Gochang-gun to Host the 2nd Mujang Eupseong Festival

[Gochang=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Jaegil] Jeonbuk Gochang-gun announced on the 20th that the "2nd Mujang Eupseong Festival" will be held on the 23rd at the Mujang Eupseong area under the theme "Embracing the Past and Present."

Mujang Eupseong (Historic Site No. 346) is an important site that has played a central role as an administrative and military stronghold since it was built in 1417 (the 17th year of King Taejong) to defend against Japanese pirates.

The main festival programs include the pre-ceremony Seonghwangje ritual and pre-ceremony performances, a reenactment of the appointment procession of the local magistrate, fish release ceremony, butterfly flying, Pyeonjeon, archery experience with baby arrows, themed programs such as Mujang Chilgeori Dangsanje, a banquet honoring the elderly (Hyo), traditional programs including Joseon military costume experience, large drum beating experience, military camp Juri throwing experience, performance programs featuring celebrity guest performances, exciting art bus performances, and tasting events.

Among the highly anticipated performances is the butterfly flying event, which commemorates the 605th anniversary of the fortress construction by flying 605 butterflies. This symbolizes comforting the hardships and souls of the local people who participated in the fortress construction in 1417 and promises the permanent preservation of Mujang Eupseong to the ancestors.

With the restoration of Mujang Eupseong underway, 11 pieces of Bigyeokjincheollae (a type of ancient Korean thunder bomb) have been excavated, highlighting its value as a military stronghold. The lotus pond, which was restored after being used as an elementary school playground, has become a beautiful lotus flower attraction as seeds that had been underground for 100 years have sprouted and bloomed again.

The Mujang Eupseong Festival is being promoted mainly by the Gochang Mujang Eupseong Preservation Society, composed of residents of Mujang-myeon, giving it even greater significance.

Gochang=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Jaegil baekok@asiae.co.kr