Geochang County Undergoes Major Transformation in Gangnam District... The Urban Future Map Is Changing

Integration of Residential, Cultural, and Transportation Infrastructure

Full-scale Launch of Regional Vitality Town, Art Gallery, and Southern Bypass Road Projects

The urban map of Geochang County, Gyeongsangnam-do is being redrawn. At the center of this transformation is the southern area of Geochang-eup, often referred to as the "Gangnam District." The Jeongjang-ri and Daepyeong-ri areas have long been considered relatively underdeveloped, but with the recent launch of large-scale projects combining residential, cultural, and transportation infrastructure, the region is quickly emerging as a new growth axis for Geochang.

Key projects such as the Regional Vitality Town development, the construction of the Geochang Art Gallery, and the creation of the Southern Bypass Road are being pursued simultaneously, transforming the area into a multi-functional residential hub equipped with a high-quality living environment, cultural infrastructure, and transportation network. Furthermore, with the addition of a medical welfare town and a smart agriculture complex, the Gangnam District is expected to become the core base for Geochang's future development.

Geochang-gun, Aerial View of the Entire Regional Vitality Town Project Site

◆"Regional Vitality Town" Enhancing Quality of Life

At the heart of the Gangnam District's transformation is the Regional Vitality Town, which is being developed in the Jeongjang-ri area. This project, covering approximately 48,817 square meters and with a total project cost of 29.2 billion won, is drawing attention as a new residential model supporting the stable settlement of retirees and young people alike.

The complex will feature land for 47 single-family homes and 16 townhouse units. Notably, the townhouses will be built using a modular construction method, where structures are manufactured in factories and assembled on-site, enabling both shorter construction periods and improved efficiency.

Alongside residential space, various living infrastructure will also be established. A multi-purpose cultural center equipped with a communal kitchen and a small library, as well as a national sports center for seniors’ health, will be constructed, creating a living environment where residents can enjoy culture, leisure, and wellness all in one place.

The year 2026 is considered a critical period for project implementation. Site development is underway with completion targeted for the end of the year, while major public facilities are set to break ground within the year, aiming for completion next year.

◆"Geochang Art Gallery," A Cultural Space in Daily Life

The expansion of cultural infrastructure is another important pillar of change in the Gangnam District. Within the Jeongjang Park area, the Geochang Art Gallery—a cultural space focused on visual arts—is planned for construction.

This gallery, with a total project cost of approximately 8.8 billion won and a total floor area of 1,504 square meters, will include a special exhibition hall, a multipurpose room, and educational spaces. It will provide local artists with opportunities for creation and exhibition, while offering residents high-quality arts and culture programs.

In addition, amenities such as a café and a souvenir shop will be created, allowing the gallery to serve as a multi-purpose cultural space offering both culture and relaxation to visitors of Jeongjang Park. The detailed design process is almost complete, with construction scheduled to begin in the first half of this year and completion targeted for the end of 2027.

◆"Southern Bypass Road" Completing the Urban Circulation Network

Another core element in the development of the Gangnam District is the establishment of a transportation network. The Southern Bypass Road project, aimed at alleviating chronic traffic congestion in downtown Geochang-eup, is now in full swing.

This project involves expanding and connecting a 2.9-kilometer section between Songjeong-ri and Daepyeong-ri into a four-lane road, with a total project cost of 48.9 billion won. With 2.132 billion won in national funding secured this year, the project is progressing rapidly.

Upon completion, the Southern Bypass Road is expected to significantly improve vehicle flow in downtown Geochang-eup and create a comprehensive urban transportation network connecting the Regional Vitality Town, the Art Gallery, and the future Medical Welfare Town.

Geochang County, Southern Bypass Road Construction

◆"The Future of Geochang" Centered on the Gangnam District

In addition to these projects, several other major initiatives are underway in the Gangnam District. These include the Medical Welfare Town (with a project cost of 282.6 billion won and a current completion rate of about 50%), the Gimcheon District Redevelopment Project (40.3 billion won), and the Smart Agriculture Development Complex (20 billion won).

With residential, medical, cultural, transportation, and future-oriented agriculture functions all integrated into a single living zone, the Gangnam District is establishing itself as the new central axis of Geochang’s development.

Geochang County Mayor Koo Inmo stated, "The development of the Gangnam area in Geochang-eup is more than just an expansion of basic infrastructure; it is a driving force for future growth, creating a Geochang where everyone will want to live. We will ensure the smooth progress of the Regional Vitality Town, Art Gallery, and Southern Bypass Road projects, which will be in full swing in 2026, to make Geochang a happy and vibrant city that our residents can truly appreciate."

The changes in the Gangnam District are expected to be a pivotal turning point, going beyond simple urban development to determine the balanced growth and future competitiveness of Geochang.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.