KOREA

(Image: Busanjin-gu)

Busanjin-gu is set to come alive throughout October with a variety of vibrant festivals, focusing on themes of light, coffee, medicine, and street performances.

The “2nd Seomyeon Festival,” a highlight of the fall season and that began on October 2nd, features an expanded lineup of events aimed at revitalizing the Seomyeon commercial district and positioning itself as a key cultural attraction for the region.

Running through January 10th, the light-themed festival will feature illuminated sculptures and captivating landscape lighting installations spread over a stretch of 1.8 kilometers — 500 meters longer than last year.

Designed to attract visitors with photo zones and immersive experiences, this expansion aims to further boost local businesses and promote the area as a lively nighttime destination.

On October 12th, the Seomyeon Busking Festival will also take place, showcasing nine performing teams, including standout participants from the monthly “Busan Real Karaoke” competition.

The Jeonpo Coffee Festival is another major highlight. Scheduled for October 12-13, the festival will bring together 60 domestic and international coffee companies, featuring 71 booths. Events will include a “blind coffee contest,” interactive sessions with baristas, and a variety of experience booths ranging from retro-style cafes to modern coffee therapy. Attendees can explore unique tasting sessions and participate in stamp tours, which offer discounts and incentives to further support local coffee businesses.

The festivities continue with the Seomyeon Medical Street Festival on October 25-26, where over 20 clinics specializing in dermatology, internal medicine, and dentistry will provide free health checkups and medical consultations to citizens. The event, hosted by the city and organized by the Seomyeon Medical Street Medical Tourism Council, is expected to draw large crowds seeking health services and wellness advice.

Complementing these major events, the area will also host smaller cultural gatherings like the “Festival Siot,” which features performances, flea markets, and various cultural activities on designated car-free streets, offering something for everyone.

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