64% of Goseong Residents Say "Continue Even Without Myeongtae"... Enduring Value of the Myeongtae Festival Confirmed

Goseong Cultural Foundation Conducts Resident Survey on Goseong Myeongtae Festival
Transforming the Myeongtae Festival into a Cultural Event for "Sharing Myeongtae Memories"

The Goseong Myeongtae Festival has once again affirmed its value as a signature event representing Goseong County.

Aerial view of Goseong County Office. Provided by Goseong County, Gangwon Province

According to a survey conducted by the Goseong Cultural Foundation (Chairman Ham Myungjun) from July to August, the vast majority of participating residents strongly expressed their desire for the festival to continue.

A total of 445 Goseong County residents took part in the survey, with the highest proportion (39%) residing in Ganseong-eup. By age group, participation was highest among residents in their 40s, followed by those in their 30s and 50s.

Sixty-four percent of respondents answered that "the Myeongtae Festival should continue as the representative festival of Goseong," demonstrating deep affection and high expectations for the event. Notably, 59% cited the festival's "traditional value rooted in history and culture," indicating a strong consensus that the festival plays a crucial role in preserving Goseong's cultural identity, even as myeongtae (Alaska pollock) has disappeared from the region. Additionally, 37% suggested the need to "strengthen popular content."

However, areas for improvement were also clearly identified. Respondents pointed to a lack of novelty in experience booths (29%) and insufficient food options (21%) as the most disappointing aspects. In contrast, 43% selected a "welcoming atmosphere for enjoying with family and friends" as the most important element, reflecting a desire for the festival to serve as a space for community unity beyond a simple event.

Based on the results of this survey, the Goseong Cultural Foundation plans to gradually incorporate residents' feedback into the festival starting this year.

First, the foundation will significantly enhance content related to myeongtae, such as expanding processing and cooking experiences and introducing traditional fishing tool programs. Additionally, suggestions from residents-such as increasing parking lots and rest areas, and strengthening the Myeongtae Beach Bar using coastal spaces-will be implemented to improve convenience and enjoyment at the festival.

Of particular note is the "Memory Sharing" program. Recognizing that respondents associate the festival with personal memories, the foundation will feature an exhibition of photos and stories from residents related to myeongtae, transforming the festival from a simple spectacle into a cultural event that shares the cherished memories of the local community.

A representative from the Goseong Cultural Foundation stated, "The absence of myeongtae does not render the festival meaningless; in fact, it gives us even more reason to develop it into a meaningful event. In response to the high expectations confirmed by this survey, we will ensure that the Myeongtae Festival is firmly established as the representative festival that embodies Goseong's identity."