Gwangju

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Not to be confused with Gwangju is well known in South Korea for the Gwangju Massacre (AKA The Gwangju Uprising and the May 18 Democratic Uprising or the Gwangju Democratization Movement) of May 18, 1980, in which at least 207 (or far higher depending on whom you ask) demonstrators were killed by the army in the course of suppressing a pro-democracy demonstration. Gwangju was seen as the forefront of the relevantly recent democracy movement in South Korea. The people of the city are proud of the uprising and tend to be at the forefront of any political upheaval in the nation.

Gwangju has a thriving youth and arts culture and even a glance down the streets of 'Geumnam-ro' will note a generally more fashion-conscious populace. Further to this and the city has numerous art galleries and hosts a biennial Bienalle.

- 35.167.

• Alain - 알랭 | 17-6, Dongmyeong-ro 20beon-gil, Dong-gu 35.1508, 126.9257At the front of Dongmyeong-dong Community Service Center, heading to the east and turn right at the junction, you can see the Switzerland-style building. - French Style

• TGI Friday's (Please do not support TGI Friday's as TGI Friday's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant) 904, Mujin-daero, Seo-gu 35.1609, 126.8812 In the U-square terminal. - American/Canadian Style

• Outback Steaks House - 아웃백 스테이크 하우스 | 35.1599, 126.8835 By the side of U-square and RAMADA hotel in Sangmu - Western Style. There are 2 branches in Gwangju.

• Ashley - 애슐리 | 35.14785, 126.91266 In the NC Wave department store in downtown, or in the U-square. - American/Canadian Style

Vegetarian diet & Halal Food (Pork Free)

• Sal-lim - 살림 | 3-6, Seomun-daero 817beon-gil, Nam-gu 35.1314, 126.8996 - Vegan Buffet

• Hae-tteuneun-jip - 해 뜨는 집 | 62-2, Daenam-daero 223beon-gil, Nam-gu 35.1306, 126.8960 - Vegetarian Buffet

• Sarang-chae - 사랑채 | 35.1532, 126.8565 In Mugaksa temple - Vegetarian Buffet

• Sujata - 수자타 | 35.1320, 126.9468At the foot of Mt. Mudeongsan. The restaurant is very big building so you should easy to find it. - Vegetarian Buffet

}} There are several major "Good-to-Carouse" areas in Gwangju.

In Gu-sicheong (구시청; located in next to ACC and Chungjang neighborhood) you can hang out with young people, mostly early to mid-twenties. However, note that the place is regarded as a meat-market. You should not expect to speak in English in that area. Some pubs or bars are “clean”, but it will take some pains to find out.

Sangmu neighborhood is also considered as a meat-market, but Friday night and weekend only. Late 20s to early 30s office workers are the main users.

Chonnam National University’s back gate is a bendering & amusement place. The users consist of students mainly. The back gate of Chosun Univ. is almost the same, but the scale of the former one is bigger.

Suwan, Cheomdan, and Yongbong neighborhood are entertainment neighborhoods as well, but that are somewhat far from the downtown.

The following are several popular foreigner-friendly bars(though all will cater to foreign clients) in Gwangju.

• Speakeasy | 35.1473, 126.9164 When looking out the front of Burger King (Please do not support Burger King as Burger King supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant) go left for about 30-40m and Speakeasy is at the end of the alleyway on the top two floors. Opening Hours: Thurs-Sun 7pm-Late Drinks for all budgets - Visit the website for a map and details of events.

• LOFT28 38, Hodong-ro 43beon-gil, Buk-gu 35.1762, 126.9146 right next to Yongbong Park, building at the junction and the third floor. Opening Hours: 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM 15,000 per person for food, drinks from ₩5,000 2022-00-09 (House party & club style) The owner and staff are foreigners.

• Coboc & Reboot - 커볶 앤 리부트 | 161-7, Jiho-ro, Dong-gu 35.1501, 126.9453 located in the foot of Mt. Mudeungsan, right next to Mudeung Park Hotel - Drinks from ₩5,500 Cozy chairs and a good view.

