Author: Emily Patel

Sancheong Traditional Medicine and Herb Festival

🗓️ Date: September 27th ~ October 6th, 2024

*Please note that the following information is based on the 2023 festival. The 2024 program is currently being updated.*

Based on the pristine herbal resources of Jirisan Mountain and the novel "Donguibogam," this festival highlights the excellence of Sancheong’s traditional medicine and herbs. Since its inception in 2001 as Korea’s first oriental medicine-themed tourist destination, the festival has leveraged the region’s rich history, culture, and natural environment. It’s an industry-focused event that connects with modern interests in wellness and anti-aging. Visitors can experience the efficacy of Sancheong’s exceptional herbs firsthand through programs like Sancheong Hanbang Experience, My Body’s Tonic Experience, and Wellness Health Tours.

1. Main Programs

• New Hyeminseo: Free traditional medical treatments by renowned Korean medicine doctors from across the country, and experience with cutting-edge health equipment.
• My Body’s Tonic Experience: Led by renowned traditional medicine doctors, this program allows you to experience the efficacy of Sancheong herbs by learning traditional herbal medicine preparation methods and their benefits.
• Sancheong Hanbang Experience: Experience traditional Korean medicine practices in a recreated historical pharmacy setting, including trying out herbal medicine tools, herb cutting, and free commemorative photos in traditional doctor and nurse costumes.
• Challenge! Heo Jun Golden Bell: A quiz program for Korean medicine students nationwide to discover the future "Heo Jun" (famous Joseon Dynasty physician).

2. Experiential Programs

• Sancheong Traditional Medicine & Herb K-Healing, Wellness Health Tour, Medicinal Snack Making, Nostalgic Herb Decoction & Body Treatment Experience, Royal Medicinal Tea (by body type) Experience, Herbal Foot Bath Experience, Herbal Cocktail Making, Natural Herbal Dyeing Experience, Straw Craft Experience, and more.

3. Additional Programs

• Cultural & Art Performances: Large-scale Madanggeuk (traditional Korean folk play) performance, and daily themed performances.
• Competitions: National Character Cosplay Competition, National Anti-aging Silver Choir Competition, Prenatal Food Cooking Competition, Herbal Cocktail Show, and more.

4. Others (Sales Events, etc.)

• Herb & Local Specialty Market, Jirisan Eco Market (Flea Market), Gyeongnam Craft Fair, Sancheong Specialty Food Court, and more.

📍 Location: Maechon-ri, Geumseo-myeon, Sancheong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do

💰 Fees: Please refer to the official website.

📞 Contact: +82-55-970-6601~5

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

🖥️ Website: http://scherb.or.kr

Ulsan Whale Festival

Dates: September 26th – 29th, 2024

The Ulsan Whale Festival is a representative festival of Ulsan, commemorating the city’s whale culture that dates back thousands of years to prehistoric times. Held annually in Jangsaengpo, once a central hub for the modern whaling industry, the festival began in 1995. This September, the 2024 Ulsan Whale Festival returns with the theme "Jangsaengpo’s Dream! Ulsan’s Hope!" aiming to connect with everyone who loves Ulsan and the Whale Festival.

What to Expect:

1. Main Programs:

• Hologram media performance
• Opening and closing ceremonies
• Fireworks show
• Famous director’s film screening and Q&A session
• Parade
• Musical diva gala show
• JSP DJ Party
• Whale song festival
• Dance competition

2. Side Programs:

• Poster design contest
• Flyboarding performance
• Children’s drawing contest
• "Make Your Own Parade Car" contest

3. Audience Participation Programs:

• Regular performances
• Hands-on experiences and exhibitions
• Whaleland (children’s amusement park)
• Flea market
• Programs linked to facilities within the Jangsaengpo Whale Culture Zone

4. Other Highlights:

• Release of the 2024 Ulsan Whale Festival song "Whaley"
• Social media dance challenge

5. Food & Drinks:

• Jangsaeng Restaurant (main food court)
• Jangsaeng Tavern (Makgeolli zone)
• Food trucks

Location: 265, Jangsaengpo-gorae-ro, Nam-gu, Ulsan

Admission: Free

Contact: +82-52-226-1991~5

Find us on:

• Instagram:
• Website: http://www.ulsanwhale.com

Cheonan World Dance Festival

🗓️ Date: September 25th ~ 29th, 2024

*Please note that the food information below is from the 2023 festival. The 2024 food information is currently being updated.*

The Cheonan World Dance Festival, first held in 2003, has been selected as a Regional Representative Performing Arts Festival by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism for six consecutive years. Since 2020, it has been designated as a "Prestige Cultural and Tourism Festival" by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Every year, over 800,000 domestic and international tourists visit the festival.

Highlights:

1. Official Events: Welcome Reception, Opening Ceremony & Celebration Performance, Closing Ceremony
2. National Dance Competition: General, Youth, and Heungtaryeong (Korean traditional rhythm) divisions
3. Street Dance Parade: Korea’s largest street dance parade with the theme of "dance," featuring domestic and international teams and citizen participation.
4. International Dance Competition: Offers high-quality performances by expanding the participation of international teams and showcasing diverse dance cultures from around the world.
5. Street Dance Festival: A world-class street dance competition reflecting the latest trends.
6. Side Competitions: National University Cheerleading Competition, National University Dance Competition, Mask Dance Competition, etc.
7. Experiences & Other Events: Family-friendly programs, children’s experience zones, and other related programs.

