A Look at Songjeong
Written By Lucy Kent
Gwangju is such a large and diverse area that some places can get lost in the shuffle. One such location is the Songjeong area. Located at the west end of Gwangju, it is what many Koreans consider “countryside,” but there are still many things that make it worth a visit. The best view with the least effort can be found in Songjeong Park.
Getting to the park is fairly simple. Arrive at Songjeong Park Station by bus, taxi, or subway. Between subway exits three and four is a small street. Follow the street for a few meters, walk over the train tracks, walk just a bit more and you will see stairs on your right. The stairs may give the impression of a small, forgotten park, but this is not the case.
After climbing the stairs you will see a large green park. As you wander through you can see a temple or two, benches that face the city, and a few miniature parks hidden in alcoves around the area. These miniature parks contain exercise equipment, small flower beds, and places to relax and talk. At various points, the path will split and you must choose a direction. If you choose the direction that has you walking up a hill, you will soon find yourself climbing a 20-30 percent incline. This only lasts for a few minutes before you reach the top. There is a wonderful raised pavilion here for rest, as well as a beautiful view.
Gwangju is considered to have the best food and chefs in the country, and Songjeong is proud to be the home of Tteokgalbi Street. From subway exit one of Songjeong Station, walk straight for three blocks and turn right. You should see the Gwangsan-gu office on your right. The opposite side of the street has a large circular sign that marks the end of the street.
Tteokgalbi is a distant cousin of Galbi and Samgyeopsal. It is a “patty” mix of beef and pork. You can eat it ssam style (wrapped in lettuce) or just eat it with rice. The origins of tteokgalbi are debated, but some consider it to have originated in Songjeong. Because of this, there are a quite a few restaurants that serve it throughout the street. The most recommended restaurant is Songjeong Tteokgalbi, whose walls are adorned with photos of famous visitors who have stopped by throughout the years.
Songjeong Market is another highlight of the area. Some parts of the market are permanent, but the full five-day market opens on the 3rd, 8th, 13th, 18th, 23rd, and 28th day of each month. The area seems to explode with vendors that sell anything your heart could desire. Best of all, items are typically a fraction of the price that they would be elsewhere. Shoppers can purchase anything from fish to socks, dumplings to perfume, fresh radish to dried ginger. Try to keep track of where you are, because the market seems to go on forever.
Like many other traditional markets in Korea, this one has its history. The Songjeong Market has been going on for over 100 years. Stand off to the side, close your eyes, and you can almost hear the history dancing around you.