Seorak Cultural Festival

The Seorak Cultural Festival is Sokcho's representative local cultural festival, continuing since the first Seorak Festival in 1966. It is a festival that encompasses the history and culture centered around Mt. Seorak, as well as the lives and stories of Sokcho citizens. Marking its 61st anniversary this year, the festival takes a step forward under the theme "Seorak, Colored Together," reflecting on the traditions and history of the past 60 years and becoming a celebration where citizens and tourists participate together to create new narratives. While inheriting the long-standing identity of the Seorak Cultural Festival, the event plans to showcase a new look through diverse programs that allow citizens to become the protagonists, participating directly and enjoying the festivities. In particular, the festival is structured to reflect on the historical significance of "Seorak Sosa," which has served as the central ritual since the first festival, and to allow citizens and tourists to more easily understand and empathize with the traditional rites by adding commentary and storytelling. Furthermore, the ‘Seorak Climbing Competition,’ which carries on the mountaineering culture that marked the beginning of the Seorak Cultural Festival, will feature a hiking event on Dalmabong Peak (a restricted trail) and a Seorak Mountain Music Concert, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery of Seorak. The festival’s signature program, the ‘Street Parade,’ will unfold as a civic harmony parade with direct participation from local residents, clubs, schools, and cultural and artistic organizations. Using Seorak Rodeo Street as its stage, citizens of all generations and regions will come together to mingle, offering the joy of the Seorak Cultural Festival through active creation and participation, moving beyond a mere spectator event. In addition, at the Sokcho Expo Lawn, a variety of cultural and artistic performances will take place, including civic harmony programs such as the ‘Sokcho! Cheerful Sports Day,’ as well as performances by local art groups, fringe performances, and club festivals. Programs for the whole family to enjoy, such as local cultural experiences and children's playgrounds, are also prepared. Moreover, the festival is set to be further enriched by linking it with the ‘Seorak Rodeo Street Commercial District Revitalization Project’ and the ‘Sokcho Cultural City Gourmet Week.’ The Seorak Cultural Festival, which has spanned 61 years, now begins a new time and story.