Experience the Colorful Palette of Donghae at the Mureung Festival

Date: September 26th – 29th, 2024

The Mureung Festival, Donghae City’s largest cultural celebration, returns this autumn with a vibrant program celebrating the region’s rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. Held annually since 1984, the festival takes its name from the breathtaking Mureung Valley, a scenic gem nestled in the heart of Gangwon-do.

This year’s theme, "Colorful Donghae, Palette Festival," promises a diverse and engaging experience, showcasing the city’s unique character throughout the seasons. As one of the region’s most prominent traditional historical and folk festivals, the Mureung Festival offers a captivating blend of ancient rituals, contemporary performances, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.

Festival Highlights:

1. Ritual Events:
Connect with the region’s spiritual heritage through traditional ceremonies like the Mountain God Ritual and the Abundant Harvest Ritual, invoking blessings for prosperity and a bountiful harvest.

2. Performance Events:
Prepare to be entertained by a captivating lineup of performances, including:

• International Friendship Exchange Performance: Featuring the Liaoning Province Dance Troupe.
• Opening Ceremony & Performance: A spectacular start to the festival.
• Drone Light Show: Witness a mesmerizing aerial display illuminating the night sky.
• Romantic Concert: Enjoy an evening of enchanting melodies.
• Laughing Day Good Day Comedy Show: Get ready for a side-splitting comedy experience.
• DMF Dance Festival: Experience the energy and passion of dance.
• Generation Harmony Concert: Celebrate the power of music across generations.
• Donghae Song Festival (Duet Song Festival): A showcase of local talent.
• Citizen Parade: A vibrant procession showcasing the community spirit of Donghae.

3. Folk Events:
Immerse yourself in Korean tradition with engaging folk activities:

• Traditional Folk Games: Test your skills at Janggi (Korean chess), Yut Nori (a traditional board game), Jegichagi (a game involving kicking a shuttlecock), and Tuho (arrow throwing).
• Folk Nongak: Experience the rhythmic energy of traditional Korean farmers’ music.

4. Culture and Arts Events:
Explore the artistic spirit of Donghae through various exhibitions and competitions:

• Mureung Four Seasons Writing Contest: A literary celebration of the region’s beauty.
• Mureung 100-Day Poetry Exhibition: Admire the poetic expressions inspired by Mureung Valley.
• Stone Exhibition: Discover the artistry of stone carving.
• 27th Donghae Arts Festival: A showcase of local artistic talent.

5. Experience/Publicity Events:
Engage your senses and learn more about Donghae through interactive experiences:

• Food Tasting Experience Center: Savor the flavors of local cuisine.
• Folk Experience Center: Try your hand at traditional crafts and activities.
• Well-being Experience Center: Discover ways to enhance your well-being.
• Urban Regeneration Promotion Hall: Learn about the city’s development initiatives.
• Planning Experience Center: Participate in interactive planning activities.
• Institution/Organization/Company Promotion Hall: Explore the contributions of local organizations.

6. Planned Events:
Enjoy additional activities designed to enhance your festival experience:

• Donghae Love Receipt Tour: Participate in a unique tour program.
• Photo Zones: Capture memorable moments at designated photo spots.

Food:
A wide array of delicious festival food will be available. For detailed information on food vendors and menus, please visit the festival homepage.

Location: 10 Deokgol-gil, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (Cheongok-dong)

Admission Fee: Free

Inquiries: +82-33-532-1945

Connect with the Festival:

• Instagram:
• Homepage: http://dhfesta.or.kr

Geochang Hanmadang Grand Festival: A Celebration for Everyone

Date: September 26th – 29th, 2024

The Geochang Hanmadang Grand Festival is a vibrant and inclusive event designed for the entire community. Kicking off with the Citizens’ Day ceremony, the festival offers a diverse range of activities including the Citizens’ Athletic Meet, the Arim Arts Festival, the Lifelong Learning Festival, the Agricultural Products Festival, a Bicycle Tour, the Hometown Association Hanmaeum Grand Festival, and the Geochang Multicultural Festival. Adding to the excitement are a lively street parade, a Kids Land Festival, a variety of food trucks, the Geochang Night Market, and a captivating water multimedia show.

