South Korea is one of the world’s most traditional yet diverse nations, offering valuable cultural and historical heritages.  Its cities like Jinju, Busan, Seoul, etc., are famous not just for technological advancements and economic developments but for colorful festivals. Boryeong Mud Festival, Jinju Lantern Festival, Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, Dano Festival, etc., are playing a crucial role in promoting the tourism industry and bringing in more foreign exchange reserves.

Most of its traditional festivals occur in the spring and autumn seasons. However, understanding the top festivals is helpful in learning about the Korean nation. In this article, the festivals in South Korea are discussed in detail, along with their historical backgrounds. 

List of Top 10 Festivals in South Korea

Here is the list of the top 10 festivals in South Korea that you must consider during your visit:

• Boryeong Mud Festival
• Jinju Lantern Festival
• Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival
• Seollal
• Dano Festival
• Seoul International Fireworks Festival
• Andong Maskdance Festival
• Gwangju World Culture Kimchi Festival
• Jinhae Gunhangje Festival
• Busan International Film Festival

1. Boryeong Mud Festival

This is one of the most famous festivals among international tourists, occurring every summer in Boryeong, South Chungcheong Province. This event is focused on educating people about the relationship between cosmetics and mud. The first Boryeong Mud Festival occurred in 1998 with the aim of promoting mud-produced cosmetics. This event continues for two weeks and offers several interesting activities, such as mud body painting, live musical performances, mudslides, and mud skiing. 

People can explore various mud cosmetics made locally and get insight into the benefits of different cosmetic treatments based on mud. Likewise, health and beauty clinics are also part of this event and offer various natural skin treatments and massages. At the end of the festival, spectacular fireworks add more fun and entertainment and make the whole experience memorable.

2. Jinju Lantern Festival

If you are interested in historical events in South Korea, then this is the right festival to educate yourself about the Jinjuseong battle. This battle occurred in 1592, and during that time, lanterns were used for military signals and communicating about the war strategy. These lanterns were also used to communicate with the families back in the town and to ensure the safety of the soldiers. Currently, this event is based on the memory of those soldiers who fought bravely for the Jinju victory. 

The view of the floating lanterns is mesmerizing and attracts tourists worldwide. This event also includes many other interesting things, like parades, fireworks, and a variety of performances, including martial arts and cultural dances. It is celebrated alongside the Namgang River and usually occurs during October and November. 

Also Read: Famous Festivals in India

3. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

“Unfrozen Hearts, Unforgettable Memories” is the slogan of this event, which occurs every January and February. The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is celebrated in Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon, where local and international tourists enjoy multiple fun activities, including snow fishing. According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, it is one of the biggest winter festivals, with 1.5 million visitors every year. 

Bare hand fishing and lure fishing are two unique experiences that people come to enjoy during this festival. Large snow sculptures, including the giant ice slides, make this festival memorable. Other interesting things that are part of the event are ice sledding, snow sledding, ziplining, etc. It is equally famous among kids and adults. 

4. Seollal

This festival is the celebration of the lunar new year and is enjoyed for around three days. At this event, Korean rituals are performed, and people meet with each other to give tribute to their ancestors’ spirits. Locals prefer to wear a Hanbok, which is a Korean attire, and exchange gifts like money and fruits. Likewise, people wake up early to see the sunrise, and they consider it as a lucky move to bring in more prosperity. Visiting the country during these holidays will give you a lovely insight into yeonnalligi, which is a kite-flying activity. It represents letting go of old moments and taking a fresh start to this new lunar year. 

5. Dano Festival

The Dano festival is celebrated each year on the 5th day of the fifth lunar month of the Korean calendar. Damo means the day of god, and this event is also called the Surit-nal. This is the time of the year when farmers complete the seeding and planting phase of various fields. There is a public holiday on this day, and it is celebrated with complete joy, especially in the northern areas. 

Korean folk games like Ssireum, Seokjeon, and Taekkyon are played by the locals and are a source of attraction for international tourists. This festival has been celebrated since ancient times, and during the Joseon Dynasty, it was known as the Duanwu Festival. 

6. Seoul International Fireworks Festival

This is one of the most famous festivals among international tourists, arranged by the Hanwha Group for the first time in 2000. It is also termed a global event as different countries, like Canada, France, etc., participate along with South Korea. More than 100,000 fireworks are enjoyed during the Seoul International Fireworks Festival every year, and it plays a key role in promoting the tourism industry. 

