Jinju-si is one of 22 cities, counties and districts in Gyeongsangnam-do. It has 30 neighborhoods (14 dong · 1 eup · 15 myeon) and 333,850 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Gaho-dong with 37,206.
30neighborhoods
333,850residents
Landmark stamp: Chokseongnu Pavilion
Perched gracefully on the rocky cliff above the Namgang River in Jinju, this celebrated pavilion offers splendid river views and reflects timeless architectural beauty.
History
Founded during the Goryeo Dynasty atop a cliff overlooking the Namgang River, this pavilion served as a military command post.
Legends & stories
Beneath the wooden structure rests Uiam Rock, where the brave patriot Nongae leaped into the river with an enemy general.
What to see
Visiting around sunset reveals a splendid nighttime view as fortress illuminations reflect gently across the shimmering surface of the river.
Food, festivals and stories of Jinju-si
Local food
Jinju bibimbap, topped with fresh beef tartare and colorful seasoned vegetables, offers an exquisite harmony of traditional Korean flavors.
Festivals
During the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival, hundreds of colorful illuminated lanterns float gracefully along the river against the night sky.
Local story
Chokseokru Pavilion in Jinju Fortress preserves the moving legend of Nongae, who sacrificed herself bravely for her nation in Namgang.
Neighborhoods of Jinju-si (30)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Munsan-eup문산읍eup · 7,394 residents
Photo spot: Traditional Korean hanok architecture blends gracefully with Western stone elements at Munsan Catholic Church, offering a picturesque setting for visitors.
Food: Sweet and juicy pears cultivated in local orchards have long been celebrated as the representative regional fruit of the township.
Photo spot: Strolling along the scenic riverside walking trail bordering the Namgang River offers visitors peaceful views of flowing water and greenery.
Name: Named after its inner fertile fields, this riverside area continues a peaceful tradition of cultivating fresh greenhouse vegetables.
Name: The name originated from an old Korean word meaning iron valley, reflecting ancient mining sites tucked within the rolling hills.
Fun fact: Sprawling across the clean Yeongcheon River basin, vast fertile fields support extensive organic rice farming and flourishing local agriculture.
Photo spot: The scenic Metasequoia lane and glasshouse gardens inside Gyeongnam Arboretum create stunning natural backdrops for memorable vacation snapshots.
Fun fact: Preserving thousands of diverse plant species within a sprawling forest park, this peaceful area welcomes nature lovers all year round.
Story: Local lore cherishes the iconic pine tree at historic Jisu Elementary School, planted together by future founders of Korea's major enterprises.
Photo spot: The preserved stone walls and traditional hanok residences in Seungsan Village provide an atmospheric backdrop for walking and capturing photos.
Story: A colorful legend recounts that scenic Geumhoji Lake formed when a blue dragon and black dragon fell from heaven after fighting.
Photo spot: The graceful Somanggyo pedestrian bridge and lakeside walking decks around Geumhoji Lake provide wonderful viewpoints for capturing scenic waterside photos.
Photo spot: Historic Eungseoksa Temple features an atmospheric Buddhist hall and a towering ancient ginkgo tree that creates beautiful views across the seasons.
Story: Monks passed down a curious tale of a stone pagoda at Eungseoksa Temple that supposedly perspired before major historical events.
Photo spot: The outdoor grounds of Jinju Bronze Age Museum overlook calm waters of Jinyangho Lake, offering scenic angles for panoramic photography.
Story: Before waters filled the dammed valley, archaeologists uncovered extensive Bronze Age village ruins and ancient jade-crafting workshops along the riverbeds.
Story: The historic beacon tower atop Mount Mangjinsan historically relayed vital defense warnings to the royal capital using smoke and torches.
Photo spot: Strolling through the bamboo grove along Namgaram Starlight Way lets you capture illuminated evening views of Chokseongnu Pavilion reflecting over the river.
Story: At Uiam Rock beside Jinjuseong Fortress, visitors recall the courageous spirit of Nongae, who plunged into the river embracing an enemy general.
Photo spot: Chokseongnu Pavilion commanding a rocky cliff and the graceful stone battlements of Jinjuseong Fortress offer an iconic portrait of traditional Korea.
Story: Nestled beneath Mount Bibongsan, shaped like a soaring phoenix, this scholarly village preserves legends of eminent scholars flourishing in antiquity.
Photo spot: Walking up the wooded slopes of Mount Bibongsan brings travelers to ancient Uigoksa Temple, where tranquil courtyards offer peaceful settings for photos.
Name: The name Sangpyeong stems from Chinese characters indicating upper flatland, describing its position on the gentle plain along the Namgang River.
Fun fact: Housing the long-established Sangpyeong Industrial Complex, this area retains a rich heritage of manufacturing and regional economic growth.
Photo spot: Chojeon Park provides picturesque photo backdrops with its expansive lawns, fountains, tranquil pond boardwalks, and leafy metasequoia paths.
Name: The district name was fashioned by joining the first syllables of historic Chojeon and Jangjae villages surrounded by gentle hilltops.
Photo spot: Lakeside trails and cherry blossom tunnels stretching along the Pyeonggeo Namgang riverbank offer breathtaking spots for colorful spring photography.
Fun fact: Lined with stylish cafes and trendy dining spots along the riverfront, this neighborhood is cherished as a favorite urban leisure district.
Name: The name Ihyeon recalls an old mountain pass once lined with wild pear trees, derived from traditional Chinese characters.
Photo spot: The pleasant trail alongside Nabulcheon Stream features colorful seasonal blossoms and gentle waters, creating lovely settings for casual photos.
Story: Folklore tells of the ancient Panmun ferry dock, once fitted with planked gates to welcome travelers boarding wooden boats across the river.
Photo spot: Standing at Jinyangho Observatory rewards visitors with stunning sunset photographs overlooking the wide lake and the rolling ridges of Jirisan.
Fun fact: Home to Gyeongsang National University and Jinju KTX Station, this energetic southern hub buzzes with students and eager railroad travelers.
Photo spot: The refurbished Old Jinju Station Railroad Park features preserved tracks and vintage locomotive roundhouses that make wonderful vintage photo settings.
Name: This district was named after the honorary title of Admiral Yi Sun-sin when developing the modern innovation city.
Photo spot: Stepping stones across Yeongcheon River and the distinctive facade of the Rhee Sungja Art Museum provide chic contemporary spots for outdoor photos.
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.