Goesan-gun is one of 14 cities, counties and districts in Chungcheongbuk-do. It has 11 neighborhoods (1 eup · 10 myeon) and 37,074 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Goesan-eup with 9,413.
11neighborhoods
37,074residents
Landmark stamp: Hwayang Valley
Carved through rocky pine forests in Goesan, this scenic mountain valley features crystal clear waters flowing past dramatic boulders rich with Confucian cultural heritage.
History
Joseon scholar Song Si-yeol resided in this valley, naming nine scenic spots along the winding river during his retirement.
What to see
Clear water meandering between smooth white sands and grand rock formations creates picturesque natural scenery reminiscent of traditional landscape paintings.
Visitor tip
Because shaded, gentle paths extend alongside the stream, visitors can enjoy comfortable trekking through all four colorful seasons.
Food, festivals and stories of Goesan-gun
Local food
Goesan is widely recognized for sweet and chewy waxy corn along with crisp sun-dried red chili peppers.
Festivals
The Goesan Red Pepper Festival draws crowds each harvest season with exciting culinary challenges and cultural parades.
Did you know?
Sanmangi-yetgil offers a refreshing nature trail winding along the lakeside cliffs and forested slopes of Goesan Lake.
Local story
Hwayang Valley preserves stories of Joseon scholars who appreciated quiet contemplation beside its scenic rock pools and streams.
Neighborhoods of Goesan-gun (11)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Goesan-eup괴산읍eup · 9,413 residents
Photo spot: You can take lovely photos with blooming cherry blossoms in spring along the walking trail of Dongjincheon Stream.
Food: At the traditional five-day market held every five days, you can find fresh local wild herbs and spicy Goesan peppers.
Story: Built during the Joseon Dynasty, Goesan Hyanggyo still preserves traces of ancient memorial ceremonies dedicated to Confucius and wise Confucian scholars.
Photo spot: Walking along the scenic Sanmaki-yetgil trail bordering Goesanho Lake lets you photograph dramatic views of the suspension bridge and water.
Story: Crystal-clear mountain water flows through Guryongso Pool, where a legendary tale tells of nine dragons ascending towards the sky together.
Story: Historical stories tell that the scholar Song Si-yeol stayed here, admiring and naming the picturesque nine scenic bends of Hwayanggugok.
Photo spot: Along the tranquil Seonyudong Valley featuring Yongchu Waterfall and rocky formations, visitors can photograph pure cascades and enjoy babbling streams.
Food: Wild pine mushrooms and black trumpets gathered from dense mountain forests each autumn boast deep, fragrant earthy flavors cherished by foodies.
Story: A legendary ginkgo tree in Eumnae-ri is said to have cried out loudly to warn villagers whenever a major crisis approached.
Photo spot: Standing in the courtyard of Cheongangwan-a Dongheon, you can capture serene photos framed by the preserved wooden pavilions of Joseon officials.
Name: The name Sari originated from the meandering stream flowing through sandy soil, curving naturally like a coiling snake along the basin.
Story: The traditional barley-treading folk custom practiced in early spring has long brought village neighbors together to wish for abundant autumn harvests.
Photo spot: Climbing up to Myeong-eti Pass rewards travelers with panoramic photo opportunities of rolling green mountain ridges and peaceful rural villages.
Story: Once the site of historical Sujuhyeon during Goryeo, this area still carries memories of an ancient administrative center that flourished centuries ago.
Food: Peaches grown under abundant sunshine along the fertile Dalcheon Stream are cherished for their delightful sweetness and refreshingly succulent juice.
Story: The historical Mokdo ferry dock preserves memories of wooden sail transport boats carrying salt and dried fish along the river route.
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.