Seonnongdaeje Festival

🗓️ Dates: April 18, 2025 – April 19, 2025

The Seonnongdaeje Festival offers a unique window into Korea’s rich agricultural traditions. This annual event serves as a modern reinterpretation and reenactment of ‘Seonnongje’, a significant historical ceremony. During the original Seonnongje, prayers were offered to Sin Nong, the god of agriculture, to ensure a bountiful harvest, a ritual highlighted by the symbolic act of the king personally plowing the fields, known as ‘Chingyeong’. Now celebrating its 46th anniversary, the Seonnongdaeje Festival continues this legacy, adapting the ancient prayers for abundance into a contemporary wish for the prosperity and well-being of the Dongdaemun-gu district.

Event Schedule and Programs

The festival unfolds over two days with distinct activities planned for each:

Friday, April 18th: Spring Breeze Seolleongseolleong Gugak Concert

Location: Dongdaemun-gu Knowledge Flower Garden

• 5:30 PM: The evening commences with performances by talented artists from the Dongdaemun-gu area.
• 7:00 PM: The concert continues with featured performances by renowned Gugak (traditional Korean music) groups, Heesca and AkDan GwangChil.

Saturday, April 19th: Royal Procession, Ritual Ceremony & Side Events

1. Royal Procession & Ritual Ceremony

• 9:00 AM: Witness the grandeur of the Royal Procession as it proceeds from the Dongdaemun-gu Office to the Seonnongdan History Park, recreating the historical journey associated with the Seonnongje ritual.
• 10:30 AM: The solemn Ritual Ceremony takes place at the Seonnongdan History Park, reenacting the traditional rites offered for agricultural prosperity.

2. Side Events

Location: Jongam Elementary School (unless otherwise noted)

• 9:00 AM: A Children’s Art Contest provides a creative outlet for younger attendees.
• 10:30 AM: Experience a taste of Korean culinary tradition with the Seolleongtang Sharing event. A total of 2,500 servings of this nourishing soup will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• 1:00 PM: Engage in hands-on cultural activities during the Traditional Play Experience, held at the Seonnongdan History Park.

Visitor Information

📍 Address: 38 Muhakro 44-gil, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul (Jegi-dong) – Primarily around the Seonnongdan History Park area, with specific events at Dongdaemun-gu Knowledge Flower Garden and Jongam Elementary School.

💰 Fee: Admission to the festival events is free.

📞 Contact: For inquiries, please call 02-3295-5566.

🖥️ Homepage: https://ddmac.or.kr/sub09/sub02.php

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

What is Seonnongdaeje?

Seonnongdaeje is a traditional Korean agricultural ritual originating from the Joseon Dynasty. It involves a ceremony at Seonnongdan, an altar where the king historically offered prayers and sacrifices to ensure a successful harvest. This ritual highlights the historical significance of agriculture in Korea. Participants wear traditional clothing and perform rites that include offerings of rice, fruits, and other produce, accompanied by music and dance. The event serves as a means of preserving cultural practices and as a communal gathering that emphasizes gratitude and respect for nature. The Seonnongdaeje Festival in Seoul provides an opportunity for both locals and visitors to engage with Korea’s agricultural heritage.

Busan Lantern Festival

🗓️ Festival Period: 2025.04.18 ~ 2025.05.06

The Busan Lantern Festival represents a significant continuation of the Lantern Festival tradition (Yeondeunghoe), which holds the distinction of being designated National Important Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 122 within South Korea. This unique cultural practice boasts a history spanning over 1,300 years, originating as a way to celebrate Buddha’s Birthday. Central to the festival is the act of lighting lanterns, a symbolic gesture embodying prayers for harmony and prosperity throughout society. The primary objective of the Busan Lantern Festival is the preservation and advancement of this rich traditional culture, showcased through key events including a Joint Celebration Ceremony, the vibrant Lantern Parade, and extensive Traditional Lantern Exhibitions.

Festival Highlights and Schedule

The festival unfolds across multiple locations and dates, offering a diverse range of activities.

