• Period 03.08~03.12.2023
  
• Venue Nonsan Citizen's Park (339-1 Gwanchok-dong, Nonsan-si, Chungcheongnam-do) and Nonsan Civic Stadium (110 Cheyuk-ro, Nonsan-si, Chungcheongnam-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.nonsan.go.kr/nsfestival/

This is Korea’s first festival featuring strawberries. Nonsan is a famous strawberry producer with the highest brand power, and produces 20% of the strawberries in Korea. Picking and tasting fresh strawberries is the most popular event at the festival. You can try sweet desserts and drinks made with fresh strawberries at the strawberry dessert cafe. The strawberry fusion restaurant and food trucks also serve various food items. There are many things to enjoy, such as the opening ceremony, celebratory shows, performances, busking, etc. You can participate in many programs on the spot as well.

• Period 03.09~03.12.2023
  
• Venue area around Saebyeol Oreum (San59-8 Bongseong-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.jejusi.go.kr/buriburi/main.do

This is Jeju Island’s signature festival that reenacts Jeju’s unique pastoral culture of setting fire (bang-ae in Korean) in a modernized way. People will set fire to Saebyeol Oreum, a land area of 300,000 ㎡, which will light the night sky in red. The red flames ablaze on the huge oreum is spectacular. Thousands of visitors regardless of nationality, age, or gender, come to the oreum to witness this special night scene. In addition to the fire, there are other unconventional experience programs that contain the diversity of Jeju culture, such as the opening ceremony, local artist performances, singing competitions, etc. You can also try various foods at local Jeju restaurants and food trucks.

• Period 03.19.2023
  
• Venue from Gwanghwamun Plaza (175 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul) to the Seoul Sports Complex (25 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul)
• Phone
• Website https://seoul-marathon.com/

This is Korea’s top international marathon competition that won the highest certification of platinum from World Athletic (WA). It has also been designated by the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) as a World Athletics Heritage along with the Boston and Athens Marathons. There is a full course that starts at Gwanghwamun Plaza and a 10 km course that starts at Olympic Park. You can also split the full course among a team of two or four people at the Seoul 42195 Relay. 35,000 participants are expected at the marathon.

• Period 03.25~04.03.2023
  
• Venue area around Jinhae-gu, Changwon
• Phone
• Website http://www.jgfestival.or.kr/

Korea’s top cherry blossom festival is held in Jinhae, Gyeongsangnam-do. Yeojwacheon Stream is well-known for the Romance Bridge, where cherry blossom trees along the 1.5 km creek section all burst into bloom covering the sky to create a magnificent scenery. The Jinhae Military Band & the Honor Guard Festival is another event you do not want to miss. It is a separate event during the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, where a military band dressed in sleek uniforms puts on a synchronized military art performance. The Naval Academy and the Jinhae Naval Base Command are access-controlled areas, but are open to the public only during the festival. There will be various events including the eve of the festival, the Folk Flea Market, and cultural and art performances held around Jungwon Rotary. Plus, there will be a memorial ceremony for Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s spirit and the Victory Parade in front of the Statue of Yi Sun-sin at Bukwon Rotary.

• Period 03.25~03.26.2023
  
• Venue area around Jeju World Cup Stadium Plaza (33 World cup-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do) and Seogwipo
• Phone
• Website http://www.jejusta.or.kr/index.php

Walk Jeju in the spring with the world! The Seogwipo Canola Flower International Walking Festival is part of the East Asia Flower Walking League. It starts in March in Seogwipo, Korea with canola flowers; then goes to Kurume City, Japan with rhododendron in April; and finally, to Dalian, China with acacia in May. This flower event promotes harmony and cultural exchanges. You can walk the canola flower path to feel the warm atmosphere of Jeju and enjoy the nature and culture of the island.

• Period 03.31~04.09.2023
  
• Venue KINTEX (217-60 Kintex-ro, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.mobilityshow.or.kr/main/main.php

This is Korea’s only and largest mobility exhibition authorized by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles (OICA). Every show attracts attention as various automobile brands in Korea and abroad have participated in launching their new cars here. Plus, you can see new state-of-the-art mobility technologies that go beyond the spatial limitations of land, sea, and air. It is also a chance to enjoy various experiential events and educational programs.

• Period 03.31~04.02.2023
  
• Venue area around Daegaya History Theme Park (1216 Daegaya-ro Daegaya-eup, Goryeong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do) and Goryeong
• Phone
• Website http://www.festdgy.com/

This is a festival to experience Daegaya in its ancient capital Goryeong. Daegaya is a mysterious ancient kingdom that existed 1,500 years ago. It flourished due to its unique history, brilliant culture, and art based on the solid iron culture they built, despite the fact it was located between the strong kingdoms of Silla and Baekje. The festival features various programs where one can discover, learn, and experience historical artifacts of Daegaya. This includes the Gayageum of Ureuk, iron helmets and suits of armor, Gaya earthenware, etc . Plus, you can enjoy dancing, musicals, marionette shows, stage plays, music performances, etc.

• Period 04.01.2023
  
• Venue area around Gyeongju Bomun Tourist Complex (Sinpyeong-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.cherrymarathon.co.kr/english/index01.php

This marathon is the top sporting event of Gyeongju, which has a 30-year history that started in 1992. This global festival attracts 12,000 people, from Korea and abroad. The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon is famous for having the most beautiful course in Korea as it runs through a tunnel of fully blooming cherry blossoms in spring. You can choose among the half course at 21.0975 km, the short course at 10 km, or the run-for-health course at 5 km , which are all suitable for a nice run.

• Period 04.01~10.31.2023
  
• Venue area around Suncheonman National Garden (47 Gukgajeongwon1ho-gil, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do) and Suncheon
• Phone
• Website https://scbay.suncheon.go.kr/

This International Garden Expo will set a new milestone for urban development in Korea. The festival will feature Ocheon Green Square, Korea’s first water storage basin turned into a garden; Green Island, which puts people and nature ahead of automobiles; Garden Stay, to spend a special night at the garden; Earthing Road, to stay healthy by walking barefoot and getting in touch with the earth; Secret Garden, a future garden presented in Suncheon; Landscape Garden that connects the city to nature; etc.

• Period 04.02.2023
  
• Venue area around the National Debt Redemption Movement Memorial Park (670 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu) and downtown Daegu
• Phone
• Website https://daegurace.com/

The Daegu International Marathon is held on the first Sunday of April in Daegu, the city designated as the international athletics city by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). It started in 2001 with a 3 km Masters Course, then expanded to a Full Course marathon in 2009. The marathon was awarded labels from World Athletics (WA) in 2013, which was upgraded to a gold label in 2023. Courses include the Elite Full Course (42.195 km), the Masters Half, as well as the 10 km, and 5 km Courses. Live coverage of the competition is available on public TV or YouTube.

• Period 04.07~07.09.2023
  
• Venue area around Gwangju Biennale Exhibition Hall (111 Biennale-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju), Gwangju National Museum (110 Haseo-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju) and Gwangju
• Phone
• Website http://www.gwangjubiennale.org/

This biennial festival represents Korea and has a global presence. At the 14th Gwangju Biennial, water that has the possibility of transition and recovery will be used as the metaphor, driving force, and method to imagine the earth as a place for resistance, co-existence, solidarity, and care. The main exhibition, “Soft and Weak Like Water,” takes the power of water as a symbol that brings about change. The exhibition looks at water’s ability to infiltrate with its softness over a long period of time, and it explores how such power embraces division and differences.

• Period 04.23~11.12.2023
  
• Venue Seoul Plaza (12 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul)
• Phone
• Website https://lib.seoul.go.kr/

This is an open library for all that sits in Seoul Plaza right in front of the Seoul Metropolitan Library. You can have a relaxing time sitting on bean bags, picnic mats, camping chairs, or under a parasol, and have the opportunity to choose from 5,000 books covering 11 topics curated by the Seoul Metropolitan Library. There will also be programs such as Book Talks covering various topics, cultural performances, exhibitions, experiences, etc.

