Uncover the Mysteries of Gangwon: A Thrilling Adventure Awaits!
Date: September 19th, 2024 – October 13th, 2024
Embark on an exciting journey through the captivating province of Gangwon! This fall, four locations – Taebaek, Samcheok, Yeongwol, and Jeongseon – will transform into a hub of mystery and adventure, inviting you to participate in the "Mysterious Gangwon Tour." Hunt for elusive monsters, collect stamps, and win incredible prizes!
How to Participate:
1. The Stamp Tour:
This thrilling adventure is divided into two exciting courses:
Course 1: Become a Ghost Hunter: Download the mobile game "The Haunted House: Ghost Hunter" and explore the designated areas to find and conquer hidden monsters.
Course 2: Prove Your Prowess: Verify your receipts from participating businesses within the event area and engage in on-site activities. Share your experiences on social media to claim your well-deserved rewards!
2. Special Stage Program:
Every Saturday, enjoy special events and meet-and-greets with popular influencers, including the stars of "뚜아뚜지TV"!
3. Consumer Participation Program:
Be among the first 500 participants to arrive and enjoy special programs designed for audience engagement!
Location: 41-35, Jungbong-gil, Bukpyeong-myeon, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
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The Gyeonggi Province World Coffee Bean Festival is an exciting event that celebrates the heart of coffee culture – the bean! This festival aims to become a leading coffee trade hub and a must-visit tourist destination in Korea, rivaling renowned events like the New York and London Coffee Exchange landmarks and Germany’s Oktoberfest.
By inviting embassies and coffee farms from across the globe, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse world of coffee beans and experience the rich culture surrounding this beloved beverage.
Festival Highlights:
Main Programs:
Coffee Curation Road Exhibition and Experience: Embark on a journey through the world of coffee with curated exhibitions and, of course, free tastings!
Local Cafe Experience: Discover the charm of local Korean cafes and their unique coffee offerings.
Selection of Coffee of the Year: Witness the exciting competition to determine the year’s best coffee beans.
Coffee Quiz Contest: Test your coffee knowledge and compete for prizes.
Side Programs:
Festival Docent: Gain deeper insights into the world of coffee with guided tours (pre-registration required).
Hand Drip Experience: Learn the art of hand-drip coffee brewing and create your perfect cup.
Coffee Painting: Unleash your creativity with coffee-based art.
Coffee Bean Upcycling: Discover innovative ways to repurpose used coffee grounds.
Consumer Participation Program:
Young Local Creator Flea Market: Support local artisans and find unique, handcrafted goods.
Other:
Autumn Concert: Enjoy live music performances that complement the festive atmosphere.
Why You Should Attend:
The Gyeonggi Province World Coffee Bean Festival is a must-visit for coffee lovers, industry professionals, and anyone looking for a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just starting your coffee journey, this festival offers something for everyone.
Come and explore the world of coffee, discover new flavors, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this exciting event!
Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival: A Celebration of Korean Heritage
Immerse Yourself in the Rhythms of Korea
Date: October 9th – 13th, 2024
The Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival, a vibrant celebration of Korean music and culture, returns for its 55th edition. With a rich history spanning 647 years, dating back to the birth of the legendary Master Park Yeon, this festival showcases the enduring legacy of traditional Korean performing arts. Held annually in Yeongdong, the festival honors Master Park Yeon’s musical contributions while promoting traditional music on a global stage.
Embracing Tradition, Inspiring Innovation:
The 55th Yeongdong Nangye Traditional Music Festival aims to share the beauty and depth of Korean traditional music with the world, anticipating a resurgence of interest in Korean culture. As Korea’s sole traditional music festival, it offers a unique platform to experience authentic Korean music performances and engage in immersive cultural programs. Through a diverse range of activities, the festival strives to:
Preserve and promote traditional performing arts for contemporary audiences.
Enhance the region’s cultural tourism offerings with locally-focused programs.
Foster community harmony by encouraging cultural appreciation and participation.
