Jangheung-gun is one of 27 cities, counties and districts in Gwangju · Jeollanam-do. It has 10 neighborhoods (3 eup · 7 myeon) and 33,845 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Jangheung-eup with 14,660.
10neighborhoods
33,845residents
Landmark stamp: Jeongnamjin Observatory
Rising proudly on the southern coastline of Jangheung, this modern observation tower affords dramatic views of coastal islands and sparkling sea waters.
History
Established to mark the geographic point directly south of Seoul's central Gwanghwamun gate, this modern tower symbolizes maritime prosperity.
What to see
Looking out from high observation decks reveals expansive coastal vistas over Deungnyang Bay dotted with picturesque southern islands.
Food nearby
Savoring the famous local delicacy combining grilled beef, fresh pen shell clams, and fragrant shiitake mushrooms creates an unforgettable regional meal.
Food, festivals and stories of Jangheung-gun
Local food
Jangheung is widely celebrated for its savory samhap, featuring local beef, pen shells, and fragrant shiitake mushrooms grilled together.
Festivals
The Jeongnamjin Water Festival takes place every summer along the Tamjin River, offering fun water fights and diverse cultural activities.
Local story
Mount Cheongwansan stands proudly in Jangheung, known for its scenic rocky peaks resembling a crown of celestial kings.
On screen
Director Im Kwon-taek filmed his memorable movie Beyond the Years among blooming buckwheat fields in Seonhakdong Village.
Neighborhoods of Jangheung-gun (10)
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Jangheung-eup장흥읍eup · 14,660 residents
Story: Legend says the Maiden Rock on Eokbulsan Mountain was once a mother carrying her baby who turned to stone after looking back.
Food: At the Saturday Market along Tamjingang River, people enjoy grilling local beef, shiitake mushrooms, and pen shell clams together.
Photo spot: Nestled at the foot of Eokbulsan Mountain, Cypress Forest Woodland offers scenic wooden boardwalks beneath towering trees for memorable photos.
Story: Folklore tells that Cheongwansan Mountain earned its name because its rocky peaks resemble the majestic imperial crown of an ancient emperor.
Photo spot: Climbing up the Jeongnamjin Observatory rewards travelers with wide-open views of islands scattered peacefully across the blue Deungnyangman Bay.
Fun fact: During autumn, vast silver grass fields on the mountain ridges of Cheongwansan sway in the wind like shimmering silver waves.
Name: The name Yongsan was given because the surrounding mountain terrain resembles a soaring dragon ascending dynamically into the sky.
Photo spot: At the entrance of Jeongjeong-ri village, a rare white pine tree with striking pale bark immediately catches the eye.
Story: Villagers in Mukchon-ri passed down stories of carefully planting camellia groves to protect the community from misfortunes and bring good fortune.
Story: Legend tells that Master Chejing founded Borimsa Temple after pacifying a dragon living in a pond and filling the water.
Fun fact: Nestled on Gajisan Mountain, the historic Borimsa Temple preserves a revered iron seated Vairocana Buddha dating back centuries.
Photo spot: The observatory at Jangheung Dam Water Culture Center provides a scenic vantage point overlooking calm reservoir waters and layered mountain ridges.
Story: Admiral Yi Sun-sin gathered twelve remaining warships at Hoeryeongpo and renewed his resolve before heading toward victory at the Battle of Myeongnyang.
Photo spot: Seonhakdong Village is a favorite photo spot where hillsides are painted with golden canola blossoms in spring and white buckwheat flowers in autumn.
Food: At the Hoejin Port fish market, seafood lovers can enjoy fresh sea eels and clams caught directly from the clear coastal waters.
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.