• Period 04.29~05.07.2023
  / 10.11~10.15.2023
• Venue area around five royal palaces in Seoul, Jongmyo Shrine/Sajikdan Altar
• Phone
• Website https://www.chf.or.kr/fest

Korea’s largest cultural heritage festival is held around the five royal palaces: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Gyeonghuigung Palace, as well as Jongmyo Shrine and Sajikdan Altar, all of which are top cultural heritage sites in Korea. “Today We Meet the Palace” is the slogan under which various cultural and art programs are held. They feature performances, exhibitions, experiences, and ceremonies that leverage the nature of these places and the history of the five old palaces. The 9th Royal Culture Festival in 2023 will commemorate the 40th anniversary of Changgyeonggung Palace getting its original name restored. There will be various experience programs in the palace connected to King Yeongjo's 50th Birthday Ceremony with a reenactment of the Royal Court Banquet.

• Period 04.29~05.07.2023
  
• Venue area around Mungyeongsaejae Provincial Park (932 Saejae-ro Mungyeong-eup, Mungyeong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do) and Mungyeongsaejae Open Set (84-2 Sangcho-ri, Mungyeong-eup, Mungyeong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.sabal21.com/

This ceramics festival is held in Mungyeong, the land of traditional ceramics where the heritage of the Goryeo Celadon Kiln Site and the Joseon White Porcelain Kiln Site are retained. The festival will be an opportunity to reflect on the authenticity of Mungyeong traditional ceramics from Mungyeong’s traditional pottery kick wheel to the Mangdaengi kiln. It will also be a time to revisit the value of traditional ceramics through the lives of ancestral ceramists who have continued their lifelong work despite pain and suffering. Various events are available, such as an exhibition on chasabal (tea bowls) and ceramics; chasabal making; tea ceremony experiences; traditional pottery kick wheel experiences; traditional ceramics photo contest; etc

• Period 04.29~05.07.2023
  
• Venue area around Korean Tea Culture Park (775 Nokcha-ro Boseong-eup, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do) and Boseong-eup
• Phone
• Website https://www.boseong.go.kr/tour/festivity/tea_aroma

Boseong is known as the land blessed with the optimal climate, soil, and terrain for cultivating tea. The Boseong Tea Plantation was on CNN’s list of “31 Beautiful Sights on this Incredible Planet.” The Boseong Green Tea Festival will celebrate its 46th year on the romantic and picturesque terraced tea plantation during the harvest of new green tea leaves. The festival features various programs for everyone to enjoy, such as the Rite to the God of Tea, picking tea leaves, tea making, and green tea footbaths, etc. Plus, special programs, such as Tea Therapy in Nature and Healing Treks at the Tea Plantation, will be available.

• Period 04.30~05.07.2023
  
• Venue all over Seoul
• Phone
• Website https://seoulfesta.com

Seoul Festa is a global festival that presents various things to see and enjoy for Seoul citizens as well as tourists from Korea and abroad. During the festival, you can enjoy various performances including celebratory performances by K-pop stars. There are also cultural events such as classical music and jazz performances, musicals, etc. Major department stores, duty-free shops, and shopping malls will have sales events online and offline. Seoul Festa is a good opportunity to experience the trendy and real Seoul, along with Hallyu, performances, shopping, and gastronomy.

• Period 05.04~05.07.2023
  
• Venue Archaeological Site in Jeongok-ri, Yeoncheon (1510 Yangyeon-ro Jeongok-eup, Yeoncheon-gun, Gyeonggi-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.yeoncheon.go.kr/festival/index.do

This is the world’s largest prehistoric cultural festival held at the Archaeological Site in Jeongok-ri, Yeoncheon, where the first people lived on the Korean peninsula. The festival started as a small event in 1993 to promote and preserve the Jeongok-ri site, a significant asset for researching the prehistoric world and culture, and to seek its best use. Now the festival has become Korea’s best prehistoric cultural festival attracting more than 100,000 people every year. You can enjoy various programs to experience prehistoric culture, such as the Paleolithic BBQ to grill skewered pork or the World Paleolithic Experience to discover paleolithic culture around the world.

• Period 05.04~06.03.2023
  
• Venue area around Hadong Sports Park (207 Gongseorundongjang-ro Jeongnyang-myeon, Hadong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do) and the Wild Tea Culture Festival Zone (571-25 Ssanggye-ro Hwagae-myeon, Hadong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.hadongt.co.kr/teas/tea/expo/teaIndex

This tea festival, for all people from around the world, is held under the theme “Nature’s Aroma, Healthy Future with Tea!” Hadong was the first place to cultivate tea in Korea. It started in the Unified Silla period because the climate and soil were perfect for cultivating tea. During the World Tea EXPO, exhibitions will be held at the Millennium Hall, Wellness Hall, World Tea Art Hall, and a screening hall. There will be various experience programs such as Offering Green Tea to the King Parade; Around the World with a Teacup; a tea plantation tour; tea ceremony for children; tea roasting experiences; and a series of experience activities grouped under the title Savory Tea, Beautiful Tea, and Fun Tea. 

• Period 05.05~05.07.2023
  
• Venue area around Daegu Yangyeongsi Market (27-1 Namseong-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu)
• Phone
• Website http://www.herbfestival.org/

The purpose of this oriental medicine festival is to promote the essence of Korea’s herbal medicine culture to people in Korea and abroad. Having first opened in 1658, Daegu Yangnyeongsi Market today opens twice a year. The market is the global hub of medicinal herb distribution in Korea and abroad. It was certified as Korea’s oldest medicinal herb market in 2001 by Guinness World Record Korea. During the festival, you can enjoy various experiences around Yangnyeongsi Market such as Herbal Medicinal Experiences, Herbal Medicinal Facials, Herbal Medicinal Soap Makings, etc.

• Period 05.05~05.07.2023
  
• Venue Ulsan Oegosan Onggi Village (36 Oegosan 3-gil Onyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan)
• Phone
• Website https://www.onggi.or.kr/

This annual cultural tour festival is held in Oegosan Onggi Village in Ulju-gun, Ulsan, the trading center of Korean earthenware (onggi). The purpose of the festival is to promote the superiority of onggi-themed performances at the onggi-making village, a drone art show, onggi adventures, and others. Plus, there are other things to enjoy, such as a clay playground, the Starlight Tour, a classical concert, traditional game experiences, etc. You can also try different foods at the flea market and food trucks around the venue.

• Period 05.12~05.21.2023
  / 10.6~10.15.2023
• Venue area around Daegu
• Phone
• Website https://fantasiafestival.or.kr/fantasiaFestival.php

This is a special festival period featuring all the top festivals of Daegu. Festivals will take place in May and October with venues all over Daegu. The list of festivals include: the Powerful Daegu Festival, Daegu’s top street parade festival; Daegu International Musical Festival, Asia’s first international musical festival; Daegu International Opera Festival, the largest music festival in Asia that solely focuses on opera; Powerful K-trot, a splendid performance of Korea’s top trot singers; Daegu Folk Festival with nostalgic folk song performances; Daegu Contents & Creator Fair, an event with creative content activities such as games, webtoons, etc.; Daegu International Jazz Festival, a concert presenting the sweet melody of jazz; Daegu Community Culture Festival made possible by the active participation of its citizens, and more.

• Period 05.12~05.14.2023
  
• Venue Ulsan Dalcheon Iron Mine (58 Dalcheoncheoljang-gil, Buk-gu, Ulsan)
• Phone
• Website http://soeburi.org/

This iron culture festival is held at the Dalcheon Iron Mine, the first place in Korea to produce iron some 2,000 years ago. Soeburi is Korea’s unique traditional iron manufacturing process of melting iron ore to get metal. The festival features various performances and experiences on the soeburi culture, such as the Ulsan Soeburi Technique, where you can witness molten metal being poured out from the Ulsan soeburi furnace; Soeburi Blacksmith’s Workshop, where you can beat hot iron to make a hoe; and Ulsan Soeburi Sori, the tune sung by workers when stepping on the bellows to blow air into the hot iron to improve quality.

• Period 05.12~05.20.2023
  
• Venue area around Jeollabuk-do
• Phone
• Website https://www.apmg2023.kr/

This is an International Sports-for-All Festival, an international multi-sport event for everyday athletes that is as popular as the Olympics, World Cup, and Asian Games. The competition is authorized by the International Masters Games Association (IMGA). It is held every four years and is open to everyone regardless of age, gender, nationality, and sports title. 10,000 people of various nationalities will compete in 26 events and show their passion and great sportsmanship.

