Noodle run: a running route from Gwangju to Damyang Noodle Street

An 18.51 km run to lunch

In an October 12 report, Maeil Business Newspaper journalist Song Min-seop described an October 9 run from Gwangju Citizens’ Forest, along the Yeongsangang River, to Damyang Noodle Street. His recorded distance was 18.51 km. The outing combines exercise, travel and a meal in one day.

Origins of the street

The Korea Tourism Organization traces the street’s food culture to filling meals for traders at the nearby bamboo-goods market. A street that once fed market visitors is now also a destination for runners.

What to eat

Noodle Street lies beside Damyangcheon Stream, around Gaeksa 3-gil. Its signature dishes are noodles in anchovy broth and spicy mixed noodles. Side dishes such as eggs or pajeon, a savory pancake, vary by restaurant.

Visitors up 71%

Citing county data, the report says visits to the street rose about 71% from 2024 to 2025. The figure covers all visitors; it does not count runners or show that running drove the increase.

Route and return

The 18.51 km figure is the reporter’s own distance, not an official course. Less experienced runners can travel to Damyang first and pair a shorter walk or run with lunch. Restaurant hours, prices and menus and the trip home are worth checking in advance. Weather and riverside restrictions may call for a shorter distance; water and a phone are essentials.

Before you go

Damyang Noodle Street · Gaeksa 3-gil area, Damyang-eup, Damyang-gun

Gwangju Citizens’ Forest → Yeongsangang riverside → Damyang Noodle Street is the route outline from the report. No turn-by-turn directions or GPX route are provided.

Prices, hours, menus and reservations vary by restaurant. No common entry fee or currently bookable organized run has been verified.

Archive photographs taken by the Korea Tourism Organization in 2020. They do not show the 2026 run or current menus.