Escape to Wando This Fall: Marine Healing and Island Fun!

🗓️ October 25th – 27th, 2024

Get ready for a rejuvenating island getaway at the 2024 Clean Wando Autumn Island Trip! This year’s theme, "Marine Healing Fall in Autumn Island," highlights Wando’s incredible coastal resources. Whether you’re looking to unwind from daily stress or explore a new destination, this festival offers a diverse range of activities, performances, and marine healing experiences designed to refresh and entertain. With even more to see and do than last year, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable autumn escape.

What Awaits You?

Here’s a glimpse of the exciting programs planned:

Headline Events:

• Blue Awesome Concert: Groove to the rhythm of live music against the stunning backdrop of Wando’s coastline.
• Marine Healing Fall in Busking: Enjoy charming street performances that add a touch of magic to the festival atmosphere.

Fun & Games:

• Find Bangglee: Embark on a playful treasure hunt and discover hidden gems around the island.
• Beach Photo Zone: Strike a pose and capture memories at the beautifully designed photo zones.
• Life4Cut (In-saeng Ne-Cut): Get creative and snap some Instagram-worthy shots with fun props and backdrops.

Experiences to Remember:

• Mobile Stamp Tour: Explore the island at your own pace and collect stamps for a chance to win prizes.
• Marine Healing for Everyone: Discover the therapeutic benefits of the sea with tailored wellness activities.
• Beach Exercise: Energize your body and mind with invigorating workouts by the sea.
• Namparang Trail Experience: Hike through scenic trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
• Cheongsando Milky Way Tour: Marvel at the breathtaking night sky and witness the brilliance of the Milky Way.
• Balsam Dyeing Experience: Get crafty and create your own unique souvenirs with natural dyes.

Treats & Treasures:

• Flea Market: Discover unique finds and local crafts at the bustling flea market.
• Blue Flag Clean Delicacies: Savor fresh, local seafood and other culinary delights.
• Food Truck: Indulge in a variety of tasty treats from the diverse food truck offerings.
• Clean Wando Night Sea Stroll: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the ocean under the stars.

Special Event:

• Shinji Myeongsa Beach Healing Road Barefoot Walking Declaration Ceremony and Experience Program: Connect with nature and feel the sand between your toes in this grounding experience.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: 52 Haebyeon Gongwon-ro, Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do

🛏️ Accommodation: Find the perfect place to stay near the festival: Accommodation near the event

💰 Festival Entry: Free (Food, market purchases, and some activities are at an additional cost.)

📞 Contact: 061-550-5431

🖥️ Website: https://www.wando.go.kr/tour/sub.cs?m=101

Discover the Energy of Ginseng at the Icheon Ginseng Festival!

🗓️ October 25th – 27th, 2024

Get ready to dive into the world of ginseng at the Icheon Ginseng Festival! Icheon, the largest ginseng producer in Korea, invites you to experience the revitalizing power of this incredible root. From informative exhibits to hands-on activities and delicious ginseng-infused treats, there’s something for everyone at this free event.

What awaits you?

Experience the Ginseng Difference:

• Immerse yourself: Discover the journey from field to finished product at the Ginseng Promotion Hall and witness expert ginseng evaluation firsthand.
• Get hands-on: Craft your own ginseng extract and enjoy a soothing ginseng foot bath. These interactive experiences offer a unique opportunity to connect with this ancient healing root.
• Shop ’til you drop: Explore a wide selection of high-quality Icheon ginseng and other local agricultural specialties at the bustling market. Bring home the perfect ginseng souvenir or gift!

Entertainment and Festivities:

• Celebrate with Icheon: Join the lively opening ceremony, enjoy captivating stage performances, and cheer on the local talent at the Icheon Citizen Singing Contest.
• Fun for all ages: Try your luck at ginseng fishing, express your creativity with ginseng-themed painting, and enjoy a variety of other engaging activities.