Festival Highlights:
Daily Performance Schedule:
October 9th (Day 1):
Royal Procession and Street Parade (Yeongdong Station to Hasang Parking Lot)
4th National Pungmul (farmers’ band music) Competition
66th Chungbuk Art Exhibition
Fireworks Display
October 10th (Day 2):
Cheongo Tabeok Ceremony (Drumming Ceremony for Heaven)
Sungmoje (Ancestral Ritual)
Academic Conference (Simcheon-myeon Korean Music Experience Village)
Opening Ceremony
K-Media Performance & Congratulatory Performance
October 11th (Day 3):
Large-scale performance by the National Gugak Center Orchestra
Traditional Korean music performances
October 12th (Day 4):
National Saxophone Competition
CJB National TOP10 Music Show (Broadcast Recording)
Municipal Korean Music Orchestra Performance
October 13th (Day 5):
Traditional Wedding Ceremony Experience
Local Elementary, Middle, and High School Korean Music Orchestra Performances
Municipal Korean Music Orchestra Performance
Closing Ceremony
Ongoing Performances and Activities:
World Traditional Music Performances: Experience the diversity of global music with performances from 10 countries (CIOFF Performances).
Traditional and Contemporary Performances: Enjoy a variety of performances including tightrope walking, Madangguk (farmers’ musical drama), street performances, pantomime, fusion Korean music, and local resource performances.
Korean Music Broadcasting Station: Tune in to live broadcasts and recordings.
Park Yeon Film Screening: Learn more about the life and legacy of Master Park Yeon through film.
Nangye Korean Music Orchestra Regular Performances (Day 4 & 5)
Culinary Delights and Immersive Experiences:
Food Zone:
11 Eup-Myeon (township) Saemaul Restaurants (Flavor Lounge): Savor the authentic flavors of Yeongdong.
Food Trucks: Enjoy a diverse range of street food options.
Children’s Food Zone: Dedicated area with kid-friendly treats.
*Please note that information on representative food is from the previous year’s (2023) festival, and details on the 2024 food offerings are currently being updated.*
Korean Music Theme Park Zone:
Korean Music (Night View) Photo Zone: Capture stunning memories against a backdrop of traditional music-themed installations.
Korean Music Experience Zone: Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about traditional instruments.
Korean Music Healing Art Zone: Discover the therapeutic power of Korean music.
Korean Music Exhibition Hall: Explore an exhibition of traditional instruments and enjoy hands-on experiences.
Large Korean Musical Instrument Exhibition: Marvel at the craftsmanship of traditional Korean instruments.
Amenities:
Korean Music Content Complex Space: The festival utilizes indoor spaces such as the Multipurpose Cultural Arts Center, corridors, and healing centers to provide a comprehensive Korean music experience.
Gumi Food Festival: A Culinary Celebration in the Heart of Korea
Date: October 5th – 6th, 2024
The Gumi City Food Festival returns for its third year, promising a delightful experience for all ages. Launched in 2022 to uplift spirits and revitalize the local economy, the festival offers a vibrant blend of culinary delights, captivating performances, and engaging activities for families, friends, and couples alike.
Romantic Gumi: Sights and Sounds
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with a variety of captivating sights and sounds:
Opening Performance and Parade: Kick off the festivities with a spectacular opening ceremony and a vibrant parade showcasing the city’s spirit.
Food Art Contest (Plating): Witness the artistry of culinary presentation as chefs compete to create visually stunning dishes.
Fork Festival & Autumn Romantic Busking: Enjoy live music performances that create a romantic and enchanting ambiance.
Linked Events: Enhance your experience by exploring concurrent events such as the October Music Concert, National Song Festival, and the 2024 Gumi Reading Culture Festival.
Delicious Gumi: A Gastronomic Adventure
Embark on a culinary journey through a diverse range of flavors and cuisines:
Gumi Gourmet Zone: Discover innovative and exciting new dishes created in collaboration with renowned Chef Ho Young Jung.
Food Zone: Explore a wide array of food booths offering over 200 delectable menu items to tantalize your taste buds.
Samgyeopgugeo Zone: Experience the joy of Korean BBQ in a unique "Camping Zone in the City" setting.
Local Agricultural Specialties: Savor the freshest produce and regional specialties that Gumi has to offer.
Gumi Food Companies: Discover and support local food companies showcasing their unique products.
Fun Gumi: Entertainment for Everyone
Engage in a variety of fun-filled activities for all ages:
Family Lunch Box Contest: Showcase your culinary creativity and compete for the title of best family lunch box.
