Dive into Winter Fun at the Yangpyeong Ice Smelt Festival!

🗓️ November 23, 2024 – March 3, 2025

Looking for a unique winter adventure? Escape to the pristine waters of Sumi Village in Yangpyeong, a region renowned for its crystal-clear streams and celebrated as a rural tourism haven (even winning the Presidential Award at the 2013 Korean Rural Village Awards!). This year, experience the magic of winter at the Yangpyeong Ice Smelt Festival, a truly immersive celebration designed to become a beloved Korean tradition.

What sets this festival apart? Imagine the thrill of ice fishing for smelt in a cozy dome, protecting you from the winter chill. This innovative approach combines the classic winter pastime with modern comfort, ensuring a fun experience for everyone, regardless of the weather.

Exciting Activities for Everyone:

Main Attractions:

• Ice Fishing for Smelt: Experience the classic winter activity in a whole new way!
• Dome Smelt Scooping: Enjoy smelt fishing in a comfortable, weather-protected dome. A perfect option for families and those seeking a more relaxed experience.
• Trout Catching with Bare Hands: Dare to plunge your hands into the icy water and test your skills at catching trout!
• White Kids’ Snow Sledding: Let the little ones loose on the snowy slopes for some exhilarating sledding fun.

Sumi Village Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture with these unique activities offered by Sumi Village residents:

• Handmade Steamed Bun Making: Learn the art of crafting delicious steamed buns from scratch.
• Handmade Pizza Making: Create your own personalized pizza with fresh, local ingredients.
• Four-Wheeler Experience (ATV): Explore the scenic countryside on an exciting ATV adventure.
• Can Train Experience (ATV): Enjoy a leisurely ride through the village on a charming can train.
• Succulent Pot Making: Create a beautiful and lasting souvenir with a hands-on succulent potting experience.

Plan Your Visit:

📍 Location: 55-2 Gopdani-gil, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

🛏️ Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival

💰 Fees:

• Dome Smelt Package: 12,000 won per person
• Dome Smelt Fishing Package: 21,000 won per person

📞 Contact: 031-775-5205

🖥️ Website: https://winterfestival.kr

What is ice smelt?

Ice smelt refers to a particular type of small fish, commonly known as smelt, which are often found in cold waters. These fish, thriving in the icy environments of regions like Korea, are a popular catch during the winter months when the lakes and rivers freeze over. Ice smelt is well-known not only for their role in winter fishing festivals but also for their delicate, mild flavor, making them a culinary favorite. During events like the Yangpyeong Ice Smelt Festival, participants can try their hand at ice fishing, an exciting winter tradition where holes are drilled into the thick ice to reach the fish swimming below. Catching ice smelt requires both skill and patience, but the reward is worth the effort, often leading to delicious meals cooked right at the festival site. As these tiny fish are abundant and quick to catch, they offer a uniquely enjoyable and family-friendly winter activity.

Experience the Gangwon Local Festa: Beach Vibes, Local Treasures, and Jazz Rhythms

Mark your calendars! 🗓️ November 15th-16th, 2024

Get ready for a unique blend of local culture, vibrant markets, and relaxing beach activities at the Gangwon Local Festa. This year, we’re bringing the energy of the Local Gathering final program to the Gangwon Innovation Center, alongside bustling flea markets and pop-up booths showcasing the best of Gangwon and Seoul’s local businesses. Want to unwind? Head over to Surfer Beach for invigorating beach yoga and the thrill of flatboarding. Best of all? No pre-registration is needed – just show up and enjoy!

What Awaits You:

Main Stage:

• Local Gathering Finale: Witness the culmination of the Local Gathering program.
• Jazzy Vibes: Groove to live jazz performances throughout the festival.
• Engaging Talks: Hear inspiring stories and insights from special guests during our talk show sessions.

Beach Activities:

• Skimboarding: Glide across the waves and show off your skills.
• Beach Yoga: Find your zen with revitalizing yoga sessions by the sea.

Market & Food:

• Flea Market Finds: Discover unique treasures and handcrafted goods at our vibrant flea market.
• Pop-up Delights: Sample delicious local treats and explore diverse products at various pop-up booths. Tasting events galore!

This year’s Festa takes the concept of local celebration to a new level by incorporating beach activities and a focus on jazz music, differentiating it from previous editions that primarily centered around the Local Gathering program.

Event Details:

📍 Location: 119, Hajo Beach Road, Hyeonbuk-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province

🛏️ Accommodation: Find hotels near the event

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: 010-8918-1175

🖥️ Website: www.kangwonlocalfesta.com/

What is Gangwon Innovation Center?

