South Korean cities host outdoor reading festivals

Several cities in South Korea are launching outdoor reading culture festivals to encourage citizens to engage with books in natural settings.

In Yangju, the ‘2026 Reading Theme Park’ will be held at Hoecheon Neutinamu Park on October 17 and 24. The event, themed ‘SLOW, BOOK-A Slow Day with Books,’ offers book picnic kits, book curation, and mini book talks featuring various topics such as writing personal stories and the importance of English in the AI era. The program also includes musical sing-alongs and picture book therapy.

In Siheung, the ‘2026 Siheung Chaekmorak’ festival will take place at Gaetgol Ecological Park on October 17. This outdoor library event features performances by the Siheung City Choir and jazz bands, alongside book talks with poets and novelists. Visitors can participate in various activities, including vintage typewriter experiences, family drawing sessions, and literary exhibitions.