Main Celebration Day: Busan Lantern Festival

• Date and Time: Saturday, April 26th, starting at 4:00 PM
• Venue: Busan Citizens Park, Dasom Plaza
• Content: The day’s events feature the Yeonhui-dan (Performance Troupe) Harmony Square, providing engaging traditional performances. This is followed by the Joint Celebration Ceremony, a formal observance of the festival’s significance. The highlight is the Lantern Parade, a visually impressive procession illuminating the park.

Extended Cultural Experience: Busan Lantern Culture Festival

• Date: Friday, April 18th ~ Tuesday, May 6th
• Venue: Song Sang-hyeon Square
• Content: This extended period offers continuous engagement with lantern culture:
  • Opening Lighting Ceremony: Officially commences the festivities on April 18th at 7:00 PM.
  • Traditional Lantern Exhibition: A display of intricate and beautiful lanterns, available for viewing throughout the entire period (April 18th ~ May 6th).
  • Wish Lantern Hanging Experience: Visitors can participate by hanging their own lanterns inscribed with wishes (April 18th ~ May 6th).
  • Traditional Culture Experience Plaza: Offers hands-on activities related to Korean traditions (April 19th ~ 20th).
  • Muchal Manbal Offering (Free Food Offering): A communal offering of food, available on April 20th.

Additional Activities

Beyond the main schedule, supplementary events enrich the festival experience.

Traditional Lantern Special Exhibition

• Date: Tuesday, April 22nd ~ Monday, April 28th
• Venue: Busan Citizens Park, Dasom Gallery
• Content: This focused exhibition provides an opportunity for a closer look at the artistry of traditional lantern making.

Visitor SNS Contest

• Date: Monday, April 7th ~ Friday, May 16th
• Content: Festival attendees are encouraged to share their experiences on social media for a chance to participate in the contest.

Visitor Information

• 📍 Event Locations: The main festival events are held at Busan Citizens Park (Dasom Plaza & Dasom Gallery) and Song Sang-hyeon Square. The administrative address associated with the organizers is 121-1, Dongseong-ro 112beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan.
• 💰 Fee: Admission to the festival events is generally free. (Specific experiences may have separate material costs, though none are listed).
• 📞 Contact: For inquiries, please call 051-867-0501.
• 🖥️ Homepage: More details can often be found on the official website: Homepage
• 🛏️ Accommodation near the event

What is Busan known for?

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is recognized for its coastal landscapes, urban life, and cultural heritage. Situated between mountains and the sea, Busan combines natural beauty with cityscapes. The city is known for its beaches, such as Haeundae and Gwangalli, popular with both locals and tourists.

Busan is a cultural center, hosting events like the Busan International Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts globally. The city’s history is evident in its temples, markets, and historic sites, including Beomeosa Temple and Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful, terraced houses.

Busan is also noted for its cuisine, particularly fresh seafood and local dishes. The Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, is essential for experiencing the city’s food scene. From its port to its parks, Busan blends tradition with modernity, offering a compelling destination for travelers.

2025 ZEROBASEONE Fan-Con [Blue Mansion]

Event Information

• 🗓️ Date: April 18-20, 2025
• 📍 Location: KSPO DOME
• 🛏️ Accommodation near the concert
• 🪑 Festival Chair
• Address: Olympic Park, 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (88-2, Bangi-dong)
• Age Restriction: 7 years old and above

Schedule

The Fan-Con will be held over three days, with slightly different schedules for each day:

• Friday, April 18, 2025: 7:30 PM
• Saturday, April 19, 2025: 6:00 PM
• Sunday, April 20, 2025: 5:00 PM

Lineup

The event will feature ZEROBASEONE.

Ticket Price

Tickets are available at two price points:

• VIP Seat (General): 154,000 KRW
• Regular Seat (General): 132,000 KRW

Important Notices

※ By purchasing a ticket, you are deemed to have agreed to the performance guidelines, which are subject to change. It is strongly recommended that all attendees review these guidelines before the performance to avoid any potential issues.

※ Please ensure that your Interpark membership information (date of birth, contact information, etc.) is accurate before making a reservation. The information of the Interpark booker must match that of the actual attendee, whose ID will be checked at the door – a crucial detail for a smooth entry process.

