Things to do & places to visit in Gwangju, South Korea

Gwangju #16 destination in South Korea 2023. The average rating score is 4.21 based on 722 traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Seoul, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 19:29.

Gwangju Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

73°F - 51°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Mildly cool with a gentle breeze

Feels like

22%

Chance of rain

116.0 millimeters

Amount

11.8 mph

Wind speed

64%

Humidity

14.1

Daylight length

5:23 AM

Sunrise

7:31 PM

Sunset

53%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (22)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Statue of Peace (3 reviews)
- 광주 남구의 펭귄마을 입구에 서있는 할머니와 소녀상.
Monuments & Statues

C ( 19.08.02 ) 펭귄마을의 입구에 서있는 소녀상. 다른 곳과는 틀리게 할머니의 모습과 소녀의 모습이 같이 있어 더더욱 먹먹해지게 하는 모습. 아픈 역사지만, 잊지 않으려는 노력을 계속 해야 할것이며, 보다 다양한 모습으로 많은 곳에 생겼으면 함. 펭귄마을 방문시 잠시 두 사람을 만나는 것도 의미가 있을 것 같다는 생각이 듬.
C ( 19.08.02 ) 펭귄마을의 입구에 서있는 소녀상. 다른 곳과는 틀리게 할머니의 모습과 소녀의 모습이 같이 있어 더더욱 먹먹해지게 하는 모습. 아픈 역사지만, 잊지 않으려는 노력을 계속 해야 할것이며, 보다 다양한 모습으로 많은 곳에 생겼으면 함. 펭귄마을 방문시 잠시 두 사람을 만나는 것도 의미가 있을 것 같다는 생각이 듬. See more..
4.5 Mudeungsan National Park (116 reviews)
- Attractions in Gwangju
National Parks • Parks

When you visit Gwangju, if you ask me, the one place they really have to go to is Jisan recreation area in Mudeungsan National Park. lt's well worth a visit because of showing a panoramic view of Gwangju. What's more, you can enjoy active activities as Lift and Monorail which can feel the coolness and mystery. But, if you're afraid of heights, you can feel a little scared because lift climbs Mudeungsan Mountain, which is more than 1,000 meters above sea level. But don't be afraid and enjoy the scenery of Gwangju because it's operating safely. You'll feel hollow while you're enjoying it. Let's have fun together. (여러분들이 광주를 방문할 예정일 때, 저에게 묻는다면, 꼭 가야할 곳은 무등산 국립공원에 있는 지산 유원지입니다. 그곳은 광주의 전경을 볼 수 있는 곳이기 때문에 방문할 가치가 있습니다. 게다가 여러분들은 시원함과 신비스러움을 느낄 수 있는 리프트와 모노레일 같은 액티비티한 활동을 즐길 수 있습니다. 하지만 여러분이 고소공포증이 있다면 리프트는 해발 1000m가 넘는 무등산을 올라가기 때문에 약간의 무서움을 느낄 수 있습니다. 하지만 그것은 안전하게 운영하고 있기 때문에 너무 무서워 하지 말고 광주의 전경을 즐기세요. 여러분들은 그것을 즐길 때 속이 뻥 뚫린 기분을 느낄 수 있을 것 입니다. 같이 즐겨봅시다.) See more..
4.5 May 18th National Cemetery (68 reviews)
- Historical cemetery in Korea democracy.
Historic Sites

C ( 19.08.02 ) This cemetery was historical place about May 18th Korean democracy. This area was quiet and solemn, and many victims buried. The May 18th democracy movement was big meanings in Korea history, and many people fought and was dead. Because of this movement, democracy of Korea could be more free. There was good place to pay our respects to soul of victims. See more..
4.5 Pungam Reservoir (37 reviews)
- Good reservoir park in the city.
Bodies of Water

C ( 19.08.02 ) This reservoir was good to people who live around as park. The reservoir was not big, but it was sufficient to people as rest place. The parking area was good, and the road around reservoir was good to walk. I think there was good in night time, too. Good park to resident. See more..
4.5 Asia Culture Center (31 reviews)
- A must see for Gwangju visitors
Spent 1-2 hours Civic Centres

