Mudeungsan National Park gives Gwangju a real mountain edge. The park rises on the eastern side of the city, with forest trails, temples, ridge views, and volcanic rock formations that feel far from downtown even though buses can get you close.
You do not need to be a serious hiker to enjoy it, but shoes with grip are a good idea. On clear days the mountain is one of the best ways to see how Gwangju sits between urban basin and rural Jeolla.