Gumi (구미시) is a city in North Gyeongsang. The city is located along the Nakdong River and is surrounded by mountains such as Geumosan, making it both an industrial hub and a place with notable natural scenery. Though not a popular tourist destination, Gumi provides excellent hiking and cultural opportunities for visitors.
Understand
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Gumi is a major industrial epicenter in South Korea, being home to the Samsung mobile and LG Display industrial complexes.
Gumi is also the birthplace of Park Chung-hee, the military dictator who ruthlessly ruled South Korea in the 1960s-1970s. Ironically, the city is also the birthplace of his assassin, KCIA director Kim Jae-gyu, who shot him in 1979.
History
[edit]Gumi has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. Archaeological findings, such as dolmens in Goa-eup and Ok-gye-dong, as well as pottery fragments and stone tools, indicate that people settled in the area from the Neolithic through the Bronze Age.
During the Three Kingdoms period, Gumi was a strategically important point due to its proximity to Silla’s capital, Gyeongju. Its surrounding Geumo Mountain served both as a natural defense fortress and a center for religious and cultural activities. Notably, important defense facilities like Geumosanseong Fortress were constructed, underscoring its role as a key Silla stronghold.
In the Goryeo and Joseon periods, the region developed primarily as an agricultural hub, cultivating rice and cotton. It also served as a military and transportation center, linking important regional routes such as the Yeongnam-daero (Great Road). Furthermore, Confucian scholars from the late Goryeo and early Joseon periods, such as Ya-eun Giljae, studied here, establishing the area as an important axis of Yeongnam Neo-Confucianism. During the Japanese colonial rule, Gumi experienced economic exploitation, but the expansion of the Gyeongbu railway and roads, intended for Japan's continental ambitions, led to the development of modern transportation infrastructure. Some educational and cultural institutions were also established despite the hardships.
Gumi is particularly notable as the birthplace of Park Chung-hee, the president whose leadership later propelled the rapid industrialization that transformed the city. Following Korea’s liberation in 1945, Gumi began to industrialize rapidly in the 1960s. The establishment of the Gumi National Industrial Complex in the 1970s marked a turning point, attracting major electronics companies and turning the city into a major industrial center, earning it the nickname 'the cradle of South Korea's electronics industry.'
Over the decades, Gumi's economy has diversified beyond simple electronics to include high-value-added industries such as mobile communication, semiconductors, displays, and advanced materials. It contributes significantly to Korea's export economy as a key economic and technological hub in North Gyeongsang Province.
Beyond its industrial development, Gumi preserves its cultural heritage through historic temples and the scenic spots on Geumo Mountain. Annual events like the Cherry Blossom Festival attract visitors from across the region. The city continues to balance its rapid industrial growth with the preservation of cultural and historical sites, reflecting a unique blend of Korea’s traditional and modern identities. It has also produced several notable figures in politics, culture, and education, further highlighting its regional significance.
Climate
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Gumi has a temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Spring is relatively mild and dry, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather, though it can be affected by yellow dust. Summer is hot and humid, with the monsoon season concentrated in June and July, and average temperatures rising to around 25–30°C. Autumn is cool and clear, with a large temperature difference between day and night, making it a comfortable season for outdoor activities. Winter is cold and dry, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing, and occasional snowfall. The annual average precipitation is about 1,200–1,400 mm, most of which falls during the monsoon and summer months, while winters are relatively dry. Being an inland city, Gumi experiences significant temperature variations between summer and winter, and its humidity is lower than that of coastal areas.
Tourist information
[edit]Get in
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By plane
[edit]Gumi does not have an airport, so you need to use an airport in a nearby city.
- 1 Daegu International Airport (대구국제공항), 221 Gonghang-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu. The closest airport to Gumi, about a 40– to 50-minute drive. It offers domestic flights (e.g., to Jeju) and some international flights (e.g., China, Japan).
- 2 Gimhae International Airport (김해국제공항), 256, Gumi-daero. About a 1-hour-40-minute to 2-hour drive from Gumi. It has a wide range of international flights and many domestic flights, making it the main choice for overseas travel.
- 3 Cheongju International Airport (청주국제공항), 980, Ochang-daero, Naesu-eup, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju. About a 2-hour drive from Gumi. Operates domestic flights to Jeju and some international routes.
