Hamyang-gun is one of 22 cities, counties and districts in Gyeongsangnam-do. It has 11 neighborhoods (1 eup · 10 myeon) and 35,036 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Hamyang-eup with 16,695.
11neighborhoods
35,036residents
Landmark stamp: Yongchu Waterfall
Cascading into a deep rock pool in Hamyang, this pristine mountain waterfall flows between lush wooded cliffs within a quiet valley setting.
Legends & stories
A folk tale says that a dragon living in the pool soared to heaven, carving out this secluded deep valley.
What to see
Crisp waterfall torrents plunge into a crystal pond between dense primeval forests, creating radiant splashes of cool mist.
Visitor tip
Walking slowly along the shaded forest path leading toward Yongchusa Temple is a great way to escape the summer heat.
Food, festivals and stories of Hamyang-gun
Local food
Hamyang is celebrated for nutritious wild cultivated ginseng and rich beef rib soup prepared in Anui.
Local story
Legend tells that Silla scholar Choe Chi-won planted Sangnim Forest to protect the local town from devastating floods.
On screen
The historic Ildu House in Gaepyeong Village famously served as the filming location for the hit drama Mr. Sunshine.
Festivals
Hamyang hosts an annual Wild Ginseng Festival at Sangnim Park to celebrate the town's valuable medicinal herbs.
Neighborhoods of Hamyang-gun (11)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Hamyang-eup함양읍eup · 16,695 residents
Story: Legend says that scholar Choe Chi-won created a forest to prevent floods and banished snakes and frogs from the area.
Photo spot: Walking along the tranquil trail of Sangnim Park with blooming lotus flowers offers wonderful photo opportunities in every season.
Story: Legend holds that one hundred shamans gathered in the deep Baekmu-dong Valley to pray and seek divine blessings.
Photo spot: Standing in the tranquil courtyard of Geumdaeam temple reveals panoramic views of the Jirisan ridge for breathtaking landscape photography.
Story: A fascinating legend says that nine dragons clashed fiercely at Yongyudam pool along Eomcheon River, carving grooves into the bedrock.
Photo spot: The scenic Yongyudam pool, where peculiar rock formations meet clear turquoise waters, provides a picturesque backdrop for memorable travel pictures.
Photo spot: Strolling along stone-walled pathways in Gaepyeong Hanok Village offers picturesque vantage points amidst well-preserved traditional Korean heritage houses.
Food: Brewed with fresh pine needles, the traditional Korean liquor Solsongju is beloved for its delicate evergreen aroma and refined taste.
Story: While serving as local magistrate, practical scholar Bak Ji-won built innovative watermills in the area to support ordinary farming villagers.
Photo spot: Perched dramatically upon riverside boulders, Geoyeonjeong pavilion against tumbling valley waters creates a magnificent, painting-like scene for visitors.
Food: Centered around Anui Traditional Market, flavorful beef rib soup featuring tender meat and rich broth attracts travelers from afar.
Food: Drying racks laden with orange persimmons appear across rural villages each autumn, producing sweet, chewy dried persimmons admired nationwide.
Photo spot: Framed by serene forest paths, Gunjajeong pavilion along Hwarimdong Valley provides an idyllic setting for capturing peaceful natural scenery.
Story: Legend tells that scholar Choe Chi-won founded Sangyeondae hermitage on Mount Baegunsan to pray devotedly for his beloved mother.
Food: Vibrant red magnolia berries cultivated in the pristine highlands of Baegunsan mountain are celebrated for their distinctive five balanced flavors.
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.