The 2026 Jindo International Intangible Cultural Heritage Festival has officially begun in Jindo, South Jeolla Province, showcasing both domestic and international intangible heritage.
The festival opened on September 18 at the Jindo Local Cultural Center and will run for three days until September 20.
This year's theme, "The Thread of Life, Twelve Knots," reflects on the significance of Jindo's intangible heritage intertwined with human experiences such as birth, growth, meeting, and parting. The event serves as a platform for cultural exchange among traditional cultures from around the world.
Participants from five countries, including South Korea, India, Indonesia, Mongolia, and China, have broadened the festival's programming to highlight Jindo's unique intangible heritage alongside global traditions.
The opening ceremony was attended by Jindo County Mayor Lee Jae-gak, National Assembly member Park Ji-won, Jindo County Council Chair Kim Chun-hwa, and other dignitaries from the International Intangible Cultural Conference, as well as local residents and tourists.
The ceremony began with a pre-show performance by the Jindo Folk Arts Troupe and a traditional Pungmul performance, followed by a themed creative performance titled "Seocheon Flower Field."
"Seocheon Flower Field" combined the sounds, music, and dance of Jindo Sikkim Gut, expressing the spirit of Jindo's intangible heritage that shares and comforts the sorrows of life through a modern performance.
A ceremonial launch of the "Jindo Art Ship," symbolizing the journey of Jindo's cultural arts into the future, followed. As Mayor Lee declared the festival open, the audience joined in shouting, "Raise the sails!" to mark the festival's commencement.
The celebratory performances heightened the festive atmosphere, featuring music by K-Lock Company and aerial acts by Project Luminary, culminating in a performance by singer Kim Yeon-ja that drew enthusiastic responses from the audience.
Mayor Lee Jae-gak stated, "Jindo's intangible heritage is a precious asset that has been cherished by the community, celebrating joy and providing comfort to one another. I hope this festival becomes a space to share the value of intangible heritage across generations and borders."
The 2026 Jindo International Intangible Cultural Heritage Festival will continue until September 20. During the festival, performances including Jindo Sikkim Gut, Nakwa Nori, and collaborative performances with audience participation such as Ganggangsullae will take place, along with international intangible heritage performances from invited artists from India, China, Mongolia, and Indonesia.
On the final day, September 20, the festival will conclude with performances of Jindo Dasiraegi and Madanggeuk, followed by the "Jindo Manggah Parade" starting at 5:30 PM, marking the grand finale of the three-day event.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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