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Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon

Hwacheon-gun is one of 18 cities, counties and districts in Gangwon. It has 5 neighborhoods (1 eup · 4 myeon) and 23,023 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Hwacheon-eup with 8,237.

5neighborhoods

23,023residents

Landmark stamp: Paroho Lake

Formed by the construction of an artificial dam in Hwacheon, this expansive mountain lake provides calm waters surrounded by rugged mountain ridges.

History: The lake received its historic name meaning defeating enemy forces to commemorate a hard-fought victory during the tragic Korean War.
What to see: You can take an easy stroll through the artificial peninsula-shaped island while admiring the wide and calm surface of the vast lake.
Visitor tip: Visiting in the peaceful early morning gives you an opportunity to see dreamy mists rising gracefully over the tranquil waters of the reservoir.

Food, festivals and stories of Hwacheon-gun

Festivals: Each winter, the famous Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival gathers enthusiastic crowds to catch cold-water mountain trout through round ice holes.
Local food: Fresh mountain trout caught from clean valleys and sweet, firm tomatoes cultivated in cool highland soils are local specialties of Hwacheon.
Local story: Lake Paroho, a scenic reservoir on the Bukhan River, gained its meaningful name after a significant wartime victory during the Korean War.
Did you know?: The towering Peace Dam in Hwacheon was built through widespread citizen donations to safeguard downstream communities from unexpected flash floods.

Neighborhoods of Hwacheon-gun (5)

Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.

Hwacheon-eup화천읍eup · 8,237 residents

Story: Originally called Nangcheon due to roaming wolves, the town was officially renamed Hwacheon in 1902 to honor its shining waters.
Photo spot: Walking along the waterside path of Bungeoseom Island offers scenic views of the North Han River that make wonderful photos.
Food: During the winter festival along Hwacheoncheon Stream, freshly caught and grilled mountain trout is a beloved seasonal delicacy.

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Gandong-myeon간동면myeon · 2,531 residents

Story: To commemorate a victory in the Korean War, the reservoir was named Paroho, meaning defeating foreign invaders.
Photo spot: Taking a boat from Guman-ri Pier allows visitors to capture photos of deep blue waters framed by layers of mountains.
Fun fact: Completed in 1944, the massive Hwacheon Dam blocked the flow of the North Han River and created Lake Paroho.

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Hanam-myeon하남면myeon · 2,844 residents

Name: The township was given the name Hanam because it was situated south below the government office of ancient Nangcheon-hyeon.
Photo spot: The solitary Zelkova tree known as Sarangnamu in Georye-ri Waterside Park is a popular spot for emotional photographs.
Fun fact: In the summer, Seoo-ji-ri Lotus Complex becomes blanketed with vibrant blossoms floating peacefully beside the tranquil lakeside.

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Sangseo-myeon상서면myeon · 3,587 residents

Name: The area received the name Sangseo because it was located in the upper western territory of ancient Nangcheon-hyeon.
Photo spot: Standing atop Chilseong Observatory in Sanyang-ri provides an open panoramic view of the Demilitarized Zone and North Korean landscape.
Fun fact: Nestled in the valley of Damok-ri, Gamseong Village serves as a peaceful cultural retreat where visitors appreciate literary arts amidst nature.

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Sanae-myeon사내면myeon · 5,824 residents

Story: Joseon scholar Kim Su-jeung retired to the pristine valley and named nine scenic bends Gokun Gugok to celebrate nature.
Photo spot: The pristine mountain stream and dramatic boulders of Gwangdeok Valley create an ideal natural backdrop for refreshing summer photographs.
Food: Thanks to sharp day-and-night temperature differences along Mount Hwaaksan, the region produces renowned firm and sweet tomatoes.

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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.