Program Highlights

1. Main Programs:

• Citizens’ Day Ceremony: The official opening of the festival, celebrating the Geochang community.
• Citizens’ Athletic Meet: Friendly competition and sporting events for residents.
• Arim Arts Festival: Showcasing local artistic talent through various performances and exhibitions.
• Lifelong Learning Festival: Opportunities for learning and personal development through workshops and presentations.
• Agricultural Products Festival: Celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with displays and sales of local produce.
• Bicycle Tour: Explore the scenic beauty of Geochang on a guided bicycle tour, including a relaxing picnic at Changpo Park.
• Hometown Association Hanmaeum Athletic Meet: Bringing together different hometown associations for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie.

2. Additional Programs:

• Street Parade: A vibrant procession featuring music, dance, and colorful floats.
• Kids Land: A dedicated area with rides, games, and activities for children.
• Food Truck Festival: A diverse selection of food trucks offering delicious treats and snacks.
• Youth Zone: Entertainment and activities specifically designed for teenagers and young adults.
• Geochang Night Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a night market with local vendors and street food.
• Water Multimedia Show: A spectacular display of water fountains, lights, and music.
• Military Survival: Test your skills and endurance in a simulated military survival challenge.

3. Consumer Participation Programs:

• Kids Land: Fun for the whole family with engaging activities for children.
• Youth Zone: Interactive games and entertainment geared towards younger audiences.
• Military Survival: An exciting and challenging experience for those seeking adventure.

4. Food and Drink:

• Food Truck Festival: Enjoy a wide variety of culinary delights from food trucks.
• Local Food Court: Sample traditional dishes and specialties from the Geochang region.
• Regional Food Court: Explore culinary offerings from neighboring areas.
• Youth Zone: Food and beverage options catered to the tastes of young people.

Location and Contact Information

Address: Yangpyeong-ri, Geochang-eup, Geochang-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do

Admission: Free

Phone: +82-55-940-8460

Website: www.거창한마당축제.kr

Instagram: Follow the festival on Instagram for updates and announcements. (Please provide Instagram handle if available)

Horror Hologram Festival: A Spine-Chilling Spectacle at Iksan Prison

Date: September 26th – October 3rd, 2024

Prepare to be spooked at the 2024 Horror Hologram Festival, a unique public event held at the eerie Iksan Prison Set. As darkness falls, this chilling location transforms into HOTEL 207, a spectral haven for the departed.

This festival offers a truly immersive horror experience, combining cutting-edge hologram technology from Jeonbuk’s renowned hologram industry with captivating stage events, spine-tingling mapping shows, and interactive activities.

Festival Highlights:

1. Main Program: Brace yourself for 10 distinct horror hologram experiences designed to send shivers down your spine.

2. Sub-programs:

• Witness the Horror Mapping Show, where the prison walls come alive with terrifying projections.
• Enjoy captivating stage events throughout the festival.

3. Consumer Participation Program:

• Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with participatory events like Breaking Dawn.
• Show off your creativity in the Horror Costume Contest.

4. Other Contents:

• Indulge in deliciously spooky food and drinks themed around the festival.

Event Details:

Location: 207, Hamnang-ro, Seongdang-myeon, Iksan-si, Jeollabuk-do
Admission Fee: Free
Contact: 02-3448-3666

Stay Connected:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holofest_2024
• Website: https://www.holofest.kr/

Gwangju Beer Fest: An Autumn Celebration of Music and Craft Brews

Date: September 25th – 29th, 2024

Location: 30, Sangmu-nuri-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju

Admission: Free (with options for paid premium seating)

Contact: 062-611-2162

Website:

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

Celebrating its 4th anniversary, the Gwangju Beer Fest returns with a fresh autumn twist! Escape the summer heat and enjoy a vibrant celebration of craft beer, delicious food, and captivating live performances under the crisp autumn sky. This year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience with a diverse lineup of musical acts and culinary delights.

Main Stage Performances:

Get ready to groove to the sounds of top Korean artists throughout the festival:

• Wednesday, September 25th: Na Yoon-kwon, renowned for the hit song "If It Were Me," will kick off the festival with a captivating performance.
• Thursday, September 26th: Popular band Monday Kiz will take the stage, bringing their signature sound to the festival.
• Friday, September 27th: Immerse yourself in the Sound Park Festival, featuring a stellar lineup including Yoon Machi, Stella Jang, Band Daseot, Heo Ji-wook, and Art Ensemble.
• Saturday, September 28th: Ejel, a rising star from the popular TV competition "Sing Again 3," will showcase their incredible talent.
• Sunday, September 29th: Kim So-yeon, another acclaimed performer from "Sing Again 2," will close out the festival with a memorable performance.

