Gongju-si is one of 16 cities, counties and districts in Chungcheongnam-do. It has 16 neighborhoods (6 dong · 1 eup · 9 myeon) and 99,424 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Singwan-dong with 19,706.
16neighborhoods
99,424residents
Landmark stamp: Tomb of King Muryeong
Situated in Gongju, this ancient brick royal tomb preserves the heritage of Baekje with murals and precious relics unearthed from the historic burial site.
History
Built for King Muryeong of Baekje and his queen, this arched brick chamber features beautifully patterned lotus tiles.
What to see
The nearby exhibition hall displays detailed tomb replicas along with exquisite golden crown ornaments uncovered from the royal burial site.
Food nearby
Exploring local markets in Gongju offers opportunities to taste sweet, nutty pastries and rice cakes filled with locally grown chestnuts.
Food, festivals and stories of Gongju-si
Local food
Sweet, nutrient-rich Gongju chestnuts and freshly baked chestnut pies are must-eat delicacies for travelers exploring the historic city.
Did you know?
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Gongsanseong Fortress and King Muryeong's Royal Tomb showcase the ancient Baekje Kingdom's rich cultural heritage.
Festivals
Along the Geumgang River and Gongsanseong Fortress, the Baekje Cultural Festival colorfully reenacts the splendid history and traditions of the ancient kingdom.
Neighborhoods of Gongju-si (16)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Yugu-eup유구읍eup · 6,778 residents
Story: Ancient prophetic records noted this sheltered valley as a sanctuary, drawing people seeking refuge during turbulent historical times.
Photo spot: Visitors gather along the stream at Yugu Saekdong Hydrangea Garden in early summer to enjoy colorful blooming flower paths.
Fun fact: Textile mills weaving jacquard fabrics for decades and vibrant striped murals decorate the cozy town alleys here.
Photo spot: Towering dawn redwood trees line the scenic pathway along Jeongancheon Ecological Park, creating a peaceful promenade throughout every season.
Story: Traditional work chants echo through community memory, remembering villagers who sang rhythmically while pounding foundation earth to build homes.
Story: Hidden deep within rugged hills lies Surichigol Shrine, where persecuted early Korean Catholics quietly gathered to preserve their devotion.
Fun fact: Dowon-ri village gained affectionate recognition after elderly residents learned to read and published heartwarming illustrated storybooks about their lives.
Fun fact: Historical remnants of Chungcheong Gamyeong, the Joseon provincial governor’s headquarters, remain preserved in the heart of this old administrative district.
Photo spot: Cozy alleys along Jemincheon Stream and retro boarding house villages offer nostalgic retro backgrounds perfect for casual neighborhood strolls.
Name: The neighborhood takes its name from Junghak, a historical government academy situated centrally to educate young Joseon scholars.
Story: Ancient village lore recounts how an emerald dragon ascended into the heavens from a crystalline natural freshwater spring here.
Photo spot: Overlooking Gongsanseong Fortress, the scenic trails of Eungaegol Historical Park present panoramic sweeping views of the historic ramparts and river.
Photo spot: Looking across the Geumgang River from Singwan Park rewards travelers with sweeping nighttime vistas of illuminated Gongsanseong Fortress ramparts.
Fun fact: Hosting the intercity bus terminal and Kongju National University, this lively district serves as a vibrant modern cultural center.
Name: The lyrical name originated from scenic moonlit pine groves that once flourished gracefully along the hillside ridges of the village.
Fun fact: Commemorating respected Joseon scholars, historic Songgokseowon academy becomes enveloped in vibrant red crepe myrtle blossoms during warm summer months.
Story: Folklore recalls how early Joseon scholars gathered beneath blooming crepe myrtle branches to compose lyrical verses and discuss classical philosophy.
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.