Buan-gun is one of 15 cities, counties and districts in Jeonbuk. It has 13 neighborhoods (1 eup · 12 myeon) and 46,950 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Buan-eup with 19,819.
13neighborhoods
46,950residents
Landmark stamp: Naesosa Temple
Embraced by the rugged crags of Byeonsan Peninsula in Buan, this peaceful temple is celebrated for its fragrant fir avenue and delicately carved wooden doors.
What to see
Stroll along the dense fir tree pathway beginning at the entrance gate to immerse yourself in refreshing forest aromas.
History
Founded during the Baekje Kingdom by monk Hyeguduta, this historic sanctuary has long stood in the Byeonsanbando peninsula.
Legends & stories
A mystical legend recounts that a carpenter turned into a bluebird while painting the main hall before flying away.
Food, festivals and stories of Buan-gun
Local food
Buan is known for nourishing clam porridge made with plump clams and savory fermented seafood seasoned with Gomso sea salt.
Did you know?
Chaeseokgang Cliffs in Byeonsanbando National Park display grand sedimentary coastal cliffs layered like thousands of neatly stacked books.
Local story
Folklore of Gaeyang Halmi tells of a protective sea goddess revered by local sailors for calming stormy waves along the coast.
On screen
Buan Video Theme Park served as the grand Joseon palace filming location for the acclaimed historical box-office movie Masquerade.
Neighborhoods of Buan-gun (13)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Buan-eup부안읍eup · 19,819 residents
Story: The grave and monument of the Joseon poet Yi Mae-chang are preserved here, keeping her poignant love stories and poetry alive today.
Photo spot: The ancient stone guardians and wooden totems at Seomunan Dangsan provide a serene, traditional backdrop for memorable travel photography.
Food: Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood caught straight from the West Sea alongside warm traditional pastries at Buan Permanent Market.
Story: The prominent Silhak scholar Yu Hyeong-won retreated to Uban-dong, where he authored the monumental reform treatise Bangye Surok.
Fun fact: The ancient kiln sites of Yucheon-ri preserve the historic heritage where artisans crafted exquisite inlaid celadon during the Goryeo Dynasty.
Story: A beloved legend tells of a master carpenter who intricately carved lotus and chrysanthemum patterns onto the doors of Naesosa Temple.
Photo spot: The dense fir forest path stretching from the Iljumun gate of Naesosa Temple offers visitors wonderfully lush greenery throughout all seasons.
Food: The seafood markets near Gomso Port offer diverse fermented fish dishes seasoned delicately with naturally dried solar sea salt.
Name: The area took the name Baeksan because white stones covered the peak, making the mountain appear radiant from afar.
Story: A famous historic lore recounts that peasant armies standing created a white hill with garments, yet turned green when seated holding spears.
Photo spot: Ascending the historic Baeksanseong fortress site reveals breathtaking panoramic views across the Honam Plain spreading between two major rivers.
Story: Legend recounts that ancient villagers hid sacred Buddha statues deep within Seokbulsan valleys to safeguard them against foreign maritime invaders.
Fun fact: Buan Nuri Cocoon Town allows travelers to explore sericulture heritage while discovering traditional techniques of extracting smooth silk threads.
Name: The port was named Julpo because tidal sea waters naturally stretched inland like a long, slender winding rope.
Story: Elderly villagers still share memories of bustling seasonal yellow corvina fish markets that brought bustling prosperity along the historic harbor.
Photo spot: The vast reeds and mudflats of Julpoman Mudflat Eco Park provide visitors with an idyllic setting for sunset photography walks.
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.