Changnyeong-gun is one of 22 cities, counties and districts in Gyeongsangnam-do. It has 14 neighborhoods (2 eup · 12 myeon) and 54,046 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Changnyeong-eup with 14,857.
14neighborhoods
54,046residents
Landmark stamp: Upo Wetland
Resting quietly in Changnyeong, this sprawling natural inland wetland shelters diverse aquatic plants and thriving wildlife across shallow waters and willow groves.
What to see
Mysterious morning mists rising over the expansive wetland covered in water plants create an enchanting and tranquil atmosphere.
Visitor tip
Renting a bicycle at the entrance allows you to cruise flat nature paths while watching wild waterfowl from afar.
Legends & stories
Located near the crested ibis restoration center, this sanctuary offers a precious chance to spot the restored rare birds.
Food, festivals and stories of Changnyeong-gun
Local food
Changnyeong is widely known for producing aromatic, high-quality garlic and naturally sweet onions grown in rich soil.
Did you know?
Upo Wetland is a pristine Ramsar wetland that provides a serene sanctuary for diverse migratory birds and endangered wildlife.
Festivals
The historic town hosts a traditional festival showcasing Yeongsan Juldarigi, an impressive community tug-of-war designated as national heritage.
Local story
A beloved folk tale recounts how an injured crane healed its wounded wing in the soothing waters of Bugok Hot Springs.
Neighborhoods of Changnyeong-gun (14)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Changnyeong-eup창녕읍eup · 14,857 residents
Story: Legend says the founding ancestor of the Changnyeong Cho clan was miraculously born with dragon energy at Yongji pond atop Hwawangsan.
Photo spot: Visitors climbing Manokjeong Park can capture scenic photographs against the historic Silla monument and the quiet Joseon-era stone ice storage.
Food: On market days in the downtown traditional alleys, savory sugure gukbap stew cooked with chewy beef skin draws hungry visitors from afar.
Photo spot: Walking across the historic Namji Iron Bridge along the Nakdonggang river offers a scenic backdrop for memorable photos of the flowing water.
Fun fact: The confluence of the Namgang and Nakdonggang rivers forms expansive fertile plains and broad sandbanks shaped by gentle flowing waters.
Name: Originating from an old name meaning a southern pond, this riverside area reflects a rich history of flourishing alongside major waterways.
Story: Local lore tells of a drum-shaped rock on the mountain behind the village that miraculously sounded whenever great misfortune approached the town.
Name: The Chinese characters in its name describe the large rock resembling a traditional drum nestled on the rocky mountain slopes.
Food: Grown in pure mountain valleys with large temperature swings, plump daebong persimmons are beloved for their rich sweetness and bright color.
Name: The town received its sturdy name because the surrounding mountain ridges rise steeply like solid fortress walls embracing the quiet valley.
Food: Sun-dried red peppers grown under gentle mountain breezes and warm sunshine are cherished for their thick flesh and deep spicy aroma.
Fun fact: Sheltered by the southern ridge of Biseulsan mountain, this quiet basin displays peaceful pastoral scenery surrounded by green countryside paths.
Photo spot: Strolling along the wooden boardwalk of Upo Eco Experience Center in Jumae-ri lets visitors photograph diverse wetland plants and visiting waterfowl.
Name: The name reflects the geographic landscape where numerous streams and reservoirs gracefully come together across the fertile open farmland.
Fun fact: Positioned upstream along Topyeongcheon stream flowing into Upo Wetland, the area harmoniously blends moist natural ecology with expansive farming fields.
Fun fact: Recognized as the historic cradle of Korean onion farming, this agricultural center developed extensive onion fields across fertile red clay soils.
Photo spot: Strolling through the alleyways around the historic Seong Clan Ancestral House in Seok-ri allows visitors to capture elegant tiled-roof architecture.
Food: Harvested from nutrient-rich red soil, local onions feature glossy skins and rich juices that enhance countless traditional Korean recipes.
Photo spot: Walking past the grassy earthen mounds of Gyeseong Ancient Tombs offers open horizons and historical panoramas against the expansive blue sky.
Story: Tale has it that valiant warriors guarded the rugged mountain valleys near Yeongchwisan to defend the ancient kingdom from invading forces.
Name: The name reflects clear running streams and protective mountain fortresses encircling the landscape, combining stream and fortress characters.
Story: Every Jeongwol Daeboreum, the entire community splits into eastern and western teams to pull a massive rope praying for peace and harvests.
Photo spot: The stone arch of Mannyeon Bridge creates an enchanting circular reflection upon the calm water, drawing photographers seeking timeless historic scenes.
Name: The name originates from sacred Yeongchwisan mountain, embodying the spiritual wish to provide peaceful shelter for all residing people.
Name: Local accounts suggest the name arose from ancient pastures where military horses were trained across lands shaped somewhat like a running steed.
Photo spot: Visiting Chogok Reservoir early in the morning lets travelers capture calm waters draped in light mist reflecting surrounding forest hills.
Food: Garlic harvested from sunlit red clay hills features firm cloves and a distinct savory pungency favored for making rich seasoning pastes.
Food: Richly simmered sundae hot pot packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful blood sausage draws food enthusiasts eager for authentic regional tastes.
Name: Meaning a river-crossing ferry crossing, the name remembers busy riverbanks where boats and travelers crossed the flowing Nakdonggang river.
Photo spot: Standing on the embankment of Deokgok Reservoir offers sweeping vistas of tranquil rural rooftops and rice paddies framed by gentle hills.
Story: Legend recounts that an injured white crane soaked its broken wing in steaming natural springs and flew away completely healed.
Name: Its name incorporates the Chinese character for a cauldron, symbolizing natural valleys bubbling with naturally piping-hot spring waters.
Photo spot: Resting at the outdoor foot-bath pavilion in Bugok Hot Springs Special Tourist Zone allows visitors to snap cozy souvenir photos while relaxing.
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.