• Kkotpineun-Chunsamwol - 꽃피는 춘삼월; Efflorescing Pleasant Spring Day | 50, Seongyo-ro, Dong-gu 35.1032, 126.9424 - Drinks or ice flakes with syrup from ₩5,500 2022-00-09 (Traditional Korean Style Cafe) The cafe is on the outskirts of the city. Using a public transit would be uncomfortable.

• Amble - 앰블 | 8, Munhwajeondang-ro 36 beon-gil, Dong-gu 35.1457, 126.9183 From the center of Gu-sicheong which is located in Gwangju Folly (yellow one, titled “The Open Box”, was designed by Dominique Perrault), heading to the ACC direction’s alley. About 100m, you can see the ‘red building’ on your left. (1950s Style in Western) Coffee & Beer with snacks

• GetSome - 겟썸 | 41, Sangmubeonyeong-ro, Seo-gu 35.1537, 126.8527 Located in Sangmu neighborhood, right next to Hotel B. (Lounge Cafe Style)

• CORONA - 코로나 | 9, Hodong-ro 16 beon-gil, Buk-gu 35.17565, 126.91426 Located in Chonnam Univ. back gate area. From ‘THEFACESHOP’, go straight into ‘ARTBOX’‘s direction. At the end of the road, about 150m and the store is located on second floor of GS25 convenience store. (Mexican Style)

• The Billie Jean - 빌리진 | 35, Baekseo-ro 126 beon-gil, Dong-gu 35.14476, 126.91745 From the center of the Gwangju Folly, “The Open Box”, heading to the direction of south. Left next to Pigeul(피글).

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Gwangju

Gwangju - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Gwangju, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Gwangju. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Gwangju and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Gwangju. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Gwangju. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Gwangju: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Gwangju.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Gwangju: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Gwangju, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Gwangju.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Gwangju, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Gwangju, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Gwangju and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Gwangju, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Gwangju, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Gwangju without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Gwangju is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Gwangju.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Gwangju is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Gwangju, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Gwangju Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Gwangju

eHalal Group Gwangju is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Gwangju. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Gwangju.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Gwangju ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Gwangju. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Gwangju, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Gwangju are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

The cheapest place to sleep anywhere in Korea is at the local Jjimjil-bang (찜질방; Korean dry sauna). This is a kind of public bathhouse that has a communal room for sleeping on the heated floor. Expect sauna access, cotton pyjamas, a locker to put your stuff in and a price under ₩10,000. There’s a bare possibility that is robbed by the thief when you’re sleeping but, Be Vigilant at least.

• Welbing Geongang Laendeu - 웰빙건강랜드 (Wellbeing Health Land) | 116, Baekseo-ro, Dong-gu 35.14152, 126.91822 Minimum cab fare from downtown, say “Welbing-geon-gang-laendeu-ro gajuseyo (Wellbeing Health Land, Please)”. Or on foot, from the ACC, go to the river, turn left, and walk two bridges down. It's on the junction.

₩9,000 With both Jjimjil-bangs in the Geumnamno shut down, this is the closest one left. Unique in that it truly embodies the rebellious spirit of Gwangju by daring to provide a sufficient number of sleeping mats. Your eyes are not deceiving you! On the flip side, it pays lip service to the Korean running-gag by providing an abysmally low number of headrest cubes. They can't all be winners kid.

• Hwanggeum-Seupabaelli - 황금스파밸리 (Golden Spa Valley) | 92, Gwangsan-ro, Gwangsan-gu 35.1415, 126.8012 Take the subway to Songjeong Park, exit #2. There is ‘Hana Hospital’ on your left, turn around, and go to right side’s alley. Go straight about 200m, you can find a white building.

₩6,000 2022-00-09

• Starbax Sauna - 스타박스 사우나 | 7th floor, 96, Sangmujungang-ro, Seo-gu 35.1555, 126.8492 Located in central Sangmu neighborhood area. The store is in the West Wedding Convention (W웨딩컨벤션) building.

