Gangjin-gun is one of 27 cities, counties and districts in Gwangju · Jeollanam-do. It has 11 neighborhoods (1 eup · 10 myeon) and 31,574 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Gangjin-eup with 12,352.
11neighborhoods
31,574residents
Landmark stamp: Dasan Chodang
Surrounded by quiet forested slopes, this traditional thatched cottage serves as a meaningful memorial to a scholar who wrote profound philosophical treatises.
History
Jeong Yak-yong spent his exile here, writing important scholarly books on governance and philosophy during the Joseon Dynasty.
What to see
Walking along the tranquil forest trail lined with camellia trees and exposed tree roots offers a peaceful retreat into nature.
Food nearby
Visitors can savor a generous table of traditional Namdo full-course meals and spicy seasoned clams in nearby Gangjin town.
Food, festivals and stories of Gangjin-gun
Local food
Gangjin is famous for generous hanjeongsik course meals, showcasing various seasonal seafood and farm specialties from the fertile region.
Festivals
The Gangjin Celadon Festival is held annually, allowing travelers to experience traditional pottery making and vibrant cultural events.
Local story
Thinker Jeong Yak-yong spent his exile at Dasan Chodang, writing influential books on governance and practical philosophy.
Did you know?
Gangjin preserves historical kiln sites where artisans created exquisite Goryeo celadon ceramics with jade green glazes.
Neighborhoods of Gangjin-gun (11)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Gangjin-eup강진읍eup · 12,352 residents
Story: When scholar Jeong Yak-yong arrived in exile, a kind tavern host provided him shelter where he resumed his studies at Sauijae.
Photo spot: Strolling along boardwalks over vast tidal mudflats and swaying reed beds, visitors capture scenic golden sunsets across Gangjin Bay Ecological Park.
Story: Skilled potters in Bonghwang Village preserve long-standing traditions by shaping breathable earthenware jars fired with coastal clay and pine wood.
Photo spot: Quiet fishing piers and tranquil coastal tidal flats provide an authentic rustic setting for capturing scenic everyday life in seaside villages.
Story: Ancient kilns scatter across green hillsides, revealing how medieval master potters perfected the art of jade-hued Goryeo celadon ceramics.
Photo spot: Crossing the wooden suspension bridge to Gaudo offers wide views of rippling coastal currents and lush green headlands rising from the sea.
Story: Exiled scholar Jeong Yak-yong and monk Hyejang from Baengnyeonsa temple forged a famous intellectual friendship while brewing wild green tea together.
Photo spot: Walking the peaceful trail connecting Dasan Chodang and Baengnyeonsa leads travelers through ancient camellia groves perfect for quiet nature photography.
Name: The regional name translates the native Korean word Kkachinae into Chinese characters, denoting clear streams where flocks of magpies gathered.
Fun fact: Springtime blooms adorn riverside cherry blossom avenues here, while broad rural paddies turn into radiant golden fields during the autumn harvest.
Story: Dutch castaway Hendrik Hamel lived here for years, and villagers still preserve unique herringbone-patterned stone walls said to carry his European influence.
Food: Spicy sliced pork grilled over charcoal briquettes is served with traditional side dishes, continuing a popular culinary tradition born in local markets.
Food: Tiny freshwater shrimp caught in pristine mountain brooks are cured into savory tohajeot, a beloved fermented delicacy renowned across the province.
Photo spot: Hundreds of stone pagodas patiently assembled by residents stand amid tranquil valleys, offering an enchanting atmosphere for scenic travel photos.
Photo spot: Evergreen woodlands of Kkamakseom island and the picturesque harbor lighthouse frame tranquil oceanic portraits along the peaceful waterfront of Maryang Port.
Food: Bustling weekend seafood docks at Maryang Port offer freshly caught seasonal fish, sea cucumbers, and abalone prepared directly for visitors.
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.