Introduction

• Overview
• Symbol/Origin
• Nature

Introduction

Overview

Symbol/Origin

Nature

Symbol/Origin

Origin of Gwangju

Gwangju is the 'city of light'. The name of Gwangju was used for the first time in the 23rd year (940) of the reign of King Taejo in the Goryeo Dynasty. While the reason why the city was so named is unknown, it is said to originate from one of the great scholars of the Goryeo Dynasty, Yi Saek, who, according to an interpretation in his book "Seoseokjueonggi," named the area "Gwangjiju" or "village of light."

Light means a bright glimmer. The idea of light is our traditional faith, original spirit and basic philosophy. Gwangju is the city of the sun and light. It is a city of light. Its citizens look to the sun and live toward the light.

This spirit has been the driving force by which Gwangju citizens have overcome each difficult time and have become a leading power in history. It has been inherited as a symbol of our spirit across society.

Symbol

Slogan

The design of the city's slogan, 'Your Partner Gwangju', shows that the letters Y and P changing into the shape of people with their arms around each other's shoulders, representing companionship and friendship. The colors reflect the previous emblem, using orange to represent light, dark green to symbolize the creation of life and an environmentally progressive attitude, and deep blue to reflect harmony and peace among mankind. Through the spirit of light and life, the slogan shows the desire to play a role of pioneer toward a true harmony and spirit of community among regions, countries and the world.

Symbol

The symbol of Gwangju takes the form of the sun and humans, the source of light and life. It represents aspirations for the world and the future. The circular shape represents the sun while the lively curves symbolize the free human spirit.

Logo type

The logo is in perfect harmony with the symbol of Gwangju, and serves as an important element in symbolizing the city of Gwangju. The logo was designed to make it easy to understand and convey the dependability, friendliness, warmth and security of the city government administration to viewers.

Color

The colors symbolize "light" and "life," standing as a symbol for luminance, expansion and force. The colors orange and yellow symbolize light, while dark green symbolizes life and creation of all living things. The color orange, so in harmony with navy blue, represents the purpose of life in accordance with the harmony of Yin and Yang, and the cycle of nature.

Character

The characters of Gwangju are based on the concept of Gwangju as "the city of light." The three fairies of light, Areumi, Euiromi and Masi, who were born on January 1, personify the virtues of art, righteousness and refinement, respectively. When united, they produce a shining beam of life that represents eternal life and reflects the desire of Gwangju's citizens to light up the world in the 21st century.

City Bird : Dove

As a symbol of peace and good luck, the dove represents the city's spirit of harmony and stability.

City Flower : Royal azaleas

Royal azaleas grow on Mt. Mudeung, symbolizing the hospitality and generosity of Gwangju citizens.

City Tree : Gingko Tree

The gingko is straight and long-lived, representing the high spirits and infinite growth of Gwangju.

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• Division : City Design Division
• Contact : +82-62-613-3914