Gwangalli Fishing Village Festival to be held June 12-14 in Busan

Many lanterns are visible in the Eobang Festival.

(Photo courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)

The always-popular Gwangalli Fishing Village Festival, highlighting the local fishing village culture of the Joseon Dynasty era, returns to the beach from June 12-14.

Fishnet pulling is always a popular interactive event, as is the barehanded live fish catching and a special performance of jindueohwa, a reenactment of a traditional fishing process where torches were used for fishing at night.

Other attractions include traditional folk dances, parades, choral performances, and a raw fish culinary contest.

There will also be a special drone performance on Friday and Saturday night.

What to expect

Throughout the festival, a 1km stretch of Gwangalli Beach will be transformed into a traditional “Fishing Village,” complete with naval barracks and historical houses. Key scheduled events include the Gyeongsang Left Naval Forces Street Parade and the original musical Eobang, which recounts the origins of the festival.

Additional highlights include the Eobang Madanggeuk (a traditional theater performance), and a lighting display along the beach.

Festivalgoers can also enjoy hands-on activities such as catching live fish, participating in the Eobang civil service exam, fire arrow shooting, and pounding rice cakes.

Family-friendly programs are also planned, including a children’s naval-themed SUP experience, a raw fish auction, and the Eobang Golden Bell quiz event.

Suyeong-gu has announced enhancements to festival facilities, including LED screens for live broadcasts and emergency messaging.

Event Information