Previously known as Pungsan, it was renamed by Kim Il Sung in 1990.

Kimhyŏnggwŏn lies on the southeastern edge of the Kaema Plateau, and is covered with mountainous terrain.

There is also a great deal of dry-field farming; the chief local crops include hops and flax.

In addition, potatoes, wheat, soybeans, and barley are grown, and livestock are also raised.

In addition, there is some manufacturing and mining, with deposits of gold, nickel, graphite and iron sulfide found in the county.