The Seoul Drag Parade 2024 (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Oct. 4 (Korea Bizwire) – On October 3, the streets of Haebangchon in Seoul’s Yongsan district came alive with color and celebration as the Seoul Drag Parade 2024 made its long-awaited return after a five-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We wanted to bring drag out of the nightclubs and bars and into the bright sunlight for everyone to enjoy,” said Hurricane Kimchi, 34, and Ali Vera, 30, co-organizers of the event, explaining their motivation behind the parade.
Drag, a form of self-expression that challenges societal norms of gender-based clothing, is an integral part of LGBTQ+ culture. The Seoul Drag Parade, which began in 2018, aims to raise awareness and celebrate this art form.
“If you ask drag artists to define drag or explain why they do it, you’ll get different answers from everyone,” Hurricane Kimchi said. “Whether it’s wearing a dress or monster makeup, drag is about expressing yourself.”
The parade’s return held special significance for participants who had eagerly awaited its revival. Ali Vera beamed as they said, “It feels amazing to host the event again after so long. The turnout exceeded our expectations, which makes us hopeful about continuing next year.”
The Seoul Drag Parade 2024 (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
By 2 p.m., when the pre-parade booths opened, the venue was filled with dozens of attendees waving rainbow-colored fans.
Kim Su-ji, 31, and Nam Ju-hee, 32, who stumbled upon the event by chance, remarked, “It seems like there’s much less resistance to drag in our country now. We hope to see more events like this.”
As the parade commenced, approximately 200 participants gathered, showcasing a diverse array of styles.
Some drag artists donned elaborate outfits, such as mini-dresses adorned with bright yellow flowers or snakeskin-patterned ensembles, complemented by dramatic makeup. Others wore everyday clothes accessorized with rainbow-themed items.
Devon, 24, a parade participant, shared, “In Korea, you often attract attention for being different. But here, I feel a sense of freedom, like I’m accepted no matter how I look.”
Hurricane Kimchi noted the evolving demographics of the event. “Five years ago, the parade mainly attracted the foreign community living in Haebangchon. Today, I was surprised to see so many Koreans joining in,” they said.
“We hope the drag parade can continue to be an event that raises awareness about drag culture.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