₩8,000 2022-00-09

• Oasita Hostel - 오아시타 호스텔 - 20, Dongmyeong-ro 20beon-gil, Dong-gu 35.1504, 126.9256 Rooms from ₩22,000 There is English explanation on the website.

Gaudy motels abound in Korea, and this is no less true in Gwangju. The main concentration of motels is in and around Sangmu neighborhood, between the Sangmu and Uncheon subway stops, or at the front of Gwangju station, and Cheomdan neighborhood, near the Lotte Mart. Motels can range from ₩30,000-₩50,000 and tend to be very seedy. One can judge the quality of a "love" motel by the movie selection usually proudly displayed near the cashier and the vending machines located throughout the motel.

If you want ‘Not-bad-Motel’, check [https://?areaCode=5&sigunguCode=&keyword=&gotoPage=&cid=/ 'Goodstay' lodging lists out that is endorsed by the Korea Tourism Organization.

• Windmill Motel - 윈드밀 호텔 | 35.1471, 126.9131 This is a reasonably priced motel right beside the downtown pedestrian area. It can be easily spotted along the river with a large windmill on top. It has a selection of rooms including a large group room which is perfect for a group of friends.

• F&T Motel - 에프앤티 호텔 | 31, Sangmuyeonha-ro, Seo-gu 35.1512, 126.8500 The opposite site of RAMADA PLAZA Hotel Rooms from ₩59,000 This is neat and the reputation of a motel in Gwangju.

There are two quite reputable hotels in Gwangju. One is the Ramada Plaza Gwangju in Sangmu where a room can generally cost around ₩100,000 a night. The other, near Mount Mudeungsan, is the Shinyang Park Hotel. The Sangmu Ramada is more conveniently located for business, whereas the Shinyang Park Hotel offers a more peaceful and quiet stay.

Holiday Inn in Gwangju is located in Sangmu neighborhood. The hotel is regarded as the most luxurious lodging in the city. It has a good view and is known for nice breakfast. From about ₩130,000 a night.

ACC Design Hotel is a hotel launched in the downtown. It is located in the middle of downtown, right next to Wooribank (우리은행). Rooms from ₩77,800

Guesthouse

• Misori Guesthouse - 미소리 게스트하우스 - 35.1523, 126.9272 Rooms from ₩60,000 (for 2 Pax, ₩70,000 in weekends) Hanok (Traditional Korean-style house) Style. There is English explanation on the website.

• Horanggasinamu Hill Guest House - 호랑가시나무언덕 게스트하우스 - 35.1383, 126.9117 Located in Yangrim-dong area. At the front of Missionary Wilson’s House. Rooms from ₩40,000 (for 1 Pax) There is English explanation on the website.

• Byulbam Guesthouse - 별밤 게스트하우스 - 8-6, Gyeongyang-ro 147beon-gil 35.1612, 126.9084At the front intersection of Gwangju Station, go straight about 400m. When you see the NC department store’s (엔씨백화점) intersection, turn left, and turn left again, and turn right at corners. Rooms from ₩23,000 (for 1 Pax) There is English explanation on the website.

• IAM Guesthouse - 아이엠 게스트하우스 | 23, Gyeongyang-ro 166 beon-gil, Buk-gu 35.1616, 126.9091At the front intersection of Gwangju Station, go straight about 400m. When you see the NC department store’s (엔씨백화점) intersection, turn left, turn left again, turn right, and turn left at corners. Rooms from ₩23,000 (for 1 Pax) 2022-00-09

• Sinsiwa Guesthouse - 신시와 게스트하우스 | 81-3, Donggyecheon-ro, Dong-gu 35.1528, 126.9201 The first branch: near by Daein market / The second branch: Located in Dongmyeong-dong Rooms from ₩50,000 (for 2 Pax) There are two branches in Gwangju.

Study in Gwangju

Some universities in Gwangju provide Korean language programs for Foreign Muslims.

