May 18 Democracy Square is a symbolic site of Korean democracy. It refers to the circular fountain and spacious plaza in front of the former South Jeolla Provincial Office, which served as the final stronghold for citizens who resisted the military dictatorship during the May 18 Uprising. At the time, the square became a central gathering place where citizens held rallies, using the fountain as a platform to express their determination and solidarity. Today, it hosts memorial ceremonies, cultural events, and educational activities, and continues to stand as a powerful symbol of the people’s struggle for democracy and human rights.

5.18 Archives

The May 18 Archives, established in 2015, is housed in the former Gwangju Catholic Center. It is a public facility dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the historical records of the May 18 Democratic Uprising. The center serves not only as a place of remembrance but also as an educational space that helps visitors understand the significance of the uprising in South Korea’s democratic history. The facility includes permanent exhibition halls that present a day-by-day account of the 10-day uprising. Through photographs, videos, documents, and personal testimonies, the exhibits offer a powerful and moving account of the courage and sacrifice of the people of Gwangju.