Gwangju · Food and culture festival

Gwangju Kimchi Festival

October 23–25, 2026

Dates: October 23–25, 2026
Hours: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Festival entry: Free
Kimchi activities: Separate fees may apply
Venue: Gwangju City Hall grounds
Address: 111 Naebang-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju

Naver Map Google Maps Official website

Photo: Korea Tourism Organization

AROUND THE FESTIVAL

Plan a few nearby stops

Traditional marketGwangju · Every five daysSongjeong Five-Day MarketThis traditional market opens on dates ending in 3 and 8 each month.View market details Memorial parkNear the city hall areaMay 18 Memorial ParkWalk through the park and memorial spaces devoted to Gwangju’s democratic movement.View details Urban walkFor a short outdoor breakUncheon ReservoirTake a short walk on the waterside deck paths before returning to the festival area.View details

STAY NEARBY

Hotels near the festival

Sangmu district and Gwangju City Hall

View stays

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Come hungry and choose your activities

Start with the food program

Check the final lineup for the Thousand People’s Table, chef demonstrations, and kimchi market before choosing an arrival time.

Book activities early

Kimchi-making programs may require registration and a separate fee. Review the official notice before traveling.

Use public transit

The city hall and Sangmu district are easier to navigate without a car when festival traffic is heavy.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

Gwangju’s celebration of kimchi

At a glance

Gwangju Kimchi Festival brings tastings, kimchi-making activities, chef demonstrations, exhibitions, performances, and a food market to the city hall grounds.

Why Gwangju

Gwangju is known for kimchi made with generous seasoning and ingredients from across the Honam region. The festival connects that food tradition with contemporary cooking and hands-on programs.

Before you go

The 2026 dates, hours, and venue are confirmed. Detailed program descriptions are still based on 2025, so check the official website for registration and schedule updates.