Geumsan-gun is one of 16 cities, counties and districts in Chungcheongnam-do. It has 10 neighborhoods (1 eup · 9 myeon) and 48,684 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Geumsan-eup with 22,148.
10neighborhoods
48,684residents
Landmark stamp: Geumsan Ginseng Market
Situated in Geumsan, this specialized trading marketplace offers an extensive selection of fresh ginseng roots, herbal health remedies, and processed regional goods.
What to see
Walking along the bustling market alleys reveals countless vendors proudly displaying mountains of freshly harvested and processed ginseng roots.
Food nearby
You can treat yourself to crispy fried whole ginseng dipped in sweet grain syrup, paired nicely with chilled herbal rice wine.
Visitor tip
Visiting on regular traditional market days lets you experience lively banter between merchants and shoppers from all over the country.
Food, festivals and stories of Geumsan-gun
Local food
Crispy deep-fried fresh ginseng dipped in sweet grain syrup is a famous local delicacy in Geumsan.
Festivals
The Geumsan World Ginseng Festival allows visitors to harvest fresh ginseng roots and sample various healthy dishes.
Did you know?
The red cliffs and winding waters of Jeokbyeokgang River create breathtaking scenic vistas beloved by campers.
Local story
Chilbaeguichong Shrine honors the noble patriotic spirit of volunteer soldiers who fought bravely during the Imjin War.
Neighborhoods of Geumsan-gun (10)
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Geumsan-eup금산읍eup · 22,148 residents
Name: The name originated from Chinese characters meaning silk mountain, reflecting the beautiful rolling peaks that gracefully surround the lively town center.
Food: At Geumsan Susam Center, visitors can explore bustling stalls filled with fresh ginseng roots and enjoy nourishing bowls of warm ginseng chicken soup.
Photo spot: Climbing up Namsan Park offers panoramic views of the town and picturesque spots around its serene pavilion overlooking peaceful ponds.
Story: Chilbaeguichong honors the seven hundred patriotic righteous fighters who bravely sacrificed their lives battling foreign invaders during the Imjin War.
Name: The district derived its name from the revered Mount Geumseongsan, which stands majestically over the peaceful countryside and fertile farming fields.
Story: According to local legend, the ancient dragon and tiger stone statues in Cheonnae-ri were erected during King Gongmin's wartime refuge.
Food: Situated along the scenic riverbanks, this area is renowned for spicy freshwater fish porridge and crispy pan-fried minnows seasoned with savory paste.
Photo spot: Walking across the thrilling Wollyeongsan suspension bridge over the Geumgang River provides exhilarating views and fantastic photo opportunities between two cliffs.
Story: In Pyeongchon-ri, villagers preserved an old folk tradition of pulling a giant boulder with straw ropes to pray for rain during droughts.
Photo spot: The dramatic red rock cliffs of Jeokbyeokgang River create a breathtaking natural backdrop perfect for taking memorable landscape photographs.
Name: The name Buri reflects the ancient wish for the region to be a fertile, prosperous land where villagers enjoy bountiful harvests.
Name: The name simply denotes its geographic position in the northern portion of the county, nestled amid rugged mountains and quiet valleys.
Photo spot: Walking along the Jajinbaengi trail in Bogok Valley offers stunning photographic scenes filled with softly blooming wild mountain cherry blossoms in spring.
Fun fact: The Bogok mountain valley shelters an extensive natural colony of wild cherry blossoms, celebrated every spring with joyful eco-friendly floral festivities.
Name: The district received its name during the Joseon Dynasty because it was designated as the first administrative zone south of the county center.
Photo spot: Strolling through Hongdo Village when vibrant crimson peach blossoms blanket the roadsides provides truly enchanting spring backdrops for memorable travel pictures.
Food: Farmers cultivate remarkably fragrant and tender perilla leaves in the rich, well-drained alluvial soil along the pristine Bonghwangcheon Stream.
Story: Legend says a devoted son named Kang Cheo-sa discovered wild ginseng here after mountain spirits answered his sincere prayers for his ailing mother.
Photo spot: Entering the tranquil courtyard of Boseoksa Temple reveals a massive ancient ginkgo tree and a peaceful fir trail perfect for photography.
Fun fact: Home to Geumsan Forest Culture Town, the area features dense woodlands and clear mountain streams ideal for ecological exploration and relaxing recreation.
Story: According to legend, the great Buddhist monk Wonhyo was so delighted by the magnificent site of Taegosa Temple that he danced for three days.
Photo spot: Standing at Nakjodae Peak on Mount Daedunsan offers sweeping photographic vistas of craggy limestone ridges glowing beneath breathtaking golden sunsets.
Name: The name Jinsan means precious mountain, highlighting the historic county's revered location surrounded by strikingly scenic and valuable rugged peaks.
Name: The name Boksu combines traditional characters for good fortune and longevity, reflecting ancestors' heartfelt wishes for blessed and healthy lives.
Food: Located near the border with Daejeon, the area features popular beef restaurants serving fresh, high-quality local Hanwoo to many visiting diners.
Photo spot: Flowing along the pristine upper reaches of Yudeungcheon Stream, this peaceful valley provides charming rural photography spots framed by gentle mountain ridges.
Food: Majeon-ri is celebrated for its bustling culinary street of rich mudfish soup, drawing hungry travelers eager for a hearty, traditional meal.
Photo spot: Hiking up the rugged slopes of Mount Seodaesan rewards outdoor enthusiasts with dramatic rocky crags and expansive photographic panoramas of surrounding valleys.
Name: The name was formed by combining the initial syllables of Chudong-myeon and Buheung-myeon when the two former administrative entities merged.
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.