Former Main Building of the Gunsan Customs

The Former Main Building of the Gunsan Customs was completed before the start of Japanese colonial rule in 1908, making it a modern government building established by Korea. The customs office was responsible for inspecting and taxing goods entering and leaving Gunsan Port. As the port later became a key route for the export of rice and other resources during the colonial period, the site bears witness to that history of exploitation. Designed by an unnamed German architect, the European-style building was constructed with bricks imported from Belgium. It features ornamental roof tiles, three pointed towers, a brick exterior, and a wooden interior. Its architectural style is similar to that of Seoul Station and the Bank of Korea headquarters. Planned in 1906 and completed on June 20, 1908, it served as the main building of Gunsan Customs office for 85 years until 1993, when a new building was constructed after the adjacent watchtower was demolished. Today, it operates as the Honam Customs Museum, showcasing materials related to customs history, including notable records, film appearances, former customs directors, and the 100-year history of Gunsan Customs.