Spending the Holiday Season in Gwangju

A Journey Through Gwangju’s Unique December Spots

By Park Yeonju & Neha Bisht

As the year draws to a close, December becomes embroidered with colorful lights. Once again, the season of special holiday experiences has arrived in Gwangju. How was your 2024? A spring day tickled the nose with cherry blossoms and warm energy; the summer had scorching hot moments yet was filled with the cool embrace of the sea and the unique charm of only summer nights. Autumn’s trees transformed into vibrant shades of red and yellow foliage. And now, with leaves falling one by one, winter has come upon us.

Now is the time to bid farewell to 2024, accompanied by the excitement of waiting for the first snowfall. Christmas trees are beginning to appear on the streets, signaling the arrival of the holiday season. The word “Christmas” always feels special and warm, a unique word that fills us with anticipation, no matter when we hear it. To help you end 2024 in a radiant and colorful way, we want to introduce some of Gwangju’s most beautiful holiday spots.

The heart of cultural and artistic festivities, the National Asian Culture Center (ACC) is a must-visit spot for Christmas in Gwangju. Every year, the “Big Door” in front of the ACC Theater transforms into a magical setting, with sculptures and installations perfect for soaking up the festive Christmas atmosphere. From the “Merry Christmas” sign to whimsical photo zones featuring snowmen, the area becomes a fairytale-like space. Friends, families, and couples alike can decorate their own page in the story of Christmas. But that’s not all – the downtown area of Gwangju offers another must-see attraction: the old provincial government square. At the renamed May 18 Democracy Square, a dazzling giant Christmas tree and vibrant light sculptures captivate visitors, making it one of the most stunning holiday destinations.

Sparkling lights shaped like hearts and draped over trees combine with the grand Christmas tree and surrounding sculptures. This magical scene will make you want to linger longer in this enchanting space. Getting there is easy! Simply take the escalator near Haneul Madang and head down to the belowground level, where you’ll be greeted by the stunning beauty of the ACC Theater.

As for the tree at the May 18 Democracy Square, you can find it right outside Asia Culture Center Station on the subway line, Exits 3 and 4. If you’re looking for a glowing Christmas moment, head to these shining trees and picturesque photo zones to create your own holiday memories.

Next, let’s head to a place where you can feel a serene yet trendy vibe: Penguin Village in Yangnim-dong. Every year during the Christmas season, a radiant tree is set up in the central rotary of Penguin Village. As you gaze at the vibrant, glowing tree in the heart of the village, it feels like stepping into a magical holiday world. Though the weather may be chilly, the warm glow of the dazzling lights fills you with a cozy sense of joy and warmth.

The snow-covered alleys of Yangnim-dong feel even more like a fairytale. Glittering sculptures line the streets blanketed in white, making it a joy to stroll along and take in each sculpture. Though darkness settles over the alleys, the combination of pristine snow and shimmering lights creates a magical world that offers a unique sense of excitement only found in Yangnim-dong.

“Oh? Look, there’s Rudolph!” 

Why not hop on Rudolph’s sleigh and set off toward the glowing moon in the distance? A place that captures both romance and childhood wonder. You will want to visit Yangnim-dong’s Penguin Village, a destination that always warmly welcomes us. It’s within walking distance from downtown Chungjang-ro, making it easily accessible. You can explore the ACC and the May 18 Democracy Square first, then take a stroll over to Yangnim-dong.

Gwangju is known for its historically and culturally rich heritage in the arts, politics, and social movements. Its diverse range of cultural events, exhibitions, and performances reflect the city’s vibrant arts and cultural identity. Although December is not as event-heavy as the summer months may be, there are still numerous opportunities available to experience art, music, exhibitions, and local performances organized by the Gwangju Biennale, the Asia Culture Center (ACC), and the Gwangju Arts Center.

Photographs by Neha Bisht