Memorizing Korea's Tragic May: 5.18 Democratization Movement

I read a book, which was recommended by RM from BTS, whom I greatly admire. When I first picked up this novel, recommended by a friend, I knew it would be no ordinary read. As I flipped through the pages, I felt a mixture of anticipation and hesitation. It was a profound and challenging narrative, one that compelled me to write this heartfelt review.   This book is about  This remarkable book delves into the events of the 5.18 Democratization Movement, shedding light on a significant period in history. Every word, every sentence evoked a sense of pain and anguish. It is not a book to be read casually, but one that demands to be embraced fully. The events of May 18, 1980, unfolded when students gathered at the main gate of Jeonnam National University in Gwang-ju, Korea. On May 27, 1980, martial law troops indiscriminately attacked the citizens gathered at Jeonnam Provincial Office, bringing a tragic end to the situation. Over the course of ten days, the official casualties ...

[Korea] Chasing Autumn Colors on a Bike: Our Little Trip to Gangcheon Island

< A simple one-day backpacking & bike ride with my son - November 13, 2025 >

I didn’t expect this random Thursday in mid-November to become one of my favorite days of the year. But sometimes the small trips - even if I didn't expect to be with my son - ends up with great memories.
1. From Pangyo to Yeoju: Slow Morning, Easy Train Ride
We started the day at Pangyo Station and took the Gyeonggang Line all the way to Yeoju. The ride takes about 53 minutes and costs around 2,500 won one way per adult(1 USD= 1470 KRW). Trains run roughly every 20 minutes, so it’s easy to hop on without over-planning.
(Right before Yeoju Station there’s a stop called Sejong Daewangneung - the royal tomb of King Sejong, the creator of Hangul, the Korean language. I haven’t visited yet, but I’ve heard the walking trails and history displays there are lovely.)

2. Renting Bikes and Starting the Ride
And the ride begins
A short 10-minute taxi from Yeoju Station (about 9,000 won) dropped us by the riverside bike rental shops near Geumunmorae Riverside Park. We rented two bikes - 10,000 won per person for three hours - and started along the path that runs beside the river.
Navigation said round-trip was about 19km (roughly 80 minutes), and the shop owner cheerfully claimed “one hour one way.” The result is? I think you can make it if you never stop until the destination. We stopped quite often for photos and to breathe it all in. Well, I hardly do exercise. 
3. The Calm Line of the Namhan River

The bike path follows the Namhan River, and the quietness that day was perfect — about 15°C, soft sunshine, and almost no people on the trail. Reeds swayed by the river, birds crossed our path, and for long stretches it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves.


We saw exactly one foreign cyclist on the route - he greeted us with a friendly “Hello!” and went on. I still wonder how he found this route; many locals don’t even know it well.

4. Entering Gangcheon Island: Golden and Quiet

Gangcheon Island welcomed us with ginkgo trees and warm yellow tones. The prime ginkgo week had already passed, but the island still looked like it was lit from within. My son rode ahead through the carpet of yellow leaves, and at one point I found myself saying “I love you” out loud — it just slipped out, because the day felt so gentle and full.
We set up a small wind-blocking tent inside the park (it’s allowed), boiled instant noodles, rested for a bit, and wandered through the trails. What was meant to be a three-hour rental turned into nearly four hours - the shop owner kindly didn’t charge us extra.

5. Crossing the Suspension Bridge for Lunch


Crossing the suspension bridge

After we returned the bikes, we walked about 15 minutes to the newly built Namhangang Suspension Bridge and crossed over toward the Silleuksa area. We ate a traditional Korean set meal near the temple - Yeoju’s rice is famous, and after all that fresh air and pedaling, even simple rice felt like a feast.

6. Heading Back Home With Happy Tires and Tired Legs

Taxis back to Yeoju Station are quick and easy, and the train ride home felt cozy. We left around 10 a.m. and were back by 5 p.m. - the perfect one-day escape. I’ve come to Yeoju before in spring, but autumn wins my heart every time. Next time? I will be there alone. 

We set up a small wind-blocking tent inside the park (it’s allowed), boiled instant noodles, rested for a bit, and wandered through the trails. What was meant to be a three-hour rental turned into nearly four hours - the shop owner kindly didn’t charge us extra.

Quick Facts & Tips

  • Train: Pangyo → Yeoju (Gyeonggang Line) — ~50 minutes, ~2,500 won one way (adult). Trains ~every 20 minutes.
  • Taxi: Yeoju Station → bike rental area (near Geumunmorae Riverside Park) — ~10 min, ~9,000 won.
  • Bike rental: ~10,000 won per person for 3 hours (local shops near the river).
  • Path: Follows the Namhan River and connects toward Gangwon-do (long-distance connections continue north).
  • Sejong Daewangneung Station is one stop before Yeoju - great place for a historical walk if you have time.

— Written by a Korean mom who loves 'small' adventures with her son.