Author: Amanda Mok

Busan International Magic Festival

Dates: March 23rd, 2024 ~ December 15th, 2024

The Busan International Magic Festival, launched in 2006, is the largest magic festival in Korea and the only one of its kind in the world. Themed around "magic," a rising blue ocean in the cultural content industry, the festival is a dream come true for over a million magic enthusiasts in Korea.

The 19th Busan International Magic Festival, running until December this year, offers a diverse range of events, including:

• Magic Fantasia Season 2
• Magic Circus [Spring]
• Magic Convention
• 6th Busking Championship
• Magic Circus [Autumn]
• Christmas Special Magic Gala Show

Here’s a closer look at each event:

1. Magic Fantasia Season 2

• Dates: March 23rd (Sat) – March 24th (Sun), 2024
• Venue: Busan Citizens’ Hall Small Theater
• Program: Special performances and more
• Organizer: Busan International Magic Festival Organizing Committee
• Sponsors: Busan Metropolitan City, Haeundae-gu, Busan Arts College
• Tickets: YES24 Ticket, Naver, Interpark Ticket, Noliui Balgyeon, Clip Service, etc.

2. Magic Circus [Spring]

• Dates: April 6th – April 28th, 2024 (Every Saturday and Sunday)
• Venue: Spo1 Park Dream Narae Children’s Theater
• Program: Magic Circus (Performance + Experience)
• Organizer: Busan International Magic Festival Organizing Committee
• Sponsors: Busan Metropolitan City, Haeundae-gu, Busan Arts College
• Tickets: YES24 Ticket, Naver, Interpark Ticket, Noliui Balgyeon, Clip Service, etc.

3. Magic Convention

• Dates: June 28th (Fri) – June 30th (Sun), 2024
• Venue: Dureraum Square
• Program: FISM QC BIMF International Magic Competition, Magic Gala Show, Lectures, etc.
• Organizer: Busan International Magic Festival Organizing Committee, Dureraum
• Sponsors: Busan Metropolitan City, Haeundae-gu, Busan Arts College
• Tickets: YES24 Ticket, Naver, Interpark Ticket, Noliui Balgyeon, Clip Service, Dureraum, etc.

4. 6th Busking Championship

• Dates: June 28th (Fri) – June 29th (Sat), 2024
• Venue: Haeundae Gunam-ro Area
• Program: International Magic Busking Championship, etc.
• Organizer: Busan International Magic Festival Organizing Committee
• Sponsors: Busan Metropolitan City, Haeundae-gu, Busan Arts College

5. Magic Circus [Autumn]

• Dates: August 31st – September 29th, 2024 (Every Saturday and Sunday)
• Venue: Spo1 Park Dream Narae Children’s Theater
• Program: Magic Circus (Performance + Experience)
• Organizer: Busan International Magic Festival Organizing Committee
• Sponsors: Busan Metropolitan City, Haeundae-gu, Busan Arts College
• Tickets: YES24 Ticket, Naver, Interpark Ticket, Noliui Balgyeon, Clip Service, etc.

6. Christmas Special Magic Gala Show

• Dates: December 7th – December 15th, 2024 (Every Saturday and Sunday)
• Venue: Busan Cinema Center
• Program: Special performances, experience programs, etc.
• Organizer: Busan International Magic Festival Organizing Committee
• Sponsors: Busan Metropolitan City, Haeundae-gu, Busan Arts College
• Tickets: YES24 Ticket, Naver, Interpark Ticket, Noliui Balgyeon, Clip Service, etc.

Location: 74, Motgolbeonyeong-ro 71beon-gil, Nam-gu, Busan, Busan Arts College

Fees: Varies by program (Free/Paid)

Contact: +82-51-626-7002

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/busanmagicfestival/

Website: www.hibimf.org

A Garden Aglow with Starlight

Open all year round! 🗓️

First Garden presents a dazzling spectacle of light, transforming the garden into a magical wonderland every single night of the year. As the sun sets, thousands of lights illuminate the landscape, revealing a completely different side to the garden’s beauty.

