Provinces are one of the first-level divisions within South Korea.

Although the details of local administration have changed dramatically over time, the basic outline of the current three-tiered system was implemented under the reign of Gojong in 1895.

Provinces (도, 道) are the highest-ranked administrative divisions in South Korea, which follows the East Asian tradition name Circuit (administrative division).

Special Self-governing Province or State (특별자치도, 特別自治道) is a type of provinces with more autonomy over its economy and more powers are given to the provincial government.

Governors for the provinces and mayors for the special/metropolitan cities are elected every four years.