Silent Disco (EDM Party): Dance the night away at a silent disco featuring electrifying EDM beats.
Mukbang Contest: Witness competitive eaters take on the challenge of devouring Gumi Bread and Gumi Danggim Lager with impressive speed.
Street Events: Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with various street performances and interactive activities.
Air Bounce & Experience Zone: Let the kids (and the young at heart) enjoy inflatable fun and engaging experiences in science and cooking.
Event Details
Location: Songjeong-dong, Gumi-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do Admission: Free (Some activities may require a fee) Contact: 054-480-5592 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/gumi_food_festival Homepage: (Homepage link not provided in draft)
On September 9th, Lance Shakosky (33), from the United States, looked bewildered in front of the UNESCO building in Myeongdong, Seoul. When a reporter asked what was wrong, he showed his phone and asked, “Where is Myeongdong?” The problem was that Google Maps, his essential travel tool, wasn’t working. He laughed when he realized he was actually in Myeongdong, but wondered, “Doesn’t Google Maps work in Korea?”
The next morning, exchange student Julia Landa (22) shared the difficulties she had experienced during her month in Korea. Her biggest wish was to binge-watch Korean dramas and order “chimaek” (chicken and beer) delivery. However, using delivery apps was not easy. She downloaded the recommended “Baedal Minjok” app, but faced difficulties with the complicated phone verification process, unlike the familiar “Continue with Google” option she was used to in the US.
High Digital Barriers for Foreigners
Why is it difficult for foreigners to “live like locals” in Korea? While the number of foreign tourists visiting Korea in the first half of this year reached 7.7 million, a 73.8% increase from last year, complaints about Korea’s digital environment are also growing. As domestic apps dominate the market, overseas services like Uber and Google Maps have become virtually unusable. The decline in the revisit rate of foreign tourists from 58.3% in 2019 to 56.1% last year may be related to this change.
The biggest problem is that Google Maps doesn’t provide accurate information in Korea. Shakosky expressed his frustration, saying, “It’s natural to turn on Google Maps to find locations and get directions when traveling.” However, due to a law restricting the export of map data for security reasons, Google Maps does not function properly in Korea. There’s a running joke among foreigners that they should be advised to ditch Google Maps and use domestic apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap at Incheon Airport.
Foreign tourists have to adapt to these “local apps.” For example, Uber does not offer ride-sharing services in Korea and redirects users to the domestic app “UT,” which has fewer taxi options than Kakao T. Landa said that while she was able to create an account with her US phone number, there were restrictions on using foreign credit cards.
‘Identity Verification’ – Another Hurdle
Another difficulty is the ‘identity verification’ process. Many apps require a Korean phone number, which is inconvenient for short-term foreign visitors using eSIMs. Additionally, many apps require credit card verification, making it even more difficult for foreigners to use them. Convenient payment services like Naver Pay and Kakao Pay are virtually inaccessible to foreigners due to these regulations.
Relative Improvements in Japan
Japan, once known as “Galapagos” for its cash-centric society, is changing rapidly. Apple Pay can be used on public transport, and mobile payment services like Line Pay are widely accepted. While UberX is not available, it is possible to hail taxis through the app. Mr. Park, a resident of Japan, said, “Japan has changed a lot since the Tokyo Olympics,” noting that services for foreign tourists are improving.
Korean companies are also beginning to recognize these issues and are attempting to make changes. Baedal Minjok and Kakao T, which have long been difficult for foreign tourists to use, now support overseas card payments, and Kakao T has improved its services to allow easy registration without a Kakao account through the ‘K-Ride’ app.
Need for Improvement in Digital Tourism Infrastructure
Professor Jeong Ran-soo of the Department of Tourism at Hanyang University emphasized the need to strengthen support for digital tourism infrastructure, mentioning the need to expand multilingual app support and regulatory innovation. He argues that in a situation where foreign companies like Booking.com are dominating the market, it is necessary to prevent the outflow of domestic capital and develop services for foreign tourists.
In conclusion, Korea needs to improve its digital environment to provide a better experience for foreign tourists. The future of Korean tourism will be bright only when it finds a balance between tradition and global trends and provides services that meet the expectations of foreign tourists.