Ginseng-Infused Delights:

• Tantalize your taste buds: Indulge in unique ginseng-inspired cuisine, from crispy ginseng fries and refreshing ginseng makgeolli (rice wine) to nourishing ginseng gukbap (rice soup). This is your chance to savor the distinct flavor of ginseng in a variety of delicious dishes.

Event Details:

• Location: 160, Dunteo-ro 124beon-gil, Sindeun-myeon, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
• Dates: October 25th – 27th, 2024
• Admission: Free
• Inquiries: +82-31-635-2429

Plan Your Visit:

🛏️ Find accommodations near the festival

Dive into the World of Animation at the Bucheon International Animation Festival (BIAF) 🎊

🗓️ October 25th – 29th, 2024

Get ready to be captivated by the Bucheon International Animation Festival (BIAF), Asia’s largest animation extravaganza! Held annually in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province since 1999, BIAF has become a cornerstone of the animation world. In 2017, it achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming Korea’s first Academy Award-qualifying international animation film festival. This year, BIAF celebrates its 26th anniversary with a stunning lineup of 122 films from 34 countries, many making their Korean debut. Kicking off the festivities is the Korean animated feature film, Letter from Yeon. Beyond the screenings, immerse yourself in a vibrant array of events, including the Animation Content Market, Academic Forum, exhibitions, engaging side events, and interactive experiences.

What Awaits You at BIAF 2024?

1. Feast Your Eyes on Animated Wonders:

• Competitions: Witness the future of animation in the International Competition (Feature, Short, Student, TV & Commissioned) and the Korean Short Competition.
• Exclusive Screenings and Exhibitions: Discover hidden gems and celebrate the art form through curated Special Screenings and Exhibitions.
• Ani-Together: Join fellow animation enthusiasts for unique shared experiences.
• Program Class: Gain insights from industry experts through Special Talks and Work in Progress sessions.

2. Explore the Business of Animation:

• Animation Content Market: Network with professionals and explore opportunities in the thriving animation industry.
• Job Seminar: Launch your career in animation with valuable advice and connections.
• Ani-Presentation: Discover exciting new projects and potential collaborations.
• Production Support: Learn about resources and support available for short and feature animation productions.
• Animation Meet up+ & Animaster Awards: Celebrate the achievements of animation professionals and connect with peers.

3. Expand Your Knowledge:

• Academic Forum: Delve into the theme of "Animation Leaping into the World: Exploring Strategic Promotion Plans for International Animation Film Festivals."

4. Immerse Yourself in Art:

• Ani-Master Exhibition: Explore the captivating worlds of The Nine Mountain Forest: Parasitic Soul and Glowing BIAF, Glowing Aurora: Prequel of Aurora, The Light that Illuminates Light, Aurora’s name is ‘Dawn’.
• Ani-Dream Exhibition / Vision Park (Corporate Promotion Hall), Innovation Nest (University Promotion Hall): Discover the dreams and innovations driving the animation industry.

5. Experience the Magic Beyond the Screen:

• with BIAF × Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra ‘Makoto Shinkai’ Animation OST Concert: Enjoy the enchanting music of acclaimed animation director Makoto Shinkai.
• with BIAF × Bucheon Book Festival Outdoor Screening: Experience animation under the stars.
• with BIAF × Raul Garcia Director Ani-Special Lecture: Gain insights from renowned animation director Raul Garcia.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: 17, Gilju-ro, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do (Sang-dong, Youth Culture Village Artist Housing and Webtoon Convergence Center)

💰 Tickets: Exhibitions and Side Events are free! Movie tickets are ₩9,000 for feature films and ₩7,000 for short films.

📞 Contact: 032-325-2061

⭐️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biaf.ani/

🖥️ Website: http://www.biaf.or.kr

✨ Dream, Universe & Love: Light Up Your Winter at Seokchon Lake’s Luminarie Festival! ✨

🗓️ October 25, 2024 – February 28, 2025

Get ready to be dazzled! The Autumn and Winter at the Lake, and Luminarie Festival returns to Seokchon Lake in Songpa-gu, Seoul, with a breathtaking “Dream, Universe & Love” theme. This year’s festival promises an even more spectacular display of light art and captivating installations, transforming the lake into a magical wonderland.

