Samcheok Jeongwol Daeboreum Festival: A Celebration of Tradition and Community

🗓️ February 14 – February 16, 2025

The Samcheok Jeongwol Daeboreum Festival, inaugurated in 1973, is a vibrant celebration deeply rooted in Korean tradition. Held annually during Jeongwol, the first month of the lunar calendar, this festival is a captivating blend of folk games, ritual ceremonies, and communal festivities. Participants and spectators alike gather to invoke blessings for good fortune, abundant harvests, and successful fishing endeavors, paying homage to the gods of heaven, earth, and sea.

At the heart of the festival lies Samcheok’s unique tug-of-war, a tradition so significant that it was designated as Gangwon Province’s Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 2 in 1976. This tug-of-war, traditionally performed during Jeongwol Daeboreum – the celebration of the first full moon of the lunar year – served as the cornerstone for the festival’s expansion. By 1978, the 6th iteration of the event had evolved into a nationwide celebration. Despite a temporary suspension from 2003 to 2006 due to the devastating typhoons Rusa and Maemi, the festival was reborn in 2007 under its current name, hosted by the Samcheok Jeongwol Daeboreum Festival Committee and organized by the Samcheok Cultural Center.

The nationwide tug-of-war competition, a highlight since 2007, has garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying the festival’s status as a major national event. The upcoming year’s festivities are particularly noteworthy, as they will commemorate the 10th anniversary of Samcheok tug-of-war’s inscription as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. To mark this milestone, an array of events, including the Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province Tug-of-War Competition, are planned to engage both local residents and visitors.

A Glimpse into the Festival’s Diverse Offerings

The Samcheok Jeongwol Daeboreum Festival offers a rich tapestry of experiences, categorized for clarity:

1. Opening Ceremony

• New Year’s Wish Parade
• Pre-ceremony Performance
• Opening Ceremony
• Opening Celebration Performance (MBC Gayo Best)
• Drone Light Show

2. Ritual Ceremonies

These ceremonies are integral to the festival’s spiritual core, invoking blessings and paying homage to deities:

• Bringing the Sacred Tree
• Mountain God Ritual
• Earth God Ritual
• Sky God Ritual
• Sea God Ritual

3. Cultural Heritage Events

These events showcase the region’s unique traditions and intangible cultural heritage:

• Sulbi Nori (Wine Ritual Play)
• Aegi Sokdakgi Juldarigi (Children’s Whispering Tug-of-War)
• Sokdakgi Juldarigi (Whispering Tug-of-War)
• Junggi Juldarigi (Medium Tug-of-War)
• Daegi Juldarigi 1, 2 (Large Tug-of-War)

4. Folk Game Events

A variety of traditional games provide entertainment and foster a sense of community:

• Byeolsingutpan (Shamanistic Ritual)
• Arm Wrestling Competition
• Chicken Fight Competition
• Yut Nori Competition
• Mangwol Nori (Moon Viewing Play)
• Daljip Taeugi (Burning of the Moon House)

5. Celebratory Events

These events highlight the festival’s celebratory spirit and competitive nature:

• Samcheok Jeongwol Daeboreum Singing Contest
• Samcheok Jeongwol Daeboreum Tug-of-War Competition
• Sangwon Mucheon (Martial Arts Performance)
• Samcheok Tug-of-War UNESCO Inscription 10th Anniversary Commemorative Event (Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province Tug-of-War Competition)

6. Experiential Events

Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture through hands-on activities:

• Folk Games
• Seasonal Customs
• Hanbok and Traditional Costume Experience
• Traditional Tea Tasting
• Traditional Food Tasting
• Family Wish Writing
• Group Jump Rope Competition
• Straw Rope Making
• Retro Games
• Night Torch Tug-of-War

7. Performances

A diverse range of performances will captivate audiences throughout the festival:

• Local Singer Performances
• Ssaul Abi Taekwondo Performance
• Talbakum Nori Performance (Mask Transformation Play)
• Daegi Nori Performance (Large Flag Play)
• Spirit of Fire (Fire Show)

8. Side Events and Facilities

Additional attractions enhance the overall festival experience:

• Flash Mob
• Moon Lantern Street Lighting Ceremony
• Smartphone Photo Contest
• Daljip Landscape Lighting Installation
• Local Seafood Consumption Promotion Event
• Popular Character Parade and Playtime (Photo Zone)

Essential Information for Attendees

📍 Address: 45, Expo-ro, Samcheok-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Seongnam-dong)

🛏️ Accommodation near the event

💰 Fee: Free

📞 Contact: 033-573-2882, 9882

🖥️ Homepage: www.fullmoonfestival.or.kr

What is Jeongwol Daeboreum?

