Category: Korea

Dive into a Sea of Stories at the Korea Reading Festival in Pohang!

Prepare to be swept away by the magic of literature at the Korea Reading Festival, taking place in Pohang from September 27th to 29th, 2024!

This isn’t just another book fair; it’s Korea’s largest celebration of reading and culture, boasting an impressive lineup of over 100 programs designed to ignite imaginations and spark a passion for storytelling.

A Year-Long Journey into the World of Words

The festivities begin early! On March 28th, Pohang will officially declare itself a "City of Books," kicking off a year-long series of engaging reading programs in collaboration with libraries, bookstores, and literary organizations.

A Literary Escape at Yeongildae Beach

The grand finale unfolds from September 27th to 29th at the picturesque Yeongildae Beach. Picture this: captivating performances, thought-provoking exhibitions, interactive workshops, and insightful academic forums, all set against the backdrop of the sparkling ocean.

From Steel City to Literary Haven

Pohang is shedding its industrial skin and embracing a new chapter as a haven for bookworms. The festival aims to cultivate a love of reading among people of all ages and backgrounds, creating a vibrant space for connection and shared experiences through the power of the written word.

A Glimpse into the Literary Wonderland Awaiting You:

• Main Events: Witness the grand opening ceremony and rub shoulders with acclaimed authors at meet-and-greets.
• Side Events: Get lost in bustling book markets, be captivated by inspiring exhibitions, and enjoy lively performances.
• Experiential Programs: Unleash your creativity in hands-on workshops and explore the wonders of the unique "Ocean Library."

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate the joy of reading!

Event Details:

• Dates: September 27th – 29th, 2024
• Location: Yeongildae Beach, Pohang City, Gyeongsangbuk-do
• Admission: Free
• Contact: +82-54-270-4611~3, 4619
• Instagram: Follow the festival on Instagram
• Website: Visit the official Korea Reading Festival website

Mark your calendars and prepare to embark on an unforgettable literary adventure!

Celebrate Korea Youth Day 2024: A Festival of Empowerment and Innovation

🗓️ Date: September 21st – 22nd, 2024

📍 Location: Hangang Nanji Park, 162 Hangangnanji-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Sangam-dong)

Prepare yourself for an explosion of youthful energy and creativity at Korea Youth Day 2024! Held annually on the third Saturday of September, this landmark festival celebrates the vibrant spirit and potential of Korea’s young generation.

Organized by the Youth and Future Foundation under the National Assembly Secretariat, Korea Youth Day stands as a testament to years of dedicated advocacy to officially recognize and celebrate the nation’s youth.

🎉 Immerse Yourself in a World of Excitement

This year’s festivities promise an unforgettable experience with a diverse range of engaging programs, including:

Main Stage Spectacles:

• Korea Youth Day Concert: Get ready to rock out with electrifying performances from renowned artists. (Concert tickets sold separately)
• 2024 Creator Festival: Witness the cutting-edge of creativity as talented young creators showcase their innovative work.
• Korea Youth Day Flash Mob: Be part of an epic display of unity and energy with a synchronized flash mob performance.

Engaging Activities:

• Overseas Youth Quiz Show: Test your knowledge of Korea and compete against other international youth.
• Youth Housing Talk Concert: Engage in insightful discussions about housing solutions and future prospects.
• F&B Festival: Indulge in a culinary adventure with a diverse selection of food and beverages.
• Beauty & Healing Zone: Take a break from the excitement and pamper yourself with relaxing beauty and wellness treatments.

Awards & Recognition:

• Korea Youth Day Commemorative Ceremony: Witness the inspiring ceremony that honors the significance of youth in Korea.
• 9th Youth Policy Competition: Discover groundbreaking ideas and solutions from the next generation of policymakers.
• 2024 Youth-Friendly Constitutional Award Ceremony: Celebrate organizations and individuals championing youth rights and well-being.
• 2024 Youth Startup Awards: Support and recognize the entrepreneurial spirit of young innovators.
• 2024 Social Contribution Award Ceremony: Acknowledge the impactful contributions of youth in creating positive social change.
• 2024 Youth-Friendly Company Certification Ceremony: Highlight companies committed to fostering supportive and empowering work environments for young professionals.

Practical Support:

• Career and Education Counseling: Receive personalized guidance and advice on career paths and educational opportunities.
• 4th Industrial Revolution Startup Festival: Explore the latest advancements in technology and connect with innovative startups.

And much more!

Don’t Miss Out!

💰 Admission: Free (excluding ticketed events)

📞 Contact: +82-2-780-3939

⭐️ Stay Connected:

• Instagram: Follow @youthday_official for exciting updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
• Website: Visit the official Korea Youth Day website www.ynf.or.kr for detailed information and registration details.

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

🗓️ August 31 ~ September 8, 2024

The Muju Firefly Festival is a celebration of ecology, featuring a diverse program of cultural events, environmental activities, artistic performances, and educational opportunities.

