Things To Do
in Gwangju
Gwangju is a vibrant southwestern Korean city known for its rich history, dynamic arts scene, and distinctive Jeolla Province flavors. It blends thoughtful memorial spaces with lively markets, street art, and modern museums, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills. The city earned international attention for its pivotal role in Korea's democratization movement and continues to celebrate culture through festivals, galleries, and culinary traditions.
Year-round, Gwangju offers approachable neighborhoods, scenic parks, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes exploring easy for visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gwangju National Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Korea. After exploring the exhibits, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Gwangju Art Street, admiring the street art and local crafts. Don't forget to grab a traditional Korean breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors of Gwangju.
Continue your exploration by visiting the May 18th National Cemetery, a poignant memorial dedicated to the victims of the Gwangju Uprising. After paying your respects, wander through the vibrant Yangdong Market, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs. As the afternoon progresses, relax at the serene Uncheon Reservoir, enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility.
As the sun sets, head to the vibrant Dongmyeong-dong area, known for its lively atmosphere and numerous dining options. Choose from a variety of restaurants serving Gwangju's famous dishes, such as kimchi stew or grilled pork belly. End your day with a visit to a local café, sipping on traditional Korean tea while reflecting on your day.
Begin your day at the Gwangju Biennale Foundation, where you can experience cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions. Engage with artists and their works, and perhaps participate in a workshop if available. Afterward, visit the nearby 1913 Songjeong Station Market for a brunch that showcases local culinary delights.
Explore the Gwangju Museum of Art, which features both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions that highlight local and international artists. Spend some time appreciating the diverse artistic expressions, from traditional Korean art to modern installations. Then, visit the nearby Jeonnam Art Museum for more unique exhibitions and beautiful architecture.
As night falls, attend a cultural performance at the Gwangju Culture and Art Center, where you can enjoy music, dance, or theater. The center often showcases local talent, providing a glimpse into the vibrant cultural scene of Gwangju. Finish your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the city's vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-5 |
| 🍜Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-20 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $2-3 |
| 🍹Cocktail or beer | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene
- Delicious Jeolla cuisine and vibrant markets
- Limited English in some venues; though increasingly common, language barriers exist
- Less nightlife variety compared to larger cities like Seoul
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "영어 할 수 있어요?" - Do you speak English?
- "이것은 얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "저는 채식주의자에요" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Gwangju
Visit one of these nice places.
A poignant memorial site with modern architecture, tranquil sculpture gardens, and reflective water features ideal for thoughtful photos at any time of day.
An open-air gallery with colorful murals and narrow alleyways; best light is early morning or late afternoon for soft shadows.
Vibrant street photography opportunities amid murals, quirky storefronts, and lit storefronts after dusk.
Architectural lines and curated interiors provide calm, rich photos of artifacts and traditional Korean design.
Long shaded walkways among towering bamboo groves—great for atmospheric nature photography and peaceful compositions.
Food in Gwangju
Gwangju Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork soup with rice, a comforting staple in the Jeolla region; look for it at traditional markets and pork-specialty restaurants.
Must-Try!
A colorful bowl of rice topped with sautéed vegetables, gochujang, and often a spicy meat option; best enjoyed in a local hanjeongsik setting or casual eatery.
A spicy kimchi stew with tofu and pork or seafood; a common, satisfying dish found in most eateries.
Seasonal vegetable side dishes and savory Korean pancakes, often enjoyed as part of a full meal with rice.
A multi-course meal featuring a variety of small dishes, showcasing regional flavors and seasonal ingredients.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market with stalls offering soups, rice dishes, grilled items, and fresh produce; great for sampling everyday flavors and inexpensive bites.
A lively market area with street food vendors serving hotteok, tteokbokki, skewers, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A brief bow or nod is common; use polite language with elders and service staff.
Remove shoes when entering traditional homes or certain teahouses; giving or receiving items with both hands is appreciated.
Speak softly in public spaces, avoid loud conversations on transit, and queue patiently at markets and bus stops.
Safety
Tipping in Gwangju
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea; most service charges are included. If you do tip, it should be discreet and in cash, directly to the staff.
Cash (KRW) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payments such as KakaoPay, Naver Pay, and credit card chips are common in stores and restaurants. Taxis typically accept cash and cards, with apps available for electronic payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor markets, park strolls, and temple visits.
Hot and humid; stay hydrated, wear hats, and seek shade in parks. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in July and August.
Comfortable temperatures and vivid foliage; perfect for countryside hikes, river walks, and outdoor photography.
Cool to cold with occasional snow; layering is key. Museums and cafés are pleasant urban refuges, and markets remain active.
Gwangju at Night
Hiking in Gwangju
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range of routes from easy to challenging, with panoramic viewpoints over the city and surrounding countryside.
Shaded, scenic hikes through bamboo groves and reed gardens; a peaceful day trip from Gwangju.
Airports
How to reach Gwangju by plane.
Domestic flights and some international routes; convenient for regional travel within Korea and nearby countries.
Major international and domestic airport about an hour or so from Gwangju; accessible by road or coach services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Chonnam National University and other colleges bring a young, energetic population to the city center.
Residential neighborhoods with parks and markets provide family-friendly vibes.
Established neighborhoods and traditional markets reflect a longstanding local community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular spectator and participation sport across universities and local teams.
Local games and community leagues are common during the season.
Traditional martial arts presence is strong in gyms and schools; visitors can observe or participate at beginner levels.
Archery ranges and seasonal events reflect regional sporting traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gwangju.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Jeolla dishes rely on vegetables and fermented sauces; communicate clearly about broth and fish-free options. Look for temples or vegetarian-friendly eateries, and ask for omitting fish sauce or anchovy stock in soups.