May 18th National Cemetery
Written and photographed by Sarah Pittman It is impossible to overstate the reach of May 18th in the minds of the people of Gwangju. Every child I have ever taught … Read More
Category: Features
Local Governments and Historical Memory: How Cities Build Peaceful and Democratic Societies
Written by Jaume Puigpinós One of the most unique characteristics of Gwangju is its movement for human rights and democracy. This characteristic was awarded to the city by the sacrifice … Read More
The May 16 Military Coup: How It Came About
Originally written by Shin Sang-soon (Originally appearing in the May 2003 issue of the Gwangju News.) As May 16 is the fifty-eighth anniversary of Korea’s 5.16 coup d’état, we thought … Read More
Extending International Solidarity from Gwangju: The May 18 Memorial Foundation
Written by Praveen Kumar Yadav May is a poignant month for Gwangju people, whose struggles in 1980 ultimately led to triumph over dictatorship and the establishment of democracy in South … Read More
Buddhist Master Ji Seon on Democracy: An Interview
Written by Monk Jang Gyong The recent history of Gwangju is marked with selfless and often painful sacrifices for a brighter and more righteous future. The efforts of this city’s … Read More
Sharing the May 18 Atrocities with the World: Interview with Martha Huntley, Former Gwangju Missionary
Written by Wilson Melbostad Nearly 40 years have passed since citizens came together and took to the streets in May of 1980 in the Gwangju Democratic Uprising. The uprising became … Read More
The Jeonil Building: Icon of an Uprising
Written and photographed by Isaiah Winters The Jeonil Building in downtown Gwangju represents many things to many different people. To casual passersby, it’s the paint-chipped eyescraper* that dominates much of … Read More
The 4.19 Student Revolution
Originally written by Shin Sang-soon (Originally appearing in the April 2006 issue of the Gwangju News.) As April 19 is the annual observance of Korea’s 4.19 Student Revolution, we thought … Read More