Wondong-myeon Water Parsley Festival

The Wondong-myeon Water Parsley Festival is an annual event celebrating a local specialty product: water parsley grown in the Wondong-myeon area of Yangsan City, Gyeongsangnam-do, renowned for its sulfur and vitamin content. The festival will be held from February 22 to March 23, 2025, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the culinary and cultural significance of this regional delicacy.

What to Expect

The festival grounds, located in Yongdang-ri, Wondong-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, will host a variety of programs designed to engage attendees of all ages. The main program features an opening ceremony with guest singers, followed by citizen singing contests and concerts. A separate citizen singing contest constitutes the side program, providing a platform for local talent to shine.

Culinary Delights

Food is a central element of the Wondong-myeon Water Parsley Festival. Visitors can indulge in a range of culinary offerings, including simple food truck fare and Wondong-myeon specialties. The star of the show, however, is undoubtedly the water parsley paired with samgyeopsal (pork belly), a combination that showcases the unique flavor profile of the region’s prized produce. While admission to the festival is free, experiences and food are paid.

Addressing Past Concerns

In previous years, the festival has faced challenges related to price gouging and unsanitary conditions, primarily attributed to the involvement of individuals from outside the local community. To address these issues and enhance the overall visitor experience, organizers have announced plans to establish a dedicated Water Parsley Town starting with the 2025 festival. This initiative aims to ensure that the event remains authentic, sustainable, and reflective of the region’s culinary heritage.

Planning Your Visit

For those planning to attend the Wondong-myeon Water Parsley Festival, detailed information can be found on the official website: http://yswondong.co.kr/. Inquiries can also be directed to the festival organizers at 055-382-5502.

For visitors requiring overnight accommodations, a selection of lodging options near the event can be found here: 🛏️ Accommodation near the event.

🗓️ Dates: February 22 – March 23, 2025

📍 Address: Yongdang-ri, Wondong-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

💰 Fee: Free (Experiences and food are paid)

📞 Inquiries: 055-382-5502

🖥️ Homepage: http://yswondong.co.kr/

What is Water Parsley?

Water parsley, or Oenanthe javanica, is an aquatic plant native to the wetlands and riverbanks of East Asia. In Korea, it is known as "minari" and is an integral part of the country’s culinary traditions. With its feathery leaves and crisp stems, water parsley provides a slightly peppery flavor that enhances various dishes.

This herb is valued not only for its taste but also for its nutritional content. It is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like calcium and iron, making it a healthy addition to meals. Commonly used in soups, stews, and salads, water parsley adds a fresh, aromatic quality to these dishes.

The Wondong-myeon Water Parsley Festival highlights the culinary uses of this plant, emphasizing its importance in Korean cuisine. The festival offers an opportunity to experience the flavors and cultural significance of water parsley, whether you are familiar with it or discovering it for the first time.