'Walking the Green Path in the Spring Breeze': Gochang Barley Field Festival Opens on the 18th

Evolving into a Stay-Oriented Festival
Connecting to the Local Economy

The 23rd Gochang Barley Field Festival will be held for 23 days, from April 18 to May 10, 2026.

The festival is timed to coincide with the spectacular green barley fields, and this year, it has shifted from simple sightseeing to an immersive experience, encouraging visitors to stay longer and participate in various activities.

Last year's Gochang Green Barley Field Festival. Provided by Gochang County

According to Gochang County on April 14, this year’s festival is themed "Memories of Spring, Remaining on the Road." With approximately 63 hectares of green barley fields as its backdrop, the festival is expanding its walking and experience-based programs to increase visitor stay time. By utilizing the natural environment of Gochang, which is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the festival aims to further serve as a space for relaxation and healing.

This year’s event moves beyond passive viewing, allowing visitors to walk directly among the barley fields and immerse themselves in nature. Various photo zones will be set up on site, and tractor-pulled tour rides will be operated to enhance the stay-oriented experience.

During the festival period, a variety of performances and hands-on programs will take place. Classical music busking, traditional farmers’ music performances, and fusion Korean traditional music stages will be offered against the backdrop of the barley fields. Over the Children’s Day holiday, programs such as puppet shows, magic shows, and bubble shows will be concentrated for families. Interactive events like social media certification campaigns and treasure hunts will also be available. On opening day, there will be a parade of traditional farmers’ music combined with a walking program.

Gochang County plans to strengthen food hygiene inspections and enforce price labeling to prevent overcharging, and will operate a price stabilization booth to minimize inconvenience for visitors. The county aims to establish a stable tourism model that encourages repeat visits through this festival.

Kim Youngsik, Deputy Governor of Gochang County, stated, "We will create a clean, high-quality festival where everyone can enjoy themselves with peace of mind."

Meanwhile, Gochang County has introduced a system where the 10,000 won parking fee paid by visitors is reimbursed in the form of a "Gochang Love Gift Certificate." The refunded certificates can be used at local affiliated stores, ensuring that tourism spending circulates within the local economy.

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