※ If you choose ‘bank transfer’ as your payment method, the deposit must be made by 11:59:59 PM on the day of booking to avoid cancellation. Given potential variations in bank inspection times, it is advisable to complete your deposit by 11:30 PM.

[Wheelchair Seat Reservation Information]

※ Wheelchair seat purchases are exclusively available through phone reservations via the Interpark Customer Center at 1544-1555. The Customer Center operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For additional details, please refer to the ‘Wheelchair Seat Reservation Information’ section in the detailed image below.

※ Lost or damaged tickets cannot be reissued, and entry will not be permitted without a valid ticket. Attendees are advised to take all necessary precautions to safeguard their tickets.

A bit about ZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE is a South Korean boy group formed through the popular reality competition show "Boys Planet" in 2023. The group, often abbreviated as ZB1, consists of nine members who were selected based on their performances and popularity throughout the show. Known for their dynamic stage presence and diverse musical styles, ZEROBASEONE quickly gained a dedicated fanbase both domestically and internationally. Their debut was highly anticipated, and they have been recognized for their impressive vocal abilities, intricate choreography, and charismatic performances. As a fresh addition to the K-pop scene, ZEROBASEONE continues to captivate audiences with their innovative music and engaging personalities.

이 포스팅은 쿠팡 파트너스 활동의 일환으로, 이에 따른 일정액의 수수료를 제공받습니다.

Mahan History and Culture Festival

🗓️ April 18-19, 2025

The Mahan History and Culture Festival, held in Yeongam-gun, Jeollanam-do, offers an immersive experience into the history and culture of the Mahan people. Visitors to the festival, which takes place at the Mahan Culture Park, can explore a variety of programs designed to showcase Mahan’s historical heritage. These include Mahan relic exhibitions, cultural experiences, and hands-on relic excavation events.

Yeongam-gun is also actively promoting the establishment of the National Mahan History and Culture Center. This center is expected to become a crucial institution for the research and preservation of Mahan history, further underscoring the region’s commitment to its ancient past. The festival provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with the captivating history of ancient Korea.

The festival’s diverse programs are categorized as follows:

1. Main Program: Featuring significant events such as the Namhae Shrine Haesinje (Sea God Festival), a grand procession representing the 54 countries of Mahan, and a variety of cultural arts performances.
2. Side Program: Includes an exhibition of Mahan relics, displays and sales of Yeongam’s specialty products, and food experience booths offering local delicacies.
3. Consumer Participation Program: Offers interactive activities like relic excavation, a burial mound making experience, and a treasure hunt stamp rally – perfect for those who enjoy a hands-on approach.
4. Other Details: Encompasses a range of related events that complement the main festival activities.

For those planning to attend, the festival presents a compelling reason to visit Yeongam-gun, combining educational content with engaging activities. It’s an ideal destination for anyone interested in Korean history, from casual visitors to dedicated enthusiasts.

📍 Address: Okya-ri, Sijong-myeon, Yeongam-gun, Jeollanam-do

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Free

📞 Contact: 061-471-9094

What was the Mahan civilization?

The Mahan civilization was an ancient Korean confederacy that existed during the early Iron Age, from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. It was part of the Samhan, a term for the three confederacies of Mahan, Jinhan, and Byeonhan, located in the southern Korean Peninsula. Mahan was the largest of these, consisting of numerous small polities and tribes in the southwestern region of present-day South Korea.

Mahan is noted for its agricultural developments, especially in rice cultivation, which supported its population and enabled trade with neighboring regions, including China and Japan. The society was organized into a confederation of chiefdoms, each led by local chieftains who maintained autonomy while collaborating on common interests like defense and trade.

Culturally, Mahan contributed to Korean identity through its customs, religious practices, and art. Archaeological discoveries, such as pottery, burial mounds, and artifacts, offer insights into their daily life and social structure. The Mahan people practiced shamanism and ancestor worship, which were central to their spiritual and communal activities.

The Mahan civilization eventually became part of the Baekje Kingdom, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, as Baekje expanded its territory. Despite this absorption, Mahan’s legacy continued to influence Korea’s cultural and historical landscape. The 2025 Mahan History and Culture Festival in Yeongam-gun provides an opportunity to explore and celebrate this ancient civilization’s history and contributions.

