Gwangju City Guide

Local specialties include Gwangju Kimchi, Tteokgalbi, Boribap, and Ori Tang. You can find diverse international food, especially near universities. Late-night options are common. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing but may require searching.

Nightlife centers around Sangmu District and university areas with bars, pubs, and clubs. The scene is lively but smaller than Seoul or Busan.

Strong coffee culture with many specialty and chain cafes. Cafes are social and work spots.

Tipping is not expected and can be considered rude. No need to tip in restaurants, taxis, or services.

SIM cards are available at airports, convenience stores, and mobile shops. Major providers are SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+. eSIMs are common. ID or passport needed for purchase.

Gwangju is generally clean with good waste management and well-maintained public areas.

Convenience stores operate 24/7 and many restaurants stay open late. Some pharmacies open late; hospitals have 24/7 emergency rooms.

Supermarkets like E-Mart, Homeplus, and Lotte Mart offer growing international options. Traditional markets like Yangdong Market sell fresh local produce. Large stores usually open 10 AM to 10/11 PM but close on some Sundays.

Credit/debit cards and mobile payments like KakaoPay and Naver Pay are accepted almost everywhere. Cash is rarely needed but useful for very small vendors.

ATMs are common in convenience stores and banks. Look for 'Global ATM' or 'Foreign Card' signs for international cards. Expect typical withdrawal fees from home banks and local ATMs, varying by bank.

International schools like Gwangju Foreign School (American curriculum) and Singapore International Gwangju Learning Center offer education in English. Local schools teach mainly in Korean. Check schools for admissions info.

Small digital nomad presence with few meetups. Many cafes offer good Wi-Fi and work-friendly spaces.

Mudeungsan Park and Yeongsan River offer large green spaces with shaded walking paths and parks.

Good running routes along Yeongsan River and Mudeungsan trails. Air quality can vary, so check dust levels.

Multiple gyms offer memberships and daily passes, from budget-friendly to modern facilities.

Tennis courts are available at public sports centers and some private clubs.

Padel courts are less common but popularity is growing.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles. English-speaking instructors may be available in some places.

Various martial arts are practiced, including Taekwondo and BJJ. Some gyms have English-speaking instructors.

Nearest ski resorts are 2-3 hours away, open December to March.

Limited water sport options locally, mostly kayaking or paddleboarding in small areas.

Surfing spots are several hours away on the east coast; not a local activity.

Diving mainly happens around Jeju Island or on the east coast, not near Gwangju.

Major hospitals provide high-quality care and have English-speaking staff at international clinics. Pharmacies are common but English varies. Emergency numbers are 119 (ambulance) and 112 (police).

Tap water meets safety standards but many locals prefer filtered or bottled water due to taste or old pipes.

Family attractions include the amusement park Gwangju Family Land and National Asian Culture Center. Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés are available. Baby supplies are easy to find.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is limited with few dedicated spaces, but improving among younger people. Legal protections are minimal.

Pet policies vary. Veterinary services are good and pet-friendly spots are increasing but limited.