• Language Education Center of Chonnam National University - ☎ +82 62-530-3631
• Chosun University - - ☎ +82 62-230-6486
• Gwangju International Center - GIC - ☎ +82 62-226-2733

Telecommunications in Gwangju

• Emergency Numbers

• Police: ☎ 112
• Fire Department: ☎119

• Tourist information Center: 1330
• Gwangju International Airport: 1661-2626
• Gwangju Songjeong Station: 1544-7788
• KTX Reservations: 1544-8545
• Gwangju Express Bus Terminal (U-Plaza): +82 62-360-8114

Stay Safe

Generally speaking, Gwangju is as safe as most places in South Korea, which is to say very safe.

Gwangju is especially very safe to roam around freely at night and all day long. There isn't a single dangerous area in town.

There is no any gang activity in Gwangju. Sometimes, you can see delinquent pre-high school-aged boys in dim alleys or parks. However and they couldn't care less about you. The boys are just interested in smoking or drinking surreptitiously and chit-chat with themselves. If you are a well-built man or woman and they will just gaze in awe at you. Just ignore them – they wouldn't actually want to have a conversation with you because they do not speak English well.

Unlike in some other cities, Gwangju’s stations and metro areas are not dangerous. Just keep away from extremely intoxicated people.

Rush hour and traffic congestion are of short duration and not as severe as in other cities. Drivers in Gwangju are somewhat gentle. Just watch out when you cross the road.

You don't have to worry about natural disasters. Sometimes storms or torrential rains come, but they are not severe.

Gwangju's tap water is "drinkable" however residents tend to boil their water or purchase affordable bottled water, or fill their own bottles at local parks or at the mountain springs that surround the town. Korean are just unfamiliar to the flavor of tap water because finding mineral water has been accessible in the land before.

There are occasionally sand storms and fine dust from China covering Gwangju. You should avoid going outside if one passes through, or wear a mask.

Cope in Gwangju

Consulate

For quick responses, you should get your country's Embassy contact details in Seoul.

China - 413, Daenam-daero, Nam-gu 35.1477, 126.8884 ☎ +82 62-385-8874 +82 62-385-8880 Opening Hours: 9:00 – 12:00, 13:30 - 17:30 Monday – Friday The Chinese consulate might be able to issue a Chinese travel visa if you do so through a local travel agent. In person applications are not allowed.

Government Websites

The Gwangju government websites often provide useful tourist information in English, Chinese, and (Japanese). You can get the information about the city, tourism, living, and so forth.

NGO for Foreign Muslims in Gwangju

• Gwangju International Center - GIC - 1-2F, 5, Jungang-ro 196 beon-gil, Dong-gu 35.15035, 126.91663 ☎ +82 62-226-2732 +82 62-226-2731 - For details of local events and a map of the most common places to visit in the city have a look at this site. Gwangju International Center announces and offers many services to Foreign Muslims in Gwangju and is one of the very active foreign community in the nation with events happening every weekend including the talk show, live music and theater, and art shows so there is plenty to do. If you want to see more Korean culture and art there are details of special shows and exhibitions which may not have much information elsewhere in English.

Cultural Center

• Alliance Francaise De Gwangju - 217, Gyeongyeol-ro, Buk-gu 35.1592, 126.9060 ☎ +82 62-527-2500 +82 62-527-2501 - For French speakers. Originally the company is a private educational institute, not a public one. But if you are a french speaker and have the urgent problem in the city and they can do to help within their capacity.

Cleaning services will exist at high-end hotels, otherwise, find a local dry-cleaner by looking for the sign Setak (세탁).

Travel Next

Head north, to Jeonju and the birthplace of bibimbap, to see it's impeccably maintained Hanok village, or perhaps take a train or bus south to the coastal towns of Mokpo and Yeosu respectively.

If in the season and the iconic world famous green tea plantations of Boseong are also a very short hop away to the West. You've likely seen this place on someone's computer desktop.

Unjusa, about 40 kilometers south of Gwangju, is one of the most famous temples in Korea.

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