The seasonal variation and vertical distribution of the marine algal community were investigated using the quadrat method from February 2006 to January 2007 at 10 sites in Gwangyang Bay, Korea. In total, 48 red, 17 brown, and 13 green algal taxa were identified. The algal vertical distribution in the intertidal zone was characterized by Ulva pertusa, while the upper tidal zone was dominated by Gelidium divaricatum. The middle zone was primarily composed of Enteromorpha linza, Sargassum thunbergii, and Chondracanthus intermedia, whereas Hizikia fusiformis, Sargassum thunbergii, Gelidium amansii, and Corallina pilulifera characterized the low tidal zone. Results of cluster analysis indicated that algal composition fell into two groups, which were composed of species in the inland and open sea. In conclusion, the number of species, diversity, and abundance of vegetation in this area were remarkably reduced compared to previous studies in Gwangyang Bay.