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You Belong In Gwangju | More About The City

Learn interesting facts about your Korean city on Creatrip!

Yujin Kim
5 years ago
You Belong In Gwangju | More About The City

About Gwangju

A city full of fun activities and the history of fierce democratization.


The Location Of Gwangju

Map highlighting the location of Gwangju in South Korea, showcasing its position relative to Seoul and Busan.

Gwangju, located in Jeollanam-do, in the southwestern part of the Republic of Korea, is located about 270km from Seoul and 211km from Busan.

It's the metropolitan city that ranks sixth in Korea after Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Incheon, and serves as a central city in the Honam region in all areas including politics, economy and culture.


The Population Of Gwangju

Picturesque alley in Balsan Village, Gwangju, with colorful murals and flowers lining the path under a clear blue sky.

The population of Gwangju is 1,449,115, taking up about 2.8% of South Korea's population.

Public demonstration scene representing the May 18 Democratization Movement in Gwangju, South Korea.

Gwangju was also selected as a healthy and safe city among Korean cities after taking rates of high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes and stress levels into consideration!


Interesting Facts About Gwangju

Film posters for Korean movies 'Taxi Driver' and 'May 18', both highlighting historical events related to Gwangju.

1. The City Of Democratization Protest

Gwangju was the center of the May 18 Democratization Movement in 1978.

The citizens of Gwangju fought fiercely for democracy, but as a result, many citizens, including students and the elderly, were sacrificed.

Korean television program set with a male host wearing a suit, exemplifying content related to Gwangju's dialect or cultural references.

If you're curious about the details of the time, we recommend movies Taxi Driver and May 18.

Two South Korean female celebrities showcasing their fashion styles on a vibrant stage, possibly from the city of Gwangju.

2. Gwangju Satoori (Dialect) 'Omeh' (오매)

'Omeh' is a dialect of Jeollado including Gwangju. It's a word that has no fixed meaning and is used in various situations, such as when surprised, frustrated and happy.

If your K-pop star is from Gwangju, then you've likely heard it at least once. Omeh!

A male South Korean actor or singer dressed stylishly for a seated interview or talk show segment, associated with Gwangju.

3. The City Of Beauties

Gwangju is famous as a city with many beautiful women along with Daegu.

Koreans often think of Gwangju and Daegu when they hear the phrase, "the city of beauties".


Celebrities From Gwangju

1. BTS J-HOPE

Profile view of a South Korean female celebrity, dressed elegantly in front of a minimalist background, representing Gwangju's famed beauty.


2. Suzy

A South Korean male celebrity in a formal setting, associated with popular culture or entertainment from Gwangju.


3. TVXQ Yunho

Bustling street in Gwangju showcasing colorful and creative urban art, highlighting the city's vibrant cultural scene.


4. Park Shin-hye

Scenic view of Mudeungsan National Park at sunrise, featuring lush grasses and colorful skies in Gwangju, South Korea.


5. HIGHLIGHT Lee Ki-gwang

Colorful staircase leading upward in Balsan Village, Gwangju, adorned with patterns and vibrant designs.


Major Attractions Of Gwangju

1. Mudeungsan National Park 무등산 국립공원

Traditional Korean dish Oritang, a flavorful duck soup served in a clay pot as a Gwangju specialty.


2. Balsan Village 발산 마을

Close-up of Tteok-galbi, a dish of grilled short rib patties garnished with sprouts and pine nuts, known in Gwangju.


Must-eats In Gwangju

1. Oritang (Duck Soup) 오리탕

Plate of Yukjeon, Korean meat pancakes garnished with sliced chili peppers and greens, a culinary delight from Gwangju.


2. Tteok-galbi (Grilled Short Rib Patties) 떡갈비


3. Yukjeon (Meat Pancake) 육전