In the past, Geochang has been called "Geoyeol", "Geota", and "Arim", which in Korean, means 'large and bright fields'. If living or touring through Geochang, you can see the name Arim used on some businesses, which references the heritage. It wasn't until the year 757 that the name 'Geochang' came about and then throughout the Gaya, Goryeo, and Joseon Periods, the area went through numerous annexations, promotions, and demotions, but was finally renamed to Geochang-gun in 1895.

In 1937, Geochang district was promoted to Geochang-eup, which is the equivalent to a 'county', with the township of Geochang being the administrative center.