By train
[edit]High speed KTX services are offered from 4 Gimcheon–Gumi Station (김천구미역), 51 Hyeoksin 1-ro, Nam-myeon, Gimcheon-si. KTX station about 15 minutes from Gumi. Offers high-speed connections to major cities such as Seoul and Busan. 
Gimcheon (Gumi) Station (金泉(龜尾)驛) is a railway station on the Gyeongbu High-Speed Railway located in Oksan-ri, Nam-myeon, Gimcheon-si. In the Korea Railroad Corporation’s system, the registered Korean name of the station is “김천구미역” (Gimcheon-Gumi Station), and the registered English name is “Gimcheon (Gumi).”
Although “Gumi” is a parallel (secondary) name, in practice, the full designation including “Gumi” is commonly used. Therefore, both “Gimcheon (Gumi) Station” and “Gimcheon-Gumi Station” are treated as the station’s de facto name.
The station is an exclusive high-speed rail station located within the Gimcheon Innovation City development district. It was established to improve the transportation network in response to the construction of the Innovation City and the influx of population, as well as to provide better access to the industrial complexes in Gimcheon and Gumi. The station opened on November 1, 2010, together with the launch of the second phase of the Gyeongbu High-Speed Railway.
Train schedules and fares can be checked and booked in real time on the Korail website or mobile app.
Gumi is also on the main Gyeongbu Line and dozens of medium speed Saemaul and Mugungwhwa trains pass through Gumi Station every day. The Saemaul trip from Seoul is about 3 hours, and nearly 2.5 hours to Busan. Gimcheon-Gumi is the nearest KTX station, about 15 minutes away.
By bus
[edit]Gumi is also easily accessible by bus, with several buses per day from Seoul. City buses run through major areas such as Gumi Station, City Hall, Geumosan, Indong, and the Sandong Advanced Industrial Complex. Intercity buses operate to nearby cities such as Daegu and Gimcheon.
The fare is about ₩1,500 for adults, with discounts available for teenagers and children. Transit cards such as T-money and Cashbee are accepted, and transfer discounts are available. Most buses run from around 05:30 to 22:30, though schedules may vary depending on the route.
Bus stops are mainly labeled in Korean, so first-time visitors are advised to use navigation apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map. At Gumi Intercity Bus Terminal and Gumi Express Bus Terminal, travelers can take express and intercity buses, with convenient transfers to city buses for easy access to downtown or tourist destinations.
By subway
[edit]There is no subway (urban rail/metro) in the conventional sense in Gumi. However, the Daegyeong Line (Daegu Metropolitan Railway), the first metropolitan railway outside the Seoul Metropolitan Area, opened and started operating on December 14, 2024.
- 5 Daegyeong Line (Metropolitan Railway). This electric railway connects Gumi Station and Sagok Station in Gumi to Daegu and Gyeongsan. It allows for transfers with the Daegu subway and city buses, enhancing public transport connectivity in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk region. Although it is not a city-circulating subway, it enables travel to the Daegu metropolitan area.
This metropolitan railway allows for metropolitan transfer with the Daegu subway and city buses, significantly enhancing public transport connectivity in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk region. While it is not a line that circulates within the city like a 'subway,' it allows Gumi residents to travel to the adjacent metropolitan area using the electric train.
Get around
[edit]Most of Gumi can be accessed by city buses. There is no rapid rail in the city and the bus system is below average for Korean standards. There are many taxis that are quite fair and honest and will take you anywhere you want to go.
See
[edit]- 1 Geumosan Provincial Park (금오산도립공원), 433-3, Geumosan-ro (On foot: From Gumi Station, walk through downtown toward the Lotte Castle apartments. At the intersection marked by an outdoor equipment store and a gaming shop with a large PlayStation 2 logo, turn right. Walk about 1.5 km along a creek, past a ship-shaped restaurant, and around the lake to reach the park (approx. 30 minutes). By bus: Bus #12 departs from Gumi Station and the bus terminal every 90 minutes and goes directly to Geumosan.), ☏ +82 54-480-4604. At 976 meters, Geumosan is the highest mountain in Gumi and a popular hiking destination. The park features a scenic lake at the entrance, a botanical garden, and a waterfall that freezes in winter and roars in spring and summer. A small cave is located near the waterfall. The hike to the summit takes about 2 hours (3.5 hours round trip), where visitors will find a temple with panoramic views, a picnic area, and a 700-year-old Buddha stone carving.
