Dive into History at the Gaya Culture Festival!

October 16th – 20th, 2024

Get ready to journey back in time at the Gaya Culture Festival! This year’s festival, coinciding with King Suro’s "Sungsunjeon Chuhyang Daejeil" (October 17th), celebrates the rich history and traditions of Garakguk (Geumgwan Gaya). Explore the legacy of this ancient kingdom, a hub of maritime trade and ironworking in Northeast Asia. Experience the unique culture of Gimhae, and discover the fascinating world of the Gaya people.

This year is extra special! 2024 is the Year of Visiting Gimhae and marks the first anniversary of the Gaya Tumuli’s inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The festival will also be linked with the National Sports Festival and the East Asian Cultural City celebrations, promising an unforgettable international experience. With a focus on Gaya relics, the festival offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and entertainment.

What awaits you?

1. Immerse yourself in Tradition:

• Witness ancient rituals like the Goyujae and Honbul Chaehwa.
• Experience the grandeur of the Sungsunjeon Chuhyang Daeje.
• Enjoy captivating performances from fellow World Heritage Cities.
• Be enthralled by traditional Korean performances like Gimhae Seokjeonnori, Eup, Myeon, and Dong Folk Festival.
• Participate in unique cultural events like Sinwol Jisinbalgi and the Jangyu Hwasang Memorial Service.

2. Explore Exciting Themed Events:

• Celebrate the 1st Anniversary of the Gaya Tumuli’s World Heritage inscription with special performances.
• Be mesmerized by a dazzling fireworks show.
• Witness the elegance of the Gaya Costume Fashion Show.
• Experience the power of Tumuli Art Performances.
• Join the vibrant Gaya Kingdom Grand Procession Parade.
• Witness the spectacle of Queen Heo Hwang-ok’s Wedding Procession Parade.
• Enjoy the "Superstar G" performance.
• Embark on the World Heritage Gaya Treasure Hunt.
• Be moved by the Gimhae Song Choral Festival.
• Discover exciting events hosted by other World Heritage Cities.

3. Hands-on Fun & Exhibits:

• Stroll through the illuminated Gaya Light Theme Street.
• Soar high with Tumuli Kite Flying.
• Navigate the Gaya Waterway Experience.
• Delve into the Integrated Gaya Culture Experience Zone of Inscribed Cities.

Event Details:

Location: 35 Bunseong-ro 261beon-gil, Bonghwang-dong, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Admission: Free
Contact: 055-330-6840

Plan Your Visit:

Find accommodation near the festival: Accommodation near the event

Connect with Us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/festival_gimhae/
Website: http://www.gcfkorea.com

Explore Jeju’s Natural Wonders: A Guide to the 2024 World Natural Heritage Walking Tour

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, through an exclusive walking tour offered during the 2024 Jeju World Natural Heritage Festival. This unique program provides an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the island’s volcanic origins and explore the fascinating lava cave systems, including the renowned Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone.

World Natural Heritage Walking Tour

Course Overview

The walking tour offers both guided and self-guided options across four distinct sections of the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System.

Dates: Friday, October 11, 2024 – Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Category	Section 1	Section 2	Section 3	Section 4	Remarks
Guided Tour	Oct 11 (Fri) – 14 (Mon) / Oct 16 (Wed) – 21 (Mon)	Oct 11 (Fri) – 13 (Sun) / Oct 18 (Fri) – 20 (Sun)	Oct 11 (Fri) – 13 (Sun) / Oct 18 (Fri) – 20 (Sun)	Oct 12 (Sat) – 13 (Sun) / Oct 19 (Sat) – 20 (Sun)	– Recommended for ages 12-70<br>- Guided tour with expert commentary<br>- Safety personnel stationed along the route
Time	09:00, 09:30, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 13:00	09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 13:00
Participants per Session	Minimum 10 people	Minimum 10 people	Minimum 10 people	Minimum 10 people
Departure Point	Jeju World Natural Heritage Center	Manjanggul Cave Camp
Self-Guided Tour	Oct 11 (Fri) – 14 (Sun) / Oct 16 (Wed) – 21 (Mon)	Not available	Oct 11 (Fri) – 13 (Sun) / Oct 18 (Fri) – 20 (Sun)	Oct 12 (Sat) – 13 (Sun) / Oct 19 (Sat) – 20 (Sun)	– Recommended for ages 18-65<br>- Minors must be accompanied by a guardian
Time	09:00 – 17:00 (Last departure 13:00)

Tour Paths:

Location: Geomunoreum Lava Tube System (Sections 1, 2, 3, & 4)

Participation Fee: 5,000 won (payable on-site to the person in charge)

Language Support: English guides are available for groups of 10 or more. Individual English guides are not provided.

How to Apply: Submit your application via email at whvjeju@naver.com.

