Your Partner 'Gwangju'

Gwangju's rich cultural and civil heritage is the cornerstone of the vision to become a center of arts and culture.

City of Culture

Gwangju was historically famous for art and culture. It has produced many distinguished scholars and calligraphers, and was the origin of the namjonghwa (southern school of painting style) and pansori (traditional narrative song). It is no coincidence that Gwangju people are highly appreciative of arts and culture, and that a comparatively larger share of the population is working in these fields. Since the first Gwangju Biennale in '95, the bi-annual event is putting Gwangju on the world map of the arts.

City of Flavor

Ideally located in between the west coast plains and the west sea, Gwangju always had access to a rich variety of fresh ingredients. Such natural conditions allowed it to develop a great culinary tradition and gain the wisdom to healthy eating. Gwangju is famous for Oritang (Braised Duck Soup) and Ddeokgalbi (Charbroiled Minced Short Ribs), and an area famous for these dishes has been designated as the "Healthy Food District." The "Grand Kimchi Festival," that has been taking place every year since 1994, is an event where one can taste the endless varieties of kimchi from different regions and reaffirmed Gwangju's reputation as the Culinary City.

City of Justice

During the 7-year in 1492, Gwangju successfully resisted the Japanese aggressors. This patriotic spirit has been preserved throughout the generations. Many sacrificed their lives during the independence movement and the civil uprising on May 18, 1980 when the citizens fought for justice, democracy, human rights and freedom. May 18 has been designated as a national commemoration day and the May 18 Cemetery is revered as a sacred monument honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the democratic movement.

I live in Gwangju. So I know a lot of things about Gwangju.

Gwangju ctizen are very justice. May 18 Cemetery is basic of Korea's democracy.

I'm very proud of our Gwangju and May 18 Cemetery.

Someday you visit Gwangju, You can meet me. Then, I will introduce my Gwangju and Korea.