• Period 05.19~05.21.2023
  
• Venue area around Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Phone
• Website http://www.llf.or.kr/

Yeon Deung Hoe (Lotus Lantern Festival) is a traditional cultural festival that started 1,200 years ago as an event called Gandeung in the Silla Dynasty. It became Yeon Deung Hoe during the Goryeo Dynasty, then Gwandeung Nori (lantern festival) during the Joseon Dynasty, followed by Yeon Deung Hoe of today. The festival is inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of Korea. The main event at the height of the festival is the lotus lantern parade, where citizens join a procession holding lanterns they made themselves. The streets glitter with 100,000 beautiful lotus lanterns, too. Plus, the Traditional Culture Madang will feature some 100 booths offering various cultural experience programs for visitors to take part in.

• Period 05.20~11.11.2023
  
• Venue DMZ Border and northern part of Gyeonggi-do
• Phone
• Website TBD

This is a representative festival of Gyeonggi-do, aiming to bring forth “greater peace” by highlighting the historical and diverse aspects of the demilitarized zone (DMZ) on the Korean peninsula. DMZ Art will feature many events: the Gyeonggi Gelegenheits Music Performance in the DMZ area; the DMZ Main Music Festival with international artists; and a touring exhibition commemorating seven decades of the DMZ. Meanwhile, DMZ Academia will host Eco-Peace Forum with international scholars and individuals symbolizing peace based on the theme “70 Years of Peace since the Ceasefire and Methods to Preserve the Ecosystem of DMZ.” This festival will be open to the public, from professionals to non-professionals , as well as physically-challenged, able-bodies, soldiers, and others.

• Period 05.20.2023
  /10.07.2023
• Venue area around Paju Imjingak Pavilion (164 Imjingak-ro Munsan-eup, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do)
• Phone
• Website N/A

This special sports event allows participants to walk on the Imjingangbyeon Eco Trail, where access is normally controlled, and run to the Inter-Korean Transit Office. There will be a walkathon in May and a marathon in October. The event commemorates the 70th anniversary of ceasefire and the establishment of the DMZ. It will feature special exhibitions and performances. Plus, there will be various side events, such as DMZ promotional booths, promotion of local specialties, South-North Korean cultural experiences, and North Korean food experiences. (Side events are subject to change by the organizers.)

• Period 05.26~05.28.2023
  
• Venue Hyeongsangang Sports Park (115-1 Haedo-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website https://festival.phcf.or.kr/fireWorks/subMain.do

This magnificent fire and light festival uses the images of light (a symbol of the global steel city Pohang) and fire (represents a blazingly hot furnace). The festival started out as a fireworks show in 2004 to celebrate Pohang Citizens Day. It has now become an international scale cultural and art festival, with well-known pyrotechnicians from abroad presenting a fantasy of light against the nightscapes of POSCO and the ocean. The festival has evolved from just fireworks to a more diverse ensemble of industrial and cultural elements, such as original performances , light parades with citizens, and steel art exhibitions.

• Period 06.01~06.04.2023
  
• Venue all over Ulsan
• Phone
• Website N/A

The Ulsan Industry Festival is Ulsan’s top festival highlighting the city’s past, present, and future to reveal Ulsan’s identity as an industrial city. It is a festival of great harmony, where businesses, workers, and citizens who have led Korea’s economic growth get an opportunity to participate in and enjoy various things to see, do, and taste.

• Period 06.04~06.07.2023
  
• Venue Yecheon Public Stadium (395 Chunghyo-ro Yecheon-eup, Yecheon-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website http://u20.kr/

Young athletes in Asia will compete in Yecheon, the city known as the top athletics field training site. At Yecheon Public Stadium, 1,500 athletes and directors from 45 member countries within the Asian Athletics Association (AAA) will fiercely compete in 45 athletic events from June 4th to 7th. It will be a good opportunity to cheer for the future of Asia’s athletes and to enjoy various sights, including the Eight Sights of Yecheon. Unique food items are also not to be missed.

• Period 06.17~06.18.2023
  
• Venue Goseong Danghangpo Tourist Area (1116 Danghangman-ro, Hoehwa-myeon, Goseong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.ironman.com/im703-goseong

This is a triathlon competition consisting of swimming (1.9 km), cycling (90.1 km), and running (21.1 km), consecutively covering a total of 70.3 miles (113.1 km). The first Ironman 70.3 started in the city of dinosaurs Goseong, Gyeongsangnam-do, in 2019. In 2022, 1,300 people from 20 countries participated in and completed the competition successfully. The swimming course takes place in the clean waters in front of the Danghangpo Dinosaur World Expo Park. The cycling course follows along a beautiful coastal road, and the running course is stretched out under the cool shadows of larch trees. Overall the course has been rated excellent and highly satisfactory by participants.

• Period 06.18~06.25.2023
  
• Venue area around Namdaecheon Stream (826-1, Noam-dong, Gangneung, Gangwon-do), Gangneung
• Phone
• Website https://danojefestival.or.kr/

This is Korea’s largest traditional festival that has a thousand-year-old history. It is a ritual performed to the Daegwallyeong Ridge Royal Tutor Tutelary Deity (Daegwallyeong Guksa Seonghwangje), and an ancestral rite and festival to pray for a peaceful year with an abundance of crops, fish, and good fortune for the household. The festival was registered as a Korea Intangible Cultural Heritage in 1967 and inscribed into the UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005. You can learn about traditional culture through this traditional Korean festival and through Korea’s unique seasonal customs. There will be 75 programs available, such as performances registered as cultural heritages, folk games such as Korean wrestling (ssireum) and swing rides, shows, exhibitions, Danoje experience, citizen participatory events, outdoor markets, etc.

• Period 06.23~08.26.2023
  
• Venue nine cities in Korea (Seoul, Gwangju, Daejeon, Daegu, Busan, Incheon, Suwon, Sokcho, Jeju)
• Phone
• Website http://waterbombfestival.com/

This is a top music festival that represents summer in Korea. The festival has a splendid lineup of genres, including trendy and energetic hip-hop, K-pop performances with overwhelming visuals, and EDM by top DJs spinning to drop the beat. The festival also features fascinating content where artists and audience members become waterbomb players in a team Water Fighting battle. In 2023, the Waterbomb will visit nine cities to present the experience and excitement that are beyond performances.

• Period 07.21~07.23.2023
  
• Venue area around Balhan and Mukho, Donghae
• Phone
• Website http://dctf.or.kr/dhct/index.php

This is the one and only festival with a goblin theme! Dojjaebi Festa is a festival held around Mukhohang Port in Donghae-si. Dojjaebi is the nickname of the Mukho Fish Market that opens at dawn. It also refers to the story of Dojjaebigol Valley, where goblins frequently haunted people with fire. The festival has unique and fun things to see and do, such as a goblin make-up contest, large-scale performances, night goblin performances, etc. Plus, you can look forward to enjoying fun events starring popular food items in the region, such as the Meok-Mac & Meok-Mak Festa (meaning grilled dried pollack + beer & grilled dried pollack + makgeolli), and the meokbang (eating broadcast) contest.

• Period 07.21~08.06.2023
  
• Venue area around Daecheon Beach Mud Square (5 Haesuyokjang 10-gil, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.mudfestival.or.kr/festival/view

This summer festival is enjoyable for everyone regardless of nationality, race, language, and age. It is an experiential festival featuring various programs, including a mud bath where you can apply and enjoy mud; mud waterbomb; mud slides; etc. Even first-timers at the festival can easily enjoy the festival. Various performances held with the beautiful Daecheon Beach in the background is another pride of the Boryeong Mud Festival.

• Period 07.28~07.30.2023
  
• Venue Iho Tewoo Beach (Iho 1(il)-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju-do)
• Phone
• Website N/A

The theme of this festival is Jeju’s unique but disappearing fishing culture. The festival will reproduce Jeju’s traditional raft (tewoo) to reenact anchovy fishing (using fishnets), Jeju’s traditional fishing practices. In addition, there will be a launching ceremony for a tewoo, haenyeo torch parade, tewoo rowing competition, and more. You can also enjoy various fun experiences such as stone weir fishing (wondam fishing experience), where you build a stone wall so that a school of fish brought in by the rising tide will be caught inside after the water flows out. Other experiences such as tewoo rowing , tewoo making, are also available.

• Period 07.29~08.06.2023
  
• Venue area around Tamjingang River (741-6 Geonsan-ri, Jangheung-eup, Jangheung-gun, Jeollanam-do) and Jangheung
• Phone
• Website https://festival.jangheung.go.kr/

This special festival is based on the pristine nature of Jangheung-gun’s proud Tamjingang River, Jangheungho Lake , and Deungnyangman Bay. The organizers have put together various experience programs under the theme of “water.” The pure and clear waters of Tamjingang River, Jangheungho Lake, and other resources are used to offer diverse programs day and night, such as the Water Fight Street Parade, the Greatest Water Fight on Earth, Fish Catching, and the EDM Pool Party, K-pop performances, and more. You can also try various foods, including Korean beef samhap (beef, golden oak mushroom, and pen shell combo) at the Saturday Market near the venue.

