Rice Balls and the May 18 Democratic Uprising

Narrative

Among the well-known foods of Gwangju, jumeokbap (rice balls) play a particularly important historical role. Due to their convenient design, they were widely prepared and given out to demonstrators during the May 18 Democratic Uprising. In particular, they were given out at various markets, including South Gwangju Market, Daein Market, Yangdong Market, and Seobang Market. The preparation and distribution of food played a key role in the uprising, by helping to fuel the civilian militias in the face of brutal police violence. Today, there is even the Gwangju Jumeokbap Experience Center located in Jeonil Building 245, which was at the center of the events of the uprising. There is also a Rice Ball Course, which guides tourists to key sites related to rice balls in Gwangju, including the Gwangju YWCA, the Former Jeollanam-do Provincial Government Building, and May 18 Democracy Square in addition to the aforementioned markets.