The always-popular Gwangalli Fishing Village Festival, highlighting the local fishing village culture of the Joseon Dynasty era, returns to the beach from May 9 to 11.
Fishnet pulling is always a popular interactive event, as is the barehanded live fish catching and a special performance of jindueohwa, a reenactment of a traditional fishing process where torches were used for fishing at night.
Other attractions include traditional folk dances, parades, choral performances, and a raw fish culinary contest.
There will also be a special drone performance on Friday night.
What to expect
Throughout the festival, a 1km stretch of Gwangalli Beach will be transformed into a traditional “Fishing Village,” complete with naval barracks and historical houses. Key scheduled events include the Gyeongsang Left Naval Forces Street Parade and the original musical Eobang, which recounts the origins of the festival.
Additional highlights include the Eobang Traditional EDM Party, Eobang Madanggeuk (a traditional theater performance), and a lighting display along the beach.
Festivalgoers can also enjoy hands-on activities such as catching live fish, participating in the Eobang civil service exam, fire arrow shooting, and pounding rice cakes.
Family-friendly programs are also planned, including a children’s naval-themed SUP experience, a raw fish auction, and the Eobang Golden Bell quiz event.
Suyeong-gu has announced enhancements to festival facilities, including LED screens for live broadcasts and emergency messaging.
Event Information
Period: Friday, May 9 – Sunday, May 11
Venue: Gwangalli Beach
Website: www.suyeong.go.kr/eobang
How to get there: Gwangan Station (Metro line 2), exits 3 or 5. Walk 10 minutes toward the beach.
Note: Schedules and programs can be found closer to festival dates
