Yeonggwang-gun is one of 27 cities, counties and districts in Gwangju · Jeollanam-do. It has 11 neighborhoods (3 eup · 8 myeon) and 53,608 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Yeonggwang-eup with 23,506.
11neighborhoods
53,608residents
Landmark stamp: Bulgapsa Temple
Shrouded by dense forests on Bulgapsan Mountain, this ancient Buddhist complex is widely cherished for fiery red spider lilies carpeting its grounds.
What to see
In early autumn, the temple grounds and surrounding woodlands are transformed by a breathtaking sea of crimson red spider lilies.
History
This ancient Buddhist sanctuary traces its historical foundation back to the Baekje era when the Indian monk Marananta introduced Buddhism to the region.
Food nearby
Savoring a savory dried yellow corvina meal cured by sea breezes offers a delightful and authentic taste of Yeonggwang cuisine.
Food, festivals and stories of Yeonggwang-gun
Local food
Yeonggwang is celebrated nationwide for Beopseongpo gulbi, premium dried yellow croaker cured gently by sea breezes and natural salt.
Festivals
The Beopseongpo Dano Festival features over five centuries of tradition, presenting ancestral dragon rituals and vibrant folk wrestling matches.
Local story
Legend tells that the Indian Buddhist monk Marananta arrived at Beopseongpo port to introduce Buddhist traditions to the Baekje Kingdom.
Did you know?
The Baeksu Coastal Road offers dramatic scenic ocean drives flanked by rugged coastal cliffs and spectacular glowing sunsets over the sea.
Neighborhoods of Yeonggwang-gun (11)
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Yeonggwang-eup영광읍eup · 23,506 residents
Name: The name originated during the Goryeo Dynasty when King Taejo renamed the county to symbolize a land blessed with spiritual light.
Photo spot: Walking along the barefoot red clay trail of Mulmusan Forest offers wonderful photo opportunities amidst dense and peaceful pine woods.
Story: The stone totems of Dodong-ri have long been revered as village guardians protecting residents from misfortunes and warding off evil spirits.
Story: Yeongsan Sacred Ground in Gilyong-ri is the historical birthplace where Sotaesan Park Jung-bin founded Won Buddhism after attaining spiritual enlightenment.
Photo spot: Baeksu Coastal Road offers breathtaking sunset vistas over the Chilsan Sea along winding cliffs with dedicated observatory decks for photography.
Story: Local legends say Gamami was named after the geographical terrain resembling a harnessed horse turning its head around to look back.
Photo spot: Gamami Beach features a crescent-shaped sandy shore surrounded by lush coastal pine forests that create picturesque seaside photo backdrops.
Story: Taebongsan preserves the historical umbilical cord stone marker of King Seongjong of the Joseon Dynasty, carrying royal blessings and heritage.
Fun fact: A specialized industrial complex operates here, focusing on the research and production of eco-friendly electric vehicles and smart mobility.
Story: Mount Jangamsan holds an ancient beacon mound where ancestors lit fires during foreign invasions to warn and protect villagers across the valley.
Photo spot: The peaceful trail surrounding Yeonheungsa Temple and its cozy courtyard provide lovely scenic backdrops, especially during the vibrant autumn season.
Story: Legends say that the Indian monk Marananta arrived during the Baekje era to build a foundational temple spreading Buddhism across the region.
Photo spot: Crimson red spider lilies blanket the walking paths around Bulgap Temple every autumn, creating breathtaking scenery loved by photographers nationwide.
Fun fact: The lakeside park around Bulgap Reservoir offers wooden boardwalk paths and refreshing fountains ideal for relaxing waterfront strolls.
Name: Deriving its name from being situated west of the county office, this township features peaceful and wide fertile farming fields.
Story: Historical remnants of Madojin naval garrison remain preserved here, recalling ancient Joseon sailors who guarded the western seas against maritime invaders.
Story: Maegandang Historic House in Jisan-ri preserves dignified elevated gates and traditional architectural styles that showcase the grandeur of Joseon noble estates.
Food: Savory glutinous barley harvested from fertile local fields is renowned for its chewy texture and widely used in making traditional cakes.
Name: The name was formed from Chinese characters meaning salt and mountain, symbolizing vast mounds of sea salt harvested from coastal salterns.
Photo spot: Baekbawi Beach blends white tidal rocks and sandy shores with scenic wind turbines, creating an exceptional coastal sunset viewpoint for photography.
Food: Seoldo Port Fish Sauce Market offers flavorful fermented condiments prepared with fresh shrimp and anchovies harvested directly from the Chilsan Sea.
Story: Historical legends narrate that the Indian monk Marananta arrived across the sea through Beopseongpo during the Baekje era to introduce Buddhism.
Photo spot: Lined with old zelkova trees planted against coastal winds, Supjaengi Park provides stunning panoramic viewpoints overlooking the harbor and blue sea.
Food: Dried naturally by northwestern sea breezes and sun-dried sea salt, Beopseongpo Gulbi is a beloved culinary delicacy famous for its savory flavor.
Name: Resembling the gentle shape of a moon descending into the western sea, the islands received a name meaning setting moon.
Photo spot: Songido Island features a wide beach covered with smooth white pebbles that sparkle against azure ocean waves, creating picture-perfect landscape photos.
Story: Upper and Lower Nagwol Islands, where residents historically traversed tidal wooden paths, are now closely united by a permanent ocean connecting bridge.
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.