Gwangju

Parks & gardens

Mudeungsan National Park

This national park centers on Mudeungsan, a 1,187-meter peak, and was designated South Korea's 21st national park in 2013. The summit itself is off-limits, but hikers can climb to Seoseokdae at 1,100 meters and take in the scenery.

Museums & galleries

Gwangju National Museum

The Gwangju National Museum is a national museum in Gwangju that preserves and exhibits cultural artifacts from the Honam region, including relics recovered from the Sinan shipwreck. Opened in 1978, it's a good place to explore the area's history and culture.

Nature

Mudeungsan

Standing 1,187 meters high, this mountain is Gwangju's signature peak and South Korea's 21st national park. Since the summit, Cheonwangbong, is off-limits, visitors hike up to Seoseokdae to enjoy sweeping views instead.

Museums & galleries

Asian Culture Center

A national cultural facility in Dong-gu, Gwangju, offering exhibitions and programs for exchanging and learning about cultures across Asia. Since opening in 2015, it has become a complex dedicated to introducing Asian culture.

Parks & gardens

Soswaewon

Soswaewon is a traditional garden created by the Joseon-era scholar Yang San-bo, admired for its landscaping in harmony with nature. Regarded as one of Korea's foremost private gardens, it's a lovely spot for a quiet stroll.

Temples & religious sites

Wongaksa

Wongaksa is a Buddhist temple in downtown Gwangju's Dong-gu district, built in 1914 and steeped in history. It's a peaceful place to explore right in the heart of the city.

Parks & gardens

5·18 Memorial Park

A park in Gwangju's Sangmu District built to honor the May 18 Democratic Uprising, featuring a memorial tower and commemorative spaces. A pilgrimage trail connects it to Mangwol-dong Cemetery, offering a walk through history.

Nature

Geumdangsan

Located right in the heart of Gwangju, Geumdangsan is easy to access and has gentle slopes, drawing many hikers from early morning. From the summit, you're rewarded with a sweeping view over Pungam Lake and Gwangju World Cup Stadium.