South Korea plans for year-round festival

The Seoul Metropolitan Government of South Korea says it plans to turn the capital into a city of year-round festivals by linking major seasonal events as part of its effort to become a global top-five city.

As foreign tourist numbers surge, Seoul plans to transform itself into a year-round festival city by expanding its seasonal events into a continuous, integrated programme.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government on Monday announced its “365 Festival City Seoul” initiative, aimed at elevating the capital’s global brand while placing the Han River at the center of the festivities.

The city said the plan is expected to draw 30 million foreign visitors to Seoul this year, attract 60 million attendees across its festivals and generate an economic impact of 500 billion won ($334 million).

“By revitalising festivals, we will strengthen Seoul’s brand power and quickly position the city among the world’s top five destinations,” a city official said.

Since 2022, Seoul has launched seasonal festivals including the Seoul Spring Festival, the Seoul Winter Festival in 2023, the Syuem Syuem Hangang Three-Series Festival in 2024, and the Seoul Autumn Festival in 2025. Beginning this year, the city plans to link the events into a seamless year-round celebration.

The spring festival will be expanded into a large-scale cultural, performance and tourism event. Its duration will increase from seven days last year to 26 days, and the main venue will shift from Seoul Plaza to Hangang parks.

The Syuem Syuem Hangang Three-Series Festival, a summer sports event, will take place from June 5 to 7 at Ttukseom and Jamsil Hangang parks.