The 22nd Yeongsanpo Fermented Skate & Hanwoo Festival — May 22–24 at Yeongsan River Riverside Park
NAJU — Kim Dae-woo, reporter
Naju, long celebrated as the hometown of fermented skate, is throwing a foodie festival where you can taste 600 years of tradition in aged skate alongside the region’s prized hanwoo beef.
On the 9th, Naju City in South Jeolla Province announced that the 22nd Yeongsanpo Fermented Skate & Hanwoo Festival will take place for three days, from May 22 to 24, at the Yeongsangang Riverside Sports Park.
Linked to the “2026 Year to Visit Naju” initiative, this year’s event shifts from a simple food fair to a linger-and-indulge gourmet festival blending live performances, hands-on experiences, and chill-out spaces. A 160,000 m² riverside area (roughly 39 acres) has been planted with red poppies and outfitted with photo zones and walking paths—perfect for Instagram moments and relaxed strolls.
The festival lineup includes family-friendly attractions such as inflatable bounce houses, four-shot photo booths, towering balloon art, and a magic bubble show. Local food stalls and a flea market will offer regional produce and small-business goods at bargain prices.
Food lovers can snap up Yeongsanpo fermented skate and the region’s flagship “Naju Deul-ae-chan” hanwoo at 30–50% off, plus other curated gourmet offerings. Popular singers will take the stage in back-to-back celebration performances to keep the energy high. On closing night, May 24, a spectacular fireworks show will light up the Yeongsan River sky and cap off the festivities.
Jang Haeng-jun, chair of the festival organizing committee, said, “In May, Naju transforms into a city of festivals where food and culture meet. We hope many visitors come to experience Naju’s unique charms—its history, traditions, cuisine, and culture.” Last year’s three-day festival drew 135,000 visitors, giving a strong boost to local tourism and the economy.
