Gwangju

Inheriting the Historical Legacy of Gwangju 

Gwangju’s journey toward becoming a human rights city is anchored in a rich tradition of civic activism and resistance. This legacy includes the 1894 Donghak Farmers Revolution’s call for equality, the 1919 March 1 Independence Movement’s fight for national self-determination, the 1929 Gwangju Students Independence Movement’s advocacy for justice, and the May 18 Democratization Movement’s defense of democracy and human dignity. These milestones have shaped Gwangju’s identity as a city of democracy, human rights and peace, and its steadfast commitment to justice and social inclusion.

Transforming the Movement for Democracy into a Human Rights City 

Building on its democratic legacy, Gwangju has institutionalized human rights as a guiding principle for local governance. The city’s transition from resistance to proactive rights-based administration ensures that the values of participation, justice, and dignity are embedded in policies and daily life, making human rights a lived reality for all residents.

Expanding the Human Rights City Movement into an Inclusive City 

Gwangju’s inclusive city vision means extending rights and opportunities to all, regardless of background. This is achieved by targeting the needs of marginalized groups, fostering cultural diversity, and promoting social harmony, peace, and justice. The city’s approach ensures that every resident can participate fully and benefit from Gwangju’s social, cultural, and economic life.

Integrating Artificial Intelligence for Inclusion and Accessibility 

Since 2021 Gwangju aims to becoming South Korea's leading AI city, focusing on the development and integration of AI technologies. This includes establishing a national AI data center and a demonstration center. The initial phase of this project involves an investment of about USD300 million to boost AI development and an additional USD450 million to expand the project until 2029. These initiatives underscore Gwangju's commitment to leveraging AI for economic growth and technological advancement as well as promoting itself as a AI City embracing artificial intelligence to further inclusion and accessibility in urban life. Two key components are: 

• AI for Participatory Urban Planning: AI-driven tools enable broader citizen engagement in city planning, making processes more inclusive and responsive. For example, AI can analyze community input to design accessible public spaces, ensuring diverse voices shape urban development. 

• AI for Accessibility and Assistive Services: AI-powered solutions, such as real-time accessible route planning, adaptive traffic signals, and assistive navigation for people with disabilities, directly address barriers to participation. These technologies help ensure that all residents, including those with disabilities or mobility challenges, can navigate and access city services independently. 

AI’s role is not just technical economical; it embodies ethical principles of transparency, fairness, and equity, aligning with Gwangju’s human rights values and supporting sustainable, data-driven decision making.

Embedding Culture as a Pillar of Inclusion 

Gwangju, South Korea’s six largest cities, stands out as a vibrant cultural hub deeply rooted in both tradition and innovation with diverse cultural institutions, including the Asia Culture Center, which cost USD 1 billion. Its cultural identity is not only shaped by its rich artistic heritage but also by its commitment to inclusion, making culture a central pillar for fostering a more cohesive and diverse community. 

Culture is a powerful driver of social inclusion and urban resilience. Gwangju’s inclusive city framework integrates culture in several ways: 

• Cultural Urban Development: By using culture as a bridge between communities, Gwangju can reduce segregation, foster social cohesion, and create shared spaces for dialogue and interaction. Initiatives that promote cultural exchanges, public art, and community events help strengthen the city’s social fabric and celebrate its diversity. 

• Cultural Rights and Identity: Ensuring that all residents can access, participate in, and contribute to the city’s cultural life affirms their sense of belonging and identity. Preserving local heritage, supporting creative industries, and involving artists and cultural actors in urban planning empower marginalized groups and reinforce community ownership of public spaces. One of the examples is the culture voucher system with the purpose of helping all citizens to enjoy the art and culture while supporting creative activities of professional artists.

Guiding Sustainable and Accountable Governance with Civil Society Engagement 

Gwangju’s governance model is participatory and transparent, involving civil society through the Citizen Committee for Promoting Human Rights and the Citizen Governance Committee. These bodies ensure that human rights, AI, and cultural policies are shaped by diverse perspectives, monitored for impact, and continuously improved in partnership with the community.

Conclusion 

Gwangju’s essential role in promoting, fulfilling, and respecting human rights is grounded in its historical legacy, innovative governance, and commitment to universal values. By integrating artificial intelligence and culture as pillars of inclusion, Gwangju empowers individuals, fosters social harmony, and ensures accountable, sustainable development. As a “human rights city,” Gwangju not only honors its past but also leads the way for cities worldwide seeking to make human rights, technological innovation, and cultural vibrancy a way of life.