The Gangwon Innovation Center is a vibrant hub for fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement in the Gangwon region. Established to support startups and promote socioeconomic development, the center provides a collaborative environment where innovators and entrepreneurs can access resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the center hosts a variety of events, workshops, and programs designed to inspire new ideas and drive local growth. At the Gangwon Local Festa 2024, the center will transform into a lively venue showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage, with local markets, beach-themed activities, and enchanting jazz performances, highlighting both the innovative spirit and cultural vibrancy of Gangwon.

Brave the Chill at the 37th Haeundae Polar Bear Festival! ❄️

Mark your calendars! From December 6th to 8th, 2024, experience the invigorating thrill of the 37th Haeundae Polar Bear Festival, recognized by the BBC as one of the world’s top 10 unique sports festivals.

This isn’t just another winter dip; it’s a chance to join a tradition, a community, and a truly unforgettable experience. This year, test your limits with the exciting new X-TREAM CHALLENGE, adding another layer of icy exhilaration to the festival’s lineup!

What awaits you?

• Dive In: Take the plunge in the 1km Accompanied Swimming Competition, or join the heart-stopping Plunge Ceremony. Feel the rush of the icy water and the camaraderie of fellow "polar bears."
• X-TREME Challenge: Push your boundaries even further with this brand-new addition to the festival. What icy trials await? Come and find out!
• Run for Warmth: Prefer to stay on dry land? The Polar Bear RUNNING RACE offers an invigorating alternative.
• Capture the Memory: Strike a pose at the Haeundae Polar Bear Character Photo Zone and immortalize your polar bear adventure.

Event Details:

• Dates: December 6th – 8th, 2024 🗓️
• Location: 90, Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan (U-dong) 📍
• Participation Fee: 30,000 won (Spectating is free!) 💰
• Contact: 051-914-1325 📞

Plan your trip!

• Accommodation: Find hotels near the event 🛏️

Connect with us!

• Instagram: Follow us on Instagram ⭐️
• Website: Visit our website 🖥️

What is Haeundae Beach?

Haeundae Beach is one of South Korea’s most famous and picturesque seaside destinations, located in the bustling city of Busan. Known for its expansive stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, the beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and recreation. During the warmer months, it becomes a hub of activity, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports. The surrounding area is filled with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it an ideal location for visitors wanting to experience the dynamic culture and hospitality of Busan.

Haeundae Beach is not only a place for leisure but also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, one of the most famous being the Haeundae Polar Bear Festival. This annual event draws brave participants from around the world who take a daring plunge into the chilly winter waters, signifying the adventurous spirit of the beach and its ability to offer year-round attractions. With its stunning scenery and lively atmosphere, Haeundae Beach is a must-visit landmark that captures the essence of Busan’s coastal charm.

Immerse Yourself in a Floral Wonderland at the 2024 Yangjae Flower Festa

Experience the beauty and fragrance of Korea’s finest blooms at the Yangjae Flower Festa, running from November 15th to 17th, 2024. This year’s Festa promises a vibrant showcase of Korea’s floral artistry, offering an unforgettable experience for flower enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a touch of natural beauty.

Unlike previous years, the 2024 Festa expands its offerings with an even larger Flower Exhibition Zone, featuring breathtaking displays of diverse floral arrangements and rare blossoms. Discover the artistry of Korean floriculture and gain insights into the latest trends in flower cultivation and design.

What awaits you:

• Feast your eyes: Explore the expanded Flower Exhibition Zone, marvel at the Special Exhibition, and discover innovative floral products at the Business and Company Booths.
• Engage your senses: Participate in interactive flower-related experience programs and test your luck with the Event Roulette.
• Take home a piece of beauty: Purchase unique floral arrangements and plants at the Flower Sales Zone.
• Relax and recharge: Enjoy delicious treats and refreshments at the Food Zone (Rest Area).
• Be entertained: Witness the prestigious Awards Ceremony and gain valuable insights from floral experts at the engaging Talk Show.

Event Details:

🗓️ Dates: November 15th – 17th, 2024

📍 Location: Yangjae-dong, 27 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul

💰 Admission: Free!

📞 Inquiries: 02-423-7088

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

🖥️ Website: Yangjae Flower Festa Homepage

🛏️ Find Accommodation Near the Event

What is Yangjae?

Yangjae is a vibrant district located in the southern part of Seoul, South Korea. Known for its lush green spaces and bustling flower markets, the area has become a central hub for horticultural enthusiasts and nature lovers. Yangjae is home to the Yangjae Flower Market, one of the largest flower markets in the country, offering a rich variety of flowers, plants, and gardening supplies. This district seamlessly blends urban convenience with natural beauty, providing a tranquil escape within the bustling city. Its reputation for floral excellence and community-focused events makes it the perfect host for the annual Yangjae Flower Festa, where visitors can immerse themselves in the colorful and fragrant world of Korean florals.

