The city's name 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."

While the origin of the city's name appears to be a literal interpretation, Yi Saek must have based his conclusion on a reliable source, which unfortunately is unknown to us today.

Light symbolizes hope or a bright future, which is the fundamental spirit of the Korean people.
Gwangju is a city of the sun, hope and light.
Its citizens have continued to live in the spirit of our ancestors, which was the driving force behind our strength during periods of crisis throughout history.
That spirit lives on today, as Gwangju and its citizens assume a pivotal role in the formation of our nation's future.