Jeongwol Daeboreum, or the Great Full Moon Festival, is a Korean celebration marking the first full moon of the lunar new year. This festival is a time for communities to engage in customs and rituals intended to bring good fortune, health, and prosperity for the coming year. A notable tradition is the lighting of bonfires, which symbolizes the removal of bad luck and the start of new beginnings. Participants also crack nuts with their teeth, a practice thought to strengthen teeth and ward off evil spirits. The festival includes folk games, traditional music, and dance performances, contributing to a lively atmosphere. In recent years, Jeongwol Daeboreum has also served as an opportunity to highlight Korea’s cultural heritage, drawing interest from both locals and tourists who wish to experience its historical and celebratory aspects.

2025 TWS 1st Fanmeeting 〈42:CLUB〉 in Seoul

Event Information

The Olympic Handball Gymnasium in Seoul will host the inaugural fan meeting of the K-pop group TWS, titled "42:CLUB," from February 14 to February 16, 2025. This event offers fans a unique opportunity to engage with the group over three consecutive days, each featuring a distinct schedule. The venue, located within Olympic Park, is easily accessible and well-equipped to accommodate a large audience.

• 🗓️ Date: February 14-16, 2025
• 📍 Venue: Olympic Handball Gymnasium
• Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (88-2, Bangi-dong) Olympic Park
• Age Restriction: 9 years old and above
• 🛏️ Accommodation near the concert
• 🪑 Festival Chair

Schedule

The fan meeting will span three days, with each day offering a different start time to accommodate various schedules.

• February 14, 2025 (Friday): 7:00 PM (KST)
• February 15, 2025 (Saturday): 6:00 PM (KST)
• February 16, 2025 (Sunday): 5:00 PM (KST)

Lineup

The sole performers at this event will be the members of TWS.

Ticket Price

Tickets for the fan meeting are priced uniformly across all three days.

• Designated Seat (General): 99,000 KRW

Festival

This event marks the first official fan meeting for TWS, providing a dedicated platform for interaction between the group and its supporters. While specific activities have not been detailed, attendees can anticipate a range of engaging experiences designed to foster a closer connection with the artists.

Ticketing and Entry Guidelines

• Face Pass Requirement: This event utilizes Face Pass for entry. Prospective attendees should familiarize themselves with the Face Pass system prior to booking. Further details can be found in the Face Pass FAQ.
• Agreement to Performance Guidelines: Purchase of a ticket constitutes agreement to the performance guidelines. These guidelines may be subject to change or addition based on the evolving circumstances of the event. Attendees are strongly advised to review the guidelines before attending to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Information Verification: Before proceeding with verification and reservation, it is imperative to confirm the accuracy of your Interpark membership information, including date of birth and contact details. The information of the Interpark booker must match that of the actual attendee, who will be required to present a valid ID card. Discrepancies will result in entry restrictions.
• Mobile Ticket Service: This event exclusively employs a mobile ticket service. Physical tickets will not be issued, and neither delivery nor on-site pickup options are available.
• No Ticket Gifting: The mobile ticket gifting function is not supported for this event.
• Mobile Ticket Usage Guide: For comprehensive instructions on utilizing the mobile ticket service, please consult the Mobile Ticket Usage Guide provided in the detailed image section.

Wheelchair Seat Reservations

• Reservation Method: Wheelchair seat reservations can only be made via phone through the Interpark Ticket Customer Center (1544-1555) starting at 9:00 AM (KST) on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The Customer Center operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (KST).
• On-Site Verification: On the day of the performance, attendees with wheelchair seat reservations must present their disability registration card (or welfare card) and a physical ID card at the on-site IN-PASS booth to receive their tickets and entry wristbands. Failure to present these documents will result in denial of entry for both the ticket holder and one accompanying person.
• Ticket Pickup: Wheelchair seat tickets are exclusively available for on-site pickup, and the purchaser must collect the ticket in person. Proxy pickup and ticket transfers are strictly prohibited.

