Gwangju-si is one of 47 cities, counties and districts in Gyeonggi-do. It has 16 neighborhoods (10 dong · 2 eup · 4 myeon) and 401,476 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Chowol-eup with 51,957.
16neighborhoods
401,476residents
Landmark stamp: Namhansanseong Fortress
Perched along rugged mountain ridges, this historic stone fortress served as a royal refuge and now provides scenic hiking paths along preserved defensive ramparts.
History
King Injo defended against the Qing dynasty invaders from inside this fortress for forty-seven days during the Byeongja Horan war.
What to see
Climbing up to Sueojangdae Command Post rewards hikers with sweeping panoramas of the winding ramparts and distant Han River.
On screen
The dramatic historical film starring Lee Byung-hun was set here, depicting the intense ideological debates between loyal Joseon officials.
Food, festivals and stories of Gwangju-si
Local food
Grown with clean water and rich sunlight near Lake Paldang, sweet Toechon tomatoes are famous for their fresh flavor.
Local story
Namhansanseong Fortress preserves deep historical memories of the Joseon dynasty alongside scenic mountain trails enjoyed by walkers year-round.
Festivals
Every summer, the city hosts the lively Toechon Tomato Festival where visitors can taste fresh harvests and enjoy tomato-themed games.
Neighborhoods of Gwangju-si (16)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Chowol-eup초월읍eup · 51,957 residents
Story: Baekmasan rises gracefully over the town, carrying a legendary tale of General Shin Rip training his martial arts here.
Name: The poetic name originated from the scenic charm of lush green grass illuminated by peaceful moonlight.
Story: A legendary rock rests here, famously believed to freeze the hooves of passing horses with General Shin Rip's spirit.
Food: Locals and travelers frequently gather along the renowned culinary street known for serving deep, flavorful beef head soup.
Photo spot: Hwadam Botanic Garden features beautifully curated theme trails with colorful seasonal blossoms and autumn maple leaves perfect for memorable photos.
Story: The kiln site of Bunwon preserves a proud history of master potters crafting pristine white porcelain for the Joseon royal court.
Photo spot: Strolling through Mul-angae Park along the shores of Paldangho lets visitors capture fantastic photographs of morning mist rising over water.
Food: The Bunwon-ri culinary village offers famous braised carp prepared with rich spicy seasonings and generous dried radish greens.
Story: A poignant legend lingers along the fortress walls where General Yi Hoe's soul transformed into a hawk atop Maebawi rock.
Photo spot: Strolling the UNESCO World Heritage stone walls up to Sueojangdae reveals a spectacular panoramic view stretching toward the heart of Seoul.
Food: Restaurants here traditionally prepare Hyojonggaeng, an ancient hangover soup famously delivered through the night to Joseon aristocrats in Seoul.
Name: The neighborhood was named with the warm hope that weary travelers heading toward the capital could rest here in peace.
Food: Stepping into the historic Gyeongan Market allows visitors to experience lively vendor stalls and an abundance of delicious traditional snacks.
Photo spot: Walking along the open riverside paths of Cheongseok Park offers pleasant photo opportunities against backdrops of lovely seasonal flowers.
Name: The town preserves historical memories of Taebongsan, where royal placentas were enshrined, alongside expansive fields once carpeted in lush moss.
Photo spot: Climbing gently along the trails of Taebongsan offers open vistas capturing harmonious neighborhood scenery and soothing mountain ridges.
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.