Why does Gunsan remember March 5?
Korea's March First Movement began on March 1, 1919. In Gunsan, another date matters: March 5, when local residents and students rallied for independence. The city's official records identify Yeongmyeong School, Yesu Hospital and Guam Church among the movement's key local centres. Separating the nationwide movement's name from the date of a particular city's demonstrations makes the history more tangible.
Walk into a recreated school building
Inside the March First Movement History Park at 29 Yeongmyeong-gil, Gunsan, the Centennial Memorial Hall recreates the appearance of the historic Yeongmyeong School. Instead of a generic museum facade, it offers a visual link to the people of a century ago.
The visit moves through three floors. The first holds memorial records honouring independence activists; the second reconstructs historical scenes; the third offers educational displays and activities. Special programmes may not be available every day, so confirm individual sessions before travelling.
What visitors need to know
Opening hours are 09:00–18:00 from March to October (last entry 17:30), and 09:00–17:00 from November to February (last entry 16:30). The museum closes Mondays, January 1 and on additional dates designated by the city. Individual single-site admission is KRW 500 for adults, 300 for youth and military personnel, and 200 for children; exemptions, group prices and combined tickets have separate terms. Schools and other groups are instructed to book by phone at 063-454-5940 no later than the day before. Check last-minute closures and programme changes with the operator.
A question to carry away: Which schools and streets turned a national cause into a local act? In Gunsan, the date March 5 helps tell that story.