Yeongdeok Flatfish Festival Returns in Style as "Seafood Grill Festa"

Marine Cultural Festival to Be Held at Chuksan Port Area from November 7 to 9

Yeongdeok County in North Gyeongsang Province will host the "Yeongdeok Flatfish Festival," an event symbolizing recovery and a new leap forward for residents and tourists after overcoming wildfire damage, from November 7 to 9 at the Chuksan Port area.

Celebrating its 19th year, the Yeongdeok Flatfish Festival has traditionally been held in May, but was postponed this year due to the wildfire damage that originated in Uiseong and affected North Gyeongsang Province.

In response, Yeongdeok County has completely revamped the festival, transforming it from a simple seafood event into the nation's first "participatory fishing village cultural festival" where the sea, people, and music come together. Under the new theme "Seafood Grill Festa," the festival will offer a fresh experience.

The heart of the festival is an interactive experience centered around the "Seafood Grill Zone." Local gillnet fishermen will actively participate in running the event, and tourists will be able to enjoy fresh seafood caught by these fishermen on the spot, providing a vivid taste and story of the Yeongdeok sea.

Additionally, a variety of programs have been prepared for all generations, including a fishing village flea market, free tasting events, social media certification activities, and a hands-on barehanded fish-catching experience.

This year’s festival will also feature the "SUN&MOON STAGE," a stage that seamlessly connects daytime and nighttime events from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. During the day, residents and tourists can enjoy participatory events such as trot and guest singer performances, as well as the Chuksan Port Star K Singing Contest. In the evening, the stage will host youth performance teams, DJ parties, and performances by local youth, artists, and residents, creating a festival where residents, tourists, young people, and seniors can all come together as one.

Notably, this year's festival holds special significance as it is organized and run by local residents themselves. Local fishermen, youth, and merchants are voluntarily participating in on-site operations, experiential programs, and performances, expanding the event into a true community festival.

Jung Changgi, head of the Yeongdeok Flatfish Festival Preparatory Committee, stated, "This year’s Flatfish Festival is not merely a seafood sales event, but a living fishing village cultural festival created together by local fishermen, tourists, residents, and young people." He added, "By making the nation’s first attempt at the 'Seafood Grill Festa' a success, we aim to promote Yeongdeok’s sea and outstanding local specialties nationwide, thereby contributing to the local economy."