Gwangsan District in Gwangju Renovates as 'Open Government Office' to Welcome Citizens

Lounge to Be Completed in August, Plaza in October

Gwangsan District in Gwangju has launched an initiative to create an 'open government office.' In line with the guiding principle of the eighth popularly elected administration, which is 'citizens as owners,' the first floor of the district office will be transformed into an 'integrated lounge,' while the outdoor area in front of the building will be reconfigured as a 'Citizen Plaza.'

Perspective view of the 'Citizen Plaza' to be created in front of Gwangsan District Office, Gwangju. Provided by Gwangsan District Office

According to Gwangsan District on August 6, the 'integrated lounge' project aims to convert the existing space, which was previously focused on civil service processing, into a relaxation and communication area for citizens. The space will be equipped with comfortable seating and meeting rooms, and will also include a cultural area for exhibitions and small performances. The goal is to create an 'open lobby' where anyone can stay and share information.

The unused outdoor space in front of the district office will be transformed into a safe 'Citizen Plaza' by planting grass and separating the paths for vehicles and pedestrians. In addition to providing a place for relaxation, the plaza will be used for events involving small business owners and for cultural and artistic performances.

Gwangsan District is gathering citizen feedback through a task force composed of architecture and landscaping experts, as well as department officials. The target is to complete the integrated lounge in August and the Citizen Plaza in October. Construction will proceed in phases to minimize inconvenience to citizens.