Additional Information

• Waiting List and Seat Re-booking: The waiting list service and the same seat re-booking service are not available for this event.
• Safe Booking Service: This event utilizes the safe booking service. Attendees are encouraged to familiarize themselves with this service before making a reservation. Information regarding the safe booking service can be found at Interpark’s service guide.

Images

A bit about TWS

TWS, also known as The Wonder Stuff, is a British alternative rock band that emerged in the late 1980s. Known for their energetic performances and catchy melodies, the band quickly gained a dedicated following. Their music blends elements of rock, pop, and folk, creating a distinctive sound that resonates with fans across generations. Over the years, TWS has released several successful albums and hit singles, earning them a place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. With a career spanning decades, The Wonder Stuff continues to captivate audiences with their dynamic live shows and timeless music.

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

Jeongwol Daeboreum Folk Festival

The Jeongwol Daeboreum Folk Festival, hosted by the Yangcheon Cultural Center and sponsored by Yangcheon-gu, is a local festival held annually at the Anyangcheon Riverside Baseball Field in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul. Scheduled for a single day, February 8, 2025, this event offers a deep dive into traditional Korean culture while fostering a sense of community among residents. 🗓️

A Celebration of Tradition and Community

The festival’s primary goal is to preserve and showcase traditional Korean culture. Attendees can expect a rich program filled with activities and performances that highlight the nation’s heritage. The event begins at 6:00 PM and continues into the evening, culminating in a symbolic burning of a "moon house" (Daljip Taeugi), where papers containing the wishes of residents are set ablaze, signifying hopes for health and happiness in the new year.

Experiencing Korean Folk Culture

The festival offers a wide array of traditional folk games and activities. Visitors can participate in:

• Tteok pounding: Experience the traditional method of making rice cakes.
• Kite flying: Enjoy the simple pleasure of flying kites, a popular pastime in Korea.
• Neolttwigi: Test your balance and agility on a traditional Korean seesaw.
• Yutnori: Engage in a friendly competition with this traditional board game.
• Bureom kkaegi: Partake in the custom of cracking nuts with your teeth, believed to bring good health.
• Paengichigi: Try your hand at top spinning, a classic Korean game.
• Tuho: Test your aim in this traditional arrow-throwing game.
• Jwibool nori: Observe or participate in this fire play with cans, a traditional way to ward off bad luck.
• Writing wishes: Pen down your hopes and dreams for the new year.
• Drinking gwibalgi-sul: Sample this "ear-brightening wine," traditionally consumed during Jeongwol Daeboreum.

Performances That Captivate

The festival is not just about participation; it’s also about witnessing the beauty and artistry of Korean performing arts. The schedule includes:

• Opening Ceremony and Performance: A grand opening to set the tone for the festivities.
• Local Cultural Arts Group Performances: A diverse lineup featuring tightrope walking, street parades, pansori (Korean narrative singing), folk songs, Korean dance, pungmulnori (farmers’ music and dance), Bukcheong Saja Noreum (lion mask dance), and other traditional Korean dances.

A Feast for the Senses

No Korean festival would be complete without a food market, and the Jeongwol Daeboreum Folk Festival is no exception. Attendees can savor a variety of traditional Korean foods, adding a flavorful dimension to the cultural experience.

Moon Greeting Events

As the evening progresses, the festival transitions into its "Moon Greeting" phase, featuring:

• Daljip Taeugi: The aforementioned burning of the moon house, a central event of the festival.
• Ganggangsullae: A traditional Korean circle dance performed under the full moon.
• Jisinbalgi: A house blessing ritual to ensure prosperity and good fortune.
• Fireworks: A spectacular display to illuminate the night sky and conclude the festivities.

Event Details

• Date: February 8, 2025 🗓️
• Time: 6:00 PM onwards
• Location: Anyangcheon Riverside Baseball Field, 788 Anyangcheon-ro, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul (Sinjeong-dong) 📍
• Admission: Free 💰
• Inquiries: 02-2651-5300 (Yangcheon Cultural Center) 📞
• Website: 정월대보름 민속축제 🖥️
• Accommodation: 🛏️ Accommodation near the event

The Jeongwol Daeboreum Folk Festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Korean culture, participate in traditional activities, and witness captivating performances. It’s a celebration of community, heritage, and the hopes for a prosperous new year – an event that promises to be both meaningful and memorable.

What is Jeongwol Daeboreum?