Opened in 2015, the Asia Culture Center is a world-class cultural complex specializing in cultural exchange, collection and study of cultural materials, content creation and production, exhibitions, performances, archiving, and distribution, all focusing on Asian cultures. See more..
4.5 5·18 Memorial Park (31 reviews)
- Moving tribute to democracy
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Monuments & Statues

This park is an awesome tribute to the people of Korea and their fight for democracy. I have been there several times and feel that it is a must-see destination if you're traveling to gwangju. The staff is friendly and very helpful. The facilities are modern and clean. Go there and check it out. See more..
4.5 Gwangjuho Lake Eco Park (15 reviews)
- Great, flat east walk for young kids
Parks

We went with our 3 year old and 11 month old on our way out of Gwangju and this place is perfect for a ~2 hour walk. All flat and stroller friendly. Toddler brought his scooter and scootered most of the way. Some very nice gardens and art. See more..
4.5 U.Square Cultural Center (12 reviews)
- Modern, Comfortable Bus Station and Shopping Mall
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Civic Centres • Shopping Malls

U-Square is the large bus terminal for Gwangju City. Totally modern, there are about 30 gates for buses all over the country. Buses for Seoul and Busan leave every hour, Daegu every 90 minutes or so (if memory serves), as well as many locations such as the south coast (e.g., Wando island) in Jeollanamdo. A one-way ticket to Seoul will cost about $20 USD (4 hours). Many restaurants (TGIF, KFC, Korean, Japanese, Ashely's Buffet), movie theater and IMAX. Bookstore, Emart, Shinsagae Department Stores. Taxi stand out front to take you downtown for about $6 USD. See more..
4.5 Dongmyeong-dong Cafe Street (11 reviews)
- 요새 광주에서 가장 핫함!
Spent 1-2 hours Neighborhoods

Once a wealthy neighborhood of Gwangju, Dongmyeong-dong lost its former vitality when people began moving out of the area to move into apartment complexes. Today, Dongmyeong-dong is home to a unique and vibrant coffee scene, which emerged as individual cafes worked to set themselves apart with unique shopfronts, interiors, and drink menus. See more..
4.5 Sajik Park & Observatory (10 reviews)
- great observatory for Gwangju. entrance is free.
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Observation Decks & Towers

there are not that many sightseeing spots in Gwangju, but Sajik Observatory is the one that should be visited. I suggest coming here before the sunset in order to see Gwangju in daylight and after waiting a little bit see Gwangju at night time See more..
4.5 Gwangju National Science Museum (7 reviews)
- Poor displays and rude service
Science Museums

Many of the displays seemed to be broken and did not work. Staff were sitting around playing on their phones. In the Children's museum section, staff were incredibly rude to me and my family. We were told to remove shoes for the kids indoor playground (fine, no problem) but when my 1 year old daughter ran out of the playground to see another display I got yelled at to put shoes back on. I'm trying to wrangle a toddler and I'm getting lectured about the footwear rules, with 2 other staff members laughing hysterically nearby. I wouldn't recommend this place at all. There are much better science themed museums in this part of Korea...the Hampyeong Reptile museum and Haenam Dinosaur museum to name 2. See more..
4.5 Wolbongseowon (6 reviews)
- 고즈넉하고 아늑한 느낌의 서원에 감각있는 프로그램
Spent More than 3 hours Historic Walking Areas • Religious Sites

월봉서원은 고봉기대승을 추모하는 서원이다. 이 곳은 꼬마철학자의 상상학교, 살롱드월봉 등 반짝이는 아이디어로 기획된 프로그램으로 그냥 평범한 서원에서 감각 있는 서원으로 변화하고 있다. 봄날 햇살에 비치는 서원의 모습이 아직도 기억에 남는다. See more..
4.5 Gwangju-Kia Champions Field (4 reviews)
- First baseball game!
Spent More than 3 hours Sports Complexes

First Kia Tigers game was awesome! I took the bus here and after the game. Outside the stadium you will find street food (fried chicken, hottok, dried squid, torpedo potatoes, beer and more! Pick some up before the game. You can also get jerseys and souvenirs and I live my Tigers jersey!. The stadium was fun and I enjoyed watching fans dance on the Jumbotron!. See more..
4.5 Namdo Folk Food Exhibition Room (3 reviews)
- 전라도의 맛
Art Museums

