BUSAN – As autumn graces Busan, the coastal city is poised to burst into a kaleidoscope of festivities. Every corner of the city, from its expansive seas to the tranquil mountains and rivers, will echo with the jubilant spirit of weekly festivals this October.
Busan City, in collaboration with various districts, has unveiled a month-long extravaganza. Ten distinct festivals will beckon residents and tourists, offering a vibrant medley of local delicacies, traditional performances, and contemporary attractions.
Topping the charts is the ‘Busan International Rock Festival’, a city-hosted event and South Korea’s most enduring rock music celebration. Set for October 7th and 8th at the Samnak Ecological Park, the festival whetted fans’ anticipation by unveiling its second lineup on September 11th.
The festival spree commences with the 30th Busan Jagalchi Festival in the Jung-gu district on October 5th. The subsequent weeks promise a diverse bouquet of experiences, including:
1. Busan International Rock Festival
- Date: October 7-8, 2023
- Location: Samnak Ecological Park (the riverside parks located along the banks of Nakdonggang River)
- Highlights: Recognized as South Korea’s longest-standing rock music festival, it’s sure to be a headbanging good time.
2. 30th Busan Jagalchi Festival
- Date: October 5-8, 2023
- Location: Jagalchi Market, Jung-gu
- Highlights: A celebration of the region’s rich marine life and seafood delicacies.
3. 31st Yeongdo Bridge Festival
- Date: October 13-15, 2023
- Location: Amir Park, Yeongdo-gu
- Highlights: A blend of festivities dedicated to the iconic Yeongdo Bridge, encompassing both maritime themes and park-based activities.
4. 29th Dongnaeeupseong History Festival
- Date: October 13-15, 2023
- Location: Dongnae Cultural Center outdoor stage, Dongnae-gu
- Highlights: A historic fest diving into the region’s past, combined with the natural beauty of its mountainous terrain.
5. 10th Nakdonggang River Gupo Naru Festival
- Date: October 13-15, 2023
- Location: Hwamyeong Ecological Park’s Baseball Stadium B, Buk-gu
- Highlights: A celebration of the river’s significance, with activities set amidst a serene park.
6. 25th UN Peace Festival
- Date: October 14-15, 2023
- Location: Peace Park Special Stage, Nam-gu
- Highlights: A tribute to peace, culture, and the park’s serene environment.
7. 20th Chinatown Cultural Festival
- Date: October 20-22, 2023
- Location: Busan Station Square Main Stage, Dong-gu
- Highlights: Dive into a multicultural experience with a focus on the rich Chinese heritage and culture.
8. 20th Sasang Riverside Festival
- Date: October 21-22, 2023
- Location: Samnak Ecological Park’s Rugby Stadium, Sasang-gu
- Highlights: Celebrate by the riverside and immerse in the park’s natural beauty.
9. 14th Busan Mackerel Festival
- Date: October 27-29, 2023
- Location: Songdo Beach Main Stage, Seo-gu
- Highlights: Dive into the delectable world of mackerels, set against the backdrop of the beautiful sea.
10. 13th Gamcheon Culture Village Alley Festival
- Date: October 27-29, 2023
- Location: Community Plaza Stage, Saha District
- Highlights: Explore the historically rich and culturally vibrant alleys of Gamcheon, celebrating both history and culture.
For more details, click on the festival name to visit its official website.
To further elevate the festive aura, Mayor Park Heong-joon will inaugurate the festivals with a special video address. Expressing his enthusiasm, Mayor Park remarked, “As the cool embrace of autumn arrives, a myriad of colorful festivals await our cherished citizens. I urge everyone to relish the autumnal delights Busan offers.” He also underscored Busan’s vision of curating globally-acclaimed festivals by harnessing the city’s rich cultural and touristic assets.
With its autumnal tapestry of events, Busan reaffirms its reputation as a global festival hub, promising both residents and visitors an October to remember.
