광장의 공공문화－광주공원과 5․18민주광장의 형성과 역할 변화－

Abstract

In western cities, the “Square” dates back to the Agora of ancient Greece and the Forum of Rome and even encompasses the medieval market or the churchyard. In the modern era, a new public space called the “Park” as well as the typical city square were born under a more systematic urban planning method. Unlike the western square and the culture formed around it throughout history, in Korea, parks and squares simultaneously began to appear in early 20th century urban planning during the Japanese colonial period. At this time, the square was a symbol of the colonial government and a major traffic center; the forms and roles of squares were far away from the traditional squares of the West. Often parks were used as main gathering places for citizens instead of the square. Through the 4․19 Revolution, the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement, and the June Democratic Uprising, the squares in Korea served as an important public sphere for the citizens, and gradually became a place for cultural sports events and festivals. Especially since the 2000s, after the World Cup and the Candlelight rally, the culture of the Square has undergone a transformation. However, while studies have been conducted on the process of the formation of the square and the political and cultural events held in places such as Seoul City Hall Square, Gwanghwamun Square, and Yeouido Park, there has been little discussion on Gwangju’s squares. Therefore, this study will consider the history and characteristics of the “May 18 Democratic Square” and “Gwangju Park” which replaced its role as a cultural and political hub of civic activities during the colonial period. To this end, at first, this paper will briefly look at the meaning and characteristics of the square as a “public” space. Then, while examining the process of formation and transformation of Gwangju Park and the May 18 Democratic Square, it tracks how the five functions of the square defined by Franco Mancuso-place for market, culture, arts, celebrations, involvement-have been revealed in each time period. Lastly, it discusses the significance and limitations of various cultural and artistic events, as well as political gatherings held at the May 18 Democratic Square since 2015, when it was reborn with the new Asia Culture Center.