‘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.

Opened in 2004, the Hangang River Eco Learning Center is situated on the Namhangang Riverside. The site used to be a sandpit before it was turned into a wetland. Effluent from wastewater treatment plants, which in the past was released directly into the Hangang River, now passes through several ponds with various aquatic plants and a one kilometer-long waterway so that it can be naturally purified. This has contributed to an improvement in the water quality of the Hangang River. The learning center was built to restore the Namhangang Riverside area, which was destroyed due to sand extraction, and to restore its natural ecology of willow trees, reeds, and birds. The center organizes a number of ecological excursion programs for children.

Located in Namwon, the birthplace of gugak (Korean classical music), the Chunhyang Culture & Art Center was established to preserve and promote the cultural asset, while providing spaces for art and culture.

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.  

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.

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.  

Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium, located on Ganghwa Island in Incheon, South Korea, is a premier sports venue that seamlessly blends modern athletic facilities with the island's rich cultural heritage. Opened in October 2013, the gymnasium boasts a seating capacity of over 4,000, including 1,428 adjustable seats, making it an ideal location for various events. Key Features: * State-of-the-Art Facilities: Designed to host a wide array of sports and cultural events, the gymnasium is equipped with modern amenities to ensure comfort and convenience for both participants and spectators. * Cultural Significance: The name "Dolmens" pays homage to the nearby Ganghwa Dolmen Sites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting the area's ancient history and cultural importance. * Notable Events: The gymnasium gained international recognition by hosting the taekwondo and wushu events during the 2014 Asian Games, showcasing its capability to facilitate major sporting events. Popular Media Highlight: Adding to its appeal, Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium has been featured as a filming location for the popular SBS TV show "Shooting Stars" (골 때리는 그녀들). This exposure has increased its popularity among fans and tourists alike, who visit to experience the setting of their favorite show. Visiting Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium: Situated amidst the scenic landscapes of Ganghwa Island, the gymnasium offers visitors an opportunity to experience modern Korean sports culture while being in proximity to historical sites. After attending an event, visitors can explore the Ganghwa Dolmen Sites to gain insight into Korea's prehistoric era. Getting There: Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium is accessible via public transportation from Incheon and Seoul. Local buses and taxis provide convenient options for reaching the venue. For detailed directions and event schedules, it's advisable to check the official Ganghwa County website or contact local tourist information centers. Why Visit? Whether you're a sports enthusiast eager to witness local events, a fan of "Shooting Stars" looking to visit a filming location, or a traveler interested in the fusion of modern facilities with historical context, Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium offers a unique experience. Its strategic location allows visitors to enjoy contemporary Korean culture and delve into the rich tapestry of the nation's history. Incorporating a visit to Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium into your travel itinerary provides a balanced glimpse into South Korea's dynamic present and its storied past.

Chilgok Dogae Hot Springs opened on June 1, 1998. Its Grand Hot Springs Bath is capable of accommodating almost 2,000 people at once. The Chilgok Dogae Hot Springs has several facilities such as accommodations, convenience stores, a Korean restaurant, and more. Chilgok Dogae Hot Springs uses alkali sulfur spa water that contains 12.3mg of sulfur, 0.01mg germanium, 30.6mg sodium, 3.11mg chlorine, and 3.09mg fluorine and the water is around 35℃. Prior to first use, the water does not undergo any filtering so that it maintains all its natural benefits. There are several tourism attractions near the hot springs like the Songjeong Natural Recreation Forest, Dabudong War Memorial Museum, and Waegwan War Memorial Museum.

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 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.