"Considering Public Sentiment" ... Changwon Special City Abruptly Cancels Cheonjusan Azalea Festival

Wildfire Safety Campaign for Hikers During Azalea Bloom Season

Changwon Special City in Gyeongnam announced that the Cheonjusan Jindallae Festival, which was scheduled to be held by the Cheonjusan Jindallae Festival Committee from the 5th to the 6th, has been completely canceled. This decision was made after comprehensively considering the recent large-scale wildfires, the issuance of the national wildfire disaster crisis alert at the 'Severe' level, and public sentiment.

Azaleas of Cheonjusan Mountain.

The festival was originally planned to feature a variety of programs, including pre-ceremony performances, an opening ceremony, a singing contest, and hands-on booths, all set against the backdrop of the Cheonjusan Jindallae colony. However, the committee decided to cancel the event entirely, prioritizing the safety and lives of citizens above all else.

Although the festival has been canceled, visits from hikers wishing to enjoy the azalea blooming season are still expected. Therefore, the festival committee plans to run a 'Wildfire Safety Campaign,' which will include wildfire prevention promotional vehicles, a wildfire safety prayer ritual, and a wildfire prevention drawing contest. In addition, members will be stationed along major trails to maintain order and prevent accidents, ensuring that hikers can safely enjoy the Cheonjusan Jindallae.

Kim Seongsu, chairman of the festival committee, said, "It is very unfortunate that we have to cancel the Cheonjusan Jindallae Festival, which so many people were looking forward to, but right now, the safety of our citizens and the protection of our forests must come first." He added, "Although the festival is canceled, we ask all hikers visiting Cheonjusan to actively participate in wildfire prevention through the Wildfire Safety Campaign."