Jinan-gun is one of 15 cities, counties and districts in Jeonbuk. It has 11 neighborhoods (1 eup · 10 myeon) and 25,006 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Jinan-eup with 9,939.
11neighborhoods
25,006residents
Landmark stamp: Maisan Mountain
Resembling a pair of horse ears rising abruptly over Jinan, this distinctive provincial park is renowned for unusual conglomerate peaks and mysterious stone towers.
What to see
The twin rocky peaks resembling horse ears create a dramatic silhouette that stands out sharply against the peaceful valley.
History
The stone pagodas at Tapsa Temple were meticulously erected without mortar by hermit Yi Gap-yong in the late Joseon era.
Legends & stories
During freezing winter days, bowls of water placed outdoors often freeze into peculiar upward-growing icicles known as reverse icicles.
Food, festivals and stories of Jinan-gun
Local food
Jinan is famous for premium red ginseng processed from highland roots and flavorful grilled black pork dishes.
Did you know?
Maisan Mountain features two peaks resembling horse ears and houses Tapsa Temple filled with stacked stone pagodas.
Festivals
Every autumn, Jinan Red Ginseng Festival welcomes visitors near Maisan Mountain to celebrate regional wellness culture and local specialties.
Local story
According to local legend, King Taejo of Joseon prayed at Maisan Mountain and received a sacred golden ruler in his dream.
Neighborhoods of Jinan-gun (11)
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Jinan-eup진안읍eup · 9,939 residents
Photo spot: You can stroll along the deck path of Sayangje Reservoir in northern Maisan, enjoying the scenic mountain reflection across the tranquil water.
Food: Visiting the bustling traditional market during its five-day fair offers plenty of aromatic deodeok roots and freshly harvested local ginseng.
Story: Legend says King Taejo of Joseon received a divine golden ruler in his dream here, giving this mysterious mountain its historic royal name.
Name: The village was named Yongdam after an ancient, deep pond where a dragon was believed to dwell before ascending gracefully into heaven.
Photo spot: Climbing the hill around Yongdamhyanggyo local academy offers scenic views where traditional tiled roofs meet the blue waters of Yongdamho Lake.
Fun fact: The massive Yongdam Dam built along the upper Geumgang River created a vast and serene artificial lake embraced by surrounding ridges.
Food: Bowls of savory acorn jelly soup made with clear groundwater and wild acorns gathered from the local hills are beloved by travelers.
Fun fact: Walking along the trail of Noseongsanseong Fortress built during Baekje times rewards visitors with scenic vistas of surrounding lake landscapes.
Food: Watermelons grown in this high-altitude basin endure sharp daily temperature swings, developing exceptional sweetness and a pleasantly crisp texture.
Story: Legends echo around Gitdaebong Peak of Cheonbansan Mountain, where the Joseon scholar Jeong Yeo-rip supposedly trained troops pursuing an egalitarian society.
Name: The region received its name meaning mulberry field because residents historically cultivated numerous mulberry trees to raise silkworms for weaving silk.
Photo spot: Standing at Songpungjeong Pavilion overlooking the center of Yongdamho Lake reveals picturesque bridges spanning across the winding mountain waters.
Story: The scenic islet Jukdo cradled by the river carries a poignant historical tale of scholar Jeong Yeo-rip hiding during turbulent political strife.
Photo spot: Strolling through Wonchon Village unveils nostalgic alleys lined with charming retro signboards painted with heartfelt stories of lifelong residents.
Fun fact: Demisaem Spring situated beneath the slopes of Cheonsangdemi marks the very beginning of the graceful Seomjingang River flowing toward the southern sea.
Story: Folklore tells that drifting white clouds always lingered around the mountain peaks here, naturally giving this tranquil rural village its poetic name.
Name: The region received its name Maryeong because its rolling mountain pass resembled the gentle curve of a horse's neck and chin.
Photo spot: Entering Tapsa Temple on Maisan Mountain reveals mysterious stone pagodas meticulously stacked by hermit Lee Gap-yong that withstand severe gusts.
Story: A mysterious winter phenomenon occurs beneath the Cheongsil pear tree at Eunsu-sa Temple, where ice spires freeze upward toward the sky.
Name: The area was named Jucheon after an intriguing legend of a rocky spring whose cold water tasted as fragrant as sweet wine.
Photo spot: Standing upon the suspension bridge spanning Unilam Banilam Valley offers panoramic vistas of dramatic cliffs and pristine crystal waters below.
Story: Legend holds that the sheer canyon walls allowed only passing clouds to linger, granting sunlight for only half a day in Unilam Banilam.
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.