About
The Gwangju Kimchi Festival, one of Korea’s leading kimchi festivals, returns for its 33rd edition from October 23 to 25 at the Gwangju Government Complex in Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City. Long devoted to preserving the traditions and cultural value of kimchi, Gwangju invites visitors to experience everything from age-old kimjang (communal kimchi-making) to new and creative ways of enjoying kimchi. Programs include the Korea Kimchi Competition, the Kimchi-Making Experience, the Kimchi Market, and the Thousand People’s Table, where visitors can enjoy food alongside cultural performances. The festival also links kimchi to the region’s broader food culture, arts, and tourism, while local residents take an active part in shaping an event that reflects Gwangju's unique character.
Program
Thousand People’s Table (food booths), Kimchi Party, Kimchi Master Class, Kimchi Market
Gwangju Kimchi Festival (광주김치축제)
Fri, Oct 23 – Sun, Oct 25
3 days
Gwangju Government Complex Plaza, Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City
111, Naebang-ro, Seo-gu, Jeonnam-Gwangju
10:00-20:00
Free (fees vary by programs)
Organizer Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City
Contact +82-62-613-3955
About
The Gwangju Kimchi Festival, one of Korea’s leading kimchi festivals, returns for its 33rd edition from October 23 to 25 at the Gwangju Government Complex in Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City. Long devoted to preserving the traditions and cultural value of kimchi, Gwangju invites visitors to experience everything from age-old kimjang (communal kimchi-making) to new and creative ways of enjoying kimchi. Programs include the Korea Kimchi Competition, the Kimchi-Making Experience, the Kimchi Market, and the Thousand People’s Table, where visitors can enjoy food alongside cultural performances. The festival also links kimchi to the region’s broader food culture, arts, and tourism, while local residents take an active part in shaping an event that reflects Gwangju's unique character.
Program
Thousand People’s Table (food booths), Kimchi Party, Kimchi Master Class, Kimchi Market
More festivals to see
Grand Chrysanthemum Festival (대한민국 국향대전)
Gangjin Bay Dancing Reed Festival (강진만 춤추는 갈대축제)
Suncheon Naganeupseong Folk Culture Festival (순천 낙안읍성 민속문화축제)
Hwasun Dolmen Autumn Flower Festival (세계문화유산 화순 고인돌 가을꽃 축제)
Yeosu National Heritage Media Art Festival: Jinnamgwan Guesthouse (국가유산 미디어아트 여수 진남관)
Mokpo Port Festival (목포항구축제)
Mokpo Heritage Night Tour (목포 국가유산야행)
Wolchulsan Chrysanthemum Festival (월출산 국화축제)
Gwangju Seochang Silver Grass Festival (광주서창억새축제)
Yeosu Night Sea Fireworks Festival (여수밤바다 불꽃축제)
Guides
Festivals in Gwangju·Jeonnam in October 2026›Source: Korea Tourism Organization
Data as of 10.17. Dates and prices can change, so check the official site before you go.