Gangbuk-gu is one of 25 cities, counties and districts in Seoul. It has 13 neighborhoods (13 dong) and 277,307 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Samgaksan-dong with 29,810.
13neighborhoods
277,307residents
Landmark stamp: Bukhansan Mountain
Encompassing dramatic granite peaks and ancient mountain fortress walls, this famous national park attracts numerous hikers exploring diverse trails and scenic forested valleys.
What to see
Monumental granite peaks such as Baegundae and Insubong rise steeply, creating magnificent rocky mountain views set against the city skyline.
History
A robust fortress wall built along the rugged mountain terrain to guard the capital still stands along the ridges.
Visitor tip
Since many trails traverse steep rocky slabs, wearing sturdy hiking boots with reliable traction is essential for a safe climb.
Food, festivals and stories of Gangbuk-gu
Local food
At Suyu Market, visitors can savor heartwarming traditional market snacks such as freshly fried twisted donuts and savory braised pig trotters.
Did you know?
The April 19th National Cemetery stands as an honorable sanctuary commemorating the brave citizens who sacrificed their lives for Korean democracy.
Festivals
The April 19th Revolution National Culture Festival takes place every spring in Suyu-dong to celebrate the enduring spirit of democracy.
Neighborhoods of Gangbuk-gu (13)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Samyang-dong삼양동dong · 24,198 residents
Name: The name Samyang carries the poetic meaning of a warm and sunny hillside settlement nestled on the southern slope of Mount Samgaksan.
Food: Nostalgic eateries near Samyang Market continue to delight visitors with sweet and spicy soup-style tteokbokki and freshly fried street treats.
Food: The bustling food alleys around Suyu Station stay illuminated late into the night, packed with diverse restaurants and cozy cafes.
Fun fact: Serving as the administrative core with Gangbuk-gu Office, this busy district remains vibrant throughout the day thanks to convenient public transportation.
Name: People long called this village Cow Ear Valley because a prominent rock peak on the mountain ridge resembled a cow's ears.
Story: Here stands Bonghwanggak, where patriotic leader Son Byeong-hui trained national leaders and planned the historic independence movement.
Photo spot: Walking along the serene trails of Uidong Valley lets you take lovely photographs surrounded by refreshing streams and lush forest canopies.
Name: The village was named after Insubong, the magnificent granite peak of Bukhansan that rises proudly against the western horizon.
Story: The resting place of patriot Yi Jun, who died in The Hague advocating for Korean independence, lies peacefully in these mountain foothills.
Food: Along the avenue leading toward the memorial cemetery, a pleasant cafe street invites visitors with specialty coffees and delicious handmade bakeries.
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.