Gumi City to Host '2025 Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural Village Story Expo' on October 18-19

20 Villages from Across the Province Gather for a Cultural Journey Through Gyeongsangbuk-do's Story-filled Villages
Gumi's Dogae Silla Buddhism Chocheonji Village Offers Omija Gochujang Experience
October 18-19: A Vibrant Autumn Festival with Youth Hip-hop, Food, and Reading Culture Events

Gumi City in North Gyeongsang Province will host the '2025 Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural Village Story Expo' over two days, from October 18 to 19, at the Geumosan Mountain main parking lot.

This year marks the 11th edition of the expo, held under the theme 'Into the Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural Villages with Stories!' The event aims to unearth hidden village traditions and histories from across North Gyeongsang Province and to share the region's cultural values. A total of 20 villages, each representing a city or county in the province, will participate, creating an atmosphere of unity.

The expo venue will feature a Cultural Village Story Hall, a local specialty promotion center, performances by local artists, and a cultural village performance festival, among other diverse programs. Visitors will be able to experience the unique lifestyles and customs of each region and fully appreciate the charm of 'villages with stories.'

'2025 Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural Village Story Expo' Poster / Provided by Gumi City Hall

Gumi City will be represented by the Silla Buddhism Chocheonji Informatization Village in Dogae-myeon, which will introduce Dori Temple, the Chocheonji Morae Family, sachet making, traditional Korean soybean paste made from domestic soybeans, and rural experience programs.

In particular, a hands-on experience making homemade gochujang (Korean chili paste) using omija (Schisandra berries) will be available on site, offering visitors a unique and engaging activity.

Additionally, the village cultural performance festival will feature a traditional farmer's music performance by Sangsang 2-ri Village in Nakdong-myeon, Sangju, as well as a theatrical performance of 'Doggy Poo' by Mongsil Unni Village in Andong.

An official from Gumi City stated, "Through this expo, we aim to widely promote the rich traditions of Dogae Silla Buddhism Chocheonji Village, where Monk Ado first introduced Buddhism to Silla, and to highlight the excellence of local specialties such as traditional Korean sauces and rice. This will be a meaningful opportunity to showcase Gumi's traditions and culture to a broader audience."