• 5.18 Democracy Square - Begin the journey at May 18 Democracy Square, the symbolic and vibrant center of Gwangju. In May 1980, this plaza was the last bastion for citizens who courageously united against military rule, marking it as a significant site in Korea’s modern democratic history. Today, it serves as a bustling hub where young people, locals, and tourists gather to reflect, learn, and engage in cultural activities. From memorials to festivals and educational events, May 18 Democracy Square is not just a reminder of past struggles—it remains a living space where the May Spirit is honored, practiced, and perpetuated by the people of Gwangju.
• Asia Culture Center - Adjacent to May 18 Democracy Square is the Asia Culture Center, or ACC, one of Asia’s largest cultural complexes, built on the site of the May 18 Democratic Uprising. The center celebrates the spirit of democracy while acting as a focal point for art and cultural exchange across Asia. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, performances, and interactive programs that change throughout the year. When a recommended exhibition is available, it will be explored as part of the tour. The center also features a modern library and a spacious park, making it a welcoming destination for culture enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. Many young people and families visit to socialize, learn, and experience new things.
• Dongmyeong-dong Cafe Street - Once the most prestigious area in Gwangju, this neighborhood became quieter as residents moved to modern apartments. However, Dongmyeong-dong has recently been revitalized. Old houses have been converted into cafés, restaurants, and cultural spaces, and with the opening of the Asia Culture Center in 2015, it has become particularly popular with the younger crowd. Today, it is one of the city’s most vibrant spots, offering unique cafés, delicious local eateries, creative venues, and special Gwangju souvenirs.
• Jisan Recreation Area - Opened in 1978, Jisan Amusement Park was once Gwangju’s largest leisure complex, designed for families to relax and enjoy nature. A highlight is the old lift that takes you through the forest, offering stunning views of the city below. The monorail, sitting 350 meters above sea level, is unique in Korea. From here, you can see all of Gwangju and the magnificent peak of Mudeungsan, a UNESCO Global Geopark. After years of decline, the park was revived in 2016, allowing visitors to enjoy a nostalgic, retro-style journey.
• Gwangju - Gwangju is renowned for its delicious food and generous portions. Popular dishes loved by locals have been carefully selected. Choose your favorite and pay on the spot for an authentic taste of the city.

1. Yukjeon: thin slices of tender beef pancake, cooked at the table
2. Tteok-galbi: grilled short rib patties with regional side dishes, prepared by a master chef.
3. Classic Hanjeongsik: traditional Korean set meal featuring a variety of Namdo (Southern Korea) dishes, including fish, meat, and seasonal vegetables.
4. Local Hanjeongsik: a table full of Korean dishes made with regional ingredients. (vegetarian)
5. Jeon Platter & Japchae: assorted Korean pancakes & stir-fried glass noodles with acorn jelly (vegetarian)
6. Fresh bread and pastries with drinks, at Gwangju’s iconic bakery (vegetarian)
7. Seasonal fruit sandwich with coffee or freshly squeezed juice (vegetarian)
   Lunch choices range from 12,000 to 38,000 KRW, depending on your choice.

• 100 - Hankook Tea Co., established in 1951, was Korea’s first commercial tea company and the first to produce matcha (powdered tea) and yellow tea. For their commitment to preserving traditional Korean teas, they have been recognized as a “Traditional Food Master” by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. Since 1965, they have operated a tea factory in Gwangju, with green tea fields across three regions in Jeollanam-do. Next to the factory is Chasaengwon, a tea cultural space where visitors can taste Hankook Tea’s products with guidance from a tea expert and explore traditional tea ceramics. During the visit, there will be an opportunity to taste both matcha and yellow tea, experiencing the flavors of Korea firsthand.
• Yangnim-dong History & Culture Village - Yangnim-dong is a neighborhood where history, art, and architecture converge. In the early 20th century, missionaries from the Southern Presbyterian Church in the USA settled here to spread Christianity and played a significant role in advancing medicine and education in Gwangju. Their influence is still evident today, with Gwangju’s oldest church and traces of the many missionaries who worked tirelessly in the city. During the visit, there will be a stop at the small gallery of Han Hee-won, a local artist who grew up here, and an exploration of Penguin Village. Narrow alleys are adorned with abandoned items from the past, transforming the neighborhood into an outdoor exhibition space. Today, this area is recognized as part of Yangnim-dong Modern History and Culture Village, featuring murals, antique collections, and a vibrant art scene—all created by the local community long before commercial interests arrived.
• NH Nonghyup Hanaro Mart - The final stop is NH Hanaro Mart, a large local food supermarket. Here, visitors can shop for authentic ingredients for Korean cooking, as well as souvenirs like snacks, coffee, and tea. A local guide will provide expert advice, especially when choosing cosmetics, helping to find the best items and navigate the market. Shopping here is not just practical—it’s a fun and informative part of the tour experience. Alternatively, visitors can choose to visit a traditional “Yangdong Market” instead.
• Yangdong Market - Visitors have the option to shop at a local supermarket or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Yangdong Market. The largest traditional market in Gwangju and Jeollanam-do, Yangdong Market is where locals do their real shopping for fresh produce, seafood, and daily goods, offering visitors an authentic taste of everyday life. With over 100 years of history, it has witnessed key events, from independence movements during the Japanese occupation to supporting citizens during the May 18 Democratic Uprising. Food enthusiasts shouldn’t miss fermented skate (hong-eo), a regional specialty. Its strong, tangy flavor may surprise first-timers, but many locals say they can’t live without it. Yangdong Market is also ideal for exploring a wide variety of local foods, from traditional side dishes to street snacks.

• Private transportation
• All Fees and Taxes
• Coffee or Tea in a Cafe

• Lunch
• Personal Travel Insurance

• This tour is set in Gwangju, a vibrant metropolitan city in South Korea.
  Welcome to Gwangju, the city of light!
  Renowned as Korea’s culinary capital with its generous cuisine, Gwangju is also the proud birthplace of Han Kang, the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature laureate. Influenced by the spirit of Mt. Mudeungsan and the bravery of its people, Korea’s fifth-largest city is both serene and lively—providing an authentic experience of daily life away from the hustle and bustle of Seoul and Busan.
  During this tour, explore the cityscape, discover art venues, and savor local delicacies while listening to stories about Gwangju. Conclude at a local supermarket, where your guide assists you in selecting genuine Korean ingredients, snacks, tea, and cosmetics. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can visit a traditional market instead.
  Arrive as a guest, leave as part of the Gwangju family!

(For a more comprehensive understanding of the May 18 Democratic Uprising, consider joining the “Gwangju May 18 Tour.”)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.