According to the foundation, attendance for the opening weekend, April 18–19, rose more than 90% compared with the same period last year, and crowds on April 25–26 more than doubled. Overall attendance is up over 60% year over year.
The foundation attributes the success to expanded hands-on programming targeted at families. Onsite, craft booths, outdoor fossil-digging activities and a stamp rally—participatory programs all—have been big hits.
Positive visitor reviews and shared experiences on social media have amplified the buzz, creating a virtuous cycle that encourages repeat visits. That influx has brought tourists not only from nearby Busan, Changwon and Jinju but from across the Yeongnam region.
On April 25, historian Choi Tae-seong’s special lecture on the Battle of Danghangpo drew a large audience and added momentum to the event. The talk presented the historical significance of Danghangpo—Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s victory site—in an engaging, accessible way, boosting its educational value.
The Dinosaur Live Garden performances and weekend magic and balloon shows have also proven popular with family visitors.
The program continues into May. On May 2–3, the cultural parade "Goseong Spring Breeze Nalli Blues" will take place, and a variety of performances are scheduled for the Children’s Day holiday weekend. The spring season runs through May 17.
A foundation official said, “We will do our best to manage safety and operate convenience facilities in response to the rising number of visitors.”