Some hot places to enjoy the best view are Yeoido’s main event hall, Hangang Park Ichon Area, Wonhyo Bridge, and Hangang Bridge. If you really want to enjoy this event, then visit these places at least three hours before the fireworks. Only then will you find a perfect spot to enjoy with your friends and family. 

7. Andong Maskdance Festival

If you are interested in having an in-depth analysis of Korean traditional culture, then you must attend the Andong Maskdance Festival. This is another popular autumn festival associated with different types of dance performances, including the Korean mask dance. It is celebrated at the Old Andong Station, Mask Dance Park, in downtown Andong. 

This event is celebrated for around ten days, and worldwide artists visit this place to participate in cultural and traditional performances. A grand parade is also a source of attraction for visitors, where people in traditional Korean attire participate and display their cultural heritage. Also, different workshops are conducted to educate visitors about Korean culture and its significant values. 

Also Read: Top 10 Festivals in Canada

8. Gwangju World Culture Kimchi Festival

Gwangju World Culture Kimchi Festival is a famous food festival in South Korea that is celebrated at Citizens Park in Kimchi Town. It has been celebrated since 1994 and is based on its iconic dish, “Kimchi.” If you are fond of Korean food, then this event is a must-try, where you can enjoy Kimchi with different variations. Also, many food competitions are held, where cooks from around the world participate to showcase their cooking skills. 

Along with food, this festival features different cultural performances. Visitors enjoy cultural dances and musical performances, as well as local crafts. Educational programs and workshops are also conducted to educate tourists about traditional cuisine and its value.

9. Jinhae Gunhangje Festival

If you are looking for a family-oriented festival, then Jinhae Gunhangje Festival is the right choice. This festival is enjoyed in April during the cherry blossoms and offers scenic beauty to visitors along with multiple cultural performances. Visitors, including international tourists, prefer to visit this city in spring to witness flower tunnels and tree-lined streets with vibrant colors. 

At this festival, traditional dances and music are two significant aspects offering insights into cultural heritage and local traditions. Yeowang Road and the Jinhae Naval Base are the two most crowded spots during the festival, giving close-to-nature experiences and a pleasant atmosphere.  Not just these two spots but every corner of the city is worth watching in spring. 

10. Busan International Film Festival

This is another famous festival that is attracting worldwide filmmakers to Busan. It includes various types of films, including documentaries, short films, animated films, etc. The awards ceremony is also part of this festival, where top films of different categories are registered. The main objective of this event is to encourage new talent, especially movie directors, to showcase their skills to the world.

The first Busan International Film Festival was held in 1996 and gained worldwide recognition. The latest festival will be held from 2 to 11 October 2024, making it the 29th one to date. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Metropolitan City of Busan, and the Korean Film Council will host the event. During the festival, “Uprising” and “Spirit World” will be the opening and closing films, respectively. 

Also Read: Famous Festivals of Pakistan

Bottom Line

South Korea’s diverse festivals are a true representation of its enriched cultural and historical heritage. They also give insight into its traditional views, cultural experiences, and past events. Jinju Lantern Festival, Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, Seoul International Fireworks Festival, etc., promote tourism and contribute to economic prosperity. They showcase South Korean culture, foster a sense of community among the residents, and offer entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are South Korean Festivals Famous Among International Tourists?

Multiple South Korean festivals, especially traditional ones, are drawing international tourists from worldwide regions. They reflect the true spirit of South Korea in an entertaining and creative manner. 

Which Korean Festival Is the Biggest?

Seoul International Fireworks Festival is one of the biggest festivals, and it occurs on October 5th every year. It involves various activities, including traditional performances and mesmerizing fireworks.

Which Korean Event Is the Oldest?

Jinju Lantern Festival is the oldest Korean festival. Its history dates back to the late 16th century, and it is believed that it has been celebrated every year since 1592.

Which South Korean Festival Is Celebrated in Spring?

The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is famous worldwide. It is conducted every year during March and April. It is celebrated in areas like Jungwon Rotary and Jinhaeru, Changwon-si, and attracts worldwide tourists. This festival is famous for its military parades, cultural performances, and cherry blossoms.