Uiryeong

Straddling the provinces of Jinju and Haman/Masan/Changwon, Uiryeong County isn’t your typical bustling South Korean hub. Uiryeong, nestled in Gyeongsangnam-do, had a mere 28,000 residents in 2021. This makes it one of South Korea’s least populated counties. Its unique oval shape stretches 32 km east to west and 27 km north to south. Imagine traversing this tranquil landscape, a world away from Seoul’s energetic pulse. Uiryeong is accessible, though. Buses connect Uiryeong-gun to major South Korean cities. A bus from Masan takes 35 minutes. From Jinju, it’s a 45-minute ride. Even Busan is just an hour away. Direct buses to Seoul are also available. However, Uiryeong’s tranquility comes with a caveat. Intercity buses cease operations relatively early. The last bus from Busan departs at 6:40 PM. The final ride from Jinju leaves at 7:30 PM. Masan offers a slightly later departure at 9:00 PM. Within Uiryeong, Top Rock (Top Bawhi) beckons. Located in Jukjeon-ri, Jeonggok-myeon, about 10km east of Uiryeong-eup, this natural wonder stands proudly along the Namgang River. The rock formation, resembling a tower, rises from a steep cliff face, a testament to nature’s artistry. Uiryeong also hosts the vibrant Uiryeong Rich Rich Festival. This lively event, held from October 6th to 9th, offers diverse food stalls and bustling market experiences. It’s a unique window into Uiryeong’s local culture. While Uiryeong might be off the beaten path, its serene atmosphere and unique attractions offer a glimpse into a different side of South Korea.