‘Honbul’ is an epic novel written about three generations of women from the Namwon Lee clan living under the rule of the Japanese in the 1930s. The word ‘Honbul’ literally means ‘a torch of the soul’ and refers to the indomitable spirits of the women that persevered through hard times. The novel was written by the late Choi Myeong-hee over the period of 17 years and remains a much celebrated novel. Sangsin Village and Nobong Village in Namwon-si were the author’s hometown and served as the background of the novel ‘Honbul’. Located inside the village is a traditional Korean house that is an example of yangban (noble class) architecture and the Honbul Literary House, where visitors have an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the novel ‘Hobul’. At the entrance of Nobong Village stands a pair of jangseungs (Korean traditional totem poles), welcoming visitors inside.

The Invention Education Center offers an experience room, experience hall, lecture rooms, and various other facilities throughout four floors. Visitors can learn about top inventors and their inventions in each area. The education programs are conducted by researchers from Daedeok Innopolis, members of the board of examiners of the Korea Industrial Property Office, professors from top universities and more. With their vast knowledge and experience, the lecturers help to cultivate students' ingenuity and competitive spirit. The Invention Education Center aims to help students understand inventions better through the use of fun and playful experiences. The experiences are divided into four themes, including "Click, Imagination Icon," "View Imagination's Strength," "The Fruit of Imagination," and "Imagination is Reality."

The birthplace of Yuk Young-soo is the last house on Hyangsu 100-ri gil in Okcheon-eup, Okcheon-gun of Chungcheongbuk-do. Mrs. Yuk Young-soo was born from the house and raised, until to later stage the establishment to fall in disrepair. Luckily, the building was restored in May of 2011, and it became open to the public. The house was originally built in the 1600s by Kim Jeongseung, and subsequently lived in by Song Jeongseung, and then Min Jeongseung, gaining the house the nickname of "Samjeongseong House," meaning the house of three Jeongseong's. (The Jeongseong's rank is similiar to that of prime minister's today.) Before Mrs. Yuk Young-soo was born, the house was bought in 1918 from the sons of Min Jeongseung by Yuk Jong-gwan, and then repaired in the likeness of a typical Chungcheong yangban (noble class) house from the late Joseon period. After entering through the main gate, the large site features a meeting room, outer room, inner room, backroom, servants quarters, annex, back garden, arbor, and lotus pond.

Located approximately 16 kilometers northeast of Cheongju-si City, Chojeong Mineral Spring is acknowledged as one of the three major mineral springs in the world along with Shasta Spring of the U.S. and Napolinas Spring of the U.K. Chojeong Mineral Spring was discovered around 600 years ago and became nationally known ever since as the source of naturally carbonated water that has a piquant and cool taste. It is said that King Sejong (1397-1450, reign 1418-1450) visited the springs in 1444 and stayed here for 60 days to treat his eye infection. The daily yield of carbonated water here is 458 tons, which is used for producing natural soda drinks. There are presently two mineral water plant facilities in the area. The healing effects of Chojeong Mineral Spring are presumed to come from the abundant radium contained in the water, which is effective in treating eye infections and skin ailments.

The Women’s History Exhibition Hall is a cultural space and exhibition area that covers the history of women Korea, and is the first of its kind in Korea. Continuously exploring and unfolding information and items related to the history of Korean women, and situating the material in a balanced historical context, the Exhibition Hall aims to give women their rightful place in Korean history. In addition, the Women’s History Exhibition Hall intends to enhance women’s sense of pride and expand gender equality through its various activities, including public education programs and special exhibitions.

Located 13km away from Damyang-eup, Chuwolsan Mountain (731m) is was designated Jeollanam-do Provincial Monument No. 4 and is one of the five famous mountains of Jeollanam-do. It marks the boundary between Jeollanam-do, South Jeolla Province (Wolgye-ri, Yong-myeon, the most northern town in Damyang-gun) and Jeollabuk-do, North Jeolla Province (Bokheung-myeon, Sunchang-gun). The mountain is surrounded by forest areas, rock formations and stones, and rock walls that look like intentionally-built fortifications with a narrow path to the west which can accommodate only one person at a time. Shaped like a Buddhist monk lying down when it is seen from Damyang-eup’s side, it is popular for various naturally grown medicinal herbs as well as rare kinds of Chuwolsan orchids. Bottom of the mountain has gentle slopes and densely-packed old pine trees, making it the best destination for recreation and relaxation for families every summer. Higher part of the mountain is hard to climb despite the fact that the mountain is not high. However, it is visited by mountain climbers all around the year. Located under Sangbong Peak is a hermitage and a mineral spring that reportedly never dries up. The peak also boasts an impressive view of the surrounding area, including Damyangho Lake. Chuwolsan Mountain was a battle site during the Imjin War along with nearby Geumseongsanseong Fortress. The last battle of Donghak Peasant Revolution also took place at Chuwolsan Mountain.  

