The autumn scent of chrysanthemums is filling Hampyeong, South Korea. With the opening of the chrysanthemum garden themed around mythology, Hampyeong Expo Park has transformed into a festive venue for autumn tourists.
The '2026 Korea Chrysanthemum Festival,' a major autumn event in Hampyeong County, held its opening ceremony on October 23 at the central square of Hampyeong Expo Park. The festival will run for 17 days until November 8.
According to Hampyeong County officials, this year's festival features the theme 'Mythological Chrysanthemum Garden,' showcasing large chrysanthemum sculptures, bonsai displays, cultural performances, and family-friendly interactive programs.
The opening ceremony was attended by approximately 3,000 people, including Hampyeong County Mayor Lee Nam-o, Hampyeong County Council Chair Kim Young-in, council members, local officials, community leaders, residents, and tourists.
The event began with a pre-show performance by the team 'Electric,' which won awards at last year's competition. This was followed by introductions of dignitaries, the opening declaration by Mayor Lee, congratulatory remarks from a member of the National Assembly, and a welcome speech by Chair Kim.
During the opening ceremony, a symbolic moment marked the start of the festival, eliciting applause from the audience.
The celebratory performances heightened the festive atmosphere. Following a vibrant performance, singer Seongri took the stage, engaging the audience and adding to the excitement of the festival's first day.
One of the main attractions of this year's festival is the chrysanthemum exhibition space inspired by mythology.
Hampyeong County has arranged various chrysanthemum sculptures and carefully cultivated bonsai works to showcase the beauty of chrysanthemums, allowing visitors to appreciate the autumn flowers up close.
In addition to viewing chrysanthemums, the festival offers a variety of programs that combine performances and hands-on experiences.
Throughout the festival, events such as the Chrysanthemum Autumn Concert, brass band street performances, and traditional Yutnori games will be held, providing cultural activities for people of all ages.
Family-oriented programs are also available for tourists.
Activities include a chrysanthemum maze escape experience, dressing up as the chrysanthemum goddess, and crafting chrysanthemum-themed items, allowing children to participate directly.
The event area also features booths selling local agricultural products and food, enabling tourists to experience Hampyeong's specialties.
Hampyeong County aims to promote its autumn tourism resources through the Chrysanthemum Festival while ensuring that tourist visits translate into support for local farmers and businesses.
Notably, the festival is designed to connect chrysanthemum displays, performances, hands-on experiences, and local product sales, encouraging visitors to stay longer and enjoy a variety of content.
Hampyeong attracts seasonal tourists primarily through its spring butterfly festival and autumn chrysanthemum festival. This year's Chrysanthemum Festival is expected to further boost local tourism demand in the fall.
Lee Nam-o, the mayor of Hampyeong County, expressed gratitude to the residents and tourists who joined the festival's opening, stating, "I hope everyone enjoys various performances and experiences filled with the fragrance of chrysanthemums in Hampyeong and creates special autumn memories with loved ones."
The '2026 Korea Chrysanthemum Festival' will continue at Hampyeong Expo Park until November 8, featuring chrysanthemum sculptures, bonsai displays, cultural performances, family activities, and local product sales to welcome autumn tourists.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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