During the festival, visitors can:

• Embark on a magical firefly exploration tour, riding shuttle buses to prime firefly habitats.
• Discover the wonders of the Bandi Nuri Pavilion, an indoor exhibit where live fireflies can be observed year-round.
• Participate in the Namdaecheon Life Plus program, releasing fish into the Namdaecheon River and learning about the importance of ecological preservation.
• Enjoy traditional cultural performances, such as the Joseon Dynasty Royal Records Parade and the Muju Anseong Nakhwa Nori (fireworks display).

Highlights:

1. Main Programs
* Firefly Exploration Tour: Journey by shuttle bus to firefly habitats for an unforgettable encounter with these luminous creatures.
* Bandi Nuri Pavilion: Experience the magic of fireflies year-round in this dedicated indoor exhibit.
* Namdaecheon Life Plus: Engage in a hands-on activity releasing fish fry into the Namdaecheon River, fostering an appreciation for the interconnectedness of life.

2. Additional Programs
* Joseon Dynasty Royal Records Parade Reenactment: Witness a historical spectacle recreating the procession of the royal records.
* Muju Anseong Nakhwa Nori: Be captivated by a traditional Korean fireworks display.
* Bandi Starry Night: Under the clear skies of Muju, join astronomy experts for an insightful guided tour of the constellations.

3. Other Activities
* Explore a variety of vendors offering local agricultural products, crafts, and delicious food.
* Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the festival with food stalls and entertainment.

📍 Location: 326-14, Hanpungnu-ro, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do (Deungnamu Sports Ground)

💰 Admission: Free (some activities may have fees)

📞 Contact: +82-63-324-2440

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

🖥️ Website: www.firefly.or.kr

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!

Jikji Korea Festival 2024: Ignite Your Curiosity

Celebrate the Dawn of Printing!

🗓️ September 4th – 8th, 2024

The Jikji Korea Festival commemorates the invention of metal type printing, a pivotal moment in history that ignited a revolution in knowledge dissemination. This vibrant festival, held annually in Cheongju, South Korea, honors the legacy of the Jikji, recognized by UNESCO as the world’s oldest extant movable metal print book.

Under the theme "Jikji, the Spark of Civilization," the festival invites you to experience a captivating blend of:

• UNESCO Official Events: Witness history come alive with special ceremonies and exhibitions.
• Engaging Exhibitions: Explore the intricate world of printing through rare artifacts and interactive displays.
• Lively Performances: Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Korean culture through music and dance.
• Insightful Lectures: Deepen your understanding of the Jikji’s impact on history and culture.
• Delicious Food: Tantalize your taste buds with a diverse array of Korean cuisine.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Jikji Korea Festival offers something for everyone.

Highlights:

1. Main Events:

• Jikji Prize Award Ceremony: Witness the prestigious Jikji Prize being awarded to an organization making significant contributions to documentary heritage preservation.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday), 4:00 PM
  • Location: Main Stage
• Opening Ceremony: Be there for the official launch of the 2024 Jikji Korea Festival.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday)
  • Location: Main Stage

2. Special Exhibitions & Experiences:

• Jikji Replica & Digital Book Special Exhibition: Explore a tangible replica of the Jikji and interact with a digital version featuring Korean translations and animated explanations.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Location: 1st Floor, UNESCO International Center for Documentary Heritage (ICDH)
• 20th Anniversary Special Exhibition of UNESCO/Jikji Memory of the World Prize Laureates: Discover the achievements of past Jikji Prize laureates.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Location: 2nd Floor, UNESCO ICDH
• World Printing Culture Experience Exhibition: Witness a live demonstration of the Gutenberg printing press and try your hand at Arabic calligraphy.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Location: 1st Floor, UNESCO ICDH
• Geumdang Night View Exhibition: Experience the beauty of the Jikji illuminated at night.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Location: 1st Floor, UNESCO ICDH

3. Interactive Programs:

• Citizen Festival School (Pre-Festival Event): Participate in lectures designed to empower citizens to actively engage with the festival.
  • Date/Time: June 19th (Wednesday) – 28th (Friday), 4 sessions in total
  • Location: Seminar Room, Cheongju Early Printing Museum
• Jikji Korea Festival Experience Zone: Engage in hands-on activities and crafts.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Location: Experience Zone
• Create Your Own Metal Type Signature Stamp: Learn from master craftsman Im In-ho and create a unique souvenir. (Naver Reservation Required)
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM
  • Location: Metal Type Printing Education Center
• Metal Type Casting Demonstration: Observe the fascinating process of metal type casting. (On-site Registration)
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 10:00 AM / 1:30 PM / 3:00 PM (3 times daily)
  • Location: Metal Type Printing Education Center
• Traditional Culture Experience: Make Traditional Korean Desserts: Learn to make delicious Korean desserts with guidance from Chungbuk Intangible Cultural Heritage master Park Jun-mi.
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 3 times daily
  • Location: Experience Zone
• Jikji Cube Competition: Test your skills in a fun and challenging Jikji-themed cube competition. (On-site Registration)
  • Date/Time: September 7th (Saturday) 11:30 AM, September 8th (Sunday) 1:30 PM
  • Location: Main Stage
• Jikji Quiz Golden Bell: Elementary school students can test their knowledge about the Jikji and printing history. (Naver Reservation Required)
  • Date/Time: September 6th (Friday) 10:30 AM (Group), September 7th (Saturday) 1:30 PM (Individual)
  • Location: Main Stage
• Goryeo Dynasty Tea Ceremony Experience: Immerse yourself in the elegant tea culture of the Goryeo Dynasty. (Naver Reservation Required)
  • Date/Time: September 4th (Wednesday) – 8th (Sunday), 4 times daily
  • Location: Experience Zone
• Book Concert: Enjoy a unique concert experience that blends literature and music. (Naver Reservation & On-site Registration)
  • Description: More details to be announced.

