Yongin hosts Joayong Festival to mark 30th city anniversary

Yongin Special City held the ‘2026 Korea Joayong Festival’ at Yongin Mir Stadium to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its elevation to city status and the 31st Yongin Citizens' Day. The event featured 42 different characters from 30 domestic and international organizations, including the city's own mascot, Joayong. International participation included representatives from Kumamoto City, Japan.

Mayor Lee Sang-il highlighted the city's growth from a population of 270,000 in 1996 to over 1.11 million today, noting Yongin's role as a central hub for the semiconductor industry. He expressed intentions to invest city finances into urban development and citizen welfare as major semiconductor projects progress.

The festival included various programs such as a character parade, AI-themed cyber science festivals, sports star signings, and cultural performances. The event also saw attendance from international delegations, including representatives from Williamson County, USA, and diplomats from Croatia and Italy.