Primer piso del edificio. Año 2020 en medio de la conmemoración del aniversario 40 del Movimiento Democrático del 18 de mayo
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Jeonil Building 245

4.7
·721 reviews·, South Korea

A historical building in Gwangju, South Korea, preserving the scars of the May 18th Democratization Movement with powerful exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

More reflective atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Primer piso del edificio. Año 2020 en medio de la conmemoración del aniversario 40 del Movimiento Democrático del 18 de mayo

Jeonil Building 245

Best Time

Weekdays

More reflective atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historical building in Gwangju, South Korea, preserving the scars of the May 18th Democratization Movement with powerful exhibits.

4.7
(721 reviews)

"Excellent, informative and passionate English-speaking guide showed us around and illuminated many of the exhibits."

Vertical photo
TIP

Engage with a Guide

Opt for a guided tour for deeper insights; guides often have personal connections to the events.

Understand the Context

Learn about the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement beforehand for a richer experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bullet Holes

The Bullet Holes

Interior of the building

Confronting evidence of the past, with 245 bullet holes serving as a stark reminder of the events.

Reddit
May 18th Diorama

May 18th Diorama

Exhibition space

A thought-provoking diorama vividly recreating the historical events and civilian suppression.

Reddit
Photojournalism and Archives

Photojournalism and Archives

Exhibition space

Powerful photojournalism and archival materials offering deep insights into the movement.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Historical Significance

Jeonil Building 245 is a crucial site for understanding the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement. Prepare for a moving and informative experience that delves into a pivotal moment in South Korean history. TikTok

Plan Your Visit Timing

While open on weekends, consider visiting during weekdays to potentially experience a more reflective atmosphere. Check for special events or exhibitions that might enhance your understanding. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
More reflective atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Good for cultural activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

전일 체크-인 파티에 여러분을 초대합니다 💌 *전일빌딩과 협업한 영상입니다 🚩 𝙄𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 📍 광주 동구 금남로 245 전일빌딩245 🎪 체크인파티 시간 2024.11.02.(토) 12:00 ~ 17:30 🚘 주차정보 ACC 주차장 이용 추천 다양한 플리마켓 판매/먹거리부스부터 체험부스까지 즐거운 이벤트가 가득한 체크-인 파티로 놀러오세요 💫 ☑️ 체크인마켓 1. 스마트관광 어트랙션 BIG 3️⃣ 2. 아트스테이지 운사당[소선:담] 13:00 ~ 13:30 3. 아트스테이지 우물안개구리 15:00 ~ 15:40 4. (마켓이용자 대상) 럭키드로우 17:00 ~ 17:30 🎰 🎡 스마트관광 어트랙션 BIG3 * 현장접수 🤙🏻 로그-인전일 모바일 스탬프투어 🕵🏻‍♂️ AR아처-전일빌딩을 사수하라 ...
@sugartokiee
81 likes • 8.1K views

Engage with a Guide

Opt for a guided tour for deeper insights; guides often have personal connections to the events. Reddit+1

Understand the Context

Learn about the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement beforehand for a richer experience. TikTok

#전일빌딩245 #광주여행 #광주여해ᄋ주민주화운동 #전남도청사 #전남도청사거리 #민주의종각 #헬기사격흔적 #518민주광장 #518민주광장분수대 #518시계탑 #전일마루
@forest4119
474 likes • 3.5K views
제주항공 여객기 참사 합동분향소는 전일빌딩 245로 이전하여 추모를 이어갑니다 #제주항공여객기참사희생자 #합동분향소 #518민주광장 #전일빌딩245 #광주
@kang_gijung
242 likes • 12.1K views

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself enough time to absorb the exhibits and reflect on the history. TikTok

Visit Nearby Sites

Combine your visit with 5.18 Memorial Park for a comprehensive understanding. TikTok

Back down through the Gwangju #광주 #Jeonil245Building #전일245 #Gwangju #광주mbc #fyp #blacktravel #blacktravelgo #blackandabroad #blackandabroadlife #southkorea #gwangju #gwangju🇰🇷 #koreaexpat #koreatravel
@theblerdexplorer
11 likes • 397 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Engage with a Guide

