Seomjinggang Interntional Experimental Arts Festvial
Sep 22 – Oct 30, 2026 · Happening now · Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Overview
The Seomjinggang International Experimental Arts Festival is a traditional art festival that takes place in Gokseong, Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City. The festival invites over 100 artists from around the world, and "seeks to explore the philosophical, ecological, and artistic meanings and values encapsulated by the river."
Why go
The Seomjingang International Experimental Arts Festival gathers more than 100 artists from around the world to explore the philosophical, ecological, and artistic meanings of the Seomjin River. Set in Gokseong, Jeollanam-do, it offers a rare look at international experimental and contemporary art in a quiet riverside setting rather than a typical urban gallery.
Getting there from Seoul
From Seoul, take a train from Yongsan Station on the Jeolla Line (ITX-Saemaeul or Mugunghwa-ho toward Suncheon/Yeosu) and get off at Gokseong Station, or take an express bus to Gokseong Bus Terminal. The Amnok Resort venue in Jukgok-myeon is outside the town center, so plan on a local taxi for the final leg.
Tips
- The festival runs from 22 September to 30 October 2026, and hours vary by program, so check the specific day's schedule before heading out.
- Admission is free, but the site is rural, so arrange a taxi or rental car rather than counting on local bus service.
- It's an outdoor riverside venue, so bring layers for cool autumn weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Best for: art lovers, photographers, nature lovers, off-the-beaten-path travel.
Photos
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
Other festivals in Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Jeollabuk-do
Sunchang Jangryu Festival
Oct 15 – Oct 18, 2026
*The information below is based on the 2025 festivals. Details for the 2026 festivals will be updated as they become available.*Experience the most iconic spicy flavor of Korean cuisine, gochujang (red chili paste). This festival takes place in Sunchang, the renowned home of gochujang. Visitors can try spicy and savory dishes made with Sunchang gochujang, partake in programs such as making red chili paste, and check out the festival’s performances, exhibitions, and shops. The biggest attraction is the “Sunchang gochujang offering procession to the King.” It is an reenactment based on the records of King Taejo's (born Yi Seong-gye), founder of the Joseon dynasty, love for the taste of Sunchang gochujang. During the event, a music procession and porters with a wagon loaded with crocks of chili paste perform a march around the village. Visitors can also check out the new Fermentation Theme Park, where they can learn the scientific principles of food through microbial experiments.◎ TipTteokbokki is a must-eat Korean street food. Don’t miss the “Sunchang Tteokbokki Town,” where you can try a variety of tteokbokki dishes made using Sunchang’s fermented sauces.
Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Chungjang Street Festival of Recollection
Oct 7 – Oct 11, 2026
The Chungjang Street Festival of Recollection is Gwangju’s largest signature festival, originating on Chungjang-ro in Dong-gu. Built around the universal theme of memories, it is Korea’s first festival of its kind, bringing together people of all generations and backgrounds. Geumnam-ro and May 18 Democracy Square, the festival’s main venues, hold profound significance in the history of democracy. They symbolize not only remembrance of the past but also Gwangju’s journey toward a hopeful future. Recognized for its excellence, the festival has been designated by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism as both a Cultural Tourism Festival and an Honorary Cultural Tourism Festival. It has also gained international recognition through consecutive honors at the Asia’s Pinnacle Awards and Gwangju’s designation as a World Festival City. Looking ahead, the festival aims to grow into a truly international event through collaboration with the Asia Culture Center, embracing the cultures and shared memories of Asia. In doing so, it strengthens Gwangju's role as a leading cultural city of Asia and provides a meaningful platform for communication and harmony through culture.
Reach travelers heading to Gwangju & Jeollanam-do: sponsor this page.
Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go. Official site