Yeongju (Korean: 영주; Korean pronunciation: [jʌŋ.dzu]) is a city in the far north region of North Gyeongsang province in South Korea, covering 668.84 km2 with a population of 113,930 people according to the 2008 census. The city borders Bonghwa county to the east, Danyang county of North Chungcheong province to the west, Andong city and Yecheon county to the south, and Yeongwol county of Gangwon province to the north.Buseoksa Temple in Yeongju is outstanding as a representative temple of the Avatamsaka Sect of Silla Buddhism. Sosu Seowon is the first Seowon (Confucian academy) to have had national financial support by way of tax exemptions.
Yeongju is also home to a large Novelis Aluminum plant, employing approximately 1000 workers. This plant provides flat-rolled aluminum sheet products to customers throughout Asia.
From the local bus terminal buses are regular and inexpensive. Taxis are readily available and are inexpensive.
Yeongju takes great pride in its Confucian history and traditional Korean culture. As a result there are several sites and festivals commemorating this history. The town's demographic is very mixed, with a large older population it is easy to see the stark contrast between tradition and changing cultures.
