Ever wonder how a district gets its name? Dongjak District’s story starts with a ferry. It’s a tale of rivers, history and a bustling area in Seoul.
Dongjak District is one of Seoul’s 25 districts. The name “Dongjak” comes from the Dongjaegi Naruteo Ferry. This ferry crossed the Han River which borders the district to the north.
Dongjak-gu became a district on April 1 1980. Before that it was part of Gwanak District. This makes it the 17th district created in Seoul. The Han River has shaped Dongjak-gu’s story. The river was important for transportation and defense.
Long ago the Hangang area was key to Korean history. King Jangsu conquered this area in 475. He divided it into two regions. One was Ingbeolno-hyeon to the west. The other was Yulmok-gun to the east. Later Ingbeolnohyeon became Gogyang-hyeon. Yulmok-gun became Yuljin-gun.
Gogyang was known for farming. Yuljin was known for chestnut trees near Noryangjin. During the Goryeo Dynasty the areas changed again. Gogyang-hyeon became Geumju. Yuljin-gun became Gwaju.
When Hanyang which is now Seoul became the capital Dongjak became important. It connected the capital to the southern regions. The Dongjaeginaru and Nodeulnaru Ferries grew. They helped the area prosper. Dongjak also became a key military point.
King Jeongjo often traveled to Hyeollyungwon Temple in Suwon. He crossed the Hangang using a temporary bridge. This bridge used many boats. The Nodeul Ferry area became busy. Construction offices and a pavilion were built. Roads between Noryangjin and Suwon were improved.
In the late 18th century river merchants thrived. The population of Hanseong grew fast. The road to Suwon and Dongjaeginaruteo Ferry prospered. Later the area became part of Incheon-bu. After Japanese colonization it fell under Gyeongseong-bu. After liberation parts of Siheung Gimpo and Bucheon became part of Yeongdeungpo-gu. In 1973 the Dongjak area became part of Gwanak-gu.
Finally on April 1 1980 Dongjak-gu became its own district. Today Dongjak-gu is a dynamic part of Seoul. It has attractions like Boramae Park and Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market. The district is also home to universities. These include Chongshin University and Soongsil University.
Dongjak-gu has sister city relationships around the world. These include Surrey in Canada and Pinggu in China. The district is also the birthplace of famous people. These include actor Lee Min-ho and RM from BTS. From its ferry origins to its modern day vibrancy Dongjak District continues to evolve. It balances history culture and urban life.