Suncheon is the largest city in the province, closely followed by Yeosu. Other major cities include Mokpo, Gwangyang and Naju.
History
South Cholla was established in 1896 from the province of Cholla, one of the Eight Provinces of Korea, consisting of the southern half of its mainland territory and most outlying islands.
During the Japanese occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945, South Cholla was known as South Zenra, with its provincial capital at Kōshū (now Gwangju). In addition, Cheju Island (now Jeju Island) was part of South Cholla until August 1, 1946.
Kwangju (now Gwangju) was part of South Cholla until 1986 (when it became a Metropolitan City) and the capital until 2005, when the provincial government relocated from Gwangju to Muan County to the planned town of Namak.
There are almost 2,000 islands along the coastline, about three quarters of which are uninhabited. The coastline is about 6,100 kilometres (3,800 mi) long. Some of the marine products, in particular oyster and seaweed cultivation, are leading in South Korea.
The province is only partially mountainous. The plains along the rivers Seomjin, Yeongsan and Tamjin are suitable for large-scale grain agriculture. There is abundant rainfall in the area, which helps agriculture. The province is also home to the warmest weather on the peninsula. This helps to produce large amounts of agricultural produce, mainly rice, wheat, barley, pulses and potatoes. Vegetables, cotton and fruits are also grown in the province.
A small amount of gold and coal is mined in the province, but industries have also been developed in the area.
According to the census of 2005, of the people of South Jeolla 30.5% follow Christianity (21.8% Protestantism and 8.7% Catholicism) and 16.1% follow Buddhism.[6] 53.4% of the population is mostly not religious or follow Muism and other indigenous religions.