Essential Information for Participants

Application & Reservations

Advance reservations are required for all walking tour participants. You can choose between a guided tour, led by experienced guides and safety personnel, or a self-guided tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Apply Now

Meeting Time & Point

Please arrive at the designated meeting point 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

• Sections 1 & 2: Jeju World Natural Heritage Center
• Sections 3 & 4: Manjanggul Cave Camp

Recommended Clothing & Gear

• Comfortable Clothing: Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect your skin from the sun, branches, and vegetation.
• Footwear: Opt for comfortable, broken-in trekking shoes rather than new ones.
• Essentials: Bring a water bottle (or tumbler), sunscreen, a handkerchief, a hat, and gloves.
• Rain Gear: Jeju Island experiences frequent rainfall, so packing a raincoat is highly recommended.
• Identification: Please bring your passport for identification purposes.

Important Precautions

• Insect Repellent: Refrain from using perfumes or strong cosmetics to minimize attracting insects.
• Wildlife Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings as snakes may be present on the trails.
• Respectful Exploration: Take your time and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Jeju Island. Please be respectful of the environment and avoid disturbing the flora and fauna.

We hope you enjoy this incredible opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Jeju Island!

Dive into the Seoul Wow Book Festival: Celebrating 20 Years of Connection

October 11th – 13th, 2024

Get ready to explore the fascinating intersection of literature, art, nature, technology, and human connection at the 20th annual Seoul Wow Book Festival! This year’s theme, "Coexistence," invites you to ponder our shared future and how we can build a more sustainable world. Join the celebration and discover new perspectives through thought-provoking discussions and engaging activities.

What Awaits You?

1. Inspiring Lectures & Discussions:

• Opening Ceremony: Kick off the festival with a vibrant celebration.
• Wow Forum: Engage in stimulating conversations with leading thinkers.
• Wow Special: Discover unique literary experiences.
• Wow International Exchange: Connect with authors and readers from around the globe.
• 100 People 100 Books Relay Lecture: Hear diverse perspectives on impactful books.
• Imagination Book Illustration Exhibition: Explore the power of visual storytelling.

2. Interactive Fun & Festivities:

• Wow Children’s Book Playground: Spark a love of reading in young minds with interactive activities.
• Korea-Canada Anthology Project: Discover collaborative literary works bridging cultures.
• Coexistence Market: Browse unique books and crafts that celebrate our interconnectedness.

Plan Your Visit

Location: 72 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Seogyo-dong, Seogyo-dong Hyoseong Harrington Tower)

Admission: Free!

Contact: 02-312-1581

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

Website: https://wowlab.or.kr

Experience the Magic of Bukchon Weaving Day

Immerse yourself in Korean culture and tradition at the heart of Seoul’s historic Bukchon Hanok Village this October!

October 11th – 20th, 2024

Bukchon Weaving Day is back! For ten full days, from October 11th to 20th, experience the vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and community that makes Bukchon so unique. This year’s festival explores the dynamic interplay between tradition and contemporary life, offering something for everyone – from seasoned culture buffs to curious first-time visitors. With the recent surge in global interest in Korean culture, Bukchon has become a must-see destination. This festival offers a thoughtful exploration of this popularity, addressing the balance between tourism and preserving the rich heritage of this historic village.

What awaits you at Bukchon Weaving Day?

A rich program of events has been designed to engage and delight:

Dive into History and Culture:

• Exhibition: Explore the captivating world of "Pyeon-gye (徧界)" by artist Lee Sung-jae.
• Lectures: Expand your understanding of Korean history and culture with fascinating lectures. Hear about "Three Western Women Who Visited Joseon" (Jeong Yeong-mok), delve into "Korea, Ethnicity and Nation, Multiculturalism" (Alphago Sinace), and contemplate "History in the Era of Climate and Ecological Crisis" (Go Tae-woo).

Explore the Charm of Bukchon:

• Travel & Exploration: Wander through the enchanting alleyways of Bukchon with themed tours. Choose from "Bukchon Women’s Talk (北村女談)," "A Walk in Bukchon through Movies," or "My Home, Bukchon." Explore modern architectural heritage with the "Inchon Old House" tour, or join the "LAN Seonbi Walk."

Be Entertained:

• Performances: Experience the magic of traditional and contemporary Korean performing arts. Enjoy "Hanok in a Western Theater," be moved by "Yeolgok (熱哭)," and groove to the rhythms of the "Bukchon Korean Music Festival" featuring an exciting lineup of artists including Na Seon-jin X Han Saem Bawi, Seo Yeong-do X Kim Yul-hee, Bukchon Village Band X Mu(舞)tal, ‘Hun’’s Sound and Story: Song Gyeong-geun, Lee Na-rae, Traditional Music Group Saet, Bukchon Rising Star with Bukchon Jebipungnyubang, Joo Bo-ra, Jeon Byeong-hoon’s Pungnyugadan (風流哥壇), and Kim Ye-ji: Like Tilting a Line.