Beopseongpo (법성포) is where an Indian Monk Mirananta first set foot on Korean territory in A.D 384 to spread Buddhism, having made his journey via Dongjin in China. This area then is being developed as a tourist destination as the originating place of Buddhism in Korea. Note: the word ‘Beop’ in ‘Beop-seong-po’ means Buddhism while ‘Seong’ means a saint, referring to the Indian Monk Marananta. The origins of Buddhism in Korea are clear for Goguryeo and the Silla Kingdoms, but regarding the Kingdom of Baekje it is a little more obscure. It has been claimed by word of mouth in this region that the Indian Monk Marananta came to Beopseongpo of Yeonggwang to deliver his message of Buddhism and built the Bulgapsa Temple (불갑사) which hence became the first monument of Buddhism in the Baekje Kingdom.

Mangyeongdae Pavilion (만경대), located on the shore of the East Coast, one-kilometer east of Donghae City Hall, was built in 1613 while old Joseon was under the rule of King Gwanghaegun. However, the pavilion was destroyed by rainstorms and later rebuilt by the Samcheok Kim family some 60 years ago. While offering a spectacular view of sea to the east, the pavilion also offers a refreshing view of expansive pine forests to the north. If you look to the west, you will enjoy a magnificent view of Mt Duta beyond the pavilion’s back lawn as well as the Jeoncheon Stream flowing into the East Sea alongside a steep cliff-wall. As only Jukseoru Pavilion of Samcheok matched its view, poets of former times are said to have frequented Mangyeongdae Pavilion.  

Located in Jung-gu, Incheon, Gwandong Gallery is a unique cultural space that blends history, art, and architecture. The gallery is housed in a 90-year-old Japanese-style wooden residence, offering visitors a glimpse into Incheon's past while serving as a hub for contemporary artistic expression. Historic Architecture & Cultural Significance The gallery is set in a well-preserved wooden hanok-style building from the early 20th century, reflecting a time when Incheon was a key point of international trade and cultural exchange. The structure retains traditional wooden beams, sliding doors, and tiled roofs, giving visitors an authentic experience of period architecture. It stands as a historical landmark, preserving the legacy of Incheon's architectural evolution. Exhibitions & Programs Gwandong Gallery serves as a dynamic exhibition space, featuring: * Art Exhibitions – Showcasing both modern and traditional Korean and international artworks. * Historical Displays – Exhibits that delve into Incheon's urban and cultural history. * Cultural Events – Workshops, artist talks, and educational programs that engage the local and international community. The gallery continuously curates new content, making each visit a fresh and engaging experience for returning guests. Visitor Information * Location: 38, Sinpo-ro 31beon-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon, South Korea * Opening Hours: Typically open Friday to Sunday (Hours may vary depending on exhibitions) * Contact: +82 32-766-8660 It is recommended to check the gallery’s schedule in advance, as exhibition times and special events may affect visiting hours. Nearby Attractions A visit to Gwandong Gallery pairs well with exploring Incheon’s historic sites, such as: * Incheon Chinatown – Korea’s largest and oldest Chinatown, known for its rich culinary scene and cultural landmarks. * Open Port History District – A heritage zone with preserved architecture from Incheon’s early trade era. * Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village – A colorful neighborhood with murals and themed streets. Why Visit? Gwandong Gallery offers more than just an art space—it is a historical landmark, a cultural storytelling venue, and an immersive artistic experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply looking to explore Incheon’s lesser-known gems, this gallery provides a quiet retreat into the past while embracing the creative pulse of the present.

Miryang Theatre Village was etablished in 1999 and is situated in Gyeongsangnam-do Province's Miryang U-RI Theatre Institute. The Street Theatre Troupe (STT), led by the art director Lee Youn-taek, took up residence in the village, giving the village a reputation as a great place to enjoy the arts. Beginning with simple performances, the village has evolved into a popular theatre offering tour performances (across the country and abroad), theatre education, and theatre experience programs and has accumulated materials about the history of Korean theatre. The village's performance hall, Forest Theatre, is equipped with 500 seats while the indoor indoor studio theatre can accomodate 120 guests. STT shows various performances every Saturday and 40-50 performances every year, attracting over 150 visitors to each performance. In addition to performances, visitors can enjoy touring the entire village from performance halls to practice rooms and costume rooms, broadening their understanding of how theatre actually works.