- 2 President Park Chung Hee Birthplace (박정희대통령생가), 107, Parkchunghee-ro. A traditional Korean hut where former President Park Chung-hee was born. The area has been expanded to include a memorial hall, statue, and garden.
- 3 Dongrak Park (동락공원), 191, 3gongdan 1-ro. Along the Nakdong River, this waterfront park stretches across 267,751㎡ from Imsu-dong under Gumi Bridge to Jung-ri, Seokjeok-eup. It features a 9.3 km promenade, a large lawn, and sports facilities. Admission is free, and cherry blossoms are beautiful in spring.
- 4 Haeunsa Temple (해운사), 434-1, Geumosan-ro. A tranquil Buddhist temple nestled on the slopes of Geumosan Mountain, known for its peaceful atmosphere, forested surroundings, and scenic mountain views.
- 5 Geumosan Market (금오시장), 13, Geumosijang-ro (From Gumi Station, take a taxi for about 5 minutes (approx. 1.5 km) or walk 15 minutes along Market Street toward Wonpyeong-dong. The market is located between Gumi Central Market and Gumi City Hall.). One of Gumi’s main traditional markets. Visitors can find fresh produce, seafood, clothing, and local street food like jjim-galbi, makchang, and sundae. Easily accessible by bus or taxi from Gumi Station. Free.
- 6 Gumi Culture & Arts Center (구미문화예술회관), 89 Songjeong-daero, Gumi. The Gumi Culture & Arts Center is the city’s main cultural venue. It features large and small performance halls, exhibition rooms, and rehearsal spaces. The center regularly hosts concerts, plays, dance performances, musicals, and art exhibitions, making it a hub for local culture and the arts. Travelers can enjoy performances depending on the schedule or visit exhibitions that often highlight both regional and national artists. Ticket prices vary by event, and some exhibitions are free of charge. Easily accessible by local buses from Gumi Station or the bus terminal, the venue is located near City Hall and the downtown area with many cafes and restaurants.
Do
[edit]- 1 Gumi LIG Greaters Volleyball Game (구미 LIG 그레이터스 배구 경기). Go to a Gumi LIG Greaters volleyball game. The games receive strong support from locals and are genuinely fun to attend. Expect enthusiastic chants and cheers — volleyball is the only professional sport in the city.
- 2 Nakdonggang Sports Park (낙동강체육공원), 591, Yangho-dong. This large sports complex, completed in 2012, features soccer, baseball, futsal, foot volleyball, and badminton courts. Depending on the season, flowers such as pink muhly and cosmos bloom beautifully.
- 3 Geumosan Provincial Park (금오산도립공원), 433-3, Geumosan-ro. Go hiking at Geumosan Provincial Park, a scenic mountain park near downtown Gumi. Trails lead to temples, waterfalls, and viewpoints overlooking the city — perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- 4 Nakdong River Riverside (낙동강변 산책로), 591, Yangho-dong. Rent a bike or take a relaxing walk along the Nakdong River. The riverside paths are peaceful and scenic, especially during sunset — perfect for a casual afternoon activity.
Buy
[edit]Buy Ginseng. Like all Korean cities, Gumi is no exception to ginseng. The most famous ginseng store in Gumi is located about eight blocks east of the train station and about four blocks south of the bus terminal.
- 1 Geumosijang Traditional Market (금오시장 전통시장), 13 Geumosijang-ro. Enjoy local street food and shop for regional specialties. The lively atmosphere and friendly vendors make it an authentic local experience.
- 2 Gumi Central Market (구미중앙시장), 28, Gumijungang-ro 9-gil. This traditional market offers fresh produce, ginseng, and handmade local goods. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends.
- 3 Lotte supermarket, 11, Gumi-daero 22-gil. A large supermarket offering groceries, household goods, and daily necessities.
- 4 E-Mart Gumi, 256, Gumi-daero. A large retail store where you can find groceries, household goods, and clothing.
