On May 16, the area around Jungnangcheon in Jungnang District (Mayor Ryu Kyunggi), which was splendidly adorned with ten million roses, saw the grand opening of the main event of the 17th Jungnang Seoul Rose Festival, the "Grand Rose Festival."
The first day of the Grand Rose Festival (held from May 16 to 18), the main event of the festival, was themed "Happy Rose Day," with the concept of "A Day of Happiness for Jungnang Residents."
Now in its 17th year, the Jungnang Seoul Rose Festival lives up to its reputation as "the most beautiful festival in Seoul." It is held for nine days along the 5.45-kilometer rose tunnel that stretches beside Jungnangcheon and in the area around Jungnang Rose Park, which is decorated with 310,000 rose bushes of 228 different varieties.
The festival began in the morning with a walking event. Co-hosted by the Jungnang District Sports Council and three religious organizations, the walking event started at the main stage in Junghwa Sports Park and continued for about 1.5 kilometers to the Surimdae Rose Garden stage. Souvenirs and prizes were provided, making the event especially popular among family participants.
Later, from 3 p.m., the Rose Parade took place, with more than 1,300 residents joining in to heighten the festival's excitement. This year's parade, themed "A Brilliantly Colorful Rose Path," featured unique themes and performances prepared by each neighborhood, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.
However, after the Rose Parade, an unexpected torrential downpour occurred. As a result, prioritizing the safety of visitors, the opening ceremony, the Jungnang Rose Week proclamation ceremony, and the Happy Rose Concert?which was to feature singers Song Gain and Wink?were inevitably canceled due to the heavy rain.
At the Surimdae Rose Garden stage, rose-themed busking performances were held, and at the Jungnang Rose Cafe, which opened in May this year, special drinks with rose-shaped ice cubes attracted the attention of visitors.
In addition, a flea market was held on Flower Light Street, and at the Rose Photo Garden, a variety of cultural and artistic programs were offered, including an exhibition of "Memorable Rose History Photos" selected from a history contest, string rose art, photo zones, and sculpture displays.
Ryu Kyunggi, mayor of Jungnang District, said, "It is very disappointing that some programs had to be canceled due to unexpected weather conditions, but I hope everyone understands that the safety of our residents was the top priority." He added, "I hope you continue to create joyful memories with the beautiful roses of Jungnang during the remainder of the festival."
The "Grand Rose Festival" will continue until May 18, with a variety of performances and programs centered around the theme of roses scheduled to take place.
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