Imagine: the Embroidery Garden shimmering under a canopy of stars, the Tuscan Plaza bathed in the warm glow of Italian lights, and the Rose Garden ablaze with passionate crimson. The "Starlight Garden" theme promises to melt away the winter chills and create a romantic ambiance for all.

Spread across a sprawling 20,000 pyeong (approximately 16 acres), the garden offers a celestial journey through constellations representing all four seasons. Each area boasts a unique theme, from the majestic Baobab tree symbolizing life and hope to the Butterfly Garden where illuminated butterflies flutter through the night.

This year’s festival is even more spectacular than ever before, with additional lights creating an even more breathtaking display. And there’s something for everyone at First Garden! Beyond the illuminated gardens, you’ll find restaurants, a wedding hall, playgrounds, educational experiences, gift shops, a sledding hill, and even a challenge course. It’s more than just a garden – it’s a complete theme park experience!

Here are just a few of the highlights:

1. Poseidon’s Sea of Light and Life (Embroidery Garden): Witness the constellations of the four seasons spread out before you in a dazzling sea of light, ruled by Poseidon, the god of the sea.

2. The Flying Whale (Play Garden): As darkness falls, a magical flying whale emerges, inspiring dreams and hope in the hearts of children.

3. The Tree of Life (Fruit Garden): Standing tall in the Fruit Garden, a majestic Baobab tree, a symbol of life, illuminates the night alongside the surrounding fruit trees. These trees were transplanted here, saving them from being cut down during the development of Unjeong New Town.

4. A Symphony of Butterflies (Butterfly Garden): When night descends upon the Butterfly Garden, filled with a variety of nectar plants, it transforms into a magical realm where illuminated butterflies and fairies dance among the flowers.

5. Romantic Heart Tunnel (Rose Garden): As winter graces the Rose Garden, a romantic tunnel illuminated by fairy lights stretches along the flower path, creating a magical atmosphere.

Location: 260 Tapsakgol-gil, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do

Admission: Paid (Adults 12,000 won on weekends/holidays, 11,000 won on weekdays; Children 11,000 won on weekends/holidays, 10,000 won on weekdays; Free for children under 36 months)

Contact: 031-957-6861

Instagram:

Website: https://firstgarden.co.kr/firstgarden

DMZ OPEN Festival Returns in 2024!

🗓️ Mark your calendars: May 9th – November 16th, 2024

The DMZ OPEN Festival is back in 2024, throwing open the doors to the demilitarized zone and inviting everyone – from experts to the general public – to experience a diverse range of events spanning academics, sports, and the arts.

From May 9th to November 16th, 2024, the DMZ in Gyeonggi Province will come alive with:

1. [Experience the DMZ] Exhibitions, Concerts, International Music Festival
Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the DMZ through captivating exhibitions, soul-stirring concerts, and a vibrant international music festival.

2. [Reflect on the DMZ] Forums, Hackathons, Lectures, Open Labs
Engage in thought-provoking discussions, collaborate on innovative solutions, and gain new perspectives on peace and reconciliation at our forums, hackathons, lectures, and open labs.

3. [Walk the DMZ] Walking Events, Marathon
Lace up your shoes and embark on a journey of discovery with our walking events and marathon, offering a unique opportunity to experience the DMZ’s natural beauty and historical significance.

📍 Location: Pyeonghwanuri, 148-40 Imjingak-ro, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: +82-31-956-8311

⭐️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmz_open/

🖥️ Website: https://ggtour.or.kr/dmzopen/

Dive into Summer Fun at E-World Tropical Aqua World!

Dates: June 15, 2024 – August 31, 2024

E-World presents "Tropical Aqua World," a summer extravaganza featuring two exciting experiences:

☀️ Daytime: Escape to "Aqua Village," a Hawaiian-themed relaxation zone. Splash and play in the massive swimming pool, perfect for all ages. Thrill-seekers will love the exhilarating waterslides in the adult pool, while a dedicated children’s pool with a safe depth of 60cm ensures fun for everyone.

