A Night Festival Blending Tradition and Modernity
Black Eagles Air Show and Drone Show Draw Enthusiastic Crowds
Gyeongju City announced on October 10 that the "2025 Gyeongju National Heritage Night Tour," held over three days from September 26 to 28 at Gyochon Hanok Village, Woljeonggyo Bridge, Gyerim Forest, and Cheomseongdae, concluded successfully.
This year’s event, themed "Gift PRESENT: Preserved, and to be Preserved," was co-hosted by the National Heritage Administration, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, and Gyeongju City, and organized by the Gyeongju Cultural Center. A total of 33 programs across eight categories-including performances, exhibitions, and hands-on experiences-were held, offering a vibrant re-examination of the value of national heritage that connects the past and present.
In particular, the highlight of the event was the Air Force Black Eagles’ air show, which took place over Woljeonggyo Bridge on the second day, September 27. Their precise formation flying and aerobatic maneuvers received an enthusiastic response from the audience.
Additionally, a variety of interactive programs encouraged active participation from both citizens and tourists, including humanities lectures, a national heritage interpreter contest for children, a recycled crayon coloring experience, and pet-friendly activities.
Messages about the climate crisis and environmental protection were conveyed through ice and sand sculpture exhibitions. Meanwhile, media art, drone shows, and busking-content blending tradition and modernity-offered visitors a unique nighttime cultural experience.
By promoting the use of reusable containers, hosting a flea market, and providing recycling experiences, the festival presented a sustainable model for eco-friendly events.
Approximately 90,000 visitors attended over the three days, illuminating Gyeongju’s nights and generating positive responses on social media and in the press.
Joo Nakyoung, Mayor of Gyeongju, stated, "The Gyeongju National Heritage Night Tour was a meaningful event that reminded us of the precious value of national heritage and resonated deeply with both citizens and tourists. We will continue to focus on preserving and utilizing national heritage in modern ways, and will enhance Gyeongju’s status as a city of history, culture, and tourism through creative programs that make our nights even brighter."
Based on the success of this year’s event, Gyeongju City plans to further develop next year’s night tour in a more systematic manner, aiming to promote both the preservation of national heritage and the revitalization of the local economy.
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