Yeongju Punggi Ginseng Festival attracts 511,000 visitors

The 2026 Yeongju Punggi Ginseng Festival concluded its nine-day run, attracting approximately 511,000 visitors, an increase of 14,000 compared to the previous year. Held at Namwoncheon Stream and Punggi Ginseng Park, the event transitioned from a sales-focused model to a stay-oriented festival featuring food, traditional culture, and various performances.

To boost regional economic vitality, the festival integrated local ginseng markets and improved transportation accessibility. Promotional efforts included a viral parody music video featuring 60 city officials, which garnered over 5 million views on social media platforms. On-site activities included ginseng carving contests, traditional ceremonies, and culinary programs showcasing ginseng-based dishes.

Despite the successful turnout, the festival faces future challenges regarding its management structure. Tensions arose between Yeongju City and the Yeongju Punggi Ginseng Festival Organizing Committee over proposed changes to the operating entity. While the city aims to expand the festival space into the wider Punggi-eup area to benefit more local businesses, the committee has expressed opposition to management shifts made without sufficient consultation.