Gijang Flathead Eel Festival Kicks Off at Chilam Sea... Enjoy the Flavors and Festivities of Autumn Eel

A Festival Showcasing Local Specialties
Spectacular Fireworks Over the Sea and a Vibrant Flea Market

The salty scent of the autumn sea gently fills Chilam Port in Ilgwang-eup, Gijang. The 19th Gijang Flathead Eel Festival will be held for three days from October 24 to 26.

This festival, jointly organized by Gijang County (Governor Jeong Jongbok) and the Gijang Flathead Eel Festival Organizing Committee (Chairman Lee Dongmyeong), aims to revive the vitality of the local fishing village and continue traditional food culture, centering on the flathead eel, which is known as the treasure of the sea.

Flathead eel is a representative stamina food rich in protein and vitamins, and those caught in the waters off Gijang are already renowned nationwide for their freshness and flavor. The festival is designed to widely promote the value of this local specialty, while allowing visitors to experience the culture and communal spirit of the seaside village.

Now in its 19th year, the festival has been consolidated at Chilam Port, whereas in previous years it alternated between Chilam Port in Ilgwang-eup and Sinam Port in Gijang-eup. This change strengthens the festival's identity and enhances visitor convenience. The first day will open with a parade wishing for a good catch and safety, followed by a celebratory performance featuring guest singers Kim Dahyun and Yang Jiweon, as well as various stage events such as "Local Star in Chilam" and the "National Chilam Song Festival."

Interactive programs are also a highlight. The flathead eel barehanded catching contest and the "Guess the Weight of the Flathead Eel" event are popular attractions enjoyed by people of all ages, drawing enthusiastic participation from families every year. The festival will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display over the sea, beautifully illuminating the autumn night at Chilam.

The festival also offers a feast of flavors. There will be a special 20% discount event on flathead eel sashimi and grilled eel at the festival venue, providing a great opportunity to enjoy fresh eel at a reasonable price. The savory aroma of flathead eel, grilled on-site, is sure to captivate visitors.

During the same period, the local flea market "Wave Market in Mundong" will be held at the nearby Mundong Breakwater, creating a warm space for local small business owners and residents to come together. Free shuttle buses will run between Jwacheon Station, Chilam Port, and Mundong throughout the festival period, making access even more convenient.

Lee Dongmyeong, Chairman of the Gijang Flathead Eel Festival Organizing Committee, said, "We have prepared a festival that fully embodies the warmth and flavors of Chilam's sea. I hope everyone will enjoy fresh flathead eel at affordable prices, along with fun experiences and performances."

Jeong Jongbok, Governor of Gijang County, stated, "I hope the Gijang Flathead Eel Festival will serve as an opportunity to spread the reputation of our region's signature seafood nationwide. I also hope families will create precious memories together while enjoying the unique charm of Gijang, where the sea and culture come together."

This year, Chilam Port in Gijang is once again expected to come alive as an autumn festival filled with the savory aroma of flathead eel and the warmth and vibrancy of the local community.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.