Travel
Seoul Drum Festival returns to Dongdaemun Design Plaza May 16-17
haps Magazine Korea
May 11, 2026
Seoul Drum Festival (Photo by Seoul Metropolitan Government/courtesy of haps Magazine Korea)
The 28th Seoul Drum Festival will take place May 16–17 at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), bringing together international artists and public participants for two days of percussion-focused events.
Held under the theme “Drum Dream People,” the festival combines live performances, parades, workshops and interactive programs. One of the main highlights is a large-scale percussion parade featuring 12 artist groups and 212 participants who have trained together over the past three months.
The parade will move through central Seoul before reaching the main venue.
The performance lineup includes internationally recognized drummer Donald Barrett, along with a mix of Korean and international performers representing traditional, jazz and contemporary styles.
Workshops and master classes will also be offered, covering instruments and techniques such as handpan, finger drumming and body percussion.
The festival is free to attend, with select workshops requiring advance registration through the official website.