Is it just a school building or so much more? This is Gwangmyeong Middle School. It is more than just classrooms and hallways. Gwangmyeong Middle School is a place of learning. It is a place of growth and community.
Gwangmyeong Middle School stands as one of ten middle schools in Gwangmyeong. It is part of the Gyeonggi Province education system. Before 2013, students faced entrance exams to enter high school. Gwangmyeong-buk High School and Jinseong High School are known for high academic standards.
The city of Gwangmyeong itself has a unique story. Gwangmyeong borders Seoul. It shares a close relationship with the capital. Once, Gwangmyeong was part of Siheung County. The northern part was planned to merge with Seoul. This annexation never fully occurred. Seoul’s rapid growth concerned officials. In 1981, Gwangmyeong became its own city.
Gwangmyeong is now a residential area. Many residents commute to Seoul. The city has a large IKEA store. There is also a Costco and a Lotte Premium Outlet. Gwangmyeong Market offers a traditional Korean shopping experience.
Gwangmyeong has several libraries. The Gwangmyeong Central Library is the main library. Other libraries include Cheolsan Library and HaAn Library. These libraries provide resources for students and residents.
Kia Motors has a plant in Gwangmyeong. The Sohari Plant was the first integrated automobile assembly plant in Korea. Its location provides convenient access to labor. It also provides resources and access to the Seoul metropolitan area.
Several notable people were born or attended school in Gwangmyeong. Onew from Shinee was born here. Yoo Yeon-jung of WJSN is also from Gwangmyeong. Kim Jun-hyun attended school in Gwangmyeong.
Even the climate contributes to the environment of Gwangmyeong Middle School. The city has a humid continental climate. It has warm summers and cold winters.
Perhaps Gwangmyeong Middle School is more than brick and mortar. Perhaps it is a place of memories. Maybe it is a stepping stone to future success. Either way, Gwangmyeong Middle School plays a role in shaping the lives of its students. It prepares them for the world ahead.