한식중에서 뛰어난 상차림을 자랑한다는 남도에 대한 맛과 얼을 느껴볼수 있는 곳입니다. 친구나 커플 여행보다는 가족단위의 관광객에게 더 추천하고싶습니다~
한식중에서 뛰어난 상차림을 자랑한다는 남도에 대한 맛과 얼을 느껴볼수 있는 곳입니다. 친구나 커플 여행보다는 가족단위의 관광객에게 더 추천하고싶습니다~ See more..
4.5 Mudeungsan National Park (116 reviews)
- Attractions in Gwangju
National Parks • Parks

When you visit Gwangju, if you ask me, the one place they really have to go to is Jisan recreation area in Mudeungsan National Park. lt's well worth a visit because of showing a panoramic view of Gwangju. What's more, you can enjoy active activities as Lift and Monorail which can feel the coolness and mystery. But, if you're afraid of heights, you can feel a little scared because lift climbs Mudeungsan Mountain, which is more than 1,000 meters above sea level. But don't be afraid and enjoy the scenery of Gwangju because it's operating safely. You'll feel hollow while you're enjoying it. Let's have fun together. (여러분들이 광주를 방문할 예정일 때, 저에게 묻는다면, 꼭 가야할 곳은 무등산 국립공원에 있는 지산 유원지입니다. 그곳은 광주의 전경을 볼 수 있는 곳이기 때문에 방문할 가치가 있습니다. 게다가 여러분들은 시원함과 신비스러움을 느낄 수 있는 리프트와 모노레일 같은 액티비티한 활동을 즐길 수 있습니다. 하지만 여러분이 고소공포증이 있다면 리프트는 해발 1000m가 넘는 무등산을 올라가기 때문에 약간의 무서움을 느낄 수 있습니다. 하지만 그것은 안전하게 운영하고 있기 때문에 너무 무서워 하지 말고 광주의 전경을 즐기세요. 여러분들은 그것을 즐길 때 속이 뻥 뚫린 기분을 느낄 수 있을 것 입니다. 같이 즐겨봅시다.) See more..
4.5 May 18th National Cemetery (68 reviews)
- Historical cemetery in Korea democracy.
Historic Sites

C ( 19.08.02 ) This cemetery was historical place about May 18th Korean democracy. This area was quiet and solemn, and many victims buried. The May 18th democracy movement was big meanings in Korea history, and many people fought and was dead. Because of this movement, democracy of Korea could be more free. There was good place to pay our respects to soul of victims. See more..
4.5 Pungam Reservoir (37 reviews)
- Good reservoir park in the city.
Bodies of Water

C ( 19.08.02 ) This reservoir was good to people who live around as park. The reservoir was not big, but it was sufficient to people as rest place. The parking area was good, and the road around reservoir was good to walk. I think there was good in night time, too. Good park to resident. See more..
4.5 Asia Culture Center (31 reviews)
- A must see for Gwangju visitors
Spent 1-2 hours Civic Centres

Opened in 2015, the Asia Culture Center is a world-class cultural complex specializing in cultural exchange, collection and study of cultural materials, content creation and production, exhibitions, performances, archiving, and distribution, all focusing on Asian cultures. See more..
4.5 5·18 Memorial Park (31 reviews)
- Moving tribute to democracy
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Monuments & Statues

This park is an awesome tribute to the people of Korea and their fight for democracy. I have been there several times and feel that it is a must-see destination if you're traveling to gwangju. The staff is friendly and very helpful. The facilities are modern and clean. Go there and check it out. See more..
4.5 Gwangjuho Lake Eco Park (15 reviews)
- Great, flat east walk for young kids
Parks

We went with our 3 year old and 11 month old on our way out of Gwangju and this place is perfect for a ~2 hour walk. All flat and stroller friendly. Toddler brought his scooter and scootered most of the way. Some very nice gardens and art. See more..
4.5 U.Square Cultural Center (12 reviews)
- Modern, Comfortable Bus Station and Shopping Mall
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Civic Centres • Shopping Malls