Get Hands-On:

• Experience & Commentary: Immerse yourself in traditional Korean crafts with workshops like "Wonhoebuksa (遠懷北社)," "Samcheong Sisa (三淸詩社)," "Making 12-sided Soban," and "Making Gangwonban." Learn about traditional well-being practices with "Subokgangnyeong (壽福康寧): Making a Goose Set." Explore your musical talents with the "Surisuri Musical Instrument Workshop." Express your creativity at the "Geumjundang, Drawing You Ceramic Workshop." Enhance your experience with three types of Hanok commentary.

Special Events:

• Bukchon Traditional Craft Experience Event: Discover the artistry of traditional Korean crafts.
• Quiet Travel Campaign: Experience the tranquility of Bukchon in a mindful way.

Connect and Share:

• Public Hanok Networking & Network Party: Haengun Yusu (行雲流水): Connect with fellow enthusiasts of Korean culture and heritage.

Event Details:

Location: 37 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Gyedong)

Fee: Free (Except for the two Soman Making Experience workshops, which cost 10,000 won)

Contact: 02-741-1033

Homepage: http://hanok.seoul.go.kr/

Find Accommodation Near the Event

Savor the Flavor at the Hapcheon Yellow Soil Hanwoo Beef Festival!

October 11th – 13th, 2024

Get ready for a mouthwatering experience at the Hapcheon Yellow Soil Hanwoo Beef Festival! This isn’t your average food festival – it’s a celebration of Korea’s premium beef, raised in the pristine natural environment of Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do. The secret? Healthy Hwangto (red clay), which gives Hapcheon Hanwoo its uniquely tender texture and rich flavor.

What awaits you? The chance to:

• Indulge in delicious Hanwoo: Purchase various cuts at prices you won’t find anywhere else.
• Grill your own feast: Fire up the charcoal and sizzle your Hanwoo to perfection in the designated grilling zone. Experience the taste of premium Korean beef, cooked exactly how you like it!
• Immerse yourself in Korean culture: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with special events, including the Opening Ceremony Celebration and the Hapcheon County Folk Arts Festival.
• Get hands-on: Explore the Hwangto Experience Booth and discover the secrets behind this special ingredient.
• Support local farmers: Discover other agricultural treasures and specialty products at the sales booths.

This festival is a fantastic opportunity to discover the excellence of Hapcheon Hanwoo, whether you’re a local or visiting from afar.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Location: 62 Munhwa-ro, Hapcheon-eup, Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do
• Dates: October 11th-13th, 2024
• Admission: Free!
• Contact: 055-933-0050

Accommodation: Find hotels near the festival

Guri Cosmos Hangang Art Festival: A Riverside Bloom Awaits!

October 11th – 13th, 2024

Get ready to be swept away by a vibrant explosion of color at the Guri Cosmos Hangang Art Festival! Held along the scenic Han River, this annual spectacle draws over 300,000 visitors and offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, exciting performances, and engaging activities. From a breathtaking cosmos field to live music and delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What Awaits You:

1. A Sea of Cosmos: Imagine strolling through a massive 49,600㎡ field bursting with colorful cosmos blossoms. It’s the perfect backdrop for photos and a truly unforgettable experience. Plus, enjoy special events like the Eve Festival, Opening Ceremony, and Closing Ceremony!

2. Fun for All Ages:

• Step Back in Time: Ever wondered what it was like to attend school in Korea back in the day? Relive the past with the retro school uniform experience!
• Strike a Pose: Capture memories with friends and family at the Life4Cut photo booth and various other photo zones scattered throughout the festival.
• Light Up the Night: Express your creativity with light painting and create stunning visual effects.
• Explore and Discover: Visit the City Promotion Hall and Lifelong Learning Festival booths for interactive exhibits and learn something new.

3. Treat Your Taste Buds: Explore a diverse culinary landscape with delicious offerings from the food zone, food trucks, and the Local Economy Revitalization Hall. Don’t miss the chance to sample specialties from Guri’s sister cities!

4. Your Comfort is Our Priority: We’ve taken every measure to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, including a comprehensive situation room, equipment rentals, emergency medical support, and convenient shuttle buses within the venue.

Plan Your Visit:

Location: 249, Cosmos-gil 14beon-gil, Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do (Topyeong-dong)

Accommodation: Looking for a place to stay? Find hotels near the festival: Accommodation near the event

Entrance Fee: Free! (Parking: First 10 minutes free, ₩1,000 for up to 30 minutes, ₩200 for every additional 10 minutes, ₩10,000 for all-day parking.)

Contact: 031-550-2065

Website: http://www.guri.go.kr (Opens in a new window: Guri Culture & Tourism homepage)