Seoul of the Festival

Park chae eun

As spring begins, the “Seoul Festivals” will also open, offering many things to enjoy, such as traditional cultural experiences, night views of the Han River, food, fireworks festivals, jazz, and K-pop, waiting for the citizens of Seoul. In particular, the tourism industry has slowed down due to COVID-19, but this year is seen as the right time to restore tourism culture. Therefore, I hope that foreign tourists and exchange students will participate and enjoy the attractive tourist activities of Seoul. Afterward, you will be able to leave here with a pleasant memories of the warm spring weather.

1. Seoul Festa

It is a festival held throughout Seoul, including Gwanghwamun Square and Jamsil Sports Complex, where visitors can enjoy shopping, food, performances, and light festivals featuring drones. The festival runs for eight days, from April 30 to May 7. Since it is currently ongoing, I hope you will not miss this chance to experience it. In particular, this festival offers a sensory experience where you can feel the charm of Seoul with all your 5 senses. You can enjoy K-pop performances for hearing, k-food for taste, and light performances for sight. Experience the lifestyle of Seoul through various activities and venues

The four main themes of the festival.

• Seoul Culture Square: It consists of different spaces dedicated to drama, beauty experiences, and tourism promotion zones, offering visitors the opportunity to discover various lifestyles of Seoul.
• Bridge Mate: You can experience k-convenience stores and k-food on the Han River Bridge.
• Myeong-dong Festival: Myeong-dong Gallery, which becomes a work of art throughout the street, including super-large artwork and balloon, murals, graffiti, and wrapping, is formed.

2. Seoul Jazz Festival

The Seoul Jazz Festival is a three-day event taking place from May 26th to May 28th, celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. The festival will be held at four locations in Olympic Park: 88 Grass Yard, Kspo Dome, SK Handball Stadium, and 88 Lake Waterfront Stage, featuring both Korean and foreign artists. Please note that tickets must be purchased in advance. Each day, an average of 20 artists will perform, and visitors can also enjoy various field experience events. I am especially looking forward to performances by Christopher, Damon’s Year, and Paul Kim, among many others!

3. Deoksugung Exhibition at Night

 The Deoksugung Palace at Night Festival is accompanied by a professional commentator, and visitors can enjoy the beauty of Seokjojeon Hall at night. The festival includes a Terrace Cafe Experience, where visitors can enjoy coffee and desserts that King Gojong loved while listening to classical music. In addition, there is a musical performance called “King Gojong-Korea’s Dream,” which tells the story of Emperor Gojong. Deoksugung Palace is a beautiful place to visit, and understanding the history contained within it can deepen one’s appreciation. The festival runs until May 11 and has an admission fee.

If you are thinking about where to go for your spring outing in Seoul, I recommend visiting these festivals. They offer a unique opportunity to experience Seoul firsthand.