4. Additional Information:

• Food Trucks: Indulge in a variety of delicious food and drinks from local vendors.
• Flea Market: Discover unique crafts, souvenirs, and more.

📍 Location: 713 Jikji-daero, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: +82-43-201-3662

⭐️ Follow us on Instagram: @jikjifestival_official

🖥️ Visit the official website: https://jikjifestival.com

Dive into Summer Fun at the Songdo Beach Festival!

🗓️ Mark your calendars: August 10th – 15th, 2024

Get ready for the 5th annual Songdo Beach Festival, a signature summer event in Yeonsu-gu! This festival offers the perfect blend of beautiful city scenery and refreshing water activities, making it a fantastic experience for the whole family.

🌊 What to Expect:

• Splash Zone: Cool off and have a blast at the water park, complete with slides, exciting water attractions, street performances, and even a canoe experience zone!
• Songdo Amusement Park & Food Zone: Take a trip down memory lane with a special exhibition showcasing the history of Songdo Amusement Park and the Suin Line. Enjoy delicious food and groove to the beats from the DJ music box.
• Camp-nic Zone: Relax and enjoy the beach vibes at the Camp-nic Zone, featuring a unique beach theater experience.
• Retro Fun: Relive the nostalgia of the old Songdo Amusement Park with a special zone dedicated to retro games, offering something for everyone.

✨ Experience the Magic:

Beyond the zones, the festival offers a diverse range of entertainment options, including busking performances and an outdoor theater. As the sun sets, be captivated by the dazzling night view of Songdo while enjoying the cool summer breeze.

📍 Location: 764, Aam-daero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon (Songdo-dong)

💰 Admission: Free

📞 Contact: +82-32-749-7331~6

📱 Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram!

💻 Website: www.yeonsu.go.kr

Daejeon 0 o’clock Festival: A Time Travel Adventure

🗓️ August 9th ~ 17th, 2024

Inspired by the nostalgic Korean song "Daejeon Blues" with its iconic line "Farewell, I’m leaving~ Daejeon departure 0:50~", the Daejeon 0 o’clock Festival promises a non-stop celebration of everything Daejeon has to offer. True to its catchy slogan "Daejeon Never Sleeps, Fun Never Stops", the festival aims to become a global phenomenon, captivating both locals and international visitors.

This year, the festival takes you on a unique "time travel" journey. The heart of Daejeon, a 1km stretch of Jungang-ro from Daejeon Station to the former Chungnam Provincial Office, transforms into a pedestrian paradise. Each zone along this route offers a captivating blend of Daejeon’s past, present, and future.

Beyond the vibrant street performances and fringe stages lining Jungang-ro, nearby theaters will host a diverse array of captivating shows.

Here’s a sneak peek at what awaits you:

• August 9th: A grand street parade bursting with nine distinct colors, D-Culture Festival, innovative science & technology exhibitions and experiences.
• Throughout the festival: K-POP concerts, family theme parks, and the Dream Seed Family Photo Zone.

📍 Location: 148 Jungang-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon
💰 Admission: Free (some theater performances may charge a fee)
📞 Contact: +82-42-120
⭐️ Instagram:
🖥️ Website: djzerofe.com

Yeongdong Grape Festival

🍇 Dates: August 29th – September 1st, 2024

Every year at the end of August, the Yeongdong Grape Festival takes place in Yeongdong, a region famous for its delicious grapes. This festival celebrates the nation’s largest grape cultivation area (2,209 hectares) and the high quality of Yeongdong grapes.

This isn’t just a festival for eating grapes! You can enjoy a variety of activities, from picking grapes yourself to making wine and juice. There are also fun experiences like grape stomping, engaging all five senses.

Located within easy reach of the Seoul metropolitan area, it’s perfect for a day trip. The festival also offers a variety of programs designed for children.

Highlights:

• Main Program: Grape sales
• Side Programs: Various hands-on experiences
• Visitor Participation: Grape picking, grape stomping, and more

📍 Location: 117, Yeongdong Healing-ro, Yeongdong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do

💰 Admission: Free (some activities may require a fee)

📞 Contact: +82-43-745-8918

⭐️ Instagram:

🖥️ Website: www.ydgrape.co.kr