Cheongju is the unlikely birthplace of the world's oldest movable metal type book.

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Beyond its modern status as a South Korean administrative hub, Cheongju holds a profound historical secret. It is the site where the Jikji was printed in 1377, marking a pivotal moment in global communication. Today, this city blends ancient technological milestones with presidential retreats and cutting-edge health administration complexes.

Located in North Chungcheong Province, Cheongju has served as a significant regional center since antiquity. Archaeological evidence, including findings at the Durubong Cave Site, confirms human activity dating back to the Paleolithic era. Following the consolidation of the Korean peninsula under the Silla dynasty in the late 7th century, the city became a focal point for the spread of Buddhism, eventually housing iconic structures like the 13.1-meter iron flagpole at the Yongdu Temple site, which dates to 962.

The city's most enduring contribution to human history occurred at Heungdeok Temple in 1377, where the Jikji was produced. As the oldest extant book printed with movable metal type, it represents a monumental leap in printing technology. This legacy is preserved today at the Early Printing Museum, which stands on the original temple site. The city's historical narrative is further enriched by the Sangdang Mountain Fortress, a defensive structure restored in 1716 that remains a testament to the region's strategic importance during the Joseon period.

In the modern era, Cheongju has evolved into a major urban center, experiencing rapid growth that saw its population swell from 147,000 in 1970 to over 582,000 by the turn of the millennium. It now hosts the Osong Health Technology Administration Complex, home to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. The city also repurposes its industrial past; the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Cheongju, occupies a former tobacco factory, symbolizing a commitment to urban revitalization and historical preservation that defines the city's current trajectory.

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