South Korea’s last surviving single-screen cinema, the historic Gwangju Cinema, is currently under review for designation as a National Registered Cultural Heritage, news1.kr reported. Built in 1935 during the Japanese colonial period, the four-story theater in Gwangju’s Dong-gu district has operated continuously for 91 years as the country’s oldest running private movie house.
Dong-gu district officials submitted an application to the National Heritage Administration in November 2024 following preparation work that began earlier that year. An on-site inspection took place in May, followed by a registration value review meeting last month where investigators concluded the building possesses sufficient merit for national heritage protection, news1.kr reported.
Pillarless Design Preserves Local Film Culture
Although a 1968 fire necessitated a complete reconstruction, the cinema retained distinct architectural features from its era. The building utilizes a pillarless structural design that spans a 20-meter main space, alongside upper and lower seating tiers, a steel truss roof, and curved eaves.
Investigators reviewing the site noted that the core spaces and structural traits remain remarkably well-preserved. Officials emphasized that the site transcends basic architectural preservation, functioning instead as a living repository that transmits local film culture and place-based identity.
To safeguard the structure, the Dong-gu district office adjusted plans for a local Hometown Love Donation project. While funds were initially earmarked to replace aging auditorium seats, planners chose to preserve the original furnishings and physical layout to maintain the venue’s authenticity.
National Heritage Status Grants Funding and Tax Benefits
Following the positive review, the National Heritage Administration plans to issue a 30-day preliminary registration notice this month. A final review will follow, with official designation anticipated in the first half of next year.
Securing National Registered Cultural Heritage status will grant the theater access to government funding covering up to 50 percent of maintenance, repair, and utilization costs. The classification also brings property tax reductions and other administrative benefits designed to keep the historic venue operational for the public.
Worth a look