Imagine strolling through shimmering tunnels of light, beneath larger-than-life illuminated arches, and across bridges glowing with festive cheer. Capture the perfect Instagram moment at one of the many themed photo zones, or find your own personalized message shining brightly as part of the “My Decorated Lake” project, where residents’ dreams, wishes, and expressions of love are brought to life through LED lights.

But the Luminarie Festival is more than just a feast for the eyes. Enjoy a vibrant program of cultural events and performances throughout the festival period:

Grand Opening Celebration: Fireworks Extravaganza

Friday, October 25, 6:30 PM – Kick off the festival with a bang!

Weekend Fun (October 26 – November 24):

• Cultural Performances: Every weekend, immerse yourself in the rhythm of busking, the magic of mime, the energy of breaking dance, and more!
• Flea Markets: Discover unique treasures and local crafts every weekend.

More Festive Delights:

• Food Trucks: Saturday, October 26 – Sunday, October 27, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Indulge in delicious treats from a variety of food vendors.
• Interactive Experience Booths: Saturday, October 26 – Sunday, October 27, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Engage your senses and create lasting memories.
• Special Performance: Saturday, October 26 – Don’t miss the Lotte World Marching Band performing with Songpa-gu’s beloved character, Hahahoho!

Luminarie Installations:

From October 25, 2024, to February 28, 2025, Seokchon Lake will be adorned with:

• Luminarie Gates: Find these grand entrances at the East and West Lake entrances, along the promenade, and at Seokchon Lake Bridge.
• Luminarie Tunnels: Wander through enchanting illuminated tunnels along the East and West Lake promenade.
• Themed Lighting: Experience the magic of Firefly Road, Laser Road, and Gobo Light Road.
• Photo Zones & My Decorated Lake: Capture unforgettable moments against the backdrop of stunning light displays on the promenade and deck.

Event Details:

📍 Location: Songpa Tourist Information Center, 206 Songpanaru-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul
💰 Admission: Free
📞 Inquiries: +82-2-2147-2110
🖥️ Website: https://www.songpa.go.kr/
🛏️ Accommodation: Book your stay near the festival!

Dive into Modern Korean Literature at the Seoul Literature Festival!

🗓️ October 25th-26th, 2024

Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Korean literature at the 16th Seoul Literature Festival, “2024 Literary City Seoul”! This free, two-day event, sponsored by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and hosted by the Korean Women’s Literary Institute, takes place on October 25th and 26th at the Myeongdong YWCA and Cheonggyecheon Plaza. Building on the success of last year’s festival, this year’s theme, "Modern Literature Becomes a Festival," focuses on Jung-gu and Myeongdong—the very heart and soul of modern Korean literature.

A Deep Dive into Yeom Sang-seop’s Samdae

This year’s festival shines a spotlight on Yeom Sang-seop’s Samdae (Three Generations). Experience this literary masterpiece through a captivating reading drama, insightful discussion forum, and an engaging tour of its historical backdrop.

Event Highlights: Something for Everyone!

Opening Event (October 25th, 4 PM, Myeongdong YWCA):

• Celebrate Literary Excellence: Witness the Seoul Literature Awards and Jang Geum-saeng Literature Awards Ceremony.
• Experience Samdae in a New Light: Enjoy a unique reading drama performance by the Cheonggye Literary Theater.
• Delve Deeper into Samdae: Participate in a discussion forum with literary critic Professor Seo Gyeong-seok and young critic Jeon Cheol-hee, exploring the themes of "Colonial Seoul and the Subjective Women Within." Special guests include actor Choi Bul-am and writer Kim Jong-won.
• Literature and Music in Harmony: Enjoy a book concert featuring poet Choi Ji-in and a singer-songwriter, discussing the present and future of Korean literature.