Step Back in Time at the Yeongju Musimeongddaegi Bridge Festival
Date: October 5th – 6th, 2024
The Yeongju Musimeongddaegi Bridge Festival is a captivating annual event held in the picturesque Museom Village, an island village encircled by the tranquil Naeseongcheon Stream. This festival offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich traditional culture of the region, centered around the historical significance of the single-log bridge that once served as the sole connection to the outside world.
Engaging Festival Highlights:
1. Main Programs:
Musimeongddaegi Bridge Performance & Traditional Wedding Reenactment: Witness a captivating performance that brings the history of the bridge to life, followed by a vibrant reenactment of a traditional Korean wedding ceremony.
Traditional Merchant Parade Reenactment: Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a bygone era as you watch a lively reenactment of a traditional merchant parade.
Musimeong Healing Rope Experience: Participate in a unique and therapeutic experience involving ropes, designed to promote relaxation and well-being.
Musimeong Village Stamp Tour: Embark on an exciting journey through the village, collecting stamps along the way to commemorate your visit.
Musimeong Children’s Nature Playground: A dedicated space for children to connect with nature through play and exploration.
Musimeong White Sand Healing Barefoot Walking: Enjoy the soothing sensation of walking barefoot on the soft white sand, a practice known for its therapeutic benefits.
Musimeong Sand Art (Photo Zone): Capture memorable moments against the backdrop of stunning sand art creations.
2. Permanent Programs:
Musimeong Village Life Four-Cut Photos: Take home a fun souvenir with four-cut photo strips capturing your experience in the village.
Traditional Play (Kite Flying, Jegichagi, Tuho, etc.): Engage in traditional Korean games like kite flying, jegichagi (a game involving kicking a shuttlecock), and tuho (arrow throwing).
Slow Mailbox: Send a heartfelt message to yourself or a loved one through the slow mailbox, to be delivered at a later date.
Photo Exhibition: Explore a captivating exhibition showcasing the history and beauty of Museom Village through stunning photographs.
Musimeong Flea Market: Discover unique treasures and local crafts at the vibrant flea market.
Royal Culture Festival: A Journey Through Korea’s Rich Heritage
Date: October 9th – 13th, 2024
The Royal Culture Festival is a biannual celebration of Korean cultural heritage held within the majestic setting of Seoul’s five grand palaces – Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung – and the Jongmyo Shrine. These historical landmarks, steeped in the history of the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, provide a breathtaking backdrop for this immersive cultural experience.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, the festival offers an array of captivating programs throughout the spring and autumn seasons.
Spring Highlights:
Time Travel, King Sejong (Gyeongbokgung Palace): This main program transports visitors back in time to the reign of the revered King Sejong, known for his significant contributions to Korean culture and history.
K-Heritage Market (Heungnyemun Square): Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Korean market, showcasing a diverse range of handicrafts, cuisine, and cultural performances.
Symbiosis: Overlapping Space and Time (Changdeokgung Palace): This exhibition, held within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Changdeokgung Palace, presents a captivating display of traditional Korean crafts.
Autumn Highlights:
Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Performance: Experience the elegance and beauty of Hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, through mesmerizing performances set against the backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Peach Blossoms, It’s Sad to Think (Changgyeonggung Palace): Be captivated by this enchanting musical performance that tells a poignant story through traditional Korean music and dance.
Royal Palace Concert – Ballet x Sujecheon (Changgyeonggung Palace): Witness a unique fusion of classical ballet and traditional Korean Sujecheon music in this captivating concert.
Program Highlights:
Main Programs:
Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Performance
Changdeokgung ‘Humanities Concert’
Changgyeonggung Royal Palace Musical ‘Peach Blossoms, It’s Sad to Think’
Associated Program:
Royal Palace Music Concert – Ballet x Sujecheon
Participation Program:
Beautiful Royal Palace Hanbok Photo Exhibition
The Royal Culture Festival offers a diverse range of programs, including performances, exhibitions, hands-on experiences, and reenactments of traditional ceremonies. Each program is carefully curated to reflect the unique characteristics of the palace or shrine where it is held.
The festival organizers strive to make the experience accessible and engaging for all visitors, inviting everyone to become an active participant in this celebration of Korean culture and heritage.
Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Entrance Fees:
Gyeongbokgung Palace: 3,000 won
Changdeokgung Palace: 3,000 won
Deoksugung Palace: 1,000 won
Changgyeonggung Palace: 1,000 won
Gyeonghuigung Palace: Free
Free Admission:
Korean citizens aged 24 and under or 65 and over
Visitors wearing Hanbok
(For other free admission benefits, please refer to the Cultural Heritage Administration website.)
Cheonan Light in ARARIO: A Spectacular Nighttime Festival of Media Art
Date: October 4th – 13th, 2024
Cheonan proudly presents its inaugural night tourism festival, "Cheonan Light in ARARIO." This captivating event showcases an array of media art installations, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with the beauty of the renowned Arario Sculpture Park.
A Fusion of Art and Technology:
Prepare to be mesmerized as the park, recognized as one of Cheonan’s five most scenic spots and celebrated globally, transforms into a luminous wonderland. The festival will feature:
Manifold Media Facades: Experience the captivating interplay of light and art projected onto the park’s sculptures, creating a dynamic and immersive visual spectacle.
Millions of Miles Illumination Show: Witness a breathtaking illumination show that paints the night sky with vibrant colors and patterns, taking inspiration from the park’s artistic masterpieces.
Outdoor Screening: Enjoy an outdoor screening showcasing the winning entries from the Cheonan Cultural City University Student Media Art Competition, highlighting the creativity and talent of emerging artists.
Engaging Side Programs:
Beyond the main attractions, "Cheonan Light in ARARIO" offers a diverse range of interactive experiences:
Hologram Screen Media Art: Delve into the world of holographic art, where three-dimensional images appear to float in mid-air.
Interactive Media Art Experience: Engage with interactive installations that respond to your movements and touch, blurring the lines between art and audience.
Laser Graffiti Experience: Unleash your inner artist with laser graffiti, creating ephemeral works of art using beams of light.
LED Photo Zone: Capture unforgettable memories against a backdrop of dazzling LED lights.
Participate and Win:
Join the fun with these engaging consumer participation programs:
Photo Contest: Share your best snapshots from the festival for a chance to win exciting prizes.
Photo Verification Event: Participate in a photo verification event to earn rewards and recognition.
Location:
Arario Sculpture Park
34, Mannam-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do (Sinbu-dong)
Admission:
Free
Inquiries:
041-902-9911
Connect Online:
Instagram: [Link to Instagram Page](Insert Instagram Link Here)
Homepage: [Link to Homepage](Insert Homepage Link Here)
"Cheonan Light in ARARIO" promises an unforgettable experience, blending art, technology, and the magic of nighttime. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness Cheonan’s cultural landscape in a whole new light!
3rd Hanshin Donburi Festival (August 14th – 19th): A Culinary Journey Across Japan This Summer
Calling all Donburi enthusiasts! The highly anticipated "Hanshin Donburi Festival" returns for its third installment, and this time, it’s bringing the heat – of deliciousness, that is! For the first time ever, the festival will be held during the summer, offering a unique opportunity to experience a culinary journey across Japan without leaving Osaka.
A Celebration of Regional Flavors:
Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors as nine renowned restaurants from across Japan converge at the Hanshin Umeda Main Store. Each establishment will showcase their signature Donburi creations, highlighting the diverse regional specialties and culinary traditions of their respective areas.
A Donburi Expert’s Seal of Approval:
This year’s festival is extra special with Don Ito, the esteemed representative of the National Donburi Association, serving as the event’s presenter. His presence underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing authentic and high-quality Donburi.
The Essence of Deliciousness: A Focus on Rice:
The festival will also shine a spotlight on the unsung hero of every Donburi bowl: the rice. Five participating restaurants will demonstrate their dedication to using premium rice varieties and meticulous cooking methods to elevate the overall Donburi experience.
A Summer Festival Vibe:
Escape the summer heat and step into the cool and comfortable venue at the Hanshin Umeda Main Store. Enhance your Donburi experience with refreshing green tea beverages, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of your meal.
Event Details:
Dates: August 14th (Wednesday) – August 19th (Monday), 2024
Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Hanshin Umeda Main Store 1F Shokusai Terrace (1-13-13 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka)
Don’t miss this chance to embark on a delectable adventure through the world of Japanese Donburi. Mark your calendars and prepare for a truly unforgettable culinary experience at the 3rd Hanshin Donburi Festival!
