Prior to 2004, it was Ch'ŏllima-kuyok, a district of northeastern Namp'o Directly Governed City.

Ch'ŏllima-guyŏk is divided into 17 tong (neighbourhoods) and 1 ri (village): There are numerous ironworks and related factories in Ch'ŏllima.

The metalworking industry became active in the area during the period of Japanese rule in the early 20th century.

Ch'ŏllima stretches along the Taedong River, which provides a convenient route for transportation by ground and water.

The Youth Hero Motorway also passes through the county, as does the P'yŏngnam line of the Korean State Railway.