South Korea’s Jinju Shines With Stunning Landscapes And Vibrant Local Life In The 2025 National Tourism Photo Contest

Published on December 5, 2025

Jinju, South Korea, dazzled in the 2025 National Tourism Photo Contest with its stunning landscapes and vibrant local life. The contest highlighted Jinju’s beauty, from serene river views to lively festivals. The top prize went to a photo of cherry blossoms along the Namgang River, capturing the city’s blend of nature and culture. This recognition further establishes Jinju as a top destination, showcasing its unique charm and vibrant community.

Jinju, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, proudly hosted the awards ceremony for the 2025 Jinju Tourism National Photo Contest on December 3. The event took place at the “Gallery Jinsim 1949,” located on the second floor of Jinju City Hall. This year marked the sixth edition of the annual contest, which has become a significant platform for photographers across the country to showcase their talent while promoting the beauty and allure of Jinju as a top tourist destination.

Organized by the Jinju branch of the Korea Photographers Association, the contest aims to capture the essence of the city through the lens of photography. The competition focused on showcasing the landscapes, festivals, cultural richness, and everyday life of Jinju. From stunning panoramas of nature to intimate glimpses of local life, the images submitted highlighted the diverse experiences that the city offers both to its residents and visitors. It was an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy of the city while engaging photographers in a creative interpretation of what makes Jinju special.

The contest received a remarkable response this year, with 285 entries submitted from across the country. Each submission was carefully reviewed by a panel of expert judges, who selected 61 pieces that stood out for their artistic quality, creativity, and the way they captured the spirit of Jinju. The selected works were not only a testament to the talent of the photographers but also highlighted the city’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

The top prize of the contest went to the photograph titled “Jinju Namgang Flower Path,” which beautifully captured a spring scene along the Namgang River. The image portrayed cherry blossoms in full bloom, with the delicate pink flowers framing the scenic riverside. In the foreground, residents could be seen running along the riverside trail, adding a dynamic sense of movement and life to the scene. Judges praised the work for its ability to convey the vibrancy of Jinju’s daily life while reflecting the seasonal beauty of the city. The photograph not only highlighted the breathtaking natural landscape but also captured a moment of local life, emphasizing the harmony between nature and the people who live in and around it.

Silver prizes were awarded to two exceptional photographs. One was titled “Jinju in the Forest of Wolasan,” a heartwarming image of children playing under the shade of towering trees. The photograph beautifully captured the innocence and joy of childhood, set against the tranquil backdrop of Wolasan, a beloved natural spot in Jinju. The second silver award went to “Morning at Chokseokru,” a panoramic view that showcased the stunning combination of the Namgang River and Jinju Fortress, framed by the warm, rich colors of autumn. The photograph elegantly portrayed the blend of nature and history that defines Jinju, with the fortress standing tall against the vibrant backdrop of changing foliage.

In addition to the top awards, three bronze awards were given to other noteworthy works. These images offered fresh perspectives on Jinju’s diverse landscapes, showcasing everything from the scenic beauty of local mountains to the bustling atmosphere of the city’s festivals. Five merit awards were also presented, as well as fifty honorable mentions. These works reflected a wide range of subjects, from intimate moments in local parks to stunning depictions of Jinju’s renowned historical sites.

The exhibition of the winning works is now open to the public at Gallery Jinsim 1949 and will run until December 5. The gallery is located in the heart of Jinju City Hall, providing visitors with a chance to experience the diversity of Jinju through the eyes of photographers who have captured its most iconic and beloved aspects. The exhibition features a variety of subjects, including the majestic landscapes of Wolasan and Mangjinsan Bongudae, as well as vibrant local garden festivals. The photographs also highlight the city’s unique tourism characters, such as Hamo and Ayoh, who represent the welcoming spirit and warmth of Jinju’s residents.

The exhibition serves as an important opportunity to promote Jinju’s tourism appeal and to raise awareness of the city’s charm. After the show in Jinju, selected works will travel to Seoul, where they will be displayed at the Seoul Government Complex and Gyeongbokgung Station. These exhibitions will introduce the stunning visuals of Jinju to a broader audience, enticing travelers from across the country to explore the city’s rich history, picturesque landscapes, and cultural offerings. Through these efforts, Jinju aims to position itself as a leading destination for both domestic and international tourists.

In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Jinju offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring the historic Jinju Fortress to participating in local festivals and enjoying the serene landscapes of nearby mountains and rivers. The photo contest has become an integral part of the city’s tourism promotion strategy, allowing photographers to capture Jinju’s essence while inspiring others to visit and experience the city for themselves.

Jinju, South Korea, shines in the 2025 National Tourism Photo Contest, with stunning landscapes and vibrant local life captured through breathtaking photography, showcasing its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural vitality.

Overall, the 2025 Jinju Tourism National Photo Contest has once again demonstrated the power of photography to showcase the beauty of a place and to bring people together in celebration of local culture. The winning photographs offer a glimpse into the daily life and breathtaking landscapes of Jinju, while also serving as a testament to the city’s growing tourism appeal. With its ongoing efforts to promote its unique charm, Jinju continues to shine as a must-visit destination for those seeking beauty, culture, and history.