Jeongwol Daeboreum, or the Great Full Moon Festival, is a Korean celebration marking the first full moon of the lunar new year. This festival is a time for communities to engage in customs and rituals intended to bring good fortune, health, and prosperity for the coming year. Key activities include lighting bonfires, known as "daljip taeugi," to ward off evil spirits and bring luck. Participants also crack and eat nuts, a practice called "bureom," believed to promote dental health and general well-being. The festival is also characterized by folk games, traditional music, and dance performances, providing an insight into Korea’s cultural heritage. Celebrating Jeongwol Daeboreum allows people to connect with longstanding traditions and enjoy the communal spirit of the event.

2025 Paul Kim Small Theater Concert 〈Sincerely yours〉

Event Information

• 🗓️ Date: February 8th, 2025 – February 16th, 2025
• 📍 Venue: Bluesquare Mastercard Hall
• 🛏️ Accommodation near the concert
• 🪑 Festival Chair
• Address: Bluesquare, 294 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (Hannam-dong)
• Age Restriction: Preschoolers not admitted

Schedule

The concert series will be held over two weekends in February 2025, with a total of four performances. The specific dates and times are as follows:

• February 8th, 2025 (Saturday) 6 PM
• February 9th, 2025 (Sunday) 5 PM
• February 15th, 2025 (Saturday) 6 PM
• February 16th, 2025 (Sunday) 5 PM

Lineup

The concert will feature a solo performance by the acclaimed South Korean singer-songwriter, Paul Kim (폴킴). Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Paul Kim has captured the hearts of many with his chart-topping hits and captivating stage presence. This small theater concert series offers a rare opportunity to experience his music in a more intimate setting, allowing for a deeper connection between the artist and the audience.

Ticket Price

Tickets for all seats are priced at 132,000 KRW. This uniform pricing ensures that every attendee can enjoy the concert without any distinction in seating arrangements.

Festival

This concert series, titled "Sincerely yours," promises to be a memorable experience for fans of Paul Kim. The Bluesquare Mastercard Hall, with its state-of-the-art facilities and excellent acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of exceptional music.

The images below offer a glimpse into what attendees can expect from this event:

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A bit about Paul Kim (폴킴)

Paul Kim, known in Korean as 폴킴, is a South Korean singer-songwriter celebrated for his emotive voice and heartfelt ballads. He first gained widespread recognition with his debut album "The Road" in 2014, and has since become a staple in the Korean music scene. Known for his ability to convey deep emotions through his music, Paul Kim’s songs often explore themes of love, longing, and introspection. His hit singles like "Me After You" and "Every Day, Every Moment" have topped charts and resonated with audiences, earning him a dedicated fanbase. Beyond his musical talents, Paul Kim is also admired for his genuine and down-to-earth personality, which has endeared him to fans both in South Korea and internationally.

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

Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival: A Winter Wonderland

🗓️ 2025.02.07 ~ 2025.02.16

The Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival, established in 1994, is a celebrated winter event held in Taebaek, a city long renowned for its abundant resources and stunning natural landscapes. This annual festival showcases a remarkable array of snow sculptures, each year presenting new themes that captivate and delight visitors. The festival’s location, nestled in the embrace of Taebaek Mountain, famous for its picturesque snowy vistas, provides a breathtaking backdrop for the festivities.

Beyond the visual spectacle of the sculptures, the festival offers a range of engaging activities. One of the highlights is the climbing competition, which invites tourists to actively participate in the festival spirit while experiencing the mountain’s beauty firsthand. Additionally, the festival features programs designed to involve local citizens, fostering a sense of community and shared celebration.

Program Highlights

The festival’s diverse program ensures there’s something for everyone. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

1. Main Programs:
   • Opening Ceremony: A grand event that marks the beginning of the festival.
   • Catch! Teenieping Arcade Zone: An interactive area likely to appeal to younger visitors.
   • World University Students Sculpture Contest: A showcase of international talent, where students from around the globe compete to create the most impressive snow sculptures.
   • Taebaek Mountain Snow Flower Climbing Contest: A challenging yet rewarding competition for those who wish to test their endurance against the mountain’s snowy slopes.
2. Side Program:
   • Hwangji Pond Starlight Festa! (2024.12.20.~2025.02.28.): An enchanting light display that extends beyond the festival dates, offering a magical experience for visitors to Hwangji Pond.
3. Consumer Participation Programs:
   • Sledding Slope: A classic winter activity that promises fun for all ages.
   • Rotating Sled: A unique twist on traditional sledding.
   • Snow Flower Train: A scenic ride that allows visitors to enjoy the winter landscape in comfort.
   • Winter Sports Experience: An opportunity to try various winter sports.
   • Wish Lantern: A beautiful tradition where participants release lanterns carrying their hopes and dreams into the sky.
   • Wishing Tree Making: A creative activity where visitors can craft their own wishing trees.
4. Other Information:
   • In a move to support and integrate with local businesses, the festival will not operate separate food stalls or other food programs. This encourages visitors to explore and patronize the city’s existing culinary establishments.