Uiryeong Hongui General Festival

🗓️ Event Dates: 2025.04.17 ~ 2025.04.20

The Uiryeong Hongui General Festival serves as a vibrant commemoration deeply rooted in Korean history, celebrating the enduring spirit of patriotism embodied by the Righteous Army (Uibyeong). These civilian militias were spontaneously formed by ordinary people during times of national crisis, particularly foreign invasions, driven solely by the determination to protect their homeland. This specific festival pays homage to the remarkable bravery of General Gwak Jae-u—often called the "Hongui General" (Red-Clothed General) for his distinctive attire—who was the first to raise a righteous army unit in Korea during the pivotal Imjin War of 1592. Furthermore, the event honors the 17 elders who fought alongside him and countless other unnamed members of the Righteous Army whose sacrifices were crucial in overcoming national threats.

Held annually around April 22nd, designated as Righteous Army Uprising Day, this nationwide festival aims to ensure that the resolute spirit and selfless dedication of these historical figures are remembered and inherited by future generations. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with a significant chapter of Korean resilience and courage.

Festival Program Highlights

The festival presents a diverse array of activities, blending historical remembrance with contemporary entertainment and community participation:

1. Main Programs

• Opening Ceremony: Officially inaugurating the festival proceedings.
• Righteous Army Departure Parade and Torchlight March: A visually striking reenactment and procession, likely featuring period costumes and evoking the historical mobilization of the civilian soldiers, culminating in an atmospheric torchlight march.
• Righteous Army Play Zone & Squid Game: An area dedicated to interactive fun, potentially including traditional Korean games alongside modern, popular challenges inspired by the "Squid Game" phenomenon, offering engaging activities for various ages.
• National Righteous Army Theme Hall Operation: An exhibition space providing in-depth information and displays about the history, significance, and legacy of the Righteous Army movement across Korea.

2. Side Programs

• Uiryeong Hongui General National Freshwater Fishing Competition: A competitive event for angling enthusiasts, taking advantage of the local natural environment.
• 9th Lee Ho-seop Song Festival: A musical event celebrating the works or legacy associated with Lee Ho-seop, potentially featuring performances by various artists.
• Uiryeong Toyoae Watermelon Festival: A sub-festival celebrating a local agricultural specialty, likely offering tastings, sales, and related activities focused on Uiryeong’s Toyoae watermelons.
• County Residents Trot Contest: A singing competition showcasing local talent performing trot music, a popular genre in Korea.

3. Consumer Participation Programs

• Festival Street Parade: An opportunity for visitors and community groups to actively participate in a lively parade through the festival grounds.
• Righteous Army Playground: Likely an area with games or activities themed around the Righteous Army, designed for visitor interaction and enjoyment.
• Hongui Coin Tour: A program possibly involving collecting special "Hongui coins" by participating in various activities or visiting specific locations within the festival, potentially redeemable for small rewards.

4. Other Events

• Street Busking: Live performances by musicians and entertainers at various points throughout the festival venue, adding to the lively atmosphere.
• Insect Ecology Learning Center Special Exhibition: An educational exhibit focused on insect ecology, offering a learning opportunity distinct from the main historical theme.
• National Folk Cow Fighting Competition: A traditional spectator sport involving bull-versus-bull wrestling matches, showcasing a unique aspect of Korean folk culture.

Visitor Information

📍 Address: 44, Uibyeong-ro 8-gil, Uiryeong-eup, Uiryeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Admission to the festival grounds is generally Free, although specific programs or activities may have separate participation fees.

📞 Contact: For inquiries, please call 055-570-4941.

🖥️ Homepage: Visit the official festival website for the latest updates and detailed schedules: Homepage

Who was General Hongui?

General Hongui is a significant figure in Korean history, known for his leadership during a challenging era. He played a crucial role in defending Korea and contributing to its unification. His strategic skills and commitment to his country were instrumental in protecting Korean sovereignty. General Hongui’s ability to lead and unite his troops is a key aspect of his legacy. The Uiryeong Hongui General Festival commemorates his contributions, providing an opportunity to explore his impact on Korean culture and history. Through various activities, the festival seeks to educate attendees about his achievements and the values he represented, ensuring his influence endures.

