5·18 Liberty Park: A Tribute to Freedom
Explore 5·18 Liberty Park, a memorial park in Gwangju, South Korea, dedicated to the fight for democracy and human rights.
Nestled in the heart of Gwangju, 5·18 Liberty Park stands as a powerful testament to the city's history and its quest for democracy. Established to commemorate the Gwangju Uprising of 1980, the park is a serene oasis that invites visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom and justice. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and various monuments that honor the lives lost during the uprising. Each element of the park is designed to educate and inspire, providing a deep connection to the past while promoting a message of hope for the future. As you stroll through the park, you'll encounter informative displays detailing the events of May 1980, allowing you to gain insight into this pivotal moment in South Korean history. The park is not just a place of remembrance but also a venue for community gatherings and events that celebrate liberty and human rights. Numerous sculptures and memorials are scattered throughout, each telling a story of resilience and courage. Many visitors find themselves moved by the emotional weight of the site, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the spirit of Gwangju. 5·18 Liberty Park is also an ideal spot for relaxation, with its expansive green spaces inviting families and friends to picnic and enjoy the outdoors. The tranquil atmosphere is perfect for contemplation, making it a valuable addition to your itinerary while exploring Gwangju. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect, 5·18 Liberty Park offers an enriching experience that honors the past and inspires the future.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Take your time to read the informational plaques throughout the park to fully understand its significance.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful green spaces.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many paths to explore.
- Check local events, as the park often hosts commemorative ceremonies and cultural activities.
A brief summary to 5·18 Liberty Park
- 13 Sangmupyeonghwa-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju, 61956, KR
- +8262-376-5183
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach 5·18 Liberty Park via public bus, locate the nearest bus stop and take bus number 518 or 119. Make sure to check the bus schedules to confirm the timing. Once on the bus, stay on it until you reach the 'Sangmu Station' stop. After getting off, you will see signs directing you to 5·18 Liberty Park. Follow the signs for approximately a 10-minute walk down Sangmupyeonghwa-ro.
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Subway
If you prefer the subway, head to the nearest subway station and take Line 1 (the orange line) towards 'Seongsan'. Get off at 'Sangmu Station'. From Sangmu Station, exit through exit 1 and walk straight for about 500 meters until you reach the intersection with Sangmupyeonghwa-ro. Turn right and continue walking until you see 5·18 Liberty Park on your left.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, you can take a taxi to 5·18 Liberty Park. Simply tell the driver '5·18 Liberty Park' or show them the address: 13 Sangmupyeonghwa-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju. The ride should take approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. This option is convenient if you are carrying luggage or prefer a quicker route.
Attractions Nearby to 5·18 Liberty Park
Landmarks nearby to 5·18 Liberty Park
- 상무지구 광장
- May 18th Memorial Cultural Center
- Seated Stone Yeorae Statue in Yuchon-dong, Gwangju
- 용아생가
- Owolgil
- Gwangju Culture & Arts Center
- 광주 야구의 거리
- [Unicode]ဂွမ်းဂျူးဘုန်းကြီးကျောင်း [Zawgyi]ဂြမ္းဂ်ဴးဘုန္းႀကီးေက်ာင္း
- Esquina de gwangju
- Gwangju Yangdong Market
- Geumdangsan
- 광주 용두동 지석묘
- 수완동왕버들
- Go Won-hee's House
- 고원희 가옥