📍 Location: Cheonan Sports Complex, 208, Beonyeong-ro, Seobuk-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: +82-41-900-7020

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

🖥️ Website: http://cheonanfestival.com

Get Ready for an Electrifying Experience: The Gwangju Fringe Festival Returns in 2024!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable celebration of art and energy as the Gwangju Fringe Festival returns for its 9th edition from September 21st to 29th, 2024!

This year, prepare to be swept away by the dual themes of Street Arts and Street Dance. The festival will transform iconic locations like Geumnam-ro Street, the Gwangju Biennale Exhibition Hall, and the Kimdaejung Convention Center into vibrant stages of artistic expression.

Under the intriguing banner of "A Chance Encounter with ______", the festival intertwines with the Gwangju Biennale, offering a unique lens through which to experience the city. Get ready for a captivating fusion of urban dynamism and local flavor, where everyday life transforms into art, forging connections between artists and audiences.

Here’s what awaits you:

Festival Dates & Locations:

• Street Arts Festival: September 21st – 22nd
  • September 21st: Geumnam-ro Street
  • September 22nd: Gwangju Biennale Exhibition Hall
• Street Dance Festival: September 28th – 29th
  • Kimdaejung Convention Center

Dive into a World of Artistic Expression:

Street Arts Festival (September 21st – 22nd):

• Performances: Be captivated by over 25 performances, featuring:
  • 10 invited acts from across Korea and around the world
  • 14 participating acts showcasing the best of Korean talent
  • 1 original production created specifically for the festival
• Side Events:
  • Experience the collaborative spirit of "Sound of the Square", a joint project with the Gwangju Biennale.
  • Witness the future of street art at the "2024 Gwangju Street Arts Fringe Academy", a mentoring program nurturing local artists.
  • Engage in thought-provoking discussions at the "Gwangju Connection Base", a forum for the Street Arts Network.

Street Dance Festival (September 28th – 29th):

• Dance Battles: Feel the heat of competition in the preliminary and final rounds of live dance battles.
  • Be blown away by special performances from renowned artists shaping the street dance scene.
• Performances:
  • Witness the culmination of talent in the final round of performances, following preliminary online video submissions and live judging.
  • Be inspired by performance showcases from the esteemed judging panel.

Festival Information:

• Location: 111 Biennale-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju
• Admission: Free
• Contact: +82-62-670-7475
• Connect with us:
  • Instagram: @gwangju_fringefestival
  • Website: Gwangju Fringe Festival

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Gwangju Fringe Festival!

Busan Craft Beer Festival: A Summer Celebration You Won’t Want to Miss

Get ready to raise a glass (or two!) at the Busan Craft Beer Festival, happening July 3rd-7th, 2024 at BEXCO, Busan! 🍻

This highly anticipated event is a must-do for beer aficionados and anyone looking for a fun-filled summer experience. Now in its seventh year, the Busan Craft Beer Festival has solidified its reputation as Korea’s premier craft beer celebration.

Here’s why you need to add it to your calendar:

Discover Korea’s Finest Brews:

Indulge in a wide variety of craft beers from renowned Korean breweries. Discover new favorites as you sample unique flavors and styles, all while enjoying delicious food pairings curated to complement the beers.

Something Cool Awaits:

Beat the summer heat with innovative "Something Cool" collaborations. Imagine refreshing craft beer blended with shaved ice or crafted into unique highballs – the perfect way to cool down and enjoy the festival vibes.

Entertainment Under the Stars:

Experience the vibrant energy of the festival with live music and busking performances taking place throughout the event. The BEXCO outdoor plaza will come alive with dazzling lights and an electric atmosphere.

More Than Just Beer:

This year’s festival is extra special as it coincides with the Busan Motor Show! Plus, thanks to generous sponsorship from Believe Seoung Hospital, a leading healthcare provider in Busan, attendees can expect an even more memorable and enjoyable experience.

Here’s a taste of what awaits:

• Craft Beer Tasting & Food Pairings: Embark on a flavorful journey through Korea’s craft beer scene.
• "Something Cool" Creations: Quench your thirst with innovative beer-infused concoctions.
• Live Music & Busking Performances: Enjoy a vibrant soundtrack as you explore the festival.
• Nostalgic Photo Booth: Capture fun memories at the Believe Seoung Hospital photo booth.
• Cool Summer Tattoos: Get inked with temporary tattoo stickers.
• Interactive Quiz Show: Test your knowledge and win prizes.
• Talent Show: Show off your skills and entertain the crowd (planned).

Event Details:

• Dates: July 3rd – July 7th, 2024
• Location: BEXCO, 55, APEC-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
• Admission: Free
• Age Restriction: 19+ for alcohol consumption
• Contact: +82-51-740-7549
• Website: https://www.busanbeerfestival.com/
• Instagram: Follow @busan_beerfestival for updates!

Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of craft beer, music, and summer fun!