The 14 BEST things to do in Gwangju, South Korea

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Gwangju, South Korea!

Gwangju, South Korea is an absolute gem of a city that you simply must visit if you find yourself in the Land of the Morning Calm. It’s a place where the vibes are chill, the food is delicious, and the people are some of the kindest you’ll ever meet. In short, it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax for a few days (or even longer, if you’re lucky).

Atmosphere / Vibes

Vendors in the Streets on Korea
Photo by Markus Winkler
Gwangju has a unique atmosphere that you won’t find in many other cities. It’s a blend of traditional Korean culture and modernity, with a dash of quirkiness thrown in for good measure. The streets are filled with colorful street art, quaint cafés, and hidden temples, all of which contribute to the city’s laid-back vibe. And, of course, there’s the food – Gwangju is known for its delicious Korean BBQ and spicy stir-fries, which you can enjoy at one of the many outdoor food markets scattered throughout the city.

Weather throughout the year

River Between High Rise Buildings
Photo by Markus Winkler
One of the great things about Gwangju is that it has a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. This means that you can visit the city any time of year and still have a good time. In the summer, the temperature hovers around the mid-80s (Fahrenheit) during the day, making it the perfect weather for exploring the city on foot or by bike. In the winter, the temperature drops to the mid-50s, which is still mild enough to enjoy all of the city’s outdoor attractions. So no matter when you visit, you can count on good weather!

Why Gwangju, South Korea is the best place to be

Colorful Lanterns Hanging
Photo by Charles Postiaux
There are so many reasons why Gwangju is the best place to be, it’s hard to know where to start. For one thing, it’s a city that is rich in history and culture, with a thriving art scene and a vibrant nightlife. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, whether you want to go hiking in the nearby mountains, visit one of the city’s many parks, or take a trip to the beach. Plus, the cost of living in Gwangju is relatively low, which makes it an affordable destination for travelers.

Cost of Travel

City during Golden Hour
Photo by Ethan Brooke
Speaking of affordability, Gwangju is a great destination for budget travelers. The cost of accommodation is relatively cheap, with plenty of guesthouses and hostels available for under $30 per night. Food is also relatively inexpensive, with plenty of street food stalls and local restaurants offering delicious meals for less than $10. And with so many free things to do in the city, you can easily keep your costs down while still having a great time.

Top 14 best things to do in Gwangju, South Korea

Dreamy Camera Cafe in Gwangju, South Korea.
Photo by Esther
  1. Visit the Gwangju National Museum, which houses a collection of traditional Korean artifacts and artworks.
  2. Take a stroll through the May 18 Democracy Square, which commemorates the 1980 Gwangju Uprising and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and sculptures.
  3. Check out the Gwangju Art Street, a street lined with galleries, studios, and creative spaces.
  4. Explore the Gwangju Folk Village, a living museum that showcases traditional Korean village life.
  5. Visit the Chungjangno Night Market, which comes alive in the evening with food stalls, street performers, and vendors selling everything from clothes to crafts.
  6. Take a hike in the Mudeungsan National Park, which offers beautiful views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  7. Relax at the Gwangju World Cup Stadium, which has a beautiful park and lake surrounding it.
  8. Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife by visiting one of the many clubs, bars, or live music venues in the city.
  9. Try your hand at pottery at the Gwangju Ceramic Museum, which offers classes for both beginners and experienced potters.
  10. Sample some of the city’s delicious Korean BBQ at one of the many BBQ restaurants scattered throughout the city.
  11. Take a trip to the nearby Boseong Tea Plantations, which are home to some of the best tea in South Korea.
  12. Explore the Gwangju Biennale, an international art exhibition that takes place every two years and features works by artists from around the world.
  13. Relax at the Cheomseongdae Observatory, a beautiful park with a large telescope that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  14. Try your hand at traditional Korean crafts at the Gwangju Traditional Crafts Center, which offers classes in everything from papermaking to pottery.

Conclusion

People Walking Beside Body of Water in Gwangju, South Korea.
Photo by Ethan Brooke
In conclusion, Gwangju, South Korea is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves good vibes, delicious food, and a rich cultural experience. With so many things to do and see, you’ll never be bored in this incredible city. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Gwangju today and discover all that this amazing place has to offer!


Have you thought about staying in Gwangju for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Gwangju

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in South Korea, such as Daejeon, Incheon or Ulsan.