Iksan, a city known for its historical stone resources and craftsmanship, will host the 2024 National Stone Culture Festival on October 26-27. This annual event, dubbed "Doldol Janchi" (Stone Festival), aims to celebrate the excellence of Iksan's stone industry and its contribution to Korea’s cultural heritage. The festival will take place at the Iksan Stone Product Exhibition and Promotion Hall, as well as the Hwangdeung Quarry, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the city's rich stone culture.

The festival is designed as an interactive cultural event that combines the artistry of stonework with hands-on experiences. One of the highlights of the event is a tour of the Hwangdeung Quarry, where visitors can witness the stone extraction process up close, including demonstrations of the heavy machinery used in quarrying. This immersive experience will provide insight into the traditional and modern techniques involved in stone quarrying, showcasing the expertise that has been passed down through generations of local artisans.

In addition to the quarry tour, visitors can participate in various family-friendly activities, such as decorating their safety helmets, engaging in a bubble show, and taking part in a sand-play experience with heavy equipment models. Other attractions include building a "wish tower" with stones and receiving gifts from the organizers. The festival will kick off with a grand opening performance, setting a festive tone for the weekend.

One of the key features of the festival is the Iksan International Stone Culture Biennale, an exhibition that brings together master-stone craftsmen from across the country. This biennale offers a platform for renowned sculptors to showcase their works, allowing visitors to admire the artistry and skill involved in stone carving. The exhibition highlights the timeless beauty of stone art and underscores Iksan's importance as a hub for stone craftsmanship.

Iksan is renowned for its exceptional quality of granite, which has been used in the creation of cultural and architectural treasures from the ancient kingdoms of Mahan and Baekje to the present day. Among the city's most famous stone relics is the Mireuksa Stone Pagoda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the city's rich history in stone craftsmanship. The festival seeks to promote Iksan stone, which is considered the finest among Korea’s top three granite types, and its ongoing influence in Korean culture and heritage.

Iksan Mayor Jeong Heon-yul emphasized the significance of the festival, stating, "This event is a special celebration of Iksan’s long-standing tradition of stone craftsmanship and its recognition as a leading stone city. We invite everyone to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of Iksan’s stone culture, which has flourished from the Mahan and Baekje periods to the present day."

The National Stone Culture Festival serves as an important platform to highlight Iksan’s contributions to Korea’s cultural heritage, while also promoting the city’s modern stone industry. Visitors will not only learn about the historical significance of Iksan stone but also experience its contemporary applications through the artistic works on display.

As Iksan continues to position itself as a center for stone artistry and craftsmanship, the festival offers a chance to explore the rich traditions and skills that have shaped Korea’s cultural landscape. Through the combination of history, art, and hands-on activities, the event promises to be a captivating and educational experience for all ages.

Sayart / Nao Yim, yimnao@naver.com