Additional Highlights:

Beyond the main stage, the Gwangju Beer Fest offers a variety of exciting activities:

• DJ Music Sets: Enjoy electrifying DJ performances throughout the festival, setting the perfect mood for autumn nights. Featured DJs include DJ Chundee (Wednesday & Saturday), DJ H.soo (Thursday), and DJ Sumin (Sunday).
• Mag Rhapsodie: Experience a captivating magic show that will leave you spellbound.
• Opening Ceremony: The festival will kick off with a vibrant performance by the Kia Tigers Cheerleading Squad.
• Interactive Fun: Participate in engaging activities like recreation games, a beer opening contest, and a "Ddeokmaek" (rice cake and beer) performance.

Culinary Delights:

Indulge in a diverse selection of food offerings perfectly paired with your favorite craft beers:

• Food Trucks: Explore 12 different food trucks representing the best of Korean cuisine.
• Local Favorites: Sample signature dishes from renowned Gwangju restaurants like Buri*Chicken and Wi*Chili.
• International Flavors: Savor authentic world cuisine prepared by international chefs.

Ticket Information:

• Free Seating: Enjoy the festival atmosphere and access to food and beverage vendors for free.
• Premium Pre-reservation Zone: Secure a prime viewing spot with a reserved seat in the Premium Zone. Pre-reservation offers a 5% discount, bringing the price to KRW 42,750 per seat. On-site Premium Zone tickets are available for KRW 45,000.

Don’t miss the Gwangju Beer Fest, a unique opportunity to celebrate the arrival of autumn with fantastic music, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Gwangju!

Experience the Enchanting Night at Seokjojeon Hall

Delve into the history of the Korean Empire with a captivating night tour of Deoksugung Palace’s Seokjojeon Hall.

Dates: September 24, 2024 – November 2, 2024

The "Night at Seokjojeon Hall" program offers a unique opportunity to journey back in time and experience the grandeur of the Korean Empire. This immersive program, launched as a pilot project in 2021 and established as a regular event due to its immense popularity, features a guided tour of Seokjojeon Hall, a delightful terrace cafe experience, and a mesmerizing musical performance.

Program Highlights

1. Seokjojeon Night Tour:
Embark on a guided tour of the Seokjojeon Daehan Empire History Museum, where expert commentary will illuminate the fascinating history and significance of the building and its exhibits.

2. Terrace Cafe Experience:
Indulge in the royal treatment on the 2nd-floor terrace of Seokjojeon Hall. Savor delectable Gabeocha (coffee) and traditional Korean desserts, just as King Gojong once did, while enjoying the enchanting ambiance and classical music. You’ll be offered a choice of one of four beverages and two types of traditional snacks.

3. Reception Room Musical: "Gojong, the Dream of Korea"
Witness a captivating original musical performance, "Gojong, the Dream of Korea," which offers a poignant glimpse into the life and aspirations of Emperor Gojong during the Korean Empire period.

4. In Saengung Cut: Commemorative Photo Opportunity
Capture your memories against the stunning backdrop of Seokjojeon’s illuminated facade. A self-photo booth with props from the enlightenment period provides a fun and unique way to commemorate your visit.

Discount Information

• Severely disabled individuals (formerly grades 1-3): 50% discount for the individual and one accompanying person.
• Individuals with less severe disabilities (formerly grades 4-6): 50% discount for the individual.
• National merit recipients: 50% discount.

Location & Contact Information

Address: 99, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

Fee: 26,000 won per person

Contact: Palace Utilization Program Call Center at 1522-2295

Website: https://www.kh.or.kr/chf

Instagram: @goongin_official

The Garden of Morning Calm’s Autumn Chrysanthemum Festival

A Symphony of Colors at Byeokchoji Botanical Garden

Dates: September 21st, 2024 ~ November 17th, 2024

Byeokchoji Botanical Garden, renowned for its harmonious blend of Eastern and Western garden design, invites you to its vibrant 2024 Autumn Flower Chrysanthemum Festival.

Explore Themed Gardens:

Throughout the festival, 29 distinct gardens will be adorned with a breathtaking array of autumn flowers, with chrysanthemums taking center stage. Each garden embodies a unique theme – excitement, myth, adventure, freedom, contemplation, and emotion – creating a captivating journey for visitors.

• Excitement Space: Admire stylish chrysanthemum sculptures artfully integrated with the elegant Queen’s Garden.
• Freedom Space: Discover a diverse collection of plants, including over 30 varieties of ornamental grasses, creating a sense of boundless natural beauty.
• Mythical Space: Step into the newly opened Marliseong Garden, inspired by the grandeur of European palace gardens, and embark on a journey through horticultural enchantment.

