Former Provincial Government Building Site of May 18 Movement Proposed as National Historic Site

Efforts are underway to designate the former South Jeolla Provincial Government building and its surrounding areas as a national historic site. This move aims to recognize the location as a symbolic site of resistance against state violence during the May 18th Democratization Movement.

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The plan includes applying for 'Historic Site' status for the former provincial office, Sangmu Hall, and the May 18th Democracy Plaza.

The proposed plan, developed by the integrated Jeonnam-Gwangju Special City, includes applying for 'Historic Site' status for the former provincial office, Sangmu Hall, and the May 18th Democracy Plaza. Additionally, the plan seeks to designate Geumnam-ro, encompassing these sites along with Jeonil Building, YMCA, and the former Catholic Center, as a modern historical cultural space.

This designation is crucial for the systematic preservation and management of these significant locations, especially in preparation for the 50th anniversary of the May 18th movement in 2030. Achieving national heritage status would unlock substantial government funding, covering 50-70% of preservation and utilization project costs. The city also hopes this will pave the way for a UNESCO World Heritage inscription.

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The city hopes this will pave the way for a UNESCO World Heritage inscription.

Previously, the former provincial government building, constructed in 1930, was registered as a cultural property in 2002. However, different management bodies oversaw various May 18th-related sites, leading to a fragmented approach. The current proposal seeks to consolidate and elevate the status of these historical grounds, with experts suggesting a phased application process to ensure swift progress.

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Achieving national heritage status would unlock substantial government funding, covering 50-70% of preservation and utilization project costs.