5·18 Liberty Park: A Tribute to Courage and Resistance
Explore the profound history and serene beauty of 5·18 Liberty Park, a memorial dedicated to the courageous Gwangju Uprising in South Korea.
A brief summary to 5·18 Liberty Park
- 13 Sangmupyeonghwa-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju, 61956, KR
- +8262-376-5183
5·18 Liberty Park is a significant memorial park located in Gwangju, South Korea, dedicated to honoring the sacrifices made during the Gwangju Uprising of May 1980. This uprising was a pivotal moment in South Korean history, where citizens fought for democracy and human rights against authoritarian rule. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere filled with beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and various installations that reflect the spirit of resistance and hope. Visitors can explore informative displays detailing the events of the uprising, making it an educational experience as well. A central feature of the park is the May 18th National Cemetery, which serves as a resting place for those who lost their lives during the uprising. The solemnity of this site is palpable, inviting visitors to pay their respects in a tranquil setting. The park also includes sculptures and memorials that depict the courage and resilience of the Gwangju citizens, providing a deeper understanding of the struggles faced during this critical time in Korean history. As you wander through the park, take note of the vibrant community spirit that often fills the air, with local events and gatherings celebrating democracy and freedom. This makes the park not only a place of remembrance but also a hub for cultural activities. The park opens its gates daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, offering ample opportunity for tourists to visit and reflect on the profound impact of the Gwangju Uprising. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a serene retreat, 5·18 Liberty Park offers a unique blend of reflection and inspiration.
Local tips
- Visit during the morning for a quieter experience and to fully appreciate the park's tranquility.
- Take time to read the informational plaques throughout the park to understand the historical context.
- Bring a camera; the park's landscapes and memorials provide excellent photo opportunities.
- Check for any local events or exhibitions happening during your visit for a richer experience.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near the Gwangju City Hall, head southwest on Sangmupyeonghwa-ro. Continue walking straight for about 1 km. You will see the entrance to 5·18 Liberty Park on your left at 13 Sangmupyeonghwa-ro.
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Public Bus
You can take Bus No. 518 from Seo-gu Bus Station. Board the bus and ride for about 15 minutes. Get off at the '5·18 Liberty Park' stop. The park entrance is just a short walk away, directly across the street.
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Subway
Take Line 1 of the Gwangju Subway from the nearest station in Seo-gu. Ride the subway for about 5 stops and get off at 'Chonnam National University Station'. From there, exit the station and walk east for about 800 meters on Sangmupyeonghwa-ro until you reach 5·18 Liberty Park.
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
- 고원희 가옥
- Go Won-hee's House