Gimje Horizon Festival 2024 in South Korea

The Gimje Horizon Festival is a vibrant celebration of South Korea's agricultural heritage, taking place in Gimje-si, Jeollabuk Province, one of the country's most important granary regions. This annual event highlights the significance of farming culture in Korea, with a particular focus on rice production. As the only place in Korea where the horizon can be seen on land, Gimje offers festival-goers a unique experience, emphasizing the convergence of the sky and earth at the horizon, symbolizing the region's agricultural roots.

Activities and Attractions

The Gimje Horizon Festival offers a wide range of hands-on activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Festival-goers can participate in traditional rice farming activities, such as harvesting rice and maneuvering carts driven by horses or cows. Additionally, fun activities like catching grasshoppers provide an entertaining way to experience rural life. The festival also features kite-flying, Korean Straw and plant handicraft making, and cooking rice over an open fire. These activities aim to educate visitors about Korea’s farming culture and promote the regional image and economy.

Schedule

The Gimje Horizon Festival will take place from October 2 to October 6, 2024, at the Byeokgolje Reservoir Site. The festival grounds are open from 9 am to 10 pm, allowing visitors ample time to explore the diverse array of events and activities. The festival is organized by the Gimje Horizon Festival Committee and hosted by Gimje-si.

Free Admission and Parking

Admission to the Gimje Horizon Festival is free. Parking is available near the festival site, ensuring convenient access for those traveling by car.

Location and Infrastructure

The festival is held at the Byeokgolje Reservoir Site. Gimje is situated approximately 150 miles (240 km) from Seoul and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The town is renowned for its high-quality rice production, thanks to the region's favorable water, air, and soil conditions. The Byeokgolje Reservoir, the world's largest irrigation facility built 1,700 years ago during the Baekje era, underscores Gimje's significance as the birthplace of Korea's rice farming and agricultural culture. Visitors can explore the area's scenic landscapes and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for those interested in agriculture and history.

History of the Festival

The Gimje Horizon Festival was established in 1999 to promote Gimje's unique agricultural heritage and its renowned horizon view. The festival is centered around Byeokgolje and aims to restore the area's historical reputation as a cultural and agricultural hub. Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity, becoming one of Korea’s premier cultural tourism events with core focus on celebrating Korea’s farming traditions.