• Period 08.01~08.12.2023
  
• Venue area around Saemangeum Embankment, Jeollabuk-do
• Phone
• Website https://www.2023wsjkorea.org/index.jamboree

This is a camping festival for youths worldwide. It is held every four years and is organized by the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). Tens of thousands of youths and leaders from 170 member countries participate in various programs. It is the world’s largest event for international youths where they exchange culture and share friendships so that they can grow into world citizens. This August, the Jamboree is held in Saemangeum Embankment in Jeollabuk-do. Scout members who are not eligible to participate in the World Scout Jamboree as well as the general audience can also experience various exhibition programs and discover the history and culture of the World Scout Jamboree through a one-day program.

• Period 08.04~08.06.2023
  
• Venue Songdo PENTA Park (350 Central-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon)
• Phone
• Website http://pentaport.co.kr

This is Korea’s top outdoor rock music festival filled with history and tradition. The event started in 2006 and is held annually in August in Incheon. The festival was selected as the Culture and Tourism Festival of Korea by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Plus, it came in 8th place in the Top 50 Global Music Festivals by Timeout Magazine England. The festival excites music maniacs with a fantastic line-up and passionate stage performances every year.

• Period 08.04~08.12.2023
  
• Venue area around Tongyeong
• Phone
• Website http://www.hansanf.org/

Tongyeong was the battlefield of the Great Battle of Hansan, which is considered one of the world’s four greatest naval battles.  Every year in mid-August, the Tongyeong Hansan Battle Festival is held to honor Admiral Yi Sun-sin for his commitment to saving the country as the sacred hero who led the country to victory in the Great Battle of Hansan. The festival features a parade for Admiral Yi Sun-sin, the Naval Commander of the Three Provinces; plus, a reenactment of Gunjeom (Military Force Inspection)  and the Great Battle of Hansan, which will bring history alive. The reenactment of the Great Battle of Hansan, where Joseon battleships engage in war with Japan firing at each other off the shore of Hansan, is spectacular like a scene from a movie.

• Period 08.11~08.17.2023
  
• Venue area around Jungang-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon (from Daejeon Station to former main building of Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Government) and old downtown of Daejeon
• Phone
• Website N/A

These summer festivals feature street culture and art, which will liven up the old downtown of Daejeon. Everyday there will be new parades, night performances, cultural performances, etc. Plus, the festival will feature the Train to Daejeon Zombie Horror Event, a large-scale water gun fight and other fun summer events and experience programs.

• Period 08.17~08.22.2023
  
• Venue Muju Taekwondowon (1482 Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do), Muju Public Sports Center (346-38 Hanpungnu-ro, Muju-eup, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.taekwondoexpo.kr/

This is an annual Taekwondo festival held in Taekwondowon in Muju, Jeollabuk-do, the sanctuary of Taekwondo. While the international taekwondo competition is focused on elite athletes, this festival is focused on taekwondo as a sport for all and is open to all taekwondo practitioners from various countries. It is also a festival hosted in connection with major tourist attractions found in pristine Muju, offering a chance to explore the cultural resources of Jeollabuk-do.

• Period 08.18~08.19.2023
  
• Venue area around the Provisional Government Building in Busan (Bumin Campus, Dong-A University, 225 Gudeok-ro, Seo-gu, Busan), Busan Citizens Park (73 Simingongwon-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan), and Heritage of Wartime Capital Busan
• Phone
• Website https://busan-heritage-night.com/html/main/main.php

This cultural festival is held in Busan, which was the wartime capital of Korea for 1,023 days during the Korean War, which lasted 1,129 days. There are programs with eight themes based on historical facts about Busan in the 1950s. The programs will help you understand the inclusion and openness of Busan, a city that took in refugees and overcame hard times. The festival is gaining popularity as an event with various programs for everyone to enjoy, great food, and beautiful Busan nightscapes.

• Period 08.24~08.27.2023
  
• Venue Yeongdong Rainbow Healing Resort (117 Yeongdong healing-ro, Yeongdong-eup, Yeongdong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.ydgrape.co.kr/

This annual grape festival is held at the end of August in Yeongdong, the home of Korean grapes. The festival heralds Yeongdong Grapes of excellent quality grown in the nation’s largest land. You can eat grapes, pick them from the vines, crush them by foot, and try tens of other experiences. Jecheon is located in the middle of the Korean peninsula so you can enjoy the festival as a daytrip from anywhere in Korea. Another good point about the festival is that there are various events for children.

• Period 08.25~09.02.2023
  
• Venue Songdo PENTA Park (350 Central-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon)
• Phone
• Website N/A

Songdo Beer Festival is Korea’s largest beer and music festival that will bust the heat of summer nights. For nine days, the festival will feature exciting performances by top artists on the vast lawn at Incheon Songdo PENTA Park. You can drink cold beer as much as you want from various Korean and foreign beer sellers and enjoy tasty foods made by star chefs. A spectacular and fantastic fireworks show will light up the night sky every night at 9 PM.

• Period 08.26~10.22.2023
  
• Venue area around Incheon Open Port Culture District
• Phone
• Website http://www.culturenight.co.kr/

Explore the various cultural assets of Incheon Open Port through a night tour and cultural festivals. Cultural heritages and facilities in the Incheon Open Port District will be free of charge during the evening hours, and various programs will be available for citizens to enjoy. There will be a story-telling walking tour where participants can explore the Incheon Open Port, a treasure box of modern and contemporary culture, and discover its value and true meaning. In addition, various traditional cultural experiences and performances will add even more excitement to the festival.

• Period 08.30~09.03.2023
  
• Venue Duryu Park, Daegu (36 Gongwonsunhwan-ro, Dalseo-gu, Daegu)
• Phone
• Website https://www.chimacfestival.com/index.php

Every summer in Daegu, this festival offers a fantastic combination of fried chicken and cold beer. As the name Chimac Festival suggests, you can enjoy as much fried chicken and cold beer as you want along with pop singer performances during the event. It is a good opportunity to taste and compare fried chicken recipes of various well-known fried chicken brands. There will be a celebration concert of top pop singers, EDM parties with DJs, five themed spaces, and an opportunity to take a foot bath with ice-cold water while enjoying fried chicken. It will be a summer night with endless fun. At the fun Chimac 99 Cheers Time, all participants will shout “Cheers!” as the clock strikes 9:09 PM.

• Period 09.01~09.11.2023
  
• Venue all over Korea
• Phone
• Website N/A

This is Korea’s largest art event with 250 exhibition spaces among which include art museums, art galleries, art fairs, and biennials, etc . There will be various programs such as admission discounts, docent guides, exhibition-related experiences, creative workshops, and others. The most popular programs are the “Art Tour,” a guided tour with the exhibition planner and professional commentator; and the “Artists Art Market, ” where you can purchase artwork by new artists at a reasonable price.

• Period 09.01~10.15.2023
  
• Venue area around Culture Factory (314 Sangdang-ro, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do) and Cheongju
• Phone
• Website https://www.okcj.org/

This international general art event covers all mediums from ceramics to lacquer varnishing (otchil), textile, metal, etc. At every event, 3,000 artists from 60 countries participate, attracting 300,000 visitors. The event is gaining popularity as the world’s best and most extensive art biennial. The venue, Cheongju, is where the ancient iron age culture started and developed. It is also the place where the revolution of printing and information led to the creation of Jikji, the oldest existing metal type in the world. Currently, the area serves as the center of the Korean art craft business and is where a global ceramics company is located.

• Period 09.01~10.31.2023
  
• Venue area around Mokpo, Jindo
• Phone
• Website http://www.sumukbiennale.kr/sumuk/index.do

This is Korea’s only international art event for sumuk, traditional ink painting that is distinctive in East Asia . The SUMUK Biennale is held around Jindo-gun and Mokpo-si, the home of sumuk painting. It will be held from September to October with the theme “Mountains Are Colored, Water is Brought to a Halt – Amidst a Noble Harmony.” The event features exhibitions of sumuk paintings, media art using high-end technologies, and other genres of artwork. A sumuk fashion show, sumuk concert, and sumuk festivals at universities will also be available. The event aims to bring the ample charm of sumuk closer to audience members through differentiated online and offline programs.

