Gwangju is best known for the Gwangju Massacre of May 18, 1980, in which at least 207 (or far higher depending on whom you ask) students were killed by army forces suppressing a pro-democracy demonstration. What this means is that Gwangju was at the forefront of the 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 country.
Gwangju has a thriving youth and arts culture and even a glance down the streets of Geumnamno will note a generally more fashion-conscious populace. Further to this, the city has numerous art galleries and hosts a biennial Biennale.
The city has an interesting claim to fame as having the largest and most modern bus terminal and possibly the largest single pedestrian drinking, dining and clubbing district in the country. This is reflective of the city in general, which holds a much more modern and clean appearance than anywhere else in the country, save perhaps Busan.
In Korea, Gwangju is famous for its cuisine as is the province of Jeolla. The entire area is considered the breadbasket of Korea. On the practical side, food is generally tastier and easier on the wallet throughout this province.