Korea Science Festival

🗓️ April 16 – April 20, 2025

April, the month of science in Korea, will see a confluence of three distinct events into one representative festival: The Korea Science Festival. The "Korea Science Festival," traditionally focused on experiencing science and technology culture, will be joined by the "Korea Science and Technology Exhibition," which highlights research achievements in national strategic technology fields, and the "Daejeon Science Festival" — an event known for integrating science with local industries and entertainment.

This year’s festival, themed "The Engine of Science, Awakening Curiosity," promises a rich program designed to ignite the public’s interest in science, featuring an opening ceremony, alongside lectures and performances. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with a wide array of exhibition and hands-on programs, courtesy of a diverse group of participants including government-funded research institutes, science and technology institutes, science museums, private companies, and other organizations.

The festival’s offerings are categorized into four main types of programs:

1. Main Programs: These include science and culture performances that aim to engage the public by merging science with culture and art. There will also be exhibitions and experiential programs showcasing Korea’s leading-edge research achievements, introductions to 12 national strategic technologies, and displays of outstanding achievements across various fields, not to mention a promotion of Daejeon’s six strategic industries and their vision for the future.
2. Supporting Programs: Featuring initiatives like the Smart Science Classroom Teacher Workshop and the Kick-off Meeting for Science and Technology Personnel Communication Network, these programs are designed to support the educational and networking aspects of the scientific community.
3. Consumer Participation Programs: Aimed at engaging a broader audience, these programs include a Family Outing Picnic Zone and Science Art Exhibition, a Science Face Painting Event, a Hot Air Balloon Experience, and Drone Racing, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
4. Additional Events: The festival will be complemented by events such as the World Science Culture Forum, the Future Forum on Science and Technology Culture for Regional Revitalization, and a Food Zone, adding further depth and variety to the festival experience.

📍 Address: 169 Dunsan-daero, Seo-gu, Daejeon (Mannyeon-dong)

🛏️ Find accommodations near the event

💰 Fee: Admission is free, making this an accessible event for all who wish to explore the wonders of science.

📞 Contact: For further inquiries, please contact 02-333-4723.

What Makes Daejeon South Korea’s Science Hub?

Daejeon is recognized as South Korea’s science hub due to its concentration of research institutions, universities, and technology companies that drive scientific progress. The city hosts Daedeok Innopolis, a research and development complex with over 60 public and private research institutes, including the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), and Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB). This environment encourages collaboration between academia, industry, and government, facilitating significant research and technological advancements.

Daejeon’s dedication to science and technology is evident in its infrastructure and policies that support scientific activities. The city invests in educational programs and initiatives to nurture young talent and promote public engagement with science. Events like the Korea Science Festival highlight Daejeon’s role as a science hub by showcasing innovations and providing a platform for interaction among scientists, educators, and the public.

The collaboration between Daejeon’s research institutions and its tech industry has established the city as a leader in biotechnology, information technology, and nanotechnology. This environment attracts scientists and researchers globally and fosters a culture of inquiry and innovation, making Daejeon a fitting location for the Korea Science Festival 2025.

Gyeongbokgung Saenggwabang: A Taste of Joseon Dynasty Royal Desserts

🗓️ April 16, 2025 – June 23, 2025

The Gyeongbokgung Saenggwabang program offers a unique opportunity to experience the culinary traditions of the Joseon Dynasty. Located within the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, specifically in the Sojubang building, Saenggwabang – also known as Saengmulbang – was one of the six royal kitchens (Yukcheoso, 六處所). This particular kitchen was dedicated to the preparation of desserts and special meals for the king and queen.

This paid experience program allows visitors to savor the very same royal desserts and medicinal teas that were once enjoyed by Joseon royalty. The program meticulously recreates these delicacies, drawing directly from historical records found in the Joseon Dynasty Annals, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience.

Program Details

The tasting experience is offered four times daily, with each session lasting 70 minutes:

• 1st Session: 10:00 AM – 11:10 AM
• 2nd Session: 11:40 AM – 12:50 PM
• 3rd Session: 1:50 PM – 3:00 PM
• 4th Session: 3:30 PM – 4:40 PM

These sessions provide ample time to appreciate the subtle flavors and intricate presentation of each item, offering a glimpse into the refined palate of the Joseon court.

