Iksan

Iksan is a city in North Jeolla Province, South Korea. It lies in the western part of the province near the Geum River and serves as a regional administrative and economic center. The city is part of the Honam region and is connected to major urban areas by road and rail, contributing to its role as a transportation hub in the southwest.

Historically, the Iksan area has deep ties to the Baekje Kingdom. The Mireuksa Temple Site in Iksan preserves significant temple ruins from the Baekje era. Together with other Baekje-era sites in the region, Mireuksa forms part of the Baekje Historic Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage designation. The nearby Neungsan-ri royal tombs also reflect the area’s ancient royal culture and burial practices.

Economy and institutions in Iksan include education and research facilities such as Wonkwang University. The local economy draws on agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics, aided by access to national rail and road networks that support regional distribution and commerce. The city also hosts cultural institutions, markets, and events that highlight its regional traditions and historical heritage.

Transportation plays a central role in Iksan’s profile. Iksan Station provides rail connections to major cities, and the city is linked by expressways and national roads to neighboring urban centers, including Jeonju and Mokpo. This infrastructure supports both commuting and goods movement within the Jeolla and broader national networks.

As of the mid-2020s, Iksan maintains a substantial population and continues to develop as a regional center for education, culture, and industry in southwestern Korea.