Essential Information for Visitors

• 📍 Address: Sodong-dong, Taebaek-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
• 🛏️ Accommodation near the event
• 💰 Fee: Free
• 📞 Contact: 033-553-6900
• ⭐️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taebaek_festival/
• 🖥️ Homepage: http://tbsnow.co.kr

The Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival offers a unique blend of artistic expression, natural beauty, and community engagement. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate snow sculptures, participating in the exhilarating climbing contest, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, this event promises an unforgettable winter experience. The decision to forgo separate food stalls in favor of supporting local businesses adds a layer of authenticity to the festival, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the festivities.

What is Taebaek Mountain?

Taebaek Mountain is a notable mountain range in South Korea, forming part of the larger range along the eastern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It is appreciated for its natural landscapes, which include forests, peaks, and streams, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts.

The mountain also has cultural and historical importance. It is linked to Korean mythology and regarded as a sacred site in folklore. Several temples and shrines are located here, offering insights into the region’s spiritual heritage.

In winter, Taebaek Mountain becomes a popular spot for its snow-covered scenery and winter activities. The annual Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival features snow sculptures, ice activities, and cultural performances, drawing visitors interested in experiencing winter in South Korea.

2025 Son Na-eun First Fan Meeting: Better SonDay

Event Information

This event marks the very first fan meeting with Son Na-eun, a unique opportunity for fans to engage with the artist in a more intimate setting than ever before. Scheduled for a single day, this event promises an evening filled with exclusive content and interaction, tailored specifically for attendees.

• 🗓️ Date: February 2, 2025
• 📍 Location: Sowol Art Hall
• 🛏️ Accommodation near the concert
• 💡 Light stick
• Address: 281 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
• Age Limit: 6 years old and above

Schedule

The fan meeting is set to take place on Sunday, February 2, 2025. The event will commence at 6 PM, offering an evening of engagement and entertainment. Attendees are advised to arrive early to ensure a smooth entry into the venue.

Lineup

The spotlight of the evening will shine solely on:

• Son Na-eun (손나은)

This solo lineup ensures that all activities and performances are centered around Son Na-eun, providing a focused and immersive experience for her fans.

Ticket Price

Tickets for this exclusive event are uniformly priced, ensuring equal access to all fans.

• All Seats (General): 88,000 KRW

This pricing strategy reflects the event’s aim to make the fan meeting accessible to as many of Son Na-eun’s supporters as possible.

Festival

The fan meeting will be held at Sowol Art Hall, located in the heart of Seoul. Known for its excellent acoustics and intimate setting, the venue is expected to enhance the overall experience, allowing for a closer connection between Son Na-eun and her audience. The hall’s location in Seongdong-gu, a district known for its vibrant atmosphere and accessibility, adds to the convenience for attendees traveling from various parts of the city or even from outside Seoul.

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This event is a must-attend for fans of Son Na-eun, offering a rare chance to celebrate her work and connect with her on a personal level. With limited seating and a single-day schedule, securing a ticket early is highly recommended for those wishing to partake in this inaugural fan meeting.

A bit about Son Na-eun (손나은)

Son Na-eun, widely recognized as a multifaceted talent in the South Korean entertainment industry, first rose to prominence as a member of the popular girl group Apink. Debuting in 2011 under IST Entertainment (formerly A Cube Entertainment), Apink quickly captured the hearts of fans with their fresh and innocent image, and Son Na-eun stood out with her captivating visuals and graceful presence. Beyond her musical endeavors, Na-eun has successfully ventured into acting, showcasing her versatility in various television dramas and films. Her performances in series like "Cinderella and Four Knights" and "The Most Beautiful Goodbye" have been well-received, further cementing her status as a talented actress. Known for her elegance and charm, Son Na-eun continues to be a beloved figure in the K-pop and acting scenes, admired for her dedication and ability to connect with audiences across different platforms.

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