Sinan-gun is one of 27 cities, counties and districts in Gwangju · Jeollanam-do. It has 14 neighborhoods (2 eup · 12 myeon) and 42,373 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Aphae-eup with 7,163.
14neighborhoods
42,373residents
Landmark stamp: Hongdo Island
Famous for its striking crimson cliffs rising from emerald waters, this protected island boasts dramatic sea arches and unusual natural rock formations.
What to see
Cruising around the island on an excursion boat reveals spectacular coastal arches, sea caves, and reddish rock formations rising dramatically.
Visitor tip
Since the entire island is a designated natural monument, travelers are encouraged to hike peacefully along the scenic Gitdaebong summit trail.
Legends & stories
The island earned its name meaning red island because its craggy cliffs glow vividly red in the warm evening sunset light.
Food, festivals and stories of Sinan-gun
Local food
Solar sea salt produced with ocean breezes and abundant sunlight in Sinan enhances the rich flavors of Korean cuisine.
On screen
The historical film The Book of Fish was filmed on Dochodo to portray scholar Jeong Yak-jeon's island life.
Did you know?
Banwol and Bakji islands are known as the Purple Islands with purple-painted bridges and matching vibrant blossoms.
Neighborhoods of Sinan-gun (14)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Jido-eup지도읍eup · 5,076 residents
Story: Royal pastures were established here during the Joseon dynasty, leaving behind colorful legends and place names related to military horses.
Photo spot: Songdo Port offers lively seaside views where fresh seafood arrives daily and fishing boats rest along the wide coastal docks.
Story: Centuries-old shipwrecks laden with Goryeo celadon were uncovered from coastal waters here, sparking treasure-hunting tales told around the world.
Photo spot: Walking along Jjanddungeo Bridge offers scenic views of tidal creatures moving across coastal wetlands framed by vast salt fields.
Story: Scholar Jeong Yak-jeon wrote the seminal marine treatise Jasan Eobo while living in exile on this remote rocky island.
Food: Fermented skate produced here offers a sharp aroma and distinctive pungent flavor highly prized across traditional southern banquet tables.
Photo spot: Sangrabong Observatory displays a historic song monument and overlooks twelve curving mountain roads winding gracefully down toward the harbor.
Story: Master painter Kim Whanki spent his youth here, and his preserved wooden birthplace still conveys inspiration from island nature.
Photo spot: Walking along Purple Bridge between Banwol and Bakji islands lets visitors take memorable photos dressed completely in matching purple tones.
Story: A courageous tenant farmer movement erupted here during colonial rule, inspiring resilient collective labor protests throughout modern Korean history.
Photo spot: The famous street mural at Gidong Intersection playfully uses real camellia trees as curly afro hairstyles for an elderly couple.
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.