U-Square is the large bus terminal for Gwangju City. Totally modern, there are about 30 gates for buses all over the country. Buses for Seoul and Busan leave every hour, Daegu every 90 minutes or so (if memory serves), as well as many locations such as the south coast (e.g., Wando island) in Jeollanamdo. A one-way ticket to Seoul will cost about $20 USD (4 hours). Many restaurants (TGIF, KFC, Korean, Japanese, Ashely's Buffet), movie theater and IMAX. Bookstore, Emart, Shinsagae Department Stores. Taxi stand out front to take you downtown for about $6 USD. See more..
4.5 Dongmyeong-dong Cafe Street (11 reviews)
- 요새 광주에서 가장 핫함!
Spent 1-2 hours Neighborhoods

Once a wealthy neighborhood of Gwangju, Dongmyeong-dong lost its former vitality when people began moving out of the area to move into apartment complexes. Today, Dongmyeong-dong is home to a unique and vibrant coffee scene, which emerged as individual cafes worked to set themselves apart with unique shopfronts, interiors, and drink menus. See more..
4.5 Sajik Park & Observatory (10 reviews)
- great observatory for Gwangju. entrance is free.
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Observation Decks & Towers

there are not that many sightseeing spots in Gwangju, but Sajik Observatory is the one that should be visited. I suggest coming here before the sunset in order to see Gwangju in daylight and after waiting a little bit see Gwangju at night time See more..
4.0 1913 Songjeong Station Market (63 reviews)
- Cool street to walk through
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas

1913 Songjeong Station Market actually isn’t a market but rather a street with retro looking shops (mostly restaurants) with some of them occupying original old buildings. The street has a bit of a theme park vibe and is probably more popular with out of towners than locals. It is still cool to walk through the street. See more..
4.0 Gwangju Folk Museum (43 reviews)
- Interesting culture
History Museums

Our visit to this museum gave us a unique glimpse into ancient Korean culture. It has beautiful displays and only take about1 hour to see. See more..
4.0 World Cup Stadium (40 reviews)
- HUUUGE
Arenas & Stadiums

>>> roughly 30 min from Ssangchon station walking and 1o min by car. >>> songam74 bus/cheomdan20 bus Huge Outdoor stadium hosted the 2002 FIFA WORLD CUP. has the capacity of for 40,245 seats. really huge venue but due to the seats being really up high, itn gets cold at night, so be sure to grab a jacket with you! See more..
4.0 Kimdaejoong Convention Center (37 reviews)
- spacious and welcoming!
Convention Centers

location: >>> Just 1 min from Kimdaejung Station really big and spacious place fit for a big amount of people holds many conventions a month like the upcoming 2019 ACE Festival on the 26th and Green Car Korea on June 20th. to boost the tourism resources they have an International convention hall for international meetings cultural exchanges. the premises have 2 halls, a conference room, outdoor stage, musical fountain and a loading dock. they also have roughly 1,500 parking spaces on the basement and ground levels so you can always find space! See more..
4.0 Gwangju National Museum (29 reviews)
- Good National museum with various exhibits.
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

C ( 19.08.02 ) This museum was well-managed with various exhibits, garden and roads, I think. The museum was national facility, so free for enjoying. There had many and various exhibits, and beautiful buildings. The exhibits was similar with another national museum, but there had unique atmosphere. Good to enjoy about Korean history. See more..
4.0 Gwangju Museum of Art (27 reviews)
- Good, but short
Speciality Museums

The exhibits were pretty cool, but each took literally 15-30 minutes to go through. They seemed as though they changed quite often, so Im sure it would be better if you actually lived in the area and went back every few months. The cafe is also amazing! We actually went during the May 18th ceremony, and were able to watch a video, hear a presentation (in korean), and listen to people sing. Just happened by chance. The area that this museum is in is what made the day for us. The walk around is gorgeous. Not only that but the Gwangju Folk Museum and the Gwangju National Museums is so close that you might as well do all three in one day. Keep in mind that Monday all of these places are closed! Best days to go are Tuesday to Friday. See more..
4.0 Mudeungsan Jeungsimsa Temple (24 reviews)
- Quiet, calm amongst a busy national park
Spent < 1 hour Religious Sites

We came on a Friday and although the hiking trails were full, the temple was mostly empty. It was very quiet and a nice way to take a break from hiking. The temple is pretty, well restored and set against Mudeungsan. See more..