South Korea is hosting a diverse array of autumn festivals that celebrate the country's rich agricultural heritage, cultural traditions, and regional specialties. From spicy red pepper celebrations to illuminated gardens, these events offer visitors unique experiences that showcase Korea's vibrant festival culture throughout the fall season.
The Goesan Red Pepper Festival, running through this Sunday in Goesan County, North Chungcheong Province, highlights the region's famous organic clean red peppers and deep-rooted agricultural traditions. Festival visitors can participate in distinctive main events including "Find the Golden Pepper," "Pepper Nanta," and "Catch the Pepper Fish," alongside red pepper bibimbap tastings, live concerts, and youth festival activities. The event features interactive attractions such as pepper auctions, bustling local markets, and numerous tasting booths where guests can sample regional specialties.
Cultural programming at the Goesan festival includes the World Pepper Exhibition, competitive pepper contests, and street busking performances that create a lively community atmosphere. Meanwhile, in South Chungcheong Province, the Hongseong Namdang Port Shrimp Festival continues through October 20 in Hongseong County. Recognized as Korea's premier destination for autumn shrimp, Namdang Port attracts food enthusiasts from across the nation who come to savor the clean, rich flavor of daeha, or giant shrimp.
The shrimp festival offers hands-on experiences including bare-handed shrimp catching competitions and shrimp peeling contests, complemented by live entertainment performances. Cultural shows, singing competitions, and a vibrant night market enhance the festive atmosphere, while visitors can also enjoy spectacular sunset views and water fountain shows that make this event a must-see fall attraction.
In North Gyeongsang Province, the Cheongdo Provence Light Festival continues through November 30 in Cheongdo County. This French-inspired village features more than 100 designated photo zones and charming houses that transform into a dazzling light display after dark. The event draws inspiration from the enchanting atmosphere of southeastern France, evoking the romantic ambiance that captivated renowned artists such as Van Gogh and Matisse.
Sejong National Arboretum is welcoming visitors to its annual nighttime opening through October 11, providing a rare opportunity to experience a romantic, illuminated garden setting. This year's event showcases enhanced lighting displays throughout key areas, including the Four Seasons Greenhouse, Festival Plaza, and the Korean Traditional Garden in Sejong. Weekend cultural programming features orchestra performances, traditional Korean music festivals, open-air cinema screenings, and immersive story-based shows held every Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Admission fees are set at 2,500 won for adults, 2,000 won for teenagers, and 1,500 won for children.
The Yangpyeong Catfish Whiskers Festival, taking place in the village of Sumimaru in Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province, runs through September 7. Known for its pristine water quality and presidential award-winning rural charm, the festival provides hands-on experiences such as catfish fishing, fruit syrup-making workshops, and all-terrain vehicle rides. Visitors can enjoy bubble play zones, scenic picnics, and traditional Korean meals including spicy fish stew. Admission ranges from 19,000 won to 49,000 won, depending on the selected activity packages, making it accessible for families and groups with varying budgets and interests.
