Top 7 Reasons to Visit Gwangyang This Lunar New Year: Nature, Culture, and Cuisine Await!

Gwangyang City has made significant strides in civil service, earning a ‘Grade B’ rating in the ‘2025 Comprehensive Evaluation of Civil Service.’ This marks an impressive improvement from the previous year, as announced on February 10.

The evaluation, jointly conducted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission, assesses 308 institutions nationwide. It covers five key areas: civil administration strategy, service systems, complaint handling, grievance processing, and citizen satisfaction. Institutions are graded from A to E based on 21 indicators.

Gwangyang City’s performance during the evaluation period (September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025) was stellar. The city scored 93.93 points, surpassing the national average of 84.93 for city-level evaluations by 9 points. This represents a remarkable 11.96-point improvement from the previous year.

The city particularly shone in the ‘Civil Administration Strategy and System’ category, achieving perfect scores across most indicators. This success highlights Gwangyang’s exceptional administrative capabilities. Moreover, the city’s handling of complaints through the National Complaint Center was impeccable, scoring a perfect 100 and ranking first among cities nationwide. This achievement underscores both high citizen satisfaction and strong trust in the local administration.

Gwangyang’s commitment to improving civil services is evident in its proactive approach. The city regularly hosts ‘Communication Day’ events and ‘Dialogues with Citizens,’ where officials engage directly with residents to address their concerns. Additionally, the city has implemented tailored services for vulnerable groups, including civil service guides and home health care programs, to enhance accessibility for all residents.

To ensure uninterrupted medical care during the Lunar New Year holiday, Gwangyang City has implemented a comprehensive emergency medical system.

From February 14 to 18, the city will operate special medical services focusing on children, pregnant women, and emergency patients.

An ‘Emergency Medical Response Situation Room’ will be set up at the health center, with five teams of 11 members monitoring medical facilities around the clock.

Two local hospitals, Gwangyang Love Hospital and Gwangyang Seoul Hospital, will provide 24/7 emergency care. Additionally, 105 clinics, six health centers, and 46 pharmacies will remain open to support community health needs.

Five key facilities, including Dana Pediatric Clinic and Future Women’s Clinic, will focus on care for children, adolescents, and pregnant women. For emergencies, rapid response will be coordinated with the 119 Emergency Medical Center and regional emergency facilities.

Looking for a perfect Lunar New Year escape? Gwangyang City might just be your ideal destination. This charming locale offers a blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights, all within easy reach – no long-distance travel required!

Picture this: serene landscapes framed by Baegun Mountain and the Seomjin River, early spring plum blossoms in full bloom, a rich tapestry of literature and art, and mouthwatering local cuisine. Gwangyang packs all this into a compact area, making it perfect for multi-generational family trips.

Start your journey at Sohakjeong, where South Korea’s earliest plum blossoms defy winter’s chill. These delicate blooms signal spring’s approach, offering a magical experience for families reuniting after time apart. Plus, you’ll beat the crowds by visiting before peak bloom!

For a touch of literary history, head to Mangdeok Port. Here, you’ll find the Jeong Byeong-wook House, which preserves handwritten works by the renowned poet Yun Dong-ju. With February 16 marking the 81st anniversary of Yun’s passing, it’s a poignant time to reflect on his legacy. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll through the nearby Baead Island Garden, where sea breezes and stunning views await.

Need a moment of zen? The camellia forest at Okryongsa Temple is your answer. While the flowers won’t be in full bloom until March, the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for quiet contemplation.

For a change of pace, take a drive across the Yi Sun-sin Bridge. By day, marvel at the impressive Gwangyang Steelworks and port. As night falls, witness the area transform into a glittering wonderland – a testament to Gwangyang’s dynamic future as an industrial hub.

Art lovers, rejoice! The Jeonnam Provincial Art Museum offers a diverse array of exhibitions, from traditional works to cutting-edge AI-inspired pieces. Don’t miss the Insuri Park Band-Aid Gallery’s “Layers and Connections” exhibit, showcasing innovative sculptural techniques.

For a unique experience, visit the Gwangyang Wine Cave. This former railway tunnel now houses wine history exhibits, interactive media art, and even a relaxing wine foot bath – perfect for soothing tired feet after a day of exploration.

No trip to Gwangyang is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Savor the delicate flavors of Baegun Mountain sap and seasonal oysters. For heartier fare, try the smoky delights of Gwangyang bulgogi and chicken BBQ – flavors that will linger long after your visit ends.

This Lunar New Year, Gwangyang invites you to experience a getaway that balances tranquility with cultural richness. From spring blossoms to culinary adventures, this hidden gem offers a refreshing alternative to typical holiday destinations.