Hydrangea Hotspots, Street Culture Festivals, and Unique Experiences
From G-Festa to the Gwangju Independent Film Festival
Tourism and Accommodation Discounts Linked to the 'Visit Gwangju Year'
In June, Gwangju offers the vibrant charm of an emotional and lively city, blending early summer hydrangea hotspots with cultural experiences and street festivals. In celebration of the '2025 Visit Gwangju Year,' here are a variety of 'Gwangju highlights' for citizens and visitors to enjoy throughout June.
◇ Early Summer Garden Destinations = 'Dynamicgol Hydrangea Hill,' located at the foot of Mudeungsan Mountain, is a well-known hydrangea spot within the city. Recently, the walking environment has been improved through the 'Barefoot Walking Trail Project,' providing citizens with a pleasant space to relax. Visitors can encounter a total of 15 varieties of hydrangeas, including hydrangea, mountain hydrangea, and tree hydrangea. The trails winding between the valley and forest are recognized as a healing course accessible for all ages.
The 'Sophora Little Forest Park' inside the Asia Culture Center (ACC) is an urban forest created in the heart of the city. Centered around the descendant tree of the sophora that stood in front of the old Jeonnam Provincial Government Annex during the 5·18 Democratization Movement, this space is filled with hydrangeas in early summer, creating a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal spot to unwind after viewing exhibitions or performances.
'Sochon Art Factory' in Gwangsan-gu is a multi-cultural space created by remodeling a civil defense shelter and discarded containers. Its highlight is a walking path adorned with hydrangeas of various colors and art installations. In June, diverse cultural programs are also held, including ceramic art classes, an exhibition by the Association of Disabled Artists, and an immersive media special exhibition.
'Hyusimjeong' in Gwangsan-gu is Gwangju's first registered private garden. Spanning about 9,100 square meters near Docheon Reservoir, it features 28 types of trees and 25 types of herbaceous flowers, creating a picturesque landscape. Early summer hydrangeas enhance the garden's ambiance, and it is open free of charge from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
◇ Street Culture Festivals = The second theme of Gwangju's integrated festival brand 'G-Festa' spring season, 'Passion! Exciting!', is a street festival that heats up the city center with youth culture and street culture.
The 'Street Culture Festa' will be held from June 5 to 8 at the Asia Culture Center (ACC) Theater and the 5·18 Democracy Square. The event features street dance battles and performances in five genres?hip-hop, locking, popping, open style, and more?with a total of 2,152 domestic and international dancers participating in various performances.
'Let's Floppy 3.0' is a youth culture festival taking place at Kimdaejung Convention Center for two days, June 6 and 7. Artists from street dance, fashion, and digital art fields will participate, offering live performances, brand showrooms, exhibitions, workshops, and playlist exhibitions as part of interactive programs.
'Chungjang Laon Festa' will light up the nights of Chungjang-ro on June 13 and 14 with standing pubs, DJ performances, and a costume carnival. The '13th Gwangju Independent Film Festival' will be held from June 26 to 29 at Gwangju Theater and the Independent Film Theater (GIFT), featuring screenings of various independent films, director talks, and audience participation programs, creating a culture festival brimming with artistic sensibility.
◇ Emotional Experiences = The 'Mudeungsan Monorail' is a signature experience course that allows visitors to enjoy the lush early summer greenery while traveling through the mountains. Both the lift and monorail can be enjoyed together. Throughout June, a special 'Visit Gwangju Year' discount offers a 3,000 KRW reduction on round-trip lift and monorail tickets.
The 'Roller Skating Rink' is a unique experience spot that has regained attention amid the recent retro trend. In the indoor space filled with music and lights, visitors can fully experience youthful energy. Safety gear and a dedicated beginner area are provided, making it easy for first-timers to enjoy.
◇ June in Gwangju = Gwangju City is participating in the '2025 Korea Accommodation Sale Festa,' hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization, offering tiered accommodation discounts to visitors in June. ▲The first round (May 28-30) offers up to a 50,000 KRW discount; ▲the second round (June 2-July 17) offers up to a 30,000 KRW discount; ▲the third round (June 5-July 17) offers up to a 50,000 KRW discount coupon. These coupons are issued on a first-come, first-served basis through major online platforms such as 11st, Yeogi Eottae, KakaoTalk Reservation, and Gmarket.
Lee Seungkyu, Director of the New Vitality Promotion Headquarters, said, "In June, Gwangju is filled with emotion and vitality, just like the hydrangeas blooming throughout the city," adding, "We hope that, in celebration of the '2025 Visit Gwangju Year,' many citizens and tourists will experience Gwangju's unique charm through a variety of festivals, experiences, and benefits."
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