• Period 09.01~09.30.2023
  
• Venue the temples in Korea running temple stays
• Phone
• Website https://www.templestay.com/

Korean temples still maintain their 1,700-year-old Buddhist cultural heritage, natural environment, and ascetic lives. Templestay means staying at a Korean temple to experience the life of an ascetic. Since its beginning in 2002, more than six million people of various nationalities, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds have participated in the program. The main programs are temple tours, teatime with Buddhist monks, meditation, temple food tasting, etc. You can experience these traditional cultures that represent Korea.

• Period 09.06~09.09.2023
  
• Venue COEX (513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul)
• Phone
• Website https://www.frieze.com/fairs/frieze-seoul

Frieze Seoul is the first art fair in Asia launched in 2022 by Frieze, one of two top global art fairs. Frieze Seoul will be the fifth international art fair following Frieze Los Angeles, Frieze New York, Frieze London, and Frieze Masters. The fair comprises three sections: the main section exhibits artworks that lead the contemporary art scene; Frieze Masters unfolds mostly artwork by masters in art history; and Focus Asia presents works by young artists from Asia’s new galleries.

• Period 09.07~09.10.2023
  
• Venue COEX (513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul)
• Phone
• Website https://kiaf.org/

Kiaf Seoul is Korea’s first international art fair that started in 2002. It highlights the value of modern art and leads the global art market trend. 1,200 galleries from 52 countries participate through an international network, making Kiaf Seoul an essential art fair of the world beyond East Asia. The 22nd Kiaf Seoul in 2023 cooperates with many relevant organizations, such as Incheon International Airport Corporation, the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Gangnam-gu, and others. It has become an art festival with a broader reach and more than a just convention.

• Period 09.09.2023
  
• Venue Munhak Sports Complex (618 Maesohol-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon)
• Phone
• Website http://inkconcert.com/

Korea’s number one K-pop Hallyu concert features top K-pop artists. It has become a comprehensiveHallyu tour festival where you can experience K-pop, K-beauty, K-food, K-fashion, and various K-content. Around 40,000 Hallyu fans from Korea and abroad visit Incheon to enjoy the INK Concert (Incheon K-POP Concert). It is an opportunity to promote Incheon’s tourism and cultural content to the world and let Hallyu fans experience the energy of Hallyu through various events.

• Period 09.09~09.10.2023
  
• Venue area around Jeju
• Phone
• Website http://www.kumf.kr/

The Ultra Marathon Race challenges participants to push their limits under the catchphrase “Those Who Challenge are Beautiful!” The distance of this marathon is longer than the standard of 42.195 km. There will be two types of ultramarathon events – running the coastal road in the 50K (50.92 km), 100K (100.25 km), or 200K (211.00 km); and trail running on the terrain of Hallasan Mountain in the 70K (72.27 km). Many foreigners come to run this race as they can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Jeju Island while running.

• Period 09.14~09.17.2023
  
• Venue area around Korea Manhwa Museum, KOMACON (1 Gilju-ro, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do) and Bucheon
• Phone
• Website https://www.bicof.com/index.do

This comics festival, with 26 years of history, represents Korea. During the festival, you can enjoy comics exhibitions, including special exhibitions of BICOF award-winning comics; meet artists online and offline; enjoy webtoon concert performances; go to the Comics Market to browse various creative goods from many artists; and enjoy the International Cosplay Festival with participants from 15 countries.

• Period 09.15~09.17.2023
  
• Venue area around Sorae Port Haeoreum Park  (1550 Aam-daero, Namdong-gu, Incheon)
• Phone
• Website https://blog.naver.com/soraefestival

This marine ecological festival is the representative festival in the metropolitan area that has been running for 23 years since 2001. Sorae Port is one of the top tourist attractions that 7 million tourists visit every year to enjoy the abundance of fresh seafood such as shrimps, crabs, and salted seafood. Plus, there are various things to see: Sorae Marsh Ecological Park , Shrimp Tower, and Haeoreumhosu Lake. During the festival, you can enjoy experience programs such as shrimp or crab catching as well as various cultural performances.

• Period 09.15~10.19.2023
  
• Venue Sancheong-gun Donguibogam Village (61 Donguibogam-ro 555beon-gil Geumseo-myeon, Sancheong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.sancheong-expo.or.kr/

This international event is held under the theme “Promises of the Future, Traditional Medicines in the World.” The event venue is in Sancheong, a pristine location where the spiritual energy of Jirisan Mountain nurtures the growth of 1,000 species of medicinal herbs. It is also the home of traditional Korean medicine, where many notable doctors practiced. There will be exhibition halls displaying the value and history of traditional Korean medicine, as well as various experience programs to feel the fascinating effects of traditional Korean medicine.

• Period 09.21~11.19.2023
  
• Venue area around Seoul Museum of Art (61 Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul) and Seoul
• Phone
• Website https://mediacityseoul.kr/

This biennial modern art exhibition features the “Seoul in Media ” exhibition, which has opened three times since 1996. The exhibition shares the changing times, a resonating Seoul, plus the experiences and reasoning of the media.
The Seoul Mediacity Biennale first opened in 2000 with the title “Media_City Seoul”, noting contemporary aspects and experimental nature in artworks. The concept continues today.

• Period 09.22~09.24.2023
  
• Venue Nodeulseom Island (445 Yangnyeong-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul)
• Phone
• Website http://www.seoulmusicfestival.co.kr/kor/

This three-day autumn music festival will be held on Nodeulseom Island, a well-known sunset spot. The dreamy music concert set against the beautiful scenery of Nodeulseom Island will make you more sentimental about autumn. The festival will present various genres of popular music including K-pop. Street performances (busking), various experiential programs such as K-pop dance, Hallyu experiences, etc. are on offer.

• Period 09.22~09.24.2023
  
• Venue area around Suseongmot Lake (Suseongmot Lake, Dusan-dong, Suseong-gu, Daegu)
• Phone
• Website https://www.suseong.kr/

This culture and art festival is held around Suseongmot Lake in Daegu every autumn. During the day, various street art performances and other high-quality street performances (busking) take place. Plus, artists will assist in making a children’s creative art playground. At night, citizens are invited to participate in themed performances, and the Suseongmot Lake Daily Fireworks Show will light up the autumn night. Various programs are available around the entire Suseongmot Lake area, including at the floating stage, 3 waterside stages, Sanghwa Park, and Suseong Land  . The festival is unique in that it incorporates the collective energy of every audience member.

• Period 09.22~10.22.2023
  
• Venue Main Venue: World Jamboree Training Center (San 62-2 Inheung-ri, Toseong-myeon, Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do)/ Secondary Venue: secondary venues in Goseong-gun, Sokcho-si, Inje-gun, and Yangyang-gun
• Phone
• Website http://www.gwfe.or.kr/www/index.do

This is the world’s first forestry expo under the theme “the Future of the World and Humanity is Found in Forests.” The festival will be held in Gangwon-do, the only local government in the world that governs a divided land, and where 81% of the total surface area is forest. There will be exhibitions and academic events combining content related to peace with everything about forests from history to culture, livelihood, eco-systems, etc . The festival will also feature performances such as the Forest Peace Music Festival, Forest Ballad Concert, and Children’s Fairy Tales Musical. Other enjoyable experiences such as Playing in the Forest, Shiitake Mushroom Seeding Experience, Wildflower Florist Class, etc., are also available.

• Period 09.22~09.24.2023
  
• Venue area around Wonju Dancing Performance Stage (170, Dangu-ro, Wonju, Gangwon-do) and Wonju
• Phone
• Website http://www.ddcwj.com/

This festival is filled with splendid dancing, performances, and a grand parade which you will not be able to take your eyes off of. It is a festival operated voluntarily by citizens. The main program, Dancing Carnival, is the largest and longest parade and competition performance. It presents fantastic performances of dancing, original choreography, K-pop dance, hip hop, martial arts, marching band, etc. The Fringe Festival will also be held during the carnival. You can enjoy diverse genres of performances, such as mimes, stage plays, musicals, magic shows, bubble shows, busking, traditional dance, and others.