Main Event (October 26th, 11 AM – 6 PM, Cheonggyecheon Plaza):

• Showcase Your Reading Prowess: Watch the finals of the "Reading Contest with Seoul Citizens." (Submit your application via email to [email protected] between September 9th and October 4th. Finalists will be notified after October 11th.) Enjoy performances by finalists and invited poetry reciters.
• Street Performances and Festive Fun: Enjoy mime performances and a street parade that will bring the festival to life.
• Meet the Author: Get your books signed by writer Yuk Sang-hyo.
• Musical Delights: Experience diverse musical performances, including opera singer Kang Chang-ryeon and traditional Korean music.
• Step Back in Time: Embark on a "Modern Literature Tour" exploring the historical locations featured in Samdae. Don period costumes and explore Seochon, Bukchon, and Namchon with expert guidance from Professor Lee Min-ho. (Apply via Naver Form between September 19th and October 14th.)

Interactive Experiences:

• Korean Women’s Literary Institute Promotion Room: Explore the rich 42-year history of the Institute through exhibitions and displays.
• Period Production Room: Discover fascinating materials related to modern literature, including photos of writers and a first edition of the poetry collection "Azaleas." Test your knowledge with the "Modern Literature Quiz Event" and take a Polaroid photo in period costume.
• Book Camping Zone: Relax, read, and participate in events to receive special gifts.
• Book Flea Market: Browse and take home free books donated by members of the Korean Women’s Literary Institute.
• Playground for People Who Play: Enjoy traditional Korean games and add to the festive atmosphere.

Plan Your Visit:

📍 Location: 1 Taepyeongno 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

💰 Fee: Free

📞 Inquiries: 02-2268-9210

🖥️ Website: http://munyewon.co.kr

🛏️ Accommodation: Find hotels near the event

Dive into Fun at the Busan Mackerel Festival! 🎣

🗓️ October 25th – 27th, 2024

Get ready for a fin-tastic time at the Busan Mackerel Festival, held annually at the iconic Songdo Beach – Korea’s first public beach! With stunning views and attractions like the Songdo Skywalk, Cloud Trail, and Marine Cable Car, there’s something for everyone. This festival isn’t just about delicious mackerel; it’s a celebration of Busan’s rich fishing culture, bringing together locals and visitors for a unique blend of food, fun, and festivities. Did you know Busan handles a whopping 80% of the nation’s mackerel trade? Prepare to experience the heart of it all!

This festival is more than just a feast; it’s an immersive experience brought to life by the very people who contribute to Busan’s thriving fishing industry. From exciting competitions to captivating performances, you’ll find plenty to see, do, and enjoy.

What Awaits You?

Get Hands-On:

• Bare-handed Mackerel Catching: Dive into the fun (not literally!) and try your luck at catching some mackerel with your bare hands!
• Kayaking to Find Mackerel: Explore the beautiful waters around Songdo Beach by kayak and see if you can spot some mackerel.
• Mackerel-man Paper Boat Race: Craft your own mackerel-themed paper boat and cheer it on to victory!

Enjoy the Show:

• Opening Celebration Performance (October 25th): Get the party started with popular singers Taekwondo Trotman Na Tae-joo, Kim Yu-seon, and the Happiness Team.
• Closing Performance (October 27th): End the festival on a high note with the Cyburger Dream Girls and DJ Mino.

Join the Fun:

• Sandcastle Territory Game: Unleash your inner architect and build the ultimate sandcastle kingdom.
• Stone Skipping Contest: See how many skips you can get and become the stone skipping champion!
• Mackerel Slipper Archery Contest: Test your aim with this unique and quirky archery contest.
• Mackerel Quiz Show: Show off your mackerel knowledge and win some awesome prizes.
• Mackerel Surfing: Experience the thrill of riding the waves… mackerel-style!

And More!

