The national cemetery where the victims of the May 1980 Gwangju Uprising rest. Reinterred here from the old Mangwol-dong grounds and elevated to national status. A memorial tower, portrait hall, and history museum together.
“This isn't a tourist site — it's history that's still ongoing.”
The May 18 National Cemetery honors the Gwangju citizens who resisted martial-law troops in May 1980. Those first buried in downtown Mangwol-dong were moved here when it became a national cemetery. A guide says, “Every portrait on a headstone is a citizen from that day,” advising, “visit quietly; photograph the memorial tower rather than the graves.” It flows naturally to arrive here after starting at the May 18 Democracy Square (former Provincial Hall) downtown — chronological order. Read the background in the museum, then walk the grounds.
Gallery
Look around
Practical
How to Order
- 1Read the May 18 background in the museum first.
- 2Pay respects quietly at the memorial tower and portrait hall.
- 3Pair with the downtown May 18 Square, in chronological order.
A bit outside downtown — car or transit needed. Pair with the ACC visit.
A place of mourning — quiet and respectful dress. English signage and guides available.
Memorial events around May 18; quiet otherwise.
