition is scheduled for July 18-19 at Goheung's Namnyeol Haedoji Beach.
"We will do our utmost to ensure safe operations so that everyone can enjoy the beach with peace of mind this summer," Park Tae-geon, head of the integrated city's island and marine policy division, said Thursday.
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