🌙 Nighttime: Get ready to be drenched at "Dynamic Aqua Night," an electrifying EDM water party. Watch Dynamic Plaza transform into a pulsating dance floor as powerful water cannons shower the crowd. Dance the night away to heart-pumping EDM beats and wash away the stress of daily life.

Beyond Aqua World:

E-World offers even more summer fun! Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of "E-World Blooming Garden," a paradise adorned with beautiful hydrangeas. Don’t miss the breathtaking spectacle of sunflowers blanketing the 2,000-pyeong "Four Seasons" garden.

Main Event:

• Dynamic Aqua Night

Other Attractions:

• Aqua Village

Admission Fees:

(1) One-Day Free Pass:

• Adults: 49,000 won
• Youth: 44,000 won
• Children: 39,000 won

(2) Night Free Pass:

• Adults: 35,000 won
• Youth: 33,000 won
• Children: 33,000 won

More Information:

• For discounts, event schedules, and operating hours, please visit the E-World website.
• For detailed event information, check out E-World’s Instagram (@eworld.official) or Facebook page.
• Please note that some events may be subject to change or cancellation depending on circumstances.

Location: 200 Duryu Park-ro, Dalseo-gu, Daegu

Admission: Paid

Contact: +82-53-620-0001

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eworld.official/

Website: https://eworld.kr/

Seongnam Youth Exchange Program – 2nd Group Recruitment!

What is the Youth Exchange Program?

This program connects young adults from Seongnam City with those from its sister cities (Namwon, Mokpo, Asan) for joint projects, networking opportunities, and exploration of local cultures.

Who are we looking for?

• Residents, students (including those on leave), employees, or active members of the Seongnam community aged 19-29.
• Preference will be given to individuals interested in or currently involved in startups.

How to Apply:

1. Scan the QR code on the poster or visit this link to download the application form (Korean only): [https://m.site.naver.com/1omYw]링크로
2. Complete the application form and submit it via email to [email protected].
3. Ensure your email subject line includes your full name and contact the program coordinator to confirm receipt.
4. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an in-person interview.

Key Dates:

• Application Period: June 24th – July 7th, 2024
• Interview Date: July 14th, 2024 (tentative, subject to change)
• Interview Location: Jungwon Youth Center, 1st Floor Classroom
• Successful Applicants Notified: July 14th, 2024 (via phone call)
• Program Duration: July 20th – October 31st, 2024
  • Orientation: July 20th (Saturday)
  • Project Planning: August 3rd (Saturday)
  • Launch Ceremony: August 17th (Saturday)
  • Main Exchange Activities: August 19th – 22nd (Monday-Thursday), 3 nights, 4 days

Program Locations:

Activities will take place in Seongnam’s sister cities: Namwon, Mokpo, and Asan.

Participation Fee: Free!

Contact Information:

For inquiries, please contact the Jungwon Youth Center Activity Team, Sister City Exchange Program Manager at 031) 729-9339 or [email protected].

Design a Smart Future: 6th Address Information Utilization Idea Contest

Calling all innovators! Do you have a brilliant idea to make everyday life safer and more convenient using address information? Now is your chance to share it with the world!

Who can participate?

Anyone in Korea can participate individually or as a team (up to 3 members).

What are the themes?

