Tongyeong-si is one of 22 cities, counties and districts in Gyeongsangnam-do. It has 15 neighborhoods (8 dong · 1 eup · 6 myeon) and 115,838 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Gwangdo-myeon with 31,984.
15neighborhoods
115,838residents
Landmark stamp: Dongpirang Mural Village
Overlooking the busy harbor of Tongyeong, this hillside seaside village charms visitors with vibrant murals painted across exterior walls and winding hilltop stairways.
What to see
Winding alleyways adorned with colorful paintings and artistic murals provide wonderful photo spots for travelers exploring every corner.
History
Once threatened with demolition, this hilltop hillside neighborhood transformed into a beloved cultural space through vibrant community mural projects.
Food nearby
Heading down to the bustling Jungang Market allows visitors to taste local specialties like sweet honey bread and Chungmu gimbap.
Food, festivals and stories of Tongyeong-si
Local food
Chungmu gimbap, served alongside spicy seasoned squid and radish kimchi, is an iconic street food originating from Tongyeong.
Festivals
The Tongyeong Great Battle of Hansan Festival commemorates Admiral Yi Sun-sin's maritime victory with vibrant cultural reenactments by the sea.
Local story
The name Tongyeong originated from the naval headquarters established here during the Joseon Dynasty to command maritime defense forces.
Neighborhoods of Tongyeong-si (15)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Sanyang-eup산양읍eup · 4,058 residents
Photo spot: Climbing up to the Dara Park observatory offers a breathtaking view of scattered islands and evening glow over the southern sea.
Story: The peaceful foothill is home to the memorial hall and final resting place of novelist Park Gyeong-ni, author of the saga Toji.
Story: The narrow Gyeonnaeryang Strait facing Geojedo Island is the historic waterway where Admiral Yi Sun-sin lured the enemy fleet into the open sea.
Photo spot: Standing on the observatory of Tongyeong Tower offers a panoramic and refreshing view of Singeojedaegyo Bridge and the blue strait.
Food: Lined with tranquil coastal bays, the sea is covered with productive aquaculture farms raising fresh oysters throughout the season.
Photo spot: Strolling along the riverside promenade welcomes visitors with fluttering cherry blossoms in spring and colorful hydrangeas in early summer.
Fun fact: The thousand-year-old Anjeongsa Temple, reputedly founded by Monk Wonhyo during Silla, rests peacefully in the embrace of Mt. Byeokbangsan.
Name: The name Saryang arose because the winding waterway flowing between the two islands resembles the slithering path of a long snake.
Photo spot: Standing on the suspension bridge along the rocky ridge of Ongnyeobong Peak reveals emerald ocean waters and distant islands fading softly.
Story: The rugged crags of Ongnyeobong Peak hold an enduring local legend mourning the pure spirit of a tragic maiden named Ongnyeo.
Photo spot: Ascending the alleys of Dongpirang decorated with cheerful murals offers visitors a picturesque panoramic view over the bustling Gangguan Harbor.
Food: Wandering through the alleys of the bustling market lets visitors sample freshly prepared live fish sashimi alongside spicy Chungmu gimbap.
Story: The historic hall Sebyeonggwan was named after an ancient poem that envisions washing away weapons in the Milky Way to achieve lasting peace.
Photo spot: Walking along the coastal promenade in Yi Sun-sin Park reveals sweeping views of azure waves swelling beyond the general's commanding statue.
Story: The coastal hill was traditionally used as a historic military lookout where signals and cheers celebrated the naval victory in the Battle of Hansan.
Name: The name originated from historical records indicating a newly formed village located just outside the northern gate of the naval command headquarters.
Photo spot: Strolling along the coastal walkway allows people to enjoy a peaceful nightscape where calm bay waters meet glittering city lights.
Photo spot: At night, the illuminated emerald arch of Tongyeongdaegyo Bridge reflects vividly across the canal, creating an enchanting waterfront nightscape.
Name: The neighborhood received its poetic name, meaning beautiful water, from the tranquil and scenic currents that flow gently through the canal.
Story: Wonmun Pass, the historical gateway connecting Tongyeong to the mainland, served as a fierce battlefield where marines repelled enemy forces during wartime.
Photo spot: Walking up the hill in Wonmun Park rewards visitors with a sweeping view overlooking the main entrance road to Tongyeong and Buksin Bay.
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.