A Tribute to Resilience: 5·18 Memorial Park
Explore 5·18 Memorial Park in Gwangju, a serene memorial dedicated to the heroic struggle for democracy during the 1980 uprising.
A brief summary to 5·18 Memorial Park
- 61 Sangmuminju-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju, 61965, KR
- +8262-376-5197
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
5·18 Memorial Park is not just a memorial park; it is a powerful symbol of the struggle for democracy and human rights in South Korea. Situated in the heart of Gwangju, this park commemorates the tragic events of the May 18th Gwangju Uprising in 1980, where citizens bravely stood against oppressive military rule. As you enter the park, you are greeted by beautifully landscaped gardens that provide a peaceful yet solemn atmosphere for reflection and remembrance. The park features various monuments and sculptures that tell the story of the uprising, along with informative plaques that detail the historical events. One of the most notable installations is the Memorial Hall, which houses exhibits dedicated to the victims and showcases the timeline of the uprising. Visitors can walk through the memorial spaces, feeling the weight of history and the resilience of the human spirit. In addition to its historical significance, 5·18 Memorial Park serves as a community space, hosting various cultural and educational events throughout the year. Whether you are taking a leisurely stroll, participating in a workshop, or simply pausing to reflect, the park offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature that is both educational and moving. This is a must-visit for any traveler interested in understanding South Korea's complex history and the ongoing fight for freedom and democracy.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Don’t miss the Memorial Hall for in-depth exhibitions about the Gwangju Uprising.
- Take a moment by the main monument to reflect on the history and significance of the site.
- Check for any special events or memorial services that may be occurring during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start by heading towards Gwangju. From the Yeongnam Region, take the Gyeongbu Expressway (Expressway 1) towards Gwangju. Once you reach Gwangju, take the exit towards Sangmu-dong. Continue on Sangmuminju-ro, and you will find 5·18 Memorial Park located at 61 Sangmuminju-ro, Seo-gu. There is parking available near the park, but please check for any parking fees that may apply.
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Public Transportation - Bus
For those using public transportation, take a bus from your current location in the Yeongnam Region to Gwangju. Once in Gwangju, you can take local bus number 62, 68, or 77 that will take you to the Sangmu-dong area. The nearest bus stop is Sangmuminju-ro, which is a short walk from the park. Make sure to check the local bus schedules for the most accurate timings. Bus fares in Gwangju are around 1,200 KRW.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you prefer traveling by train, take a KTX or SRT train from major cities in the Yeongnam Region (like Daegu or Busan) to Gwangju. Upon arrival at Gwangju Songjeong Station, transfer to a local bus (number 62, 68, or 77) to reach Sangmuminju-ro. This may take longer but offers a scenic view of the countryside. Train tickets can range from 30,000 to 60,000 KRW depending on your starting point.