Location and Accessibility

The Saenggwabang is conveniently situated within Gyeongbokgung Palace.

📍 Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Sejong-ro)

For those planning to extend their visit and explore the surrounding area, accommodations are readily available.

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

Pricing and Reservations

The Gyeongbokgung Saenggwabang program operates on a paid, lottery-based reservation system.

💰 Fee: 15,000 won

A 50% discount is available for people with disabilities and national merit holders, making this cultural experience more accessible.

Contact Information

For any inquiries regarding the program, reservations, or other details, please use the contact information below.

📞 Inquiries: 1522-2295

🖥️ Homepage: https://www.chf.or.kr/

What is Saenggwabang?

Saenggwabang, once known as the royal confectionery room, played a significant role in the daily life of the Joseon Dynasty’s court. Situated in Gyeongbokgung Palace, it was where skilled artisans crafted traditional Korean desserts for the royal family. These sweets, made from recipes handed down through generations, reflected the cultural richness of the Joseon court. Today, Saenggwabang allows visitors to explore this aspect of history by tasting these traditional confections, each representing a piece of Korea’s heritage.

Yeongnangho Cherry Blossom Festival: Sokcho’s Spring Celebration

🗓️ Dates: 2025.04.12 ~ 2025.04.13

Experience Sokcho’s representative spring festival, an event that thoughtfully combines the serene natural scenery of Yeongnangho Lake with engaging local cultural content. The 2nd annual Yeongnangho Cherry Blossom Festival is scheduled for mid-April 2025, set against the picturesque backdrop of Yeongnangho Lake itself. Attendees can anticipate the sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom lining the lake, complemented by the magnificent panorama of Seoraksan Mountain in the distance.

This festival distinguishes itself by aiming to cultivate an atmosphere centered around ‘wellness’ and ‘eco-friendliness’. The organizers intend to create a venue that emphasizes the qualities of rest, healing, and recuperation—aspects uniquely associated with the tranquil environment of Yeongnangho Lake.

Representative Programs

The festival offers a diverse range of activities, categorized for different interests:

• Bright Spring (A spring day to run and enjoy together!): This segment focuses on active participation and shared enjoyment.
  • Yeongnang Sports Day: Engage in friendly athletic activities.
  • Bubble Show: Enjoy a visually captivating performance.
  • Push and Pull Event: Participate in traditional strength games.
  • Taekwondo Demonstration Team: Witness a dynamic martial arts display.
• Love Spring (Love blooming under the cherry blossoms!): These programs offer more relaxed and mindful experiences.
  • Cherry Blossom Cinema: Watch films in a unique outdoor setting.
  • Healing Performance: Enjoy soothing artistic presentations.
  • Nordic Walking: Participate in guided walks around the scenic lake.
  • Spring Yoga: Join sessions designed for relaxation amidst nature.
• Perfect Spring (Regular programs that make a perfect spring): Ongoing attractions available throughout the festival.
  • Flea Market: Browse and shop for local goods and crafts.
  • Cherry Blossom Picnic: Designated areas perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
  • Eco-friendly Experience: Participate in activities promoting environmental awareness.
  • Forest Library: Relax with a book in a natural setting.
  • Nature Playground: A space for children (and adults) to engage with the environment.
  • Photo Zone: Capture memories at specially designed photo spots.
  • Lighting Tunnel: Experience an illuminated pathway adding magic to the evenings.

Event Details

📍 Address: Geumho-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Free admission

📞 Contact: 033-639-2545

🖥️ Homepage: Visit the official festival page for potentially updated information.

What is Yeongnangho?

Yeongnangho is a lake in Sokcho, a city in South Korea’s Gangwon Province. It is known for its calm atmosphere and natural beauty, making it a favored spot for both locals and tourists. The lake is surrounded by greenery and offers views of nearby mountains, providing a setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.

The lake is also noted for its cherry blossoms, which bloom in spring. The Yeongnangho Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates this event, drawing visitors to enjoy the floral display. The festival encourages appreciation of nature and promotes eco-friendly practices.