• Period 09.22~09.24.2023
  
• Venue area around northern part of Maisan Mountain
• Phone
• Website https://www.jinan.go.kr/festival/

Every October, the Red Ginseng Festival is held north of Maisan Mountain, Jinan, the only special zone for red ginseng in Korea. The festival is popular because you can taste reliable, high-quality red ginseng products and various foods made with red ginseng. You can also enjoy fun experience programs, such as making red ginseng products for children unfamiliar with red ginseng or go on a stamp tour around Red Ginseng Land, etc. Plus, you can enjoy royal martial arts, traditional performances, trot festivals, and others. Note that high-quality red ginseng products with a quality guarantee by the Governor of Jinan-gun are available at a discount during the festival.

• Period 09.23~10.09.2023
  
• Venue area around Buyeo, Gongju
• Phone
• Website https://www.buyeo.go.kr/html/tour/festival/festival_020703.html

This festival has been held for 69 years in Gongju-si and Buyeo-gun in Chungcheongnam-do, once the capital of the Baekje Kingdom. When the Baekje Historic Areas was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in July 2015, the festival transformed into a global historical and cultural festival built by both the descendants of Baekje and by tourists. The 2023 Great Baekje Festival will be brilliantly held with the theme of “Great Baekje, Connecting with the World.” It will retrace Baekje culture as “the origin of Hallyu” that flourished and transferred the glorious culture to its neighboring countries, hence contributing significantly to the cultural development in ancient East Asia.

• Period 09.27~10.02.2023
  
• Venue Jecheon Oriental Medicine Expo Park (19 Hanbang expo-ro, Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.hanbangbiofair.org/

This is Korea’s only Medicine-Bio Fair and the pride of Jecheon. Inheriting the tradition of Daegu Yangnyeongsi Market, the festival has many things to see and do, such as experiential and exhibition programs on herbal medicine and healing, academic symposiums, various performances, events, etc. Plus, various health supplements made from medicinal herbs and natural ingredients are on offer along with relevant healing programs. Experience various healing programs and make unforgettable memories in the Garden of Colors, where colorful autumn hues are emitted.

• Period 10.02~10.09.2023
  
• Venue area around the main street of Gyeongdong-ro, Andong, and the Talchum Performance Venue (239 Yuksa-ro, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.maskdance.com

This representative Korean festival is based on the Hahoe Mask Dance Drama Performance (Hahoe Byeolsingut Exorcism), which has been passed down for 800 years in Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage. You can enjoy mask dance performances from Korea and abroad in one venue. The festival features diverse and exciting events using masks, such as the Big Mask Dance Party where tourists and performers are brought together, along with various experiences, competitions, and exhibitions. This beloved festival attracts one million visitors every year and has been selected as the Honorary Representative Culture and Tourism Festival of Korea by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

• Period 10.03~10.09.2023
  
• Venue area around May 18 Democracy Square (41 Geumnam-ro 1(il)-ga, Dong-gu, Gwangju) and Gwangju
• Phone
• Website https://www.buskersworldcup.com/kor/

This is the world’s largest busking audition, where 700 teams of musicians from Korea and abroad will participate. Skilled music-loving buskers from worldwide will gather in Gwangju to participate in exciting performances for nine days along with local citizens. 16 teams who advance into the finals will put on fantastic performances and demonstrate their musical talents to win the trophy on the large stage set up at the May 18 Democracy Square.

• Period 10.04~10.13.2023
  
• Venue area around Busan Cinema Center (120 Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu, Busan) and Busan
• Phone
• Website https://www.biff.kr/kor/

Asia’s largest international film festival is held around Busan Cinema Center every autumn. The Busan International Film Festival started in 1996 as Korea’s first international film festival. It became a comprehensive platform for the film industry as a non-competing film festival that introduces partial competition.  Each year, the film festival overlooks the global movie trends by inviting films of various genres from various regions worldwide. Moreover, as the hometown of Asian cinema, the festival discovers and supports talented Asian directors and movies, and presents a vision for Asian cinema.

• Period 10.05~10.09.2023
  
• Venue area around COEX (513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul), Yeongdong-daero, and Maroo Park of Gangnam
• Phone
• Website https://www.visitgangnam.net/gnfestival2023

This five-day culture and art festival will be held in the COEX area, one of the top destinations in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. The following six colorful programs will spruce up the autumn vibe in Gangnam: the opening ceremony that compiles Gangnam’s top culture and tourism resources; the Gangnam Fashion Festa; Green Concert at Maroo Park; K-pop Concert in Yeongdong-daero; International Peace Marathon; Gourmet Tour; and the K-culture Stage. The opening ceremony, a creative media performance using outdoor electronic signages around the COEX area; and the K-pop Concert, with a line-up of top-class K-pop idol groups, are the two highlights of the Gangnam Festival.

• Period 10.06~10.09.2023
  
• Venue Anseong Matchum Land (198 Namsadang-ro Bogae-myeon, Anseong-si, Gyeonggi-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.anseong.go.kr/tourPortal/baudeogi/main.do

This is a traditional cultural festival held in Anseong, the cradle of wandering artist groups that appeared during the Joseon period. In 2006, this festival was designated an official festival of the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts (CIOFF®), a UNESCO Official Advisory Partnership Organization. There will be various performances ranging from Namsadang Nori to talchum (Mask Dance Drama), gugak concerts, original musicals, etc. Plus, various experiential programs for children and traditional cultural experience programs will be available.

• Period 10.06~10.15.2023
  
• Venue area around Geumsan Ginseng Exhibition Hall  and its Plaza (30 Insamgwangjang-ro Geumsan-eup, Geumsan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do) and Ginseng/Medical Herb Street 
• Phone
• Website http://www.insamfestival.co.kr/html/kr/index.html

This festival features Korea’s best specialty found in Geumsan, Chungcheongnam-do, the prime area for Goryeo Insam (ginseng). You can purchase high-quality ginseng at a reasonable price. You can also try uncommon experiences, such as harvesting ginseng, cooking and eating foods made with ginseng, making a bottle of ginseng liquor , etc. There will also be K-pop performances, nationwide healthy dance competitions, and an international ginseng trade exhibition.

• Period 10.06~10.08.2023
  
• Venue Seosan Haemieupseong Walled Town (143 Nammun 2-ro Haemi-myeon, Seosan-si, Chungcheongnam-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.haemifest.com/

This traditional festival promotes the 600-year history of the Haemieupseong Walled Town and Korea’s unique traditional and cultural value. The festival has reproduced the old Joseon town for Koreans and foreigners to understand and enjoy the history. In addition to popular programs, such as King Taejong’s Procession, military training, history madanggeuk, imprisonment experiences, etc., various new programs will be featured at the 20th festival. Visitors will have the chance to participate in hands-on experiences and learn the 600 years of history of the Haemieupseong Walled Town.

• Period 10.06~10.08.2023
  
• Venue area around the Yeosu Expo (1 Bangnamhoe-gil, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.namdofood.or.kr/

This is Korea’s top gastronomy festival, full of “tasty pleasures” where the delicacy and culture of the southern region are in harmony. This year’s festival returns on a larger scale as an international event in the romantic city of Yeosu. You can visit the World Gourmet Hall and the Gourmet Industry Hall and see the top foods from 22 cities and counties as well as recipes by southern food masters. Many family-friendly programs are prepared as well such as the Foreigners’ Cooking Competition, Cooking Class with Masters, Namdo Gourmet Experience, Baking Competition Using Korean Rice and Flour. You can also try some representative Namdo foods and world foods.

• Period 10.07.2023
  
• Venue area around Yeouido Hangang Park (330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul)
• Phone
• Website N/A

Hanwha Group, which was originally in the gunpowder business, has been hosting Korea’s best fireworks festival since 2000 as an act of contributing to society. Every year, Hanwha invites global pyrotechnic companies to put on fantastic fireworks shows with the night sky above Yeouido as the backdrop. In particular, Hanwha takes pride in the Multimedia Fireworks Show, which combines fireworks, music, and laser arrangements creating one of the top fireworks shows in Asia. The festival attracts more than one million citizens to Yeouido, where they enjoy the magnificent show every year.

• Period 10.07~10.09.2023
  
• Venue area around Gwangalli Beach (219 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan)
• Phone
• Website https://www.kappworldtour.com/, https://gwangallisuprise.kr/

This is an international competition for Stand Up Paddle (SUP), a water sport where one paddles across the water while standing on a board. The festival is open to all. There will be enthusiastic matches of professional athletes aiming for a win as well as various amateur races. Also available are various experience programs and events. Even those who are experiencing SUP for the first time will have a fun time at this festival made for everyone from around the world.

