GANGNEUNG, Jun. 5 (Korea Bizwire) – The ancient Gangneung Danoje festival, designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and a National Intangible Cultural Property of South Korea, will take place from June 6 to 13 at the Namdaecheon event grounds in Gangneung.
Under the theme “Rise Up, Danoje,” the 2024 edition carries a multilayered meaning – a call for the spirit of the dragon to rise, for hope to rise, and for the status of the Gangneung Danoje festival itself to ascend.
The organizers explain that this theme encapsulates their aspiration for the preeminent Korean festival, which has introduced Gangneung and the nation to the world, to soar to new heights.
The 2024 Gangneung Danoje promises an array of 64 programs across 12 categories, including the nation’s largest temporary market, designated cultural heritage events, citizen participation activities, and traditional folk games.
A highlight this year will be the diverse array of performances. For the first time, the festival grounds will host an immersive experience titled “Memories of Danoje,” seamlessly blending the market, performances, and hands-on activities without a strict delineation between stage and audience.
Additionally, the National Dance Company of Korea will grace the closing ceremony, as the Gangneung Danoje was selected for the National Theater’s Regional Culture Hub Performance project this year.
The National Hangeul Museum will present the “Visiting Dialect Story Concert,” showcasing the charm of the Gangneung dialect and offering opportunities to appreciate Hangeul culture.
Making their debut at the festival grounds will be an international lineup of performances from countries like Malaysia, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan, as well as other Korean performers.
Safety measures have been enhanced, with the introduction of IoT-based automated counters to monitor crowd flow and mitigate potential hazards, as well as an increase in security personnel.
To address overpricing concerns, the prices of representative Danoje foods like gamjajeon (potato pancakes) and makgeolli (rice wine) have been standardized at 6,000 won, with a complaint center established to monitor and address any incidents of overcharging.
The festival will embrace eco-friendly practices, promoting the use of reusable products within the grounds, encouraging visitors to bring their own baskets or eco-bags instead of plastic bags, and participating in the “No Disposable” campaign.
The major national ssireum (traditional wrestling) tournament, the Gangneung Danoje Jangsa Ssireum Championship, will also take place, featuring weight class matches for men and women, as well as a women’s team event. Over 300 wrestlers are expected to participate.
The festival has designated hanbok (traditional Korean dress) as the official dress code, offering free photo printing services and 10% discounts at food truck vendors for those wearing hanbok.
“In line with the theme ‘Rise Up, Danoje,’ we will spare no effort in ensuring this year’s festival overflows with excitement and vigor,” stated Kim Dong-chan, chairman of the Gangneung Danoje Committee.
Image credit: The Gangneung Danoje Committee, Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com
