Travel
Gijang Traditional Fishermen’s Festival returns to Gongsu Port Feb. 19-23
haps Magazine Korea
February 19, 2026
(Illustration by Gijang-gun/courtesy of haps Magazine Korea)
Gijang-gun will hold the 2026 Gijang Traditional Pungeoje (Fishermen’s Festival) from February 19 to 23 at Gongsu Port in Gijang-eup.
The event is a long-running community tradition organized in rotation by six fishing villages — Daebyeon, Hakri, Chilam, Icheon, Gongsu, and Duho.
Each year one village selects a ceremonial leader and forms a local committee to prepare the festival. Last year it took place in Icheon Village, while Gongsu Village hosts this year’s edition.
Historically, fishing was central to daily life in Gijang, making safe voyages and abundant catches vital concerns. Villages performed rituals to pray for protection at sea and a successful harvest, and those rites eventually developed into today’s festival. It now serves both as a community ceremony wishing for prosperity and safety and as a cultural experience for visitors.
The highlight will be the Donghaean Byeolsingut, a traditional coastal shaman ritual centered on the Yongwanggut, dedicated to the Dragon King of the sea.
A total of 23 ritual segments will be performed, blending ceremonial rites with music and performance.