• Period 10.07~10.09.2023
  
• Venue Joint Reenactment of King Jeongjo's Royal Parade: from Seoul Changdeokgung Palace to the Suwon Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress to the Hwaseong Yungneung Royal Tomb / Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival: the area around Hwaseong Fortress (320-2 Yeonghwa-dong, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.kingjeongjo-parade.co.kr/

King Jeongjo’s Royal Parade is Korea’s largest royal parade reenacting the eight-day grand procession of Joseon’s 22nd king in 1795 (year of eulmyo). The parade uses the Memory of the World (Wonhaeng Eulmyo Jeongni Uigwe) as the reference for the reenactment. You can see the grand procession, which starts from Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul, then passes through Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon, and finally arrives at the Yungneung Royal Tombs in Hwaseong.
The 60th Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival is the top historical cultural tour festival held in Hwaseong Fortress, which was built with King Jeongjo’s filial duty and his dream of building a strong and prosperous nation. This year’s festival celebrates the 60th anniversary of the festival. Thus, special programs, performances, exhibitions, experiential programs, and tours will be included.

• Period 10.07~10.09.2023
  
• Venue Gapyeong Jarasum Island (1-1 Daljeon-ri, Gapyeong-eup, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do)
• Phone
• Website https://www.javajazzfestival.com/

This is Asia’s representative jazz festival, held on Jarasum Island in Gapyeong every October. For 19 years, 1,300 jazz artist teams from 60 countries have participated in the festival and transformed it into a global event. You can enjoy jazz performances by top jazz artists surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Jarasum Island. There will be many things to see, do, and enjoy, as well as food.

• Period 10.08~10.22.2023
  
• Venue area around Jinjuseong Fortress (Bonseong-dong, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do) and Namgang River
• Phone
• Website https://yudeung.com/

This festival originated from the noble history of Jinjuseong Battle (Jinju Daecheob) and is held every October around Jinjuseong Fortress and Namgang River. Surface lights in various shapes forming a dragon, phoenix, turtle, lotus, etc., float on the calm waters of Namgang River. In addition, fireworks are displayed over the river, and water lighting shows glitter the night sky. Plus, you can enjoy various experiences, such as crossing the Bridge of Love, hanging a wishing lamp, or riding a cruise boat, and more. You can also enjoy tasty foods at the food trucks.

• Period 10.10~11.19.2023
  
• Venue Seoul, Busan
• Phone
• Website https://lolesports.com/

The League of Legends (LoL) Championship is the most prestigious event in e-Sports Games, where 22 teams representing nine regions compete to determine the best team. At the international world championship that highlights the year’s finale, each regional team competes to win the Summoner’s Cup and the “World Champion” title. During the past 12 World Championships, Korea has won seven cups and became the most powerful country in the world. Korea hosted two world championship finals in 2014 and 2018, and is now preparing to welcome e-sports fans from around the world after being named the host of the 2023 World Championship.

• Period 10.12~10.15.2023
  
• Venue area around Gangneung Olympic Park, Gangneung Ice Arena (102 Surigol-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do) and Gangneung
• Phone
• Website https://www.coffeefestival.net/

This annual coffee festival is held in Gangneung, the capital of Korea’s coffee industry. Well-known coffee businesses in Gangneung and other cities participate in the festival. Free coffee-tasting events and seminars with coffee gurus to share professional knowledge can be found here. There will be a competition for the best baristas in each field of latte art, hand dripping, coffee bean roasting, etc. You can also enjoy the “Barista Performance – 100 Flavors from 100 People,” where 100 baristas present their unique specialty coffee. Plus, various cultural events are available, including special performances with coffee, experiential programs for families, and other coffee-related experiences.

• Period 10.12~10.15.2023
  
• Venue area around the Jeungpyeong Bogangcheon Sports Park and the Jeungpyeong Sports Complex (23 Insam-ro Jeungpyeong-eup, Jeungpyeong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.jeungpyeongfestival.com/

This festival promotes Jeungpyeong’s specialties, ginseng and red ginseng pork (a special swine breeding business), and the area’s local tradition and excellent agricultural goods. The festival, held annually in autumn, is gaining popularity with various events, such as the Red Ginseng Pork Brand's Grilled Pork Belly Party, In-Mac Party (ginseng + beer), K-pop International Youth Festival, Mountain Bike Rally, folklore experiences, and the busking festival.

• Period 10.13~10.15.2023
  
• Venue area around Daejeon Ppuri Park (79 Ppurigongwon-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon) and old downtown of Daejeon
• Phone
• Website https://www.djjunggu.go.kr/hyo-ppuri/index.do

This festival has high educational value as you search for, discover, appreciate and experience your familial roots. The festival is held at locations that promote the culture of filial duty (“Hyo” in Korean) – Ppuri Park, the Korean Genealogy Museum, Hyo Culture Village, and the Korea Institute of Hyo Culture Promotion. The festival aims to revisit the values of familial roots and Hyo, the meaning of family, and the heritage of our moral culture. The festival hopes to become an opportunity for three generations of a family to gather together and practice Hyo in daily life.

• Period 10.13~10.15.2023
  
• Venue TBD
• Phone
• Website http://gimf.co.kr/

This is the representative music festival of Gyeonggi-do. It serves various purposes such as a gateway for indie musicians to meet with their fans, and to identify musicians with star potential and support their growth. At the 2023 festival, around 20 competent indie musicians will stage great performances. Plus, there will be a food truck zone selling various foods so that visitors can fully enjoy the festival.

• Period 10.13~10.19.2023
  
• Venue area around Yesan Paik Jong-won Gukbap Street (160 Cheonbyeon-ro Yesan-eup, Yesan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do)
• Phone
• Website https://yesansamguk.kr/

This festival’s theme of gukbap (rice soup), noodles, and chrysanthemums symbolizes Yesan Market. The festival retains the sentiment of the 1970s as if time has stopped in contrast to the fast-changing modern cities and gives a broader meaning to local identity as well as historical and cultural values. Many Koreans and foreigners visit the festival because there are great food and various things to enjoy. You can participate in experience programs like Making a Chrysanthemum Tortilla, Making Noodles, concerts, and cooking competitions. You can also try market foods such as gukbap, noodles, and more.

• Period 10.13~10.15.2023
  
• Venue area around Sangju
• Phone
• Website https://www.hankukhanbok.or.kr/main.asp

The world’s first World Hat Festival is held in Sangju. You will have a memorable time looking at various traditional hats from around the world as hats are the “Essence of Fashion,” and the symbol of a nation’s climate, culture, history, and identity. There will be various things to see and experience, such as the World Hat Parade; World Traditional Hat Exhibition Hall; Hat Dance Festival; Hat Fashion Show; Hat Industry Hall; Hat Making Experience Program; Hat Art Exhibition; and Cone Hat Festival. You can also taste various foods made in Sangju, a region rich in agricultural produce.

• Period 10.13~10.15.2023
  
• Venue area around Sunchang Traditional Gochujang Village (265-66 Baeksan-ri, Sunchang-eup, Sunchang-gun, Jeollabuk-do)
• Phone
• Website N/A

This festival is held in Sunchang, the city of taste and style, where the pristine nature and the history of fermented foods (jang) are alive. The festival covers the culture and history of fermented foods and fermentation and features various fun experiences and things to see. You can fully enjoy the vibe of old traditional Korean houses in Sunchang Gochujang Village, home cooking skills, and the fun culture of fermented foods. It will also be a good opportunity to relish the beautiful sceneries from Sunchang at Gangcheonsan County Park, to the suspension bridge at Chaegyesan Mountain and the Yonggwolsan Mountain Sky Road.

• Period 10.14~10.22.2023
  (tentative)
• Venue Seoul and outskirts
• Phone
• Website https://www.ohseoul.org/

This metropolitan architectural festival opens up and uncovers the environment, architecture, spaces and places of art surrounding the city. The festival started in London and has become a global festival that connects 50 cities around the world. Seoul has participated in the festival every year with Open House Worldwide since 2014. You can walk along with an architect to visit modern Korean architecture and appreciate attractive spaces that are not easily accessible. The list includes Goseok Space, previously the residence of the late artist Park Go-seok; the state-of-the-art R&D center in Magok District; and the Dangin-ri Thermal Power Plant that is turning into a cultural space; and more.

