Geumjeong-gu is one of 16 cities, counties and districts in Busan. It has 16 neighborhoods (16 dong) and 205,257 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Guseo 2-dong with 29,898.
16neighborhoods
205,257residents
Landmark stamp: Beomeosa Temple
Situated peacefully on the slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain, this ancient Buddhist complex features historic wooden halls, stone lanterns, and serene bamboo paths.
History
Master Uisang established this historic monastery on the slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain during King Munmu's reign in Silla.
What to see
The treasured three-story stone pagoda and traditional halls harmoniously blend with surrounding mountain forests in tranquil beauty.
Visitor tip
Participating in a templestay program offers opportunities for dawn chanting and peaceful meditative walks through quiet forest grounds.
Food, festivals and stories of Geumjeong-gu
Local food
Geumjeongsanseong Makgeolli, a traditional rice wine brewed with handmade yeast, and grilled black goat bulgogi are celebrated local specialties.
Local story
The name Geumjeong originated from an old legend about a golden fish swimming in a rocky spring atop the mountain.
Did you know?
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Geumjeongsan, the historic Beomeosa Temple boasts ancient architecture and peaceful woodland surroundings.
Neighborhoods of Geumjeong-gu (16)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Seo 1-dong서1동dong · 3,806 residents
Name: The area was historically called Seo-dong because it lay in the vast fertile fields stretching west of the Dongnae Eupseong fortress.
Food: Visitors can taste warm egg dumplings while exploring the historic Seodong Miro Market, famous for its maze-like vibrant alleys.
Photo spot: Around the Seodong Art Space, quiet alleys blend with colorful cultural murals that capture the nostalgic essence of the hillside village.
Fun fact: Narrow stairways climbing up the hillsides display the unique lifestyle and resilient community spirit formed during decades of residential settlement.
Name: The name reflects an old village once surrounded by farming fields west of Dongnae that provided shelter to hardworking migrating families.
Fun fact: Tightly clustered residential neighborhoods foster a close-knit urban community where friendly neighbors warmly greet each other along cozy alleyways.
Story: The tranquil Hoedong Reservoir holds poignant memories of submerged ancestral villages where local families shared vibrant community life before flooding.
Photo spot: Walking along the scenic lakeside trails of Hoedong Reservoir offers breathtaking photo spots surrounded by cypress groves and peaceful water.
Name: The combined name originated by joining Geumsa, where metal craft flourished, with Hoedong, signifying winding streams circling the lush valley.
Photo spot: Walking along the forested pine trails of Yunsan Ecological Park provides serene natural scenery ideal for capturing green outdoor photographs.
Fun fact: Nestled gently under Yunsan mountain, this pleasant residential area features peaceful neighborhoods alongside convenient markets and lively community spaces.
Fun fact: Hosting the Geumjeong District Office and Culture Center, this area serves as a lively administrative and performing arts hub.
Photo spot: The stylish plazas and exhibition halls around Geumjeong Cultural Center offer picturesque backdrops featuring elegant sculptures and cultural architecture.
Story: Local village folklore tells that ancient valley farmers gathered at sacred boulders on Yunsan mountain to pray sincerely for rainfall.
Photo spot: Waterfront resting areas along Oncheoncheon stream offer delightful views for photographing graceful gray herons and swimming carp in clear waters.
Photo spot: The youthful streets around the main gate of Pusan National University provide vibrant backgrounds full of artistic and energetic vibes.
Food: Bustling alleys along the university youth street offer affordable street toast, sweet waffles, and diverse international foods beloved by students.
Story: Local legend recounts that celestial hermits descended from heaven to play Korean chess atop boulders overlooking the scenic mountain valley.
Photo spot: The spacious manicured lawns of Hongbeopsa temple offer an unforgettable viewpoint to photograph the immense seated Buddha atop the hall.
Fun fact: SpoWon Park features wide cycling tracks, family picnic lawns, and botanical facilities where visitors enjoy relaxing weekend outdoor activities.
Story: Ancient legend tells that a magical golden fish descended from heaven to play in the sacred spring atop Mount Geumjeongsan.
Photo spot: The historic stone-pillared Jogye Gate of Beomeosa temple and the lush wisteria grove create tranquil backdrops for timeless photographs.
Food: Mountain restaurants along the forested entrance trail serve savory scallion pancakes alongside traditional acorn jelly seasoned with wild mountain herbs.
Name: The district received its name because the original settlements developed warmly along southern slopes descending from the ridges of Geumjeongsan.
Photo spot: The scenic hillside campus of Busan University of Foreign Studies showcases striking Mediterranean-inspired buildings framed by panoramic mountain views.
Fun fact: Bustling every morning, Namsan Dawn Market fills local sidewalks with fresh regional produce and welcoming conversations between friendly neighborhood vendors.
Story: Local lore recounts that nine auspicious blessings graced this prosperous settlement where nine virtuous scholars gathered to cultivate classic wisdom.
Photo spot: Walking paths near Guseo Station along Oncheoncheon stream offer picturesque vistas filled with blossoming cherry blossoms and yellow canola flowers.
Photo spot: Peaceful resting spots at the entrance of Geumjeongsan hiking trails provide wonderful settings to photograph lush green woods and murmuring brooks.
Fun fact: Serving as the historical southern terminal of the Gyeongbu Expressway, this district welcomes travelers entering Busan with well-planned residential avenues.
Story: Historic records tell how ancient stonemasons and common villagers painstakingly hauled mountain granite to construct the formidable Geumjeongsanseong Fortress walls.
Food: Visitors savor traditional Geumjeongsanseong Makgeolli brewed with artisanal wheat malt alongside fragrant charcoal-grilled black goat bulgogi.
Photo spot: Walking along the rugged stone walls near the East Gate of Geumjeongsanseong offers panoramic views overlooking majestic mountain peaks.
Local notes were drafted with the help of AI from public information. Population: Ministry of the Interior and Safety resident registration, September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.