The Nation’s Largest Island Festival Hosted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety
Smooth Operation Despite Heavy Rain
Resident-Led Events Like Trot Music Contest Gain Popularity
Governor Kim Yungrok and Five National Assembly Members Attend
The 6th Island Day commemorative event, held throughout Wando-eup in Wando County, South Jeolla Province, successfully concluded on August 10, attracting more than 38,000 visitors. Hosted by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, this year’s Island Day festival took place over four days from August 7 to 10, featuring a variety of programs that highlighted Wando's identity as a "healing island."
Island Day is a legally designated anniversary established to raise awareness of the importance of islands and their sustainable development. This year, the event focused on showcasing the unique characteristics and charms of Wando to visitors. Although the event faced challenges due to a sudden downpour during the festivities, the overall proceedings were praised for running smoothly.
The commemorative ceremony was attended by key figures, including Vice Minister of the Interior and Safety Kim Minjae, National Assembly members Park Ji-won, Shin Jeonghoon, Seo Samseok, Jin Sunmi, and Joo Cheolhyeon, South Jeolla Province Governor Kim Yungrok, and Wando County Governor Shin Woocheol, who all delivered congratulatory messages. Despite the hot weather, a large crowd gathered for the ceremony.
During the festival, a range of hands-on programs appealing to all generations were offered. Family-friendly activities such as the children's island drawing contest, the Island Academy, and making fish bags to protect the islands kept the venue bustling throughout the event.
The most notable feature of this year’s Island Day was the significant expansion of local residents’ participation, in line with the theme of "island residents as the main protagonists." Programs such as the island birthday party, lunch show, and trot music contest received enthusiastic responses from visitors, exemplifying a truly resident-led festival.
A county official stated, "This year’s Island Day commemorative event achieved great success as local residents took the lead and the programs effectively highlighted Wando’s unique qualities," adding, "We will continue to promote the value of islands and carry out various activities for sustainable development in the future."
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