Gwangju, South Korea: travel guide
Art biennale, democracy history and rich Jeolla cooking
The cultural and artistic soul of southwestern Korea, shaped by the landmark May 18th Democratic Uprising of 1980.
About Gwangju
Gwangju is the cultural centre of south-western Korea and carries a significant place in the country's modern history through the 1980 democratic uprising. Memorials in the city tell that story with care.
The arts scene is strong, led by the Gwangju Biennale and a series of galleries, while the food of the Jeolla region is some of the most celebrated in Korea, with generous spreads of side dishes at even modest restaurants. Mudeungsan mountain rises right behind the city for an easy hike.
Gwangju suits culture seekers and food lovers. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, with milder air for the mountain and the markets.
- Country
- South Korea
- Currency
- KRW
- Time zone
- Asia/Seoul
- Nearest airport
- KWJ
Last updated
Top places to visit in Gwangju
May 18th National Cemetery
Heritage · 4.7 rating · about 1.5 h · check the fee at the gate
The solemn memorial cemetery honouring victims of the May 18th Gwangju Democratic Uprising of 1980 — a pivotal moment in Korea's democratisation movement. Features an eternal flame, memorial hall, and beautifully landscaped grounds.
Mudeungsan National Park
Nature · 4.7 rating · about 4 h · check the fee at the gate
The mountain defining Gwangju's eastern skyline, rising to 1,187 m. Its distinctive columnar joint rock formations (Jusamjeol) are a natural monument. Scenic trails pass through dense forests and Buddhist temples.
Gwangju National Museum
Museum · 4.4 rating · about 1.5 h · check the fee at the gate
Houses over 70,000 artefacts spanning Korea's history, with an outstanding collection of Korean celadon ceramics and artefacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks off the southwest coast.
Things to do
- May 18th Memorial & History Walk Cultural · 3 h · from KRW 15,400 per person
- Mudeungsan Sunrise Hike Outdoor · 6 h · from KRW 25,700 per person
Where to stay in Gwangju
- Biennale Hall & Culture Zone about KRW 4,800 per night
The artistic and cultural heart of Gwangju, walkable to the Asia Culture Centre, top restaurants, and major galleries. Lively at night with craft beer bars and indie music venues.
Hotels
- Hotel Newgreen Gwangju 4-star · KRW 130,000 to KRW 250,000 per night
- GW Tourist Hotel 2-star · KRW 50,000 to KRW 90,000 per night
Where to eat
- Hanjeongsik Gwangju Korean, Traditional Korean · about KRW 35,000 per person
- Mudeung Yukhoejeon Korean · about KRW 22,000 per person
Getting to Gwangju
Airport: Gwangju (KWJ)
Getting around
- Bus
- Metro
- Ride Hail
- Walking
Safety and scams to avoid
Fake Art Gallery Pressure Sales
Yangnim-dong arts district and near Gwangju Biennale Hall
Friendly "art students" invite tourists to their graduation exhibition, then apply strong social pressure to purchase overpriced prints or paintings.
How to avoid it: Politely decline any unsolicited gallery invitations. Legitimate commercial galleries do not solicit on the street.
More in South Korea
Frequently asked questions about Gwangju
- What are the top-rated places to visit in Gwangju?
- The highest-rated places in our Gwangju guide are May 18th National Cemetery, Mudeungsan National Park, Gwangju National Museum.
- Where should I stay in Gwangju?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Gwangju: Biennale Hall & Culture Zone.
- How do I get around Gwangju?
- Ways to get around Gwangju covered in our guide: City bus, Metro, Ride-hailing app, Walking.
- What scams should I watch out for in Gwangju?
- Scams reported to us for Gwangju include Fake Art Gallery Pressure Sales. Each is explained in the guide, with how to avoid it.
- Which airport is nearest to Gwangju?
- The nearest airport to Gwangju has the code KWJ.