Opt for a guided tour for deeper insights; guides often have personal connections to the events. Reddit+1

Understand the Context

Learn about the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement beforehand for a richer experience. TikTok

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself enough time to absorb the exhibits and reflect on the history. TikTok

Visit Nearby Sites

Combine your visit with 5.18 Memorial Park for a comprehensive understanding. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(721 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Jeonil Building 245 to be a highly interesting and informative museum, offering a profound look into the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement. The preserved bullet holes and detailed diorama are particularly impactful, and many praise the passionate English-speaking guides who illuminate the exhibits. While the content is heavy, it's considered a vital cultural experience. TikTokReddit+1

"Very interesting museum spread over two floors at the top of what was the tallest building in Gwangju in May 1981. A place where numerous civilians were massacred by a military suppression of citizens’ right to protest and call for democracy.
There are numerous bullet holes inside the building.
The diorama on display is a thought-provoking demonstration of the events taking place at that time. We were shown into the museum by a guide (he had been a university student in Gwangju at the time) with excellent English.
We highly recommend this museum."

Shane Spence

"Excellent, informative and passionate English-speaking guide showed us around and illuminated many of the exhibits. Very well-produced re-enactment and powerful photojournalism on display. There are 245 bulletholes are all visible and confronting."

Kimberley Porteous

"Cultural activity, may 1980 archive and contemporary art exhibition. Good place to visit the weekend."

B Ajay Sharma

What People Like

Informative and moving exhibits
Confronting bullet holes
Passionate English-speaking guides

What People Dislike

Heavy historical subject matter

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jeonil Building 245 is located in Gwangju, South Korea. It's accessible via public transportation within the city. Many visitors arrive by bus or subway and then take a short taxi ride or walk. TikTok+1

Yes, it's a well-known historical site in Gwangju. Look for signs directing you to the building, especially if you're near the 5.18 Memorial Park area. TikTok

Gwangju has a good public transportation system. Buses and subways are efficient. Taxis are also readily available for shorter distances or if you prefer direct travel. TikTok

Yes, there are parking facilities available, often mentioned in relation to the nearby ACC (Asia Culture Center) or the 5.18 Memorial Park. TikTok

Ride-sharing apps are generally available in Gwangju and can be a convenient option for reaching Jeonil Building 245. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, but it's often open on weekends. It's advisable to check the latest hours before your visit, especially if planning a weekday trip. Reddit

Entry to the museum is generally affordable, with some sources indicating it's a cultural activity. Specific pricing details should be confirmed closer to your visit. Reddit

Advance booking is typically not required for general entry, but it's always a good idea to check if any special exhibitions or events have specific ticketing procedures. TikTok

While there are specific events mentioned, general entry usually doesn't require timed tickets. However, some events might have designated start times. TikTok

Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's worth inquiring at the venue or checking local tourism resources for potential student or group rates. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The building itself, with its preserved bullet holes, and the exhibits detailing the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement, including a diorama and powerful photojournalism. TikTokReddit+1

Photography policies can vary. While some general photos are shared on social media, it's best to respect any posted signs regarding photography, especially for exhibits. TikTok

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. Guides often have personal connections to the events and provide excellent English explanations. Reddit+1

It was one of the tallest buildings in Gwangju in May 1980 and a site where civilians were tragically massacred during the military suppression of the pro-democracy movement. TikTokReddit

Expect to see powerful photojournalism, archival materials, a diorama of the events, and the actual bullet holes from the conflict. TikTokReddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

The building has been transformed into a modern facility that includes museums, coffee shops, and offices, suggesting dining options are available. Reddit

Being in Gwangju, you'll find various local eateries and cafes nearby. The area around the 5.18 Memorial Park and ACC often has dining establishments. TikTok

It's generally best to consume outside food and drinks before entering the museum exhibits to maintain the integrity of the displays. TikTok

Gwangju offers a range of Korean cuisine, and many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian or vegan requests with advance notice or by choosing specific dishes. TikTok

