At the Heunam-ri archaeological site, just southeast of the city proper, fragments of herringbone patterned earthenware pottery, axe heads, and other artifacts have been discovered.

Silleuksa was founded in 580 by the monk Wonhyo, one of the leading minds in Korean Buddhist tradition.

The intricate carvings in these structures, however, are a lasting example of the workmanship of early Goryeo artisans [10] Yeoju continued to be an influence during the Joseon dynasty due to being a major agricultural producer of staple foods such as rice.

Throughout the dynasty various laws were passed to increase the agricultural output and improve the quality of the rice which led to Yeoju, as well as its nearby neighbor Icheon becoming central to the industry.

The tomb of Sejong the Great, the most influential king in Korean history, was moved to Yeoju from its former location in Seoul in 1469.

Along with the presence of Righteous Army guerrilla fighters in the area, some local farmers offered their support of the resistance by providing rice and other foodstuffs.

[14] Yeoju has a monsoon-influenced humid continental climate (Köppen: Dwa) with cold, dry winters and hot, rainy summers.