Explore South Korea’s Provinces and Cities: Meaning, Population & Famous Attractions


South Korea is divided into 17 major administrative regions, including metropolitan cities, provinces, and special autonomous areas. Each region has its own cultural identity, economic focus, and tourist charm. Here’s a full guide to understanding the meaning behind their names, population size, and what makes them special. 


1. Seoul (서울특별시)

  • Meaning: “Seoul” means capital city — the heart of South Korea.

  • Population: About 9.4 million.

  • Highlights: The country’s center for politics, economy, education, and K-culture.

  • Famous for: Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Myeongdong, and Han River.

2. Gyeonggi-do (경기도)

  • Meaning: “Gyeong” (capital) + “Gi” (surrounding area).

  • Population: Around 13 million — the largest in Korea.

  • Highlights: Home to tech hubs and modern residential cities.

  • Famous for: Suwon Fortress, Everland, and Pangyo Techno Valley.

3. Incheon (인천광역시)

  • Meaning: “In” (benevolence) + “Cheon” (stream).

  • Population: About 3 million.

  • Highlights: Major port and international gateway.

  • Famous for: Incheon Airport, Songdo Smart City, Wolmido Island.

4. Busan (부산광역시)

  • Meaning: “Bu” (cauldron) + “San” (mountain).

  • Population: About 3.4 million.

  • Highlights: Korea’s largest port and second-largest city.

  • Famous for: Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli, Jagalchi Market, BIFF.

5. Daegu (대구광역시)

  • Meaning: “Big Hill” — symbolizes a large plain surrounded by mountains.

  • Population: About 2.4 million.

  • Highlights: Textile and fashion industries, traditional markets.

  • Famous for: Palgongsan, Seomun Market, and spicy Daegu dishes.

6. Gwangju (광주광역시)

  • Meaning: “City of Light.”

  • Population: About 1.4 million.

  • Highlights: Center of democracy, art, and culture.

  • Famous for: Gwangju Biennale, 5·18 Memorial Park, Mudeungsan.

7. Daejeon (대전광역시)

  • Meaning: “Great field.”

  • Population: Around 1.5 million.

  • Highlights: Korea’s science and technology hub.

  • Famous for: Daedeok Research Complex, Expo Science Park.

8. Ulsan (울산광역시)

  • Meaning: “Luxuriant Mountain.”

  • Population: Around 1.1 million.

  • Highlights: Industrial powerhouse — shipbuilding and automotive.

  • Famous for: Hyundai Heavy Industries, Taehwagang River, Ganjeolgot.

9. Sejong (세종특별자치시)

  • Meaning: Named after King Sejong the Great.

  • Population: About 400,000.

  • Highlights: Administrative capital, eco-friendly smart city.

  • Famous for: Government Complex, Sejong Lake Park.

10. Gangwon-do (강원도)

  • Meaning: “River and Plain.”

  • Population: About 1.5 million.

  • Highlights: Nature and leisure tourism hub.

  • Famous for: Pyeongchang, Seoraksan, Gangneung Coffee Street.

11. Chungcheongbuk-do (충청북도)

  • Meaning: Northern part of Chungcheong region.

  • Population: Around 1.7 million.

  • Highlights: Inland city famous for education and industry.

  • Famous for: Cheongju, Danyang Caves, and Chungju Lake.

12. Chungcheongnam-do (충청남도)

  • Meaning: Southern part of Chungcheong.

  • Population: Around 2.2 million.

  • Highlights: Coastal industry and agriculture.

  • Famous for: Taean Beach, Boryeong Mud Festival.

13. Jeollabuk-do (전라북도)

  • Meaning: Northern Jeolla province.

  • Population: Around 1.7 million.

  • Highlights: Agricultural heartland and traditional culture.

  • Famous for: Jeonju Hanok Village, Bibimbap.

14. Jeollanam-do (전라남도)

  • Meaning: Southern Jeolla province.

  • Population: About 1.8 million.

  • Highlights: Beautiful islands, seafood, and rural charm.

  • Famous for: Yeosu, Boseong Green Tea Fields, Namdo cuisine.

15. Gyeongsangbuk-do (경상북도)

  • Meaning: Northern Gyeongsang.

  • Population: Around 2.6 million.

  • Highlights: Rich in historical heritage and temples.

  • Famous for: Gyeongju (ancient capital), Andong Hahoe Village.

16. Gyeongsangnam-do (경상남도)

  • Meaning: Southern Gyeongsang.

  • Population: Around 3.3 million.

  • Highlights: Industrial and maritime province.

  • Famous for: Tongyeong, Geoje Island, Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival.

17. Jeju Island (제주특별자치도)

  • Meaning: “Land across the sea.”

  • Population: Around 700,000.

  • Highlights: Volcanic island and UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Famous for: Hallasan Mountain, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, tangerines.

🌸 Why South Korea’s Provinces Are So Unique

From Seoul’s fast-paced lifestyle to Jeju’s tranquil nature, each region of South Korea represents a balance between modern innovation and deep-rooted tradition. Whether you’re a traveler, investor, or student, understanding these 17 regions helps you grasp the nation’s true diversity.

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