May 18 Cultural Festival Planned by Youths Held at Geumnamro

Over 5,000 Participate in Exhibitions, Performances, and Discussions

The Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education announced on the 25th that a May 18 Cultural Festival, planned and operated directly by youths, was held the previous day around Geumnamro in Gwangju.

Held under the theme "Boys Come to Geumnamro," this event was co-hosted by the Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education and the May 18 Democratic Uprising Commemoration Event Committee. More than 5,000 people, including students, parents, and citizens, participated.

At the 'May 18 Youth Cultural Festival' held around Geumnamro on the 24th, a flash mob of youths performing the 'March for the Beloved' for May 18. Provided by Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education

The festival was organized as an opportunity for youths to express their thoughts on May 18 in various ways and to learn the values of democracy, human rights, and community.

The event featured a total of 33 booths, including the "Forest of Youth" exhibition, 31 student participation booths, and 2 teacher group booths. It also included street performances, invited performances, an online quiz competition, a flash mob, and an escape room game.

Students from Hanul Elementary School discussed distinguishing false information related to AI and May 18 and how to deliver correct information. Students majoring in Korean painting at Gwangju Arts High School held face painting sessions with the themes of the Taegeukgi and Mugunghwa. The street performances included a variety of stages such as dance and band performances.

On the 24th, at the 'May 18 Youth Cultural Festival' held around Geumnamro, Superintendent Lee Jungseon is listening to an explanation from the May 18 Youth Promotion Group 'Pureunsaeg'. Provided by Gwangju Office of Education.

During the "Democracy Assembly" event, youths continued to share their thoughts on May 18. Kim Yoonji, a second-year student at Kumho Jungang Girls' High School, said, "The clock at May 18 Democracy Square should remain stopped at 1 p.m. on May 21, 1980," emphasizing the importance of remembering that day.

Moon Jiyeon, a third-year student at Unrim Middle School, shared, "While preparing for the event, I was able to think more deeply about May 18, which I had only encountered through books. I felt a sense of responsibility that we must carry on the voices of that day today."

Superintendent Lee Jungseon of the Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education stated, "The voluntary participation and actions of youths showed that democracy is still ongoing. The Office of Education will also support youths so that they can think about, practice, and carry on history on their own."