Yangnim History and Culture Village: The Home of Gwangju’s Western Missionaries

Narrative

Yangnim History and Culture Village in Gwangju serves as a significant cultural and historical hub, best known for its association with Western missionaries who came to Korea at the turn of the 20th century. However, the neighborhood is home to a diverse array of historic and cultural sites beyond those associated with Western missionaries. Notable sites include historic houses and structures such as Yi Jang-u’s House, Choe Seung-hyo’s House, and the Commemorative Plaque of Jeong Eom for His Filial Devotion, studios such as Leeleenam Studio and Choe’s Studio, the independent bookstore Love & Free, exhibition facilities such as the Jeong Yul-seong Street Exhibit, cultural spaces such as the May Mothers’ House, Sajik Library, Acreta Yangnim, and 10y Ground, and defense facilities such as a former air-raid shelter from the 1940s. The neighborhood also hosts various cultural events, such as the Yangnim Alley Biennale.