On the doorstep of Naejangsan National Park, Jeongeup is a small city that lies within South Korea’s North Jeolla Province. It’s framed by rugged mountains and the sprawling plains of the Dongjin River and was the site of a famous uprising against public officials in the late 19th century.
Things to do in Jeongeup
A short drive from the centre of Jeongeup is the Museong Seowon Confucian School, which is one of nine South Korean academies that have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Admire its ornate architecture and the Maitreya Buddha statue as you learn about the Confucian traditions that were once taught here.
North of Jeongeup is the Donghak Peasants Revolution Memorial Hall, which was established to commemorate the events that took place at the adjacent Hwangtohyeon Historical Site. Learn about the peasants who rallied against corrupt officials here in 1894 as you explore the museum exhibits, which include period artefacts and old documents.
Jeongeup serves as a gateway to Naejangsan National Park, which is named after the 763-mere-high peak that it encompasses. It’s home to more than 900 recorded plant species and several endangered animals and is particularly popular during the autumn due to its colourful foliage. Photograph the Baegyangsa Temple and hike to the Dodeokpokpo Falls or coincide your visit with spring when the cherry trees are in bloom.
Getting around Jeongeup
Jeongeup is around an hour by train from Gwangju Airport, which has regular flights to Seoul and Jeju. Trains connect from destinations across South Korea to the Jeongeup railway station. Buses travel throughout Jeongeup and connect most of its attractions while having your own vehicle gives you greater freedom to explore. The centre of Jeongeup is compact enough to explore on foot.