Chrysanthemum Extravaganza:

The flower garden will showcase a wide variety of rare chrysanthemums, available for both admiration and purchase. Capture memorable moments at the dedicated flower hill photo spot, a picturesque landscape overflowing with chrysanthemums.

Beyond the Blooms:

• Chrysanthemum Exhibition and Sale: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Korea’s representative autumn flower and even learn how to cultivate your own.
• Byeokchoji Photo Exhibition: The gallery will feature stunning photographs capturing the four seasons of Byeokchoji Botanical Garden, all taken by talented visitors.
• Botani Brunch Cafe: Indulge in the award-winning chef’s culinary creations, including delectable pizzas and pastas, while enjoying panoramic views of the flower garden. The cafe was recognized with the Excellence Award in the Italian Food category at the prestigious 2024 KCIA Food & Beverage Awards.
• Munch Munch Food Court: Savor aromatic coffee and a delightful selection of snacks that cater to all ages.

Plan Your Visit:

Address: 242, Buheung-ro, Gwangtan-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do

Admission Fees:

• Adults: 10,500 KRW
• Middle and High School Students / Senior Citizens / People with Disabilities / People of National Merit: 8,500 KRW
• Children: 7,500 KRW
• Children under 36 months: Free

Contact: 031-957-2004

Connect with us:

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

Website: http://www.bcj.co.kr

A+ Festival: Celebrating Disability Culture and Arts

Experience the Brilliance at Korea’s Largest Disability Arts Festival

🗓️ Dates: September 27th – 29th, 2024

The A+ Festival, Korea’s largest festival celebrating arts and culture for people with disabilities, returns for its 15th year. Founded in 2009 on the principles of Ability, Accessibility, and Activity, this three-day event fosters inclusivity and understanding through the powerful medium of art.

This year’s theme, "Shine and Be Shone," embodies the idea that even the smallest sparks can illuminate the world. Just as individual lights come together to create a radiant glow, the festival celebrates the collective brilliance of artists with disabilities, illuminating hope and inspiration for all.

Set against the backdrop of the Blue House helipad and Chunchugwan, the festival promises a captivating blend of autumnal beauty and artistic expression.

Highlights of the A+ Festival:

1. Opening Ceremony and Concert:
Kicking off the festival with an inspiring celebration of art and inclusivity.

2. Performances:

Experience a diverse range of performances designed to engage audiences of all abilities:

• Shining with Developmental Disabilities, Orchestra: Be moved by the musical talents of this inspiring orchestra.
• "Light Now," a Creative Musical Gala Show for Disability Awareness: Enjoy an evening of musical theater promoting awareness and understanding.
• DANCE LIGHT: Witness the power and grace of this captivating dance performance.
• Singing with Poems: Delight in the harmonious blend of poetry and song.
• Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light): Experience a performance that embodies the theme of hope and illumination.
• Play <The Real Villain Has Appeared>: Enjoy a thought-provoking theatrical performance.

3. Interactive Experiences:

Engage with disabled artists and participate in hands-on activities:

• Decorating My Own Shining Stand with People with Developmental Disabilities: Unleash your creativity and collaborate on a unique art project.
• DANCE FRIENDS: Connect with others through the joy of movement and dance.
• Making Memories (Badges): Create a lasting memento of your festival experience.
• My Work is Born: Discover the satisfaction of artistic expression through hands-on workshops.
• Valuable, Shared Experience Events: Participate in enriching activities that foster connection and understanding.

4. Exhibitions:

Immerse yourself in the world of disability art and explore thought-provoking exhibitions:

• Illuminating Art: Discover a diverse collection of artwork created by artists with disabilities.
• Opening Disabilities through Media: Explore the intersection of disability and media representation.
• Season of Senses – Utilize the Tactile Book: Engage your senses with interactive tactile books designed for all abilities.
• Hug Exhibition: Experience the power of human connection through this heartwarming exhibition.
• 2024 Korea Disabled Calligraphy and Painting Exhibition: Admire the skill and artistry of calligraphy and painting in this special exhibition.

Plan Your Visit:

📍 Location: Blue House, 1 Cheongwadae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: +82-2-6351-5905

📱 Stay Connected:

• Instagram: Follow for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
• Website: https://aplusfestival.or.kr/ for detailed information about the festival.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the power of art and celebrate the contributions of artists with disabilities at the A+ Festival.