Raftman
Apr 4 – Nov 28, 2026 · Happening now · Gangwon
Why go
Raftman is a staged folk-performance built around Jeongseon Arirang, the oldest regional strand of Korea's best-known folk song, performed at its place of origin. It tells the story of raftmen carrying timber from Jeongseon to Gyeongseong (Seoul) during the Japanese occupation, with the Arirang melody running through the narrative. It's a chance to see a living folk tradition staged in the town where it began.
Getting there from Seoul
Jeongseon is in Gangwon-do; the most direct option is an intercity/express bus from Dong-Seoul Bus Terminal toward Jeongseon. Alternatively, take the KTX toward Gangneung/Jeongdongjin and transfer to a local bus or taxi, since Jeongseon itself has no KTX station. The venue, Arirang Hall at the Jeongseon Arirang Center, is in Jeongseon-eup, the town centre.
Tips
- Shows run across a long window (4 Apr–28 Nov 2026) but specific showtimes, days off, and ticket prices aren't listed here — confirm with the Jeongseon Arirang Culture Foundation before travelling.
- The performance is in Korean and centers on Jeongseon Arirang folk song, so reading up on the Young-gil/Dong-shik storyline beforehand will help non-Korean speakers follow along.
- There's no direct KTX into Jeongseon, so build in transfer time from Seoul via bus or a Gangneung/Jeongdongjin KTX connection.
Best for: history, traditional music, performing arts.
Program
Arirang is a folk song that represents Korea, with various regional versions, the oldest being Jeongseon Arirang. During the Japanese occupation, it was particularly poignant, expressing the deep sorrow of those who lost their homeland.
Raftman tells the story of people who rely on rafts to cross rivers and transport goods. Young-gil,a veteran raftman, transport high-quality lumber (hwangjangmok) from Jeongseon to Gyeongseong during the Japanese occupation. He and Dong-shik, a novice raftman, are entrusted to carry gold bars for the independence army. As the raft begins its journey toward Mapo, a port in Gyeongseong, the haunting melody of Jeongseon Arirang flows from the mouths of Young-gil’s and Dong-shik, reverberating poignantly across the stage.
Jeongseon Arirang has historically been a labor song for raftmen. The arduous lives of the raftmen reflect the struggles of the people of that time, allowing Arirang to resonate deeply with the audience. The performance is even more meaningful as it takes place in Jeongseon, the birthplace of Jeongseon Arirang.
Other festivals in Gangwon
Gangwon
Jeongseon Arirang Festival
Oct 1 – Oct 4, 2026
The Jeongseon Arirang Festival is Jeongseon County’s signature cultural tourism festival created to preserve and carry forward the history, cultural value, and traditions of Jeongseon Arirang, one of Korea’s best-known folk songs. Celebrating Arirang, which is inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the festival brings together performances that blend tradition with contemporary elements, parades, hands-on programs, exhibitions, and various cultural and artistic events for visitors of all ages. The festival is also shaped by the local community, with residents taking on an active role in its planning and operation. Programs connecting Jeongseon’s cultural and tourism resources help boost the local economy and attract more visitors to the region. Building on the cultural legacy of Arirang and the unique traditions of Jeongseon, the festival seeks to establish itself as Korea’s leading Arirang celebration and grow into a global cultural tourism festival that people around the world can enjoy and relate to.
Gangwon
Gangneung Coffee Festival
Oct 21 – Oct 25, 2026
The Gangneung Coffee Festival traces its roots to the everyday memories created around the coffee vending machines at Anmok Beach and to the café and roasting culture cultivated by local coffee artisans. Since it began in 2009, the festival has grown into a celebration of Gangneung’s distinct identity, connecting the city’s natural scenery, everyday culture, and local businesses. Residents, merchants, coffee professionals, and visitors come together to enjoy coffee and share stories about Gangneung through programs that bring together the humanities, arts, and local culture. A simple cup of coffee enjoyed by the sea has grown into a culture shared by the entire city. Today, the festival is a living cultural asset of the region, reflecting Gangneung’s history, the tastes of its people, and the pride of its community.
Reach travelers heading to Gangwon: sponsor this page.
Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go.