Situated amidst the mountains of South Jeolla province, Gwangju is South Korea’s sixth-largest metropolis and a designated metropolitan city. Gwangju is known for its creative energy and independent spirit, highlighted by the Gwangju Uprising of May 1980, a critical event in Korea’s democracy movement despite severe military response.
Nowadays the city features urban life with scenic countryside, historical significance and modern-day attractions. Even if less know that cities as Busan or Seoul, the are several things to do in Gwangju.
Chungjang-ro offers a fashion-forward shopping experience comparable to Seoul or Busan, while cultural enthusiasts can explore the Gwangju National Museum, Gwangju Museum of Art and the Asia Culture Center. For nature lovers, we have Mudeungsan National Park and for tradition, Jeungsimsa Temple and Soswaewon Garden are a must-visit spot.
Here is our list of best things to do in Gwangju!
1. Mudeungsan National Park
Mudeungsan National Park overlooks Gwangju, offering a stunning natural playground with a variety of attractions. Visitors can hike trails, explore rocky formations, cliffs, waterfalls and forests. In addition, you can also visit ancient temples like Wonhyo and Mudeungsan Jeungsimsa. The highest peak is Cheonwang-bong, at 1187 meters.
It’s only a 30-minute bus ride from downtown Gwangju, so it gets pretty busy on weekends. The hike to the summit usually takes about five hours.
After enjoying the park, don’t miss the Uijae Museum of Korean Art, featuring beautiful paintings of landscapes and nature by artist Hae Baek-Ryeon.
2. Mudeungsan Jeungsimsa Temple
If you visit Mudeungsan National Park you can’t miss Jeungsimsa Temple, one of the region’s oldest Buddhist temples, situated on the western slopes of Mount Mudeungsan.
Dating back to the 6th century during the Silla Kingdom, the temple has endured multiple catastrophes, including damage from Japanese invasions in the late 16th century and destruction during the Korean War. It has undergone numerous restorations, with most of the current structures, including the main temple hall, Daeungjeon Hall, reconstructed in the 1970s. Notable, the temple houses Korean National Treasure No. 131, a seated Vairocana Buddha cast from iron in the 9th century.
In addition, visitors can experience Jongye Buddhist rituals and traditional Korean culture firsthand through temple stay programs ranging from 2-4 hours to several nights.
3. Gwangju National Museum
Established on 1978, the Gwangju National Museum embodies the cultural heritage of the Hunan region in Gwangju. Designed by architect Park Chunming in a traditional style resembling a Korean palace, showcases valuable cultural items from Gwangju and South Jeolla Province.
A symbol of local pride and historical preservation, the museum’s exhibitions span 66,000 years of history from prehistory, ancient times, and the Middle Ages. The collection includes Buddhist art, calligraphy, painting, and exquisite ceramics like celadon and buncheong.
It’s a comfy, modern place for exploring and learning about the rich heritage and diverse cultures that have shaped Gwangju over the years, and the entrance it’s free!
4. Soswaewon Garden
Soswaewon Garden is a traditional Korean garden from the middle Joseon Dynasty, created by Yang San-bo in the 16th century in response to the death of his mentor. Enclosed by a mud and stone wall in a serene valley, the garden features a tranquil pond, a gentle waterfall, and is surrounded by bamboo groves and historic trees.
Despite its 16th-century origins, Soswaewon remains meticulously preserved, offering a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural heritage and traditional garden design.
5. 1913 Songjeong Station Market
The 1913 Songjeong Station Market is a historic market, established over a century ago near Songjeong Station. After facing challenges with the rise of supermarkets in the 1990s, a revitalization effort in 2016 transformed it into a trendy hotspot.
Today, the market boasts a vibrant atmosphere with retro-styled buildings housing a mix of longstanding vendors and trendy establishments. Visitors can explore cafes, pop-up stores, and street food such as hotteok (hot griddle cakes), gyeran bap (rice with egg), and eomuk (fish cake). A must-visit spot for foodies!
6. Gwangjuho Lake Eco Park
Nestled near Gwangjuho Lake at the foot of Mudeungsan Mountain, Gwangjuho Lake Eco Park offers a serene ecological retreat. Its divided into themed districts: Nature Observation Center, Nature Learning Center, and Waterside Wetland, home to diverse flora and fauna.
Visitors can enjoy over 170,000 wildflowers and 3,000 trees, including historical Joseon dynasty arbors like Sikyeongjeong Pavilion. Just 30 minutes from downtown Gwangju, it’s a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and families. Popular attractions include the Buyeop Botanical Garden and the Waterfront Observatory Deck.
7. May 18th National Cemetery
In 1961, Park Chung-hee, a dictator, took over South Korea in a coup, at a time when democracy was absent. The events of May 18, 1980, in Gwangju marked a significant uprising against military dictatorship. Citizens protested for democracy and against martial law, leading to clashes with government forces.
The uprising, known as the Gwangju Uprising or May 18 Democratization Movement, led to deaths and injuries, marking a crucial moment in South Korea’s modern history.
May 18th Memorial Park honors those who sacrificed their lives during the democratization movement. Covering 204,985 square meters, it includes the 5·18 Library, Cultural Center, Education Center, Daedong Plaza, Owoldae Tower, and various memorials.
Adjacent is the May 18th National Cemetery with the Memorial Culture Center, Gwangju Student Movement Memorial Tower, and Oweol Pavilion. The park reminds visitors of the sacrifices made for democracy in Korea.
8. Dongmyeong-dong Café Street
After visit some of the best spots and things to do in Gwangju, you may want to take a short break. And I have the perfect place for it!
Dongmyeong-dong Café Street is a lively hub known for its diverse array of cafes. This vibrant neighborhood offers a variety of coffee blends, teas, and snacks. A popular spot to enjoy a cozy coffee break and soak in the city’s atmosphere
9. Asia Cultural Center
Opened in 2015 after 12 years of planning and construction, the Asia Cultural Center (ACC) hosts a variety of cultural activities. For example music, dance, contemporary art exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, and festivals.
The ACC was built on the site of the former South Jeolla Provincial Office, which played a important role in the May 18 events, and preserves a section of the original building. It took 12 years of planning and construction to build the Asia Culture Center.
The center consist of the ACC Theater, ACC Archives and Research, ACC Cultural Exchange, ACC Children’s Section, and ACC Creation Space.
10. Penguin Village
Penguin Village is a charming alley behind the Yangrim-dong Community Center, known for its penguin-shaped signpost. The village got its name from elderly residents who walked with knees bent, resembling penguins. Originally an exhibition hall in the 1970s and 80s, it now blends Western and hanok architecture with murals and outdoor art exhibits.
For K-pop fans, in the village, you’ll find a large mural dedicated to J-Hope from the popular BTS group. J-Hope is a native of Gwangju, and the mural was commissioned by J-Hope’s fans from China to celebrate his birthday.
Penguin Village offers a charming escape from Gwangju’s historical sites. Weekends are bustling, making it a perfect time to visit this unique spot in Gwangju.
