People usually seek out urban facilities like cafes and shopping malls, as there are very few natural places in a city. Here is good news for readers who want to feel refreshed walking among the trees. There is a unique retreat in the heart of Gwangju: Pureun-gil (green road) Park. It stretches across areas of Dong-gu and Nam-gu in the city, conveniently situated next to the street from Gwangju Station to Dongsung High School. It is remarkable to find such a vast and lengthy trail amidst the bustling city with a population of 1.5 million inhabitants. The Chonnam Tribune took a stroll through its trails, discovering Pureun-gil Park’s charms along the way.
Urban Shelter for All
It is apparent that the park is more than just a walkway for local residents. At the end of last month, it offered a peaceful shelter for visitors seeking solace and meditation in nature’s embrace. The pathway was adorned with trees and an array of blossoms, their fragrant scent filled the air with freshness. Amid this natural symphony, some of the trees and flowers were beginning to bloom for the coming spring, with many people looking on in admiration as they passed by. In this picturesque scene, an old woman stood, capturing the moment with her camera as she focused on a tree just beginning to bloom. “Nature provides inspiration for my poetry and essays. Whether it’s the beauty of plants awakening or the vastness of the blue sky,” Choi Gyeong-sim, one of visitors on February 17, said.
The trail is also designed to have no obstructions or stairs. A diverse array of users, ranging from families with strollers to wheelchair users, can all move conveniently along the road thanks to its accessible design. Moreover, not only can people enjoy this place, but animals also benefit from it. On that day, many people strolled with their dogs, which happily played with the leaves and rolled on the land. Street cats was also spotted roaming freely, sometimes rubbing their heads against people’s legs. These observations indicate a good environment for animals to thrive in. As a result, walking along this park road brings a sense of comfort, eventually leading to natural healing.
Space of Intergenerational Interaction
A variety of gazebos and benches line the trail in the park, naturally inviting people to rest and fostering interactions among people of all ages. The pathways hummed with the sound of friendly conversations from the benches. It seemed that families, friends, and even strangers who did not know each other were talking. “I find great joy in meeting people from all walks of life here at Pureun-gil,” shared Kwon Jeong-hye, a spirited elderly woman who initiated a conversation with the reporter. “I usually saying ‘hello’ to others first, and it often leads to enriching conversations. Sometimes I learn something new from them, and other times, I have the pleasure of sharing my own knowledge.”
In addition to socializing, the park is also bustling with activity. In the Sansu Culture Yard, people caught the eyes of visitors diligently exercising with sports equipment, engaging in weight training, and performing sit-ups to stay fit. Also, a cozy pavilion there echoed with the cheerful sounds of Korean board games. Men gathered around, deeply engrossed in the game, while onlookers watched with curiosity.
The park not only provided spaces for walking or relaxation, but also has options for those who wish to have a meal. The journey on the trail is enriched by charming flea markets that come alive with activity. One such vibrant market, named the Saturday market, opens from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Jinwol-dong. The pathway here was lined with vendors selling street foods, groceries, clothes and even accessories that were interesting enough to stop and browse in. Many couples were seen shopping for food ingredients while holding hands or carrying their children. At a stall selling hotteok, a popular Korean sweet pancake, many young people were waiting in line. Regardless of age and gender, numerous citizens came here to enjoy the lively atmosphere and explore the variety of offerings.
Benefits of Pureun-gil Park
Pureun-gil Park was a train track spanning approximately 8.1 kilometers, crossing the old districts of Gwangju city until the 1990s. However, as the city expanded, the living environment around the railway deteriorated due to noise, dust, and traffic jams. In response, the decision was made to utilize the old train rail as a walking trail, marking the first case in Korea. Still, you can see some traces of the old railway along the way. Now it has evolved into a space that revitalizes the surrounding community and economy, not just replacing the rail track with a pedestrian walkway. It has become a popular cultural green space for citizens of all ages from young to old. Visitors can enjoy nature, interaction, and culture, which means this park is going beyond merely a trail. Taking a day trip to the park will help visitors create unique and unforgettable memories of their time in Gwangju. So, why not greet this spring by walking in the park?
By Kim Young-ji, Reporter