Gwangju is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, often featuring fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes. Try local specialties like 'Gukbap' (rice soup). TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can vary. While some visitors share photos on social media, it's crucial to check for signage and respect any restrictions to preserve the exhibits. TikTok

The preserved bullet holes and the diorama are visually striking. The exterior architecture and any art installations might also be photogenic. Reddit

Flash photography is often prohibited in museums to protect artifacts. Always look for signs or ask staff if you're unsure about photo policies. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 35mm prime can be good for capturing both details and wider scenes. A gimbal can help with stable video if you're filming. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites due to privacy and safety regulations. Check local drone laws before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Jeonil Building 245 offers a crucial historical lesson, parents should consider the sensitive nature of the exhibits when visiting with younger children. The displays, including bullet holes and depictions of conflict, may be intense. It's recommended to gauge your child's maturity and perhaps focus on the broader historical context rather than graphic details. TikTok

Consider visiting the nearby 5.18 Memorial Park first, which offers a more open and potentially less intense introduction to the movement's significance. The building itself, with its diorama and archival materials, might be better suited for older children or teenagers who can grasp the historical complexities. TikTok

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about modern Korean history, Jeonil Building 245 is an absolute must-visit. The authentic bullet holes and the detailed diorama offer a visceral connection to the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement. Reddit+1

Engaging with the photojournalism and archival materials provides deep insights into the struggles and sacrifices of the time. Taking a guided tour with an English-speaking guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the nuances and personal stories behind the events. Reddit

✈️ International Travelers

Jeonil Building 245 provides a profound glimpse into a significant chapter of South Korean history. Visitors from abroad often express how eye-opening and moving the experience is, especially when accompanied by an English-speaking guide. TikTok+1

It's a key site for understanding the nation's journey towards democracy. Combining this visit with other Gwangju landmarks like the 5.18 Memorial Park offers a comprehensive cultural and historical exploration. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement

Jeonil Building 245 stands as a poignant memorial to the May 18th Gwangju Democratization Movement of 1980. This pivotal event saw citizens bravely protest against the military dictatorship, demanding democratic reforms. The movement, though met with brutal suppression, became a crucial turning point in South Korea's journey towards democracy. TikTok+1

The building itself, once the tallest in Gwangju, witnessed significant events during this period. Its walls bear the scars of the conflict, most notably the 245 bullet holes that serve as a stark and confronting reminder of the violence that occurred. Visitors can see these holes firsthand, offering a tangible connection to the past. Reddit+1

Exhibits within Jeonil Building 245 include powerful photojournalism, archival documents, and a detailed diorama that vividly recreates the atmosphere and events of May 1980. These displays aim to educate visitors about the sacrifices made and the importance of remembering this historical struggle. TikTokReddit

Experiencing Jeonil Building 245: Visitor Insights

Travelers consistently highlight the informative and moving experience of visiting Jeonil Building 245. Many emphasize the value of taking a guided tour, noting that guides often have personal connections to the events and possess excellent English skills, making the history more accessible and impactful. Reddit+1

The visual evidence, particularly the bullet holes, is frequently mentioned as a powerful and confronting aspect of the visit. The diorama is also praised for its ability to effectively demonstrate the historical events, providing a strong visual narrative. Reddit+1

Beyond the historical exhibits, the building has been revitalized into a modern space that includes museums, coffee shops, and offices, suggesting a blend of historical preservation and contemporary use. This transformation allows for a multi-faceted experience, combining reflection with the enjoyment of modern amenities. TikTokReddit

Cultural Connections and Inspirations

Jeonil Building 245 has inspired artistic and cultural works, notably Han Kang's novel 'Human Acts'. This novel draws heavily from the tragic events in Gwangju, and visiting the building offers a deeper understanding of the novel's context and emotional depth. TikTok

Furthermore, the building holds significance for K-pop fans, particularly those of BTS. Member SUGA was inspired by the May 18th movement and created a song titled '518-062' when he was a high school student. Visiting Jeonil Building 245 allows fans to connect with the historical background that influenced his work. TikTok

The building also serves as a point of interest for international travelers interested in Korean history and culture, with visitors from various backgrounds exploring its exhibits. TikTok+1

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