Eat
[edit]Eat Makchang (막창) and Gopchang (곱창). One can find very decent restaurants that serve these dishes on nearly every block of the city. Makchang is historically from nearby Daegu, but Gumi has some delicious restaurants that serve the dish. If you do not know about Makchang, it is grilled pork intestine that is then chopped up and served with Doenjang (bean paste sauce).
Gopchang is the only dish that Gumi can really try to claim as its own, though it originates from nearby Seonsan (선산). Gopchang is a boiled version of Makchang, but it is cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce and is very delicious.
Try these local favorites:
- 1 Wonpyeong Makchang Street (원평막창거리), 18-1, Gumijungang-ro 21-gil. The most famous area in Gumi for grilled makchang and gopchang. Many restaurants serve pork or beef intestines grilled over charcoal with various sauces. The street becomes lively in the evening with locals enjoying food and beer.
- 2 Gopchang Alley near Gumi Station (구미역 곱창골목), 9, Wonnam-ro 10-gil. Located a few minutes’ walk from Gumi Station, this alley is lined with small eateries specializing in spicy gopchang and other traditional dishes. A great spot for a late-night meal.
- 3 Seonsan Gopchang Town (선산곱창타운), 9, Wonnam-ro 10-gil. Located in Seonsan, about 15 minutes from downtown Gumi, this area is known as the origin of Gumi-style gopchang. It’s a restaurant located inside the Gumi Station Gopchang Alley. The dishes here are usually cooked in a spicy red sauce and paired with rice or soju.
Other local favorites include Jjimgalbi (찜갈비), a hearty braised beef rib dish, and Nakji Bokkeum (낙지볶음), a spicy stir-fried octopus meal popular among locals after work. If you prefer something light, try street food stalls near Gumi Station, offering tteokbokki, kimbap, and hotteok.
For dessert or coffee, head to Indong-dong or Wonpyeong-dong, where cozy cafés and craft beer pubs are popular among younger locals.
Drink
[edit]Gumi has a lively nightlife scene thanks to its large working population. Most drinking areas are clustered around Wonpyeong-dong, Indong-dong, and Gumi Station. Local favorites include casual hof bars (beer pubs) and Korean-style soju bars. You’ll also find cafés that transform into cocktail spots after dark.
- 1 La Poite Hold’em Pub, 2F, 29 Indongjungang-ro 11-gil, Ju 1-dong. La Poit Hold’em Pub is a casual bar in Gumi where visitors can enjoy Texas Hold’em poker with drinks. It’s a popular nightlife spot located in the downtown Indong area.
- 2 Arong Pocha Gumi Main Branch, 18-5 Indongjungang-ro 3-gil. Arong Pocha Gumi Main Branch is a popular Korean-style pub located on Indongjungang-ro 3-gil in Gumi, Gyeongsangbuk-do. It is known for its lively atmosphere, late-night dining, and a wide variety of traditional dishes and drinks enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
If you’re looking for something quieter, try cafés near Geumosan, many of which offer mountain views and outdoor terraces — perfect for a relaxed evening coffee or dessert.
Sleep
[edit]Love motels are cheap and plentiful in Gumi. One can usually get a room for around $20 on weeknights or $30 on weekends. For business travelers, there are several modern hotels near Gumi Station and Indong Industrial Complex. If you prefer a scenic location, stay near Geumosan Mountain, where you can find resorts and pensions surrounded by nature. Nowadays, people also look for places to stay on Airbnb.
- 1 Hotel Geumosan (호텔금오산), 400, Geumosan-ro. The most luxurious hotel in Gumi, located at the base of Geumosan Mountain. Facilities include a restaurant, café, and hiking access. Around $200 per night.
- 2 Gumi Century Hotel, 296, 3gongdan 1-ro. A modern business hotel near Gumi Station offering comfortable rooms and breakfast buffet. Around $80 per night.
- 3 Eden Motel (에덴모텔), 5-8, Gumijungang-ro 21-gil. Clean and budget-friendly love motel within walking distance from Gumi Station. Around $25 per night.
Connect
[edit]Most cafés and accommodations in Gumi offer free Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi is also available in downtown areas and major parks.