"The Breath of 500 Years Flows Along the Waterways"... Gwangju Royal Ceramics Festival Opens on the 24th
by Lee jonggu
Published 21 Apr.2026 14:33(KST)
Gwangju City to Host 12-Day Journey at Gonjian Ceramic Park from April 24 to May 5
"A Play of Time" Blending Traditional Ceramics and Modern Technology
Star-Studded Lineup Featuring Seol Undo, AUX, and K-POP Groups
Gwangju City in Gyeonggi Province, which has preserved the brilliant 500-year history of royal ceramics from the Joseon Dynasty, will once again be filled with the celebration of ceramics. On April 21, the Gwangju Cultural Foundation announced that the 29th Gwangju Royal Ceramics Festival will be held from April 24 to May 5, spanning 12 days at the Gonjian Ceramic Park.
This year's festival is themed "The Dignity of Royalty Blossomed Along the Waterways - Play of Time." The event will present a unique cultural journey that bridges the past and present by reinterpreting the historical traces of royal ceramics, which were delivered to the king via the Han River, in a contemporary context.
Especially in April 2026, Gonjian Ceramic Park will transform into a "Square of the Era," where the dignity of royalty and the value of national treasures converge, creating a festive space at the heart of history where everyone comes together as one.
The opening ceremony, which will be held at 5:30 p.m. on April 24, will begin with a pre-ceremony performance by the Gwangju Municipal Gwangjiwon Nongak Troupe, followed by a three-act main performance that combines traditional dance and LED performances. Notably, the fusion Korean traditional music band "AUX" will deliver an explosive energy as part of the opening celebration performance.
The festival excitement continues over the weekend. On April 25, K-POP artists "Nuera" and "At Heart" will perform on stage, while April 26 is designated as Trot Day, adding to the festival's excitement with the passion and energy of trot music. There will also be a special celebratory performance by "Jung Suyeon," recognized as the final winner of MBN's "Voice Queen" and a powerful vocalist, as well as a performance by the living legend "Seol Undo," who has composed numerous hit songs. By arranging K-POP Day and Trot Day performances consecutively, the festival offers a rich array of attractions for all age groups.
The 29th Gwangju Royal Ceramics Festival is designed with four specialized "Squares," allowing visitors to experience a diverse range of activities along the flow of the event space.
ZONE 1. Bridge Square: Serving as the entrance to the festival and a symbolic link between spaces, this is the main stage for official events and large-scale performances. Visitors will encounter the festival's first impression here and officially begin their journey. Various busking performances by local artists are offered throughout the area, including the outdoor play "Who Stole the Pottery," infusing the venue with energy and vibrancy.
In particular, the outdoor play "Who Stole the Pottery," inspired by royal ceramics, will be performed on both April 25 and 26. This play humorously unfolds a commotion around ceramics, naturally weaving the beauty and significance of traditional ceramics into the story and deeply engaging the audience. It is a delightful performance blending tradition and wit, enjoyable for all ages.
ZONE 2. Square of Aesthetics: This area allows visitors to fully appreciate the essence of ceramics. The "Master Exhibition," featuring works by Gwangju's royal ceramic masters, and an exhibition sales zone where visitors can purchase carefully selected ceramics, provide a close-up experience of the dignity and beauty of traditional ceramics. In the ceramics experience zone, visitors can participate in hands-on handmade ceramics workshops, experiencing the joy and meaning of shaping clay and crafting forms. Notably, signature programs such as the "Ceramics Auction," where visitors can bid on valuable ceramics with expert commentary, and the "Master Workshop," where the skills of master ceramic artists can be witnessed up close, enhance visitors' understanding of ceramics.
Additionally, there are tea ceremony demonstrations where visitors can experience traditional Korean tea culture, offering a full appreciation of the Korean aesthetics where ceramics and tea come together. Visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of food at the food court operated by food trucks and the Saemaeul Women's Association, creating a vibrant space for sightseeing, hands-on experiences, and culinary enjoyment.
ZONE 3. Festival Square: The highlight here is the "River Market," which unfolds along the sculpture park. Under the theme "Twisting Paths, Hidden Shops," visitors can explore professional handicrafts, naturally grown agricultural produce, and unique works by various artists. The market is designed to be an emotional space for relaxation and communication. Visitors can stroll through the market, discover shops with their own stories, and enjoy interacting with the artists.
ZONE 4. Cultural Square: This is an experiential space designed for families. It features various programs such as the ▲Historical and Cultural Experience Zone and ▲Old Playground (Traditional Games Festival), allowing visitors to watch, enjoy, and actively participate. In particular, the Historical and Cultural Experience Zone offers programs such as a painting maze themed around royal ceramics, board games, puzzle games, and ceramic coaster making, combining fun with educational value and providing children and family visitors with meaningful hands-on experiences.
Throughout the festival period, a range of related events showcasing Gwangju City's diverse cultural assets will be held in succession, adding to the festivities. Beginning May 1, the Gwangju Food Culture Festival will kick off, followed by the "Gwangju Arts Festival" featuring performances by local artists on May 2, and the "Gwangju Multicultural Harmony Festival," celebrating a rich variety of cultures, on May 3. Notably, on the final day of the festival, May 5, the "Children's Day Family Festival" is scheduled, making it the perfect outing for families enjoying the golden holiday week.
The 28th Gwangju Royal Ceramics Festival scene. Provided by Gwangju City, Gyeonggi Province
원본보기 아이콘Oh Seyoung, CEO of the Gwangju Cultural Foundation, stated, "Celebrating its 29th edition, this year's Gwangju Royal Ceramics Festival preserves the traditional dignity of royal ceramics while strengthening modern performances, markets, and experiential elements to better engage with the public. We hope many visitors come to Gonjian Ceramic Park to enjoy the timeless aesthetics of ceramics and create precious memories."
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