Pohang Guryongpo Gwamegi Festival: A Feast for the Senses

Ready to dive into a unique culinary adventure? The 25th annual Pohang Guryongpo Gwamegi Festival returns from November 16th to 17th, 2024, bringing with it the savory aroma of drying herring and saury. This isn’t just another food festival – it’s a celebration of Gwamegi, a winter delicacy known for its chewy texture and rich, umami flavor, perfect alongside your favorite beverage.

This year’s festival promises a more engaging and interactive experience. What sets it apart? Think beyond just tasting – test your strength in arm wrestling and pull-up contests fueled by Gwamegi, snag incredible deals at the 20-30% discounted Gwamegi sales, and witness the excitement of the Gwamegi surprise auction show. For those seeking a more melodic experience, enjoy performances by renowned singers like Park Hyun-bin.

Here’s what awaits you:

• Main Stage: Groove to live music performances featuring Park Hyun-bin and other talented artists. Don’t miss the thrill of the Gwamegi surprise auction!
• Gwamegi Marketplace: Stock up on this winter delicacy at prices you won’t find anywhere else – enjoy a 20-30% discount!
• Interactive Fun: Flex your muscles in the Gwamegi-powered strength contest, featuring arm wrestling and pull-ups. Channel your inner performer at the Guryongpo Gwamegi Song Festival.
• Foodie Delights: Savor the unique taste of Gwamegi with free tasting sessions. Experience a delightful twist on a classic with complimentary Gwamegi Gimbap tastings.

Event Details:

🗓️ Dates: November 16th – 17th, 2024
📍 Location: Guryongpo-ri, Guryongpo-eup, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
💰 Fee: Free
📞 Contact: 054-276-0760
🛏️ Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival

What is gwamegi?

Gwamegi is a traditional Korean delicacy made from half-dried Pacific saury or herring. The unique process of making gwamegi involves freezing the fish overnight and then drying it in the cold winter winds, resulting in a chewy texture and deep flavor. This method of preservation not only enhances the natural taste of the fish but also adds a characteristic smoky note, making it a beloved seasonal treat. Typically enjoyed during the colder months, gwamegi is often served with side dishes like sliced raw onions, garlic, chili peppers, seaweed, and vinegared red chili paste. As part of Korean cuisine, it reflects the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of the coastal regions, particularly in Pohang where the Guryongpo area is renowned for producing some of the finest gwamegi.

Get Ready to "Stop and Stare": OneRepublic’s Artificial Paradise Tour Lands in Incheon!

Get ready, Korea! OneRepublic, the iconic band behind hits like "Counting Stars" and "Apologize," is bringing their electrifying Artificial Paradise Tour to the Inspire Arena as part of the INSPIRE CONCERT SERIES #04. Don’t miss this chance to experience their chart-topping anthems live on January 18, 2025.

Everything You Need to Know:

• 🗓️ Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
• ⏰ Time: 7:00 PM KST
• 📍 Venue: Inspire Arena, 127 Gonghangmunhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon (Unseo-dong)
• Age Restriction: 7 years old and above

Ticket Information:

Be there to sing along to all your favorite OneRepublic hits! Tickets are priced as follows:

• Standing (General): 110,000 KRW
• Reserved Seat R (General): 110,000 KRW
• Reserved Seat S (General): 99,000 KRW

Make a Night of It:

• 🛏️ Accommodation: Looking for a place to stay near the venue? Check out these hotel options: Expedia Hotel Search
• 💡 Lightstick: Enhance your concert experience with an official lightstick: Coupang Lightstick Link

Accessibility Information:

For fans requiring wheelchair accessible seating:

• Reservations can be made exclusively by calling the Interpark Ticket Customer Center at 1544-1555 starting at 12:00 PM KST on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. (Customer Center operating hours: 9:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM KST)
• Essential: Bring your disability registration certificate (or welfare card) and a valid photo ID for verification on the day of the concert. Failure to present these documents will result in non-admittance for both the ticket holder and their companion.
• Tickets must be picked up on-site by the purchaser. Proxy collection and ticket transfers are not permitted.

Important Reservation Details:

• No waiting list service is available for this performance.
• To ensure a smooth reservation process, same-seat re-reservations will be temporarily unavailable during the artist pre-sale period and on the general sale opening day (September 9th and 10th, from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM KST).
• Illegal reservations using macro programs or similar methods are strictly prohibited and may result in reservation cancellations and account restrictions.
• Interpark Pay, I-point, and NOL point services will be temporarily unavailable during peak reservation times (September 9th and 10th, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM KST).

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Brace Yourself for Adventure: The Cheorwon Hantangang River Ice Trekking Festival Returns in 2025!

Get ready for an unforgettable winter experience! The Cheorwon Hantangang River Ice Trekking Festival is back, promising another thrilling adventure from January 11th to 19th, 2025.

