By Honorary Reporter Martina Marrandino from Italy
Photos = Martina Marrandino

Yeongam-gun County, Jeollanam-do Province, in southwestern Korean has a population of just over 50,000 and hosts cultural events and festivals year-round. 

One of them is the Yeongam Wangin Cultural Festival, which honors Wangin, a Confucian scholar born in the county during the Baekje Kingdom era (18 B.C.-A.D. 660). Over 1,600 years ago, he went to Japan to spread Confucian canon and Chinese characters.

In recognition of its outstanding contribution to Korean tourism and culture, the event in 2008 was named the country's best cultural and tourism festival.

As a lover of cultural festivals, I attended this one, which ran from March 31 to April 2. I visited from April 1-2 when cherry blossoms were in full bloom, creating stunning scenery that complemented this vibrant happening at Wolchulsan (Mountain) National Park.

The festival features traditional performing arts (left) and parade participants dressed in spectacular costumes (right).

The festival featured cultural activities and events like traditional performing arts, folk games and displays of traditional products. I tasted samples of delicious traditional Korean food from kimchi to bibimbap (rice mixed with meat, vegetables and spicy red pepper paste), bulgogi (marinated grilled beef) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cake), as well as tasty snacks and sweets.

This breathtaking sunset (left) and food booths (right) are among the highlights of my visit to this year's Yeongam Wangin Cultural Festival.

The highlight of my visit, however, was participating in the Wangin parade. As soon as I heard drumming and cheering in the distance, I made my way to the parade route, eager to see the performers up close. Dressed in colorful traditional costumes and carrying elaborate props that captured the crowd's attention, the performers displayed a contagious energy and enthusiasm.

I got swept up in the excitement, dancing with them as they made their way through the streets.

Upon reaching the main square, the parade saw an atmosphere of joy and excitement as people began to dance and sing together. Cherry blossom-like confetti began to rain down from above, adding magic to an already enchanting scene. 

Giant puppets in the parade (left) are among attractions drawing large crowds to the festival. 

As the parade ended, I felt so thankful for participating in this unique cultural experience. Memories of the delicious food, lively performances and vibrant atmosphere at this incredible event will stay with me forever. I highly recommend this festival to any visitor to Korea and look forward to going again. 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things.