Gosari Fighting Festival
The Gossaum Nori Festival, held annually in Gwangju Metropolitan City, is a vibrant celebration of traditional Korean culture, centered around the unique folk game of Gossaum Nori. This event, taking place from February 7th to February 9th, 2025, offers a deep dive into the agricultural heritage of the region, showcasing the masculine fighting spirit and pioneering ethos embodied in Gossaum Nori. The festival serves as a platform for fostering communication, harmony, and cooperation, aligning with the spirit of Seol (Lunar New Year) and Jeongwol Daeboreum (the first full moon of the lunar year).
A Celebration of Tradition and Community
The Gossaum Nori Festival is more than just a spectacle; it’s a living, breathing testament to the enduring power of tradition. Visitors can witness the reenactment of various folk games, participate in the large-scale Daedong Danshimjul Nori (a communal rope game), and marvel at the Otgol Village Dokkaebi Bul Dolgi (goblin fire parade). These activities, along with other traditional folk games, contribute to the festival’s status as a representative performing arts event. The inclusion of Gossaum Nori, a national intangible cultural heritage, underscores the festival’s commitment to preserving and promoting the region’s unique cultural identity.
Program Highlights
The festival’s diverse program ensures there’s something for everyone, from cultural enthusiasts to families seeking a fun-filled outing.
Main Program
The core of the festival revolves around the demonstration of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage Gossaum Nori. This is complemented by the visually stunning Daljip Taeugi (burning of a moon house) and a vibrant fireworks display.
Supporting Programs
A rich tapestry of cultural performances enhances the festival experience. Attendees can enjoy congratulatory performances such as Pyeongtaek Nongak (farmers’ music), Suyeong Yaryu (masked dance drama), and Gayageum Sanjo (solo zither music). The festival also features performances by intangible cultural heritage trainees, showcasing the next generation of cultural guardians. Other notable performances include the Haenam Usuyeong Ganggangsullae (circle dance) and the Gossaum Nori Creative Madanggeuk (open-air play).
Consumer Participation Programs
The festival actively encourages visitor participation through a variety of engaging activities. Test your strategic skills in the Gonu Tournament (a traditional board game), try your hand at relay Saekki Ggogi (rope braiding), or participate in the Daeboreum Ojingeo Game, a themed event inspired by the popular "Squid Game" series. Other hands-on experiences include a traditional play experience with gift-giving, sampling Gwibalgi-sul (ear-brightening wine), enjoying Gunbam Bureom (roasted chestnuts and walnuts), and making and flying kites.
Other Contents
Beyond the main events, the festival offers a range of additional attractions. Visitors can explore Ibchungdae-gil (Spring Couplets), receive family motto calligraphy, and participate in a 119 Fire Safety Education Booth. The Otgol Village Kit Experience, Boks-ssam (wrapped rice with vegetables) experience, Gosat Gossaum Nori (miniature Gossaum Nori), and Godongcha (ox cart) rides provide further opportunities for cultural immersion.
Event Details
ποΈ Dates: February 7th – February 9th, 2025
π Address: Gwangju Metropolitan City, Namgu, Gossaum-ro 2
ποΈ Accommodation near the event
π° Fee: Free
π Contact: 062-374-3839
βοΈ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gossaumnori
π₯οΈ Homepage: http://www.gossaum.com
What is Gossaum Nori?
Gossaum Nori is a traditional Korean folk game, particularly popular in the Gwangju region. It involves two teams, each carrying a large structure called a "gos," made from tightly bound rice straw. The aim is for each team to maneuver their gos to overpower the opposing team’s structure, highlighting strength, unity, and strategy.
Historically, Gossaum Nori has its roots in agricultural rituals, believed to ensure good fortune and a successful harvest. The game tests physical strength and celebrates community spirit and cooperation. Participants, often in traditional attire, engage in this contest with the accompaniment of traditional Korean music, creating a lively atmosphere.
Gossaum Nori is a cultural event that reflects the heritage and communal values of Korean society. During the Gwangju Gossaum Nori Festival, visitors can witness and participate in this tradition, gaining insight into Korea’s cultural legacy.
