South Korea's second-largest city, Busan, is transforming itself into a massive cultural stage by hosting 26 festivals simultaneously through early October. The 13-day Festival Shiwol, which means "October" in Korean, runs from September 21 to October 3 under the theme "Autumn Wind," turning the entire metropolitan area into a vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and entertainment.

The comprehensive festival program spans ten diverse sectors including film, performing arts, music, gastronomy, entrepreneurship, sports, and forums, designed to attract both domestic and international visitors. Major highlights of the festival lineup include internationally recognized events such as the Busan International Film Festival, Busan International Rock Festival, Busan International Performing Arts Market, Busan International Food Expo, and the Busan Craft Beer Masters Challenge.

The festival officially kicked off on September 21 with the Seven Bridge Tour, an exciting cycling race that takes participants across Busan's scenic sea bridges. This was immediately followed by Fly Asia, recognized as Asia's largest startup fair, which took place at the BEXCO (Busan Exhibition and Convention Center) in Haeundae-gu District from September 22-23, showcasing innovative entrepreneurship and business development across the region.

The Busan Craft Beer Masters Challenge, running from September 20-24, offers daily tastings and competitions at the outdoor plaza of Busan Cinema Center from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike can sample various craft brews while enjoying the autumn evening atmosphere in one of the city's most modern cultural venues.

From September 24-28, the large-scale Busan International Performing Arts Market will take center stage at multiple venues including the Busan Cultural Center and the Busan Eurasia Platform. This impressive showcase features over 100 performances by more than 600 talented artists representing 15 different countries, making it a truly international celebration of theatrical and artistic expression.

Running concurrently with the performing arts market, the Busan International Food Expo offers visitors the opportunity to sample authentic cuisines from around the world. Food lovers can explore diverse culinary traditions and taste specialties from various countries, creating a global dining experience right in the heart of Busan.

Music fans can look forward to the Busan International Rock Festival, scheduled to rock Samnak Eco Park from September 26-28. This outdoor music event promises to deliver high-energy performances in a natural setting, combining the city's commitment to both cultural celebration and environmental awareness.

Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon expressed his enthusiasm for the festival's role in promoting the city's growing international profile. "Busan this year is showing its status as a global tourist city with over two million foreign tourists," Mayor Park stated. "Festival Shiwol will be the catalyst to open the era of three million foreign tourists in our city." His comments reflect the city's ambitious goals for tourism growth and cultural exchange.

Complete schedule information and details about participating in Festival Shiwol are available on the event's official website at www.shiwol.com. The website provides comprehensive information for both visitors and potential participants, ensuring that everyone can make the most of this unprecedented cultural celebration that showcases Busan's emergence as a major international cultural destination.