Participation and Experience at the Center, Fostering Community Unity
Established as a Traditional Cultural Festival Embracing All Generations
Uljin County, North Gyeongsang Province, announced that the 39th Pyeonghae Dano Festival, held over two days from May 31 to June 1 in the Namdaecheon area of Pyeonghae-eup, concluded successfully.
This year’s Dano Festival was held under the theme “Connecting Tradition and Affection.” It was hosted by the Uljin Cultural Center, with the organizing committee composed of residents from Pyeonghae-eup directly overseeing the event.
This year’s festival, a representative traditional cultural event in Uljin, moved to the more spacious and nature-friendly Namdaecheon area compared to last year. This allowed people of all ages to enjoy the festivities together and share a sense of community, making it a meaningful occasion.
On the first day, May 31, the festival began with the traditional ritual of Jecheon, followed by a Ssireum wrestling championship, a folk Janggi (Korean chess) tournament, and a Gakseori performance, all of which added to the enjoyment of tradition. In particular, during the evening opening ceremony, trot singer Jeon Yujin took the stage and received enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.
On the second day, June 1, the traditional Wolsong Great Tug-of-War, which has been passed down in Pyeonghae-eup, was reenacted and drew much attention. The festival continued with a tightrope walking performance, a performance by the Gyeongbuk Provincial Gugak Orchestra, inter-town folk games, a Dano singing contest, and a congratulatory performance by Hwang Minwoo, known as “Little Psy,” further heightening the excitement of the festival.
Dano Festival Tightrope Walking Performance. Provided by Uljin County
At the festival site, various Dano-themed experience booths attracted many visitors. Children and families enjoyed traditional games and hands-on activities such as making Dano fans, making Surichwi rice cakes, Jegichagi (Korean shuttlecock kicking), Neolttwigi (Korean seesaw), spinning tops, and archery, naturally fostering interest in Korean culture.
In addition, a variety of community participation programs showcased the region’s cultural capabilities, including performances by local art groups and music clubs, a youth gathering featuring students from Uljin Middle School, and a Yutnori (traditional board game) competition with direct participation from local residents.
Notably, this year a new barefoot walking trail made of natural earth was created in the Wolsongjeong area, famous as one of the Eight Scenic Views of the East. Many festival-goers experienced the special opportunity to walk barefoot on the earthy path, connecting with nature and healing their minds.
County Governor Son Byeongbok stated, “This year’s Pyeonghae Dano Festival was a meaningful event where we could appreciate the value of tradition and share warmth as residents and visitors enjoyed it together. We will continue to actively support the preservation and succession of Uljin’s unique traditional culture.”
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