This year’s contest focuses on three key themes:

1. Safer and More Convenient Daily Life with Addresses

• Think solutions for:
  • Location guidance within large complexes
  • Disaster response
  • Location sharing in emergencies (police, fire department)

2. A Better Future with Addresses

• Imagine new business models and technology convergence using address information:
  • Drone delivery
  • Autonomous robot delivery
  • Internet of Things (IoT) applications
  • Autonomous vehicle parking
  • Indoor navigation

3. Unlimited Possibilities with Addresses

• Explore creative applications of address information:
  • Promoting the use and activation of address data
  • Expanding Korean address systems globally (K-Address)
  • Educational initiatives related to address information

Key Dates:

• Submission Period: June 24, 2024 (Mon) ~ August 30, 2024 (Fri)

Exciting Prizes:

• Grand Prize (1 team): Minister of the Interior and Safety Award & KRW 2,000,000
• First Runner-up (1 team): Minister of the Interior and Safety Award & KRW 1,000,000
• Second Runner-up (1 team): Minister of the Interior and Safety Award & KRW 500,000
• Honorable Mentions (2 teams): LX President Award & KRW 300,000 each

How to Submit:

1. Download the application form from the Address Information website (juso.go.kr) or the LX Address Information Utilization Support Center (jusomap.lx.or.kr).
2. Submit the completed application form via email to [email protected].

Judging Criteria:

Your submissions will be evaluated based on:

• Practicality
• Completeness
• Relevance to the theme
• Creativity
• Presentation quality

Important Notes:

• Plagiarism or any other form of unethical conduct will result in disqualification and forfeiture of any prizes.

Need Help?

Contact the LX Address Information Utilization Support Center at +82-44-715-5534.

Land Your Dream Job: Master the Art of Interviewing

Calling all job seekers!

Understand Avenue presents an advanced interview skills workshop designed to help you win over the interviewers.

This intensive program, led by expert presenter Yoo Jeong-jin, goes beyond the basics. You’ll gain valuable insights and practical techniques to ace both working-level and executive interviews.

What sets this workshop apart?

• Small class size for personalized attention and feedback
• Mock interview sessions to build confidence and refine your approach

About the Instructor:

Yoo Jeong-jin, CEO of Solutionist, brings a wealth of experience to the table:

• Former professional presenter at LG AWHome
• Experienced presenter for exhibition design and public design firms
• Former reporter and writer for Arirang TV
• Former reporter for Incheon TBN and Seongdong-gu Office

Workshop Details:

• Date: Saturday, July 13, 2024
• Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM (2 hours)
• Location: Understand Avenue Social Innovation Lab (2-minute walk from Seoul Forest Station Exit 3)
• Capacity: 12 participants (first-come, first-served)
• Fee: 10,000 won (to prevent no-shows; tax-deductible donation receipt available)

How to Apply:

Submit your application through the Google Form: https://forms.gle/qgtLT8zC47gUndw36

Contact:

010-9609-5527

Don’t miss this opportunity to boost your chances of landing your dream job!

Launch Your Tech Career: Free Web & App Development Training for Women in Seoul

No prior experience needed!

This program is designed for women living in Seoul who are looking to start a new career or transition into the exciting world of web and app development.

Here’s what you’ll gain:

• Essential skills: Learn Python, a popular programming language used in AI and data analysis.
• Industry-recognized certification: Prepare for and obtain the Information Processing Technician certification (costs covered!).
• Career support: Benefit from career counseling and job search assistance.

Program Highlights:

• Dates: July 16th – September 5th, 2024 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday)
• Duration: 6 hours per day
• Format: In-person training at the Eunpyeong Women’s Resources Development Center
• Cost: Free! (Funded by the Seoul Metropolitan Government)
• Financial support: Receive a monthly stipend of 2 million KRW for attending at least 80% of classes.

Who should apply?

This program is perfect for you if you are:

• A woman living in Seoul between the ages of 20-40.
• Unemployed or seeking a career change.
• Interested in becoming a web or app developer.
• Looking to re-enter the workforce after a career break.
• Interested in transitioning into the AI field.
• No prior tech experience is required! (Recent graduates within 6 months are also welcome).

