Wanju-gun is one of 15 cities, counties and districts in Jeonbuk. It has 13 neighborhoods (3 eup · 10 myeon) and 100,719 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Bongdong-eup with 24,170.
13neighborhoods
100,719residents
Landmark stamp: Daedunsan Mountain
Characterized by rugged granite pinnacles rising above Wanju, this dramatic mountain provides exhilarating hiking trails with suspended footbridges and steep scenic staircases.
What to see
The vibrant red Geumgang Suspension Bridge and steep Samseon Stairway deliver exhilarating views high among rugged granite peaks.
Visitor tip
Taking the scenic cable car allows travelers to comfortably bypass the steep lower cliffs and reach the thrilling bridge.
Food nearby
Restaurants near the park entrance serve golden fried ginseng and flavorful wild vegetable bibimbap alongside refreshing regional rice wine.
Food, festivals and stories of Wanju-gun
Local food
Spicy Bongdong ginger and naturally dried persimmons from Dongsang are renowned local agricultural specialties produced in Wanju.
On screen
Global pop group BTS filmed their 2019 Summer Package project at scenic heritage spots in Wanju including Awon Gotaek.
Did you know?
Daedunsan Provincial Park welcomes hikers with its thrilling suspension bridge suspended high between dramatic rocky granite peaks.
Local story
Historic Wibong Fortress is remembered for shielding the royal portrait of King Taejo during historical invasions to safeguard Korean heritage.
Neighborhoods of Wanju-gun (13)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Samnye-eup삼례읍eup · 22,516 residents
Story: Thousands of Donghak Peasant Army followers gathered at this historic junction to stand against corruption and fight for justice across the nation.
Photo spot: Red brick walls and modern sculptures at Samnye Culture Art Village provide picturesque backdrops for visitors capturing memorable aesthetic photos.
Food: Sweet strawberries grown in fertile soil and plentiful sunshine are celebrated throughout the winter and spring as a beloved local specialty.
Story: Ancient Bongseosa Temple on Seobangsan preserves fascinating legends of Monk Jinmuk performing mystical deeds to aid villagers in need.
Fun fact: Local farmers display freshly harvested seasonal produce at a bustling direct-sales market that attracts shoppers seeking trustworthy and healthy food.
Photo spot: Strolling through Gonggi Village Hinoki Cypress Forest lets you capture beautiful photos framed by towering fragrant trees and gentle sunlight.
Story: The rocky pass at Manmagwan fortress ruins honors brave local warriors who fiercely defended the narrow mountain gateway during wartime.
Story: Moaksan Mountain received its affectionate name from legends noting that its grand peak resembles a loving mother holding an infant gently.
Photo spot: Strolling the scenic waterside path around Gui Reservoir lets you photograph picturesque reflections of Moaksan Mountain shimmering on calm waters.
Fun fact: An expansive museum dedicated to traditional liquors lets visitors explore fermentation heritage and regional brews through engaging cultural exhibits.
Photo spot: Gosan Natural Recreation Forest offers refreshing walking trails along clear streams where visitors can photograph lush greenery in soothing fresh air.
Food: The lively five-day market in Gosan invites travelers to experience warm rural hospitality while tasting fresh and savory regional beef.
Name: The area was named Bibong because the surrounding mountain ridges strongly resemble a majestic mythical phoenix spreading its wings toward the sky.
Fun fact: Cheonho Shrine stands quietly in secluded woods, commemorating early Catholic believers who fled persecution and faithfully established a peaceful sanctuary.
Photo spot: Geumgang Suspension Bridge suspended between rugged rocky precipices of Daedunsan offers exhilarating vantage points for photographing sweeping alpine terrain.
Story: Legend says the famous Monk Wonhyo was so spellbound by Macheondae's majestic rock scenery that he stayed entranced for three days.
Food: Naturally cured by crisp valley winds, locally produced dried persimmons offer chewy textures and honeyed sweetness cherished throughout winter months.
Name: The township was poetically named Hwasan because its surrounding layered mountains gently blossom like petals of an elegant flower.
Photo spot: Visiting the restored wooden chapel site at Doejae allows travelers to photograph harmonious historic architecture blending traditional Korean eaves with spirituality.
Food: Carefully reared cattle nourished on clean water and green pastures produce tender beef known for extraordinary savory juiciness and rich flavor.
Food: Made from native seedless persimmons cured in brisk mountain winds, sweet amber-colored dried fruit is an acclaimed autumn harvest treasure.
Photo spot: Driving along scenic lakeside roads around Dongsang Reservoir provides breathtaking vantage points to photograph mirror-like water nestled among undulating peaks.
Story: Travelers heading toward historical civil service exams once paused to change straw sandals here, leaving behind the quaint village name Singgeuraengi.
Photo spot: Reaching secluded Hwaamsa Temple nestled within Bulmyeongsan allows travelers to photograph serene stone staircases alongside timeless wooden pavilion structures.
Food: Thanks to generous sunlight and sharp temperature shifts, sweet jujubes grow exceptionally plump, turning vibrant red during crisp harvest months.
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.