• Mackerel Food Market: Indulge in a variety of delicious mackerel dishes.
• Direct Seafood Market: Take home the freshest seafood directly from the source.
• Nuri Market & Flea Market: Discover unique treasures and local crafts.
• Kids Play Area: Let the little ones have a blast in the dedicated kids’ zone.
• Namhang Grand Bridge Walking Event: Enjoy a scenic walk across the Namhang Grand Bridge.

Essential Information

📍 Location: 100 Songdohaebyeon-ro, Seo-gu, Busan (Amnam-dong)

🏨 Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival

💰 Fee: Free

📞 Contact: 051-231-4085

🖥️ Website: www.busangde.co.kr

Capture the Bloom: Chrysanthemum Memories at Morning Calm Arboretum

🗓️ October 19th – November 10th, 2024

This fall, create lasting memories amidst a breathtaking display of chrysanthemums at the 25th annual Morning Calm Arboretum Chrysanthemum Exhibition. The "Chrysanthemum Blooming Memory Storage" theme comes to life in the Alpine Greenhouse and Hometown Garden, transforming them into vibrant landscapes of color and artistry.

Imagine yourself surrounded by over 400 magnificent large chrysanthemums, each bloom a testament to nature’s artistry. Beyond the individual blossoms, discover 14 meticulously crafted shaped works, 10 cascading floral waterfalls, and three impressive multi-stemmed large works – a true spectacle for the senses.

And the experience doesn’t stop there! Capture these stunning moments in whimsical photo zones designed as cameras, hearts, wings, dolphins, and more. Scattered throughout the exhibition hall, these interactive spots offer the perfect backdrop for photos you’ll cherish for years to come.

Exhibition Highlights:

• 400+ Large Chrysanthemums: A vibrant tapestry of color and form.
• 14 Shaped Works: Chrysanthemums sculpted into captivating designs.
• 10 Cascading Works: Floral cascades that will take your breath away.
• 3 Multi-Stemmed Large Works: Impressive displays of chrysanthemum artistry.
• Interactive Photo Zones: Capture your memories in fun and creative settings.

Plan Your Visit:

📍 Location: Morning Calm Arboretum, 432, Sumokwon-ro, Sang-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
💰 Admission:
* Adults: 11,000 won
* Youth: 8,500 won
* Children: 7,500 won
📞 Contact: 1544-6703
🛏️ Find Accommodation Near the Arboretum: Accommodation near the event
⭐️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morningcalm_garden/
🖥️ Website: https://www.morningcalm.co.kr/html/main.php

Gokseong Simcheong Children’s Grand Festival: Fun for the Whole Family!

🗓️ October 24th – 27th, 2024

Get ready for a fantastic family adventure at the Gokseong Simcheong Children’s Grand Festival! Held at the charming Gokseong Seomjingang Train Village, this annual event is packed with exciting activities designed to delight kids of all ages – and parents too! From beloved character sing-alongs and captivating children’s plays to mesmerizing magic shows and hands-on experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, don’t miss the chance to win amazing prizes in our interactive events!

What Awaits You:

1. Disney Wonder Gokseong Opening Event: Kick off the festivities with a magical opening ceremony on Thursday, October 24th at 4 PM, featuring the enchanting Gokseong Children’s Opening Celebration Parade!

2. Shows Kids Will Adore: Watch your little ones’ faces light up as they enjoy popular character performances and parades, engaging children’s musicals, and mind-blowing magic shows.

3. Parents’ Blast from the Past: Leeds 2000 Concert: Parents born in the 1980s and beyond can take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with this special concert featuring hit ballad medleys from their younger years. Get ready for some feel-good vibes and a chance to relive the magic of that era!

4. Children’s Reels Challenge: Join the viral dance craze! Kids can show off their best moves in this fun challenge inspired by trending dances on TikTok and Reels.

5. October Children’s Day Dance Party: Let loose and dance the day away! This high-energy dance party is the perfect way for kids to celebrate Children’s Day and release all that pent-up energy.

