Noh Hong Chul's Buan Workation: A 'Work and Play' Journey

Broadcaster Noh Hong Chul recently enjoyed a "workation"—a blend of work and vacation—in Buan, Jeonbuk. Bringing his laptop, Noh completed an itinerary that seamlessly integrated professional tasks with travel by visiting the Buan Workation Center and several major local attractions.

Working in Buan: Finding the Perfect Workspace at the Workation Center

Noh began his journey by visiting the Julpo Bay Tidal Flat Ecological Park and the area near the Gomso Salt Field. In his video, he expressed that balancing work and rest was a primary goal, stating, "One of my dreams is to live the life of a friend who travels to a destination with just a laptop and works while moving around everywhere."

Upon arriving at the Buan Workation Center, Noh inspected the facilities, noting that the center provides Wi-Fi, computers, and multi-function printers for tasks such as preparing lectures or writing proposals. He particularly praised the environment, which offers unobstructed views through large windows, remarking, "It doesn't feel suffocating, and I can concentrate so well."

Access to the center is part of the '2026 Jeonbuk Workation' program. Additionally, through the Jeonbuk Tour Pass, visitors can receive up to 70% discounts on entrance fees at major tourist attractions. Noh demonstrated the convenience of using the Jeonbuk Tour Pass to access these sites via mobile.

Sunrise at Chaeseokgang and Exploring the Tidal Flat Ecological Park

Noh visited the geological landmark Chaeseokgang to witness the sunrise. As a UNESCO Global Geopark, Chaeseokgang reveals stunning, layered geological formations when the tide recedes. While admiring the scenery, Noh remarked, "I feel overwhelmed in the presence of nature," adding that the sky looked as if it had been professionally made up.

At the Julpo Bay Tidal Flat Ecological Park, he observed the local ecosystem via boat. The park was originally established to prevent residential flooding during high tides. During his tour, Noh identified various species inhabiting the area, including freshwater eels, snakehead fish, catfish, crucian carp, and carp. He continued his journey by taking in the panoramic views of the park from the ecological observatory.

Sea Water Steam Spa and Buan's Local Delicacies

To conclude his trip, Noh experienced a unique Buan specialty: the sea water steam spa (Haesujjim). He participated in a steaming process that utilizes hot water and seawater, sharing his impressions: "It feels like all the bad things are being drained out of my body." He noted that the facility incorporates natural elements like mugwort and log leaves into the steaming process.

Noh also documented the local flavors of Buan. While visiting a steamed bun shop near Gomso, he noted, "They say they use ingredients grown directly in Korea, and compared to the steamed buns I usually eat, these are less sweet and the dough feels chewier." He finished his culinary tour with a full meal featuring Buan's famous salted seafood (jeotgal), specifically praising the chewy seasoned raw crab served at Geumsan Restaurant.