Visitors can walk along the lakeside paths, join workshops, or simply enjoy the scenery. Yeongnangho offers a peaceful experience that highlights the connection between nature and leisure.

Pohang Janggi Exile Culture Festival

🗓️ Festival Dates: 2025.04.12 ~ 2025.04.20

Discover a unique intersection of history and culture at the Pohang Janggi Exile Culture Festival. Janggi County, located within Pohang City, holds a distinct place in Korean history, documented in records such as the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty. These records indicate that this area served as a place of exile on approximately 150 occasions, affecting around 200 individuals throughout history.

Among those exiled to Janggi were figures of significant renown, including the scholar Uiam Song Si-yeol and the philosopher Dasan Jeong Yak-yong, alongside other prominent politicians displaced from central political circles. Their presence in Janggi contributed to a flourishing of academic research and literary culture within the region. This festival seeks to explore and reinterpret the historical significance and enduring value of this specific "exile culture" through a contemporary lens. It presents a range of cultural and artistic programs, thoughtfully themed around the area’s beautiful natural scenery, thereby establishing itself as a distinctive historical and cultural event unlike others.

Festival Program

The festival unfolds over several days, featuring both preliminary activities and main events designed to engage visitors with Janggi’s unique heritage.

1. Pre-programs

• Exile Culture Road Tour: Embark on guided tours exploring the historical paths and sites related to Janggi’s exile history.
  • Dates & Times: 2025. 04. 12 (Sat), 20 (Sun) / 09:00 and 14:00
• Art Contest & Literary Contest: Participate in or observe creative competitions inspired by the region’s history and culture.
  • Date & Time: 2025. 04. 12 (Sat) / 13:30 ~ 16:30
• Janggi Exile Culture Experience Village Escape Game <Janggi, Possible!>: Engage in an interactive escape game set within the historical context of the Janggi Exile Culture Experience Village.
  • Date & Times: 2025. 04. 12 (Sat) / 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00

2. Main Programs

• Exile Procession Reenactment: Witness a vivid reenactment depicting the historical processions of individuals being sent into exile.
  • Date & Time: 2025. 04. 19 (Sat) / 10:45
• Opening Ceremony: Attend the official commencement of the main festival events.
  • Date & Time: 2025. 04. 19 (Sat) / 11:00
• Talk Concert: Participate in an engaging discussion featuring insights and stories related to Janggi’s exile culture.
  • Date & Time: 2025. 04. 19 (Sat) / 14:00 ~ 16:00
• Experience Programs: Immerse yourself in various hands-on activities related to the festival’s themes.
  • Date & Time: 2025. 04. 19 (Sat) / 10:00 ~ 17:00

Visitor Information

📍 Address: 452, Janggi-ro, Janggi-myeon, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

💰 Fee: Admission to the festival is Free.

📞 Contact: For inquiries, please call 054-289-7852.

🖥️ Homepage: Visit the official festival website for more details: festival.phcf.or.kr (New Window : Pohang Janggi Exile Culture Festival Homepage)

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

Understanding Janggi Exile Culture

Janggi exile culture refers to the historical practice in Korea where individuals, often scholars, officials, or political figures, were exiled to remote regions as a form of punishment or political maneuvering. This practice was particularly prevalent during the Joseon Dynasty, a period marked by strict Confucian governance and intricate court politics. Exile served as a method to remove dissenting voices or political rivals without resorting to execution, thus maintaining a semblance of moral governance.

While exile was a punishment, it also became a period of reflection and intellectual growth for many. Exiled individuals often engaged in writing, poetry, and philosophical contemplation, contributing significantly to Korean literature and thought. The rural and isolated places of exile influenced the exiles’ works and perspectives.

The Janggi exile culture highlights the resilience and adaptability of those who lived through it, transforming a period of hardship into one of personal and cultural development. The 2025 Pohang Janggi Exile Culture Festival aims to celebrate this aspect of Korean history, offering visitors a chance to explore the stories, writings, and legacies of those who experienced exile firsthand. Through reenactments, exhibitions, and interactive experiences, the festival showcases the contributions of these historical figures.