Plan Your Visit:

• Dates: October 24th – 27th, 2024

• Location: Gokseong Seomjingang Train Village, 232 Gichamaeul-ro, Ogok-myeon, Gokseong-gun, Jeollanam-do

• Admission:

  • Individual: ₩5,000
  • Children and Seniors: ₩4,500
  • Free Admission: Gokseong residents, national merit recipients, and people with disabilities
  • Group Discounts (Adults 30+ / Children/Seniors 15+): Adults ₩4,500 / Children ₩4,000

• Accommodation: Find hotels near the event 🛏️

• Contact: 061-360-8471 📞

• Website: www.gokseong.go.kr 🖥️

Immerse Yourself in History and Culture at the Tripitaka Koreana Festival

Discover the captivating world of the Tripitaka Koreana and record culture at this year’s vibrant festival, running from October 23rd to 27th, 2024. Enjoy extended hours with mesmerizing evening landscape lighting, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

🗓️ Dates: October 23rd – 27th, 2024

What Awaits You

This isn’t your typical historical exhibition. Get ready for a dynamic blend of tradition and modern entertainment, with something for everyone:

• Electrifying Evenings: Experience the magic of the festival under the enchanting glow of landscape lighting during special night openings.
• Modern Beats Meet Ancient Rhythms: Groove to the unique sounds of the "EDM Festival with NewJeans Monk".
• Engaging Insights: Join star lecturer Sim Yong-hwan for a fascinating "Record Culture Talk Show."
• Hands-on History for Kids: Children can dive into history through interactive experiences like making their own Tripitaka, crafting Hanji mood lamps, and even dressing up in traditional Seodang (Korean school) costumes. Plus, enjoy captivating magic, juggling, and bubble performances throughout the five-day event.
• Explore the Tripitaka Theme Park: Immerse yourself in the park’s regular attractions, including pottery making, family motto writing, VR experiences, 5D video viewing, and a captivating media art exhibition.
• Art and Nature in Harmony: Admire the winning entries of the National Tripitaka Art Competition (October 22nd-26th) and stroll through the theme park’s stunning autumn flower exhibition, featuring vibrant chrysanthemums.

Festival Highlights

Here’s a closer look at what you can experience:

1. Exhibition Events:

• Lantern Wonderland: Explore a dazzling display of unique lanterns from around the world.
• Wish Upon a Lantern: Write your wishes (especially for those crucial college entrance exams!) and hang them on beautifully illuminated wish paths.
• Charming Characters: Admire the intricate flower sculptures of Hapcheon’s beloved characters, Byeolkoongi and Janggyeongi.

2. Experience Events:

• Step Back in Time: Experience traditional Korean etiquette education at the Tripitaka Seodang, complete with Seodang attire.
• Create Your Own Tripitaka: Preserve your festival memories by creating a personalized Tripitaka.
• Artistic Expressions: Capture the festival’s vibrancy with a live sketch experience.
• Temple Bell Resonance: Find your inner peace with the Inkyung (Buddhist temple bell) experience.
• Craft a Glowing Masterpiece: Learn to make beautiful Hanji mood lamps and other crafts.

3. Performance Events:

• EDM with a Twist: Dance the night away at the "EDM Festival with NewJeans Monk."
• Record Culture Insights: Gain fascinating knowledge from star lecturer Sim Yong-hwan.
• Street Sounds and Spectacles: Enjoy lively street busking and captivating magic, juggling, and bubble performances.
• Interactive Fun for Kids: Children will love the engaging "Tripitaka Informant" play.

4. Other:

• Food Truck Delights: Satisfy your cravings with a variety of delicious food truck offerings.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Address: 1160 Gayasan-ro, Gaya-myeon, Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee:

• Adults: 5,000 won
• Middle and High School Students: 3,000 won
• Elementary School Students: 2,500 won
• Soldiers/Seniors (65+): 2,500 won
• Save 20% with online reservations!

📞 Contact: 055-930-4697

🖥️ Homepage: https://www.hc.go.kr/06573/06623/08250.web