• Period 10.14~10.28.2023
  
• Venue area around Daehak-ro (Dongseong-dong), Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Phone
• Website N/A

This performance festival is held in Daehakro, the Mecca of Korean performances, where around 150 theaters are gathered. You can enjoy Korea’s top performances, from non-verbal to traditional performances, musicals, plays, etc., in Daehakro. The highlight of the event is the opening ceremony, which uses the car-free main street of Daehakro as the stage for various performances, including parades. Plus, there will be special events where festival ambassadors and celebrities participate in the performances. You can also enjoy excellent on-screen performances, online screenings (K-stage), street performances, Daehakro tours, coupon promotions, and a myriad of other event programs.

• Period 10.19~10.22.2023
  
• Venue area around DCC (107 Expo-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon) and old downtown of Daejeon
• Phone
• Website https://www.djsf.kr/

This grand science festival is held in Korea’s science city, Daejeon. The festival features various science exhibitions and experience programs to enjoy scientific culture, fulfill the dream of gifted future scientists, and the opportunity to bring science culture into daily life. You can experience future science technologies such as space technology, robotics, drones, AI, and more. Plus, fun programs await, such as science concerts, science magic shows, and autumn constellation festivals with Daejeon Observatory.

• Period 10.20~10.22.2023
  
• Venue area around May 18 Democracy Square (41 Geumnamno 1(il)-ga, Dong-gu, Gwangju) and Gwangju
• Phone
• Website N/A

The Gwangju Fringe Festival is a top street art festival where people can enjoy various street art projects at May 18 Democracy Square and the surrounding areas. It is a participatory festival that invites citizens to participate in street art, street dance, circus performance, madanggeuk, public art, and more. Any form of arts regardless of genre is welcome here. There will also be experience programs, art markets, and other events.

• Period 10.20~10.29.2023
  
• Venue Yeongnam Alps Complex Welcome Center (103-8 Alpeuseuoncheon 5-gil Sangbuk-myeon, Ulju-gun, Ulsan)
• Phone
• Website https://www.umff.kr/kor/default.asp

This is Korea’s only mountain film festival that plays 150 mountain films from around the world. The film festival presents to the audience members an opportunity to ponder on “life” while watching stories of overcoming hardships, and of longing and adventure, conflicts and coexistence, challenges, failures, and success. Plus, there will be various programs to experience mountain culture, such as talk concerts on mountains and nature, a one-day climbing class, exhibitions on mountains and nature, etc.

• Period 10.21~10.22.2023
  
• Venue area around Busan Asiad Main Stadium (344, World cup-daero, Yeonje-gu, Busan) and Busan
• Phone
• Website https://www.instagram.com/bof_official_kr/

This comprehensive K-culture festival is held every October in various venues around Busan, including at the Asiad Main Stadium. It is a special festival where the younger generation in Busan and the world can enjoy the diverse cultural content of Busan in connection with Hallyu. The festival is famous for its K-pop concert with a premier line-up. For example, BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, Seventeen, Wanna One, and others have appeared in previous concerts.

• Period 10.27~10.29.2023
  
• Venue Yeongnam Alps Complex Welcome Center (103-8 Alpeuseuoncheon 5-gil Sangbuk-myeon, Ulju-gun, Ulsan)
• Phone
• Website http://www.uljutrail.com/

This is Korea’s best trail running course with the longest and most challenging 9 PEAKS course (distance 121 km, accumulated elevation 9,190 m). You will create memorable experiences by running from sunrise to sunset around the Yeongnam Alps, surrounded by rippling golden silver grass and colorful fall foliage. Other than the 9 PEAKS course, there are the 5 PEAKS (44 km), 2 PEAKS (26 km), and 1 PEAK (10 km) courses for beginner trail runners. Other courses such as Stage Race, Trail Kids Race, and Free Dog Race are also available.

• Period 10.28~10.29.2023
  
• Venue TBD
• Phone
• Website N/A

Korea’s first bakery festival will be held in Daejeon, the city of bakeries. The festival is gaining popularity as an occasion to enjoy baked goods from well-known bakeries in Daejeon and across Korea. Plus, there will be fun performances, experiences, and event programs, such as bakery-related talk shows with well-known pâtissiers, celebratory music concerts, baking experiences, stack-a-bread contests, etc.

• Period 11.03~11.05.2023
  
• Venue area around Gwangju
• Phone
• Website N/A

This gastronomy festival hosted in Gwangju will make your eyes and mouth happy. Visitors can taste signature dishes and desserts from the city of taste  Gwangju, which will please their mouths. In addition, various food-themed shows and art performances will be available to please their eyes. The organizers are planning a festival where the audience can participate and enjoy, in hopes that the festival grow into an enjoyable global gastronomic tour for everyone from Korea and abroad.

• Period 11.03~11.06.2023
  
• Venue area around Gwangju
• Phone
• Website N/A

This is Korea’s top Kimchi Festival, hosted in the city of taste Gwangju, a city with a long history of culinary culture. It is a festival where visitors can experience kimchi's unique food culture and tradition. It is also a place for kimchi producers to meet consumers and promote their kimchi products. The festival features various performances and exhibitions under the themes Gwangju Kimchi and Namdo Food. The list of experience programs include the Korean Kimchi Competition (Presidential Prize is awarded), kimchi making, and cooking classes for making food with kimchi.

• Period 11.04.2023
  
• Venue area around Gwangalli Beach (219 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan)
• Phone
• Website http://www.bfo.or.kr/main/index.asp

This fireworks festival glitters over the night sky of Gwangalli Beach every autumn. It started as a celebration event at the 2005 APEC Summit and has become Busan’s top festival with increasing global interest over the years. You can expect mega fireworks, only available in Busan, and a media façade show using the landscape lighting across Gwangandaegyo Bridge. The Busan Multi Fireworks Show combines glamorous fireworks, lighting, music and special fireworks by global pyrotechnician companies invited to the event to tell a story. You can watch the fireworks show from Gwangalli Beach, Dongbaekseom Island, and Igidae Cliff as the show is designed to be seen from “3 Points” in Busan.

• Period 11.16~11.19.2023
  
• Venue BEXCO (55 APEC-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan)
• Phone
• Website https://www.gstar.or.kr

Korea’s largest game exhibition started in 2005, and it has been held in Busan since 2009. This global game exhibition lets you catch up with the latest trends in the fast-changing game industry. There are BTC booths for general visitors and BTB booths for exhibitioners and business visitors. Plus, various events are scheduled, including the G-STAR Conference, e-Sports Events, and G-STAR 2023 Game Costume Play Awards, etc.

• Period 12.01~04.30.2024
  (tentative)
• Venue area around Gangwon-do
• Phone
• Website https://snowfestagangwon.com/en/

Gangwon Snow Festa is the top winter tour program of Gangwon-do, the venue of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, and of the Winter Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024. Come enjoy the snow, skiing, festivals, and various Hallyu content-related things to see and do in the splendid winter wonderland of Gangwon-do, the first place where snow falls in Korea every year.

• Period 01.01.2024
  
• Venue Jungmun Saekdal Beach (29-51 Jungmungwangwang-ro 72beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do)
• Phone
• Website http://www.jejusta.or.kr/index.php

This winter open water swimming festival takes place only once a year on New Year’s Day. The event is held at Jungmun Saekdal Beach in Seogwipo, where the rare and protected Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta) comes to nest. The beach is the northernmost point traveled by the turtles for conceiving new life. The event is gaining popularity every year as it is designed to break away from old habits and bring forth new energy and courage.

• Period 01.19~02.01.2024
  
• Venue area around Pyeongchang, Gangneung, Jeongseon, Hoengseong
• Phone
• Website https://olympics.com/ko/gangwon-2024/

Asia’s first Winter Youth Olympic Games will be held in Gangwon-do. Based on the legacy of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, there will be 1,900 youth athletes from 70 countries competing in four cities around Gangwon-do (Pyeongchang, Gangneung, Jeongseon, Hoengseong). There will be 7 games under 15 events with 81 sub-events. These games are an opportunity to encourage youths to participate in various activities available before, during, and after the Olympics.

• Period 02.16~02.25.2024
  
• Venue BEXCO (55 APEC-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan)
• Phone
• Website

This championship commemorates the 100th anniversary of Korea table tennis in Busan, which is designated by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) to host this international sports event.  At this championship, 16 athletes will win entry (8 men and 8 women) into the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will heat up the competition and bring keen interest from each country. We hope the success of this event will contribute to promoting the national sport and to improving the national image.