Curriculum:

• Career Development: Prepare for your job search with career counseling and resources.
• Python Programming:
  • Fundamentals of Python programming
  • Basic and advanced Python programming concepts
  • Data input/output programming
• Software Engineering:
  • Understand the software development lifecycle.
  • Learn about application design, testing, and deployment.
• Information Processing Technician Certification:
  • Comprehensive training and support to help you pass the certification exam.

How to Apply:

1. Download the application form from the Eunpyeong Women’s Resources Development Center website.
2. Submit your completed application in person or via email to [email protected].

Selection Process:

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

Contact:

For any questions, please contact us at 070-4048-7935.

Don’t miss this opportunity to launch your tech career!

Make Your Voice Heard: Yeongju Youth Policy Competition

Calling all young minds of Yeongju! 🗣️

Do you see things in your community that could be better for you and your peers? Here’s your chance to make a real difference!

The Yeongju Youth Policy Competition invites you to propose solutions and shape policies that directly impact your lives.

Why Participate?

• Develop critical thinking: Identify problems, research solutions, and present your ideas effectively.
• Become a responsible citizen: Learn about policy-making and experience how you can contribute to a better society.
• Boost your confidence: See your ideas recognized by experts and potentially implemented in your community.
• Have fun and collaborate: Team up with friends and work together towards a common goal.

How it Works:

1. Choose Your Topic: What matters to you? Focus on an issue within these six UNICEF Child-Friendly City areas:

   • Play and Culture
   • Participation and Respect
   • Safety and Protection
   • Health and Welfare
   • Education Environment
   • Family Life

2. Form a Team (or Go Solo): Gather 2-6 friends (aged 10-18, excluding university students) who share your passion.

3. Submit Your Application:

   • Deadline: June 18th – July 10th, 2024
   • Email: [email protected]
   • Documents: Application form, Personal Information Collection and Usage Agreement

4. Attend Online Training: Selected teams will participate in a virtual workshop on July 12th, 2024 (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) via Zoom. Learn about the competition, get tips on writing a compelling policy proposal, and access helpful resources.

5. Develop and Submit Your Proposal:

   • Deadline: July 15th – 28th, 2024
   • Note: While similar project proposals may not be selected, you are encouraged to suggest improvements to existing initiatives.

6. Finals and Awards: Five finalist teams will be selected to participate in a policy workshop and present their ideas at the final competition. All finalists will receive prizes, including gift certificates worth 300,000 won and recognition from the Mayor of Yeongju.

Important Notes:

• All team members must attend the online training.
• Finalist teams must participate in the workshop and final competition.
• Schedules and venues are subject to change.

Ready to make a difference?

Contact:

• Yeongju City Child and Youth Division, Child-Friendly Team: +82-54-639-6363
• Haebon People Operating Secretariat: +82-42-587-1213

Citizens’ Alliance for North Korean Human Rights (NKHR) is looking for an intern!

About the Internship

Period: June 20th, 2024 ~ July 10th, 2024

Team: Education Team

Location:

• NKHR Office (near Seodaemun Station, Line 5, Seoul)
• Hanawon, Anseong, Gyeonggi Province

Responsibilities:

• Assist with planning and implementing educational programs
• Participate in the "Saturday Visit to Hanawon" program:
  • Provide basic education and cultural activities to youth residing at Hanawon (resettlement center for North Korean defectors)

Work Schedule:

• July 2024 ~ December 2024 (approximately 6 months)
• Twice a week:
  • One weekday (Mon-Fri) from 10:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM
  • Saturdays (mandatory) from 8:00 AM ~ 4:00 PM

Qualifications:

• Proficiency in English or Chinese preferred
• Experience in educational activities preferred

Benefits:

• Hourly wage: 9,860 KRW (lunch provided)
• Transportation expenses to Hanawon provided

How to Apply:

• Submit your resume via email to [email protected] (Subject: Internship Application_Your Name.pdf)

Selection Process:

• 1st Round: Document Screening (successful candidates will be contacted individually)
• 2nd Round: Interview (July 17th-18th)

Contact:

• Phone: +82-2-723-1672