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Gochang Moyang Fortress Festival 2023

Walk three times around the fortress with a stone on your head—and you'll live a long, happy, and healthy life ever after

Dates: October 10–23, 2023

Gochang Moyang Fortress Festival

The Gochang Moyang Fortress in Jeollabuk-do Province which was built back in the 15th century to prevent Japanese invasions, seems to have become even more useful over the ages. Locals believe it can cure illnesses, grant you a happy life, and help you get to Heaven after death.

Everyone can win the jackpot—all you have to do is go round the fortress three times carrying a rock on top of your head. This ritual called "dapseongdori" is performed by hundreds of people at the Gochang Moyang Fortress Festival that takes place annually in October.

But if you can't manage to be there during the festival, you can perform the ritual on your own any other time. The fortress wall path is particularly beautiful in spring, when cherry blossoms and other seasonal flowers ornate the landscapes.

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