🗓️ 2025.01.11 ~ 2025.01.19

*Event details below are from the 2024 festival. Stay tuned for updated 2025 details!*

Since 2013, this unique eco-tourism festival has transformed the frozen Hantangang River in Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon-do, into a winter wonderland. Where else can you trek across a frozen river, surrounded by breathtaking basalt gorges and towering columnar joints? Explore the majestic Jiktang Falls (known as the "Niagara Falls of Korea"), discover the legends of Im Kkeokjeong at Goseokjeong, and witness the dramatic cliffs of Sundam Valley, a popular rafting destination. This award-winning festival (recipient of the Presidential Award at the 15th Korea Local Government Management Awards) offers a truly one-of-a-kind winter escape.

What Awaits You:

Thrilling Activities:

• Ice Trekking: Embark on an unforgettable journey across the frozen Hantangang River.
• Ddongbaram Altong Running Competition: Test your speed and endurance in this exciting race.
• Ice Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the icy waters.
• Opening Ceremony: Kick off the festival with a vibrant celebration.

Entertainment and More:

• DJ Booth: Groove to the hottest beats and keep the energy high.
• Live Studio Operation: Catch live broadcasts and behind-the-scenes action.
• Wish Paper Program: Write down your hopes and dreams for the new year.
• Firewood Rest Area: Warm up by the crackling fire and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.
• Food Booths: Indulge in delicious treats from 10 different food vendors located at the Seungil Bridge event venue.

Plan Your Trip:

• Location: 25-203, Jangheung-ri, Dongsong-eup, Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
• Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival 🛏️
• Entrance Fee: 10,000 won (includes 5,000 won Cheorwon Love Gift Certificate) 💰
• Contact: 0323-455-7072 📞
• Instagram: Follow us on Instagram ⭐️
• Website: gcwcf.or.kr 🖥️

What is the Hantangang River?

The Hantangang River is a river in South Korea and North Korea, known for its historical and geographical significance. It is a tributary of the Imjin River and flows through parts of the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Geologically, the river is notable for its basaltic lava flows, which have formed a rugged landscape along its course. These lava formations are a result of volcanic activity millions of years ago. Additionally, the Hantangang River area has been recognized for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking and rafting. It also holds archaeological importance due to the discovery of ancient human artifacts in the region.

Light Up Your Winter at Seoul Light DDP 🎊

Get ready for a dazzling display of media art this winter at the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)! From December 19th to 31st, 2024, the 222-meter facade of the DDP will be transformed into a breathtaking canvas of light and sound for 13 unforgettable nights. This year’s Seoul Light DDP, themed "5 Cheers! : Relay of Hopeful Support," celebrates the DDP’s 10th anniversary and promises a spectacular send-off to 2024 and a vibrant welcome to the new year.

What awaits you at Seoul Light DDP 2024 Winter? Five distinct and captivating art pieces, each offering a unique message of hope and connection:

1. Recording Life: Cheers to your daily life! Imagine a couple’s ordinary day suddenly transforming into an extraordinary musical experience. They stumble into a grand chorus, finding themselves center stage in a magnificent performance. This piece beautifully captures the magic hidden within everyday moments.

2. Sunwoo Kim: Cheers to your dreams! Dodo birds, symbols of the flightless and forgotten, take flight in this inspiring piece. Watch as they gather beneath the aurora-filled night sky, carrying shooting stars and embodying the pursuit of dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.

3. Joguman Studio: Cheers to your transformation! Witness the DDP come alive with the whimsical characters of Joguman Studio. A Brachiosaurus stretches and morphs, leading a vibrant parade of shapes and colors across the building’s surface, creating a dynamic and playful spectacle.

4. JE BAAK: Cheers to your smile! Mysterious smiles emerge from the textured surface of the DDP, culminating in the appearance of a giant, enigmatic smiling character. This piece radiates a gentle aura, inviting viewers to embrace joy and connection.

5. Jean Jullien: Cheers to your relationships! Inspired by the Korean "train game," this piece celebrates the power of human connection. Just like the childhood game of following each other in a line, it tells a story of encouragement, support, and the bonds that unite us.

Event Details:

• Dates: December 19th – 31st, 2024 (13 days)
• Location: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), 281, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
• Admission: Free!
• Inquiries: +82-2-2153-0000

Find a place to stay near the DDP: Accommodation near the event

Connect with DDP:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ddp_seoul/
• Website: https://www.ddp.or.kr

What is DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza)?

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a major urban development landmark in Seoul, South Korea, known for its distinctive and futuristic architectural design by Zaha Hadid. It serves as a cultural hub, hosting a variety of events such as exhibitions, fashion shows, conferences, and concerts. The structure is noted for its innovative use of space and curves, creating a visually impressive venue that attracts both tourists and locals. In addition to event spaces, DDP also includes a museum, design market, and parks, making it a pivotal spot for design, culture, and leisure.