Gwangju

Gwangju is a city with a profound spirit, known globally for its pivotal role in South Korea’s democratization during the 1980 uprising. The May 18th National Cemetery stands as a solemn tribute to this legacy. Today, the city is a leading artistic hub, hosting the prestigious Gwangju Biennale and the massive, futuristic Asia Culture Center (ACC), which showcases contemporary arts and performances. Nature is an integral part of Gwangju, dominated by Mudeungsan Mountain. Its unique polygonal basalt columns are a protected geological treasure and provide excellent hiking trails with views over the sprawling city. Neighborhoods like Yangrim-dong offer a welcoming mix of early 20th-century missionary architecture and trendy, modern cafes. Gwangju is often cited as the food capital of Korea, famous for Gwangju Tteokgalbi (grilled minced meat patties) and its generous side dishes. The 1913 Songjeong Station Market is for traditional snacks with a modern twist. The city is reachable in about two hours from Seoul via KTX high-speed train. Spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for the Biennale and mountain foliage are the handy times to visit.

Nearby cities

Suncheon

Known as the 'Eco-Capital' of Korea, famous for Suncheonman Bay and its gardens.

Yeosu

A scenic coastal city consisting of a peninsula and over 300 islands, which hosted the 2012 Expo.

Mokpo

A port city in South Jeolla Province, serving as a ferry terminal to islands in the southwest.

Gwangyang

A major industrial city with one of the busiest seaports in the world and a large steel mill.

Naju

A historical city that was once the center of the region, now reinventing itself with the Naju Innovation City project.

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Hadong

Hadong is the cradle of Korean tea, famous for the Seomjin River, ancient tea plantations, and cherry blossom tunnels.

Gurye

Gurye is a tranquil retreat at the foot of Jirisan Mountain, famous for its ancient temples and bright yellow Sansuyu blossoms.

Buan

A coastal county featuring Byeonsanbando National Park, known for its unique cliffs, sandy beaches, and Naesosa Temple.

Goheung

Goheung is a picturesque peninsula known as Korea's gateway to space and for its fragrant Yuja citrus fruits.

Wando

Wando is a scenic archipelago known for its maritime history under Admiral Jang Bogo and world-class abalone farming.

Jindo

Jindo is Korea's third-largest island, world-famous for the natural sea-parting phenomenon and its loyal Jindo dogs.

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Myeonjeon-ri

A hidden gem on Jaeundo Island, known for its pristine white sand beaches and the tranquil West Sea scenery.

Baeksan-ri

A quiet coastal village in Sinan County, famous for its unique pine forests and vast beaches.

Namhae

Namhae, often called 'Treasure Island,' is famous for its terraced rice fields, German Village, and stunning coastal temples.

Heuksando

Heuksando, or Black Island, is famous for its dense evergreen forests and winding mountain roads.

History & landmarks

Namwon

Known as the "City of Love," Namwon is the setting of the famous Chunhyang legend and a major gateway to Jirisan National Park.

Gochang

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vast dolmen sites, the historical Moyangseong Fortress, and Seonunsa Temple.

Damyang

Damyang is Korea's bamboo capital, famous for its lush groves, traditional gardens, and scenic tree-lined paths.

Boseong

Boseong is famous for its terraced green tea fields, offering some of the most spectacular and serene landscapes in South Korea.

Haenam

The southernmost point of the Korean Peninsula, known for its "End of the Land" village, majestic mountains, and historical temples.

Boseong Green Tea Fields

Spectacular, expansive tea plantations in Boseong, famous for producing high-quality green tea.

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Hampyeong

Hampyeong is an ecological gem, world-renowned for its colorful Butterfly Festival and sustainable agriculture.

Naganeupseong Folk Village

A fortress town from the Joseon Dynasty, remarkably well-preserved, where residents still live in thatched-roof houses.

Nature

Seomjin River

One of South Korea's cleanest major rivers, flowing through Jeolla and Gyeongsang provinces.

More places

Boseong Green Tea Fields

The largest and oldest tea plantations in South Korea, known for their terraced fields and high-quality green tea.

Naganeupseong Folk Village

A well-preserved fortress town from the Joseon Dynasty.

Suncheon Bay Wetlands

One of the world's largest coastal wetlands, home to vast reed fields and a major habitat for migratory birds.

Goryeo Celadon Museum

Located in Gangjin, this museum is dedicated to the exquisite celadon ceramics of the Goryeo Dynasty.

Cheongsando Island

Designated as the first 'Slow City' in Asia, it's a place where the traditional way of life and unspoiled nature are preserved.

Yudalsan Mountain

A mountain in the port city of Mokpo.

Battle of Myeongnyang Site

The strait where Admiral Yi Sun-sin achieved a miraculous victory with just 13 ships against a Japanese fleet of over 130 in 1597.

Port of Gwangyang

A strategic port specializing in container and steel transport, serving the POSCO Gwangyang Steel Mill.