A Literary Hub Comes Alive

Okcheon, South Korea, is currently hosting the 38th Jiyong Festival, a vibrant celebration of literature and the arts.Running until may 18th, the festival transforms the Guru-eup area into a dynamic space where poetry, performance, and community engagement converge. This year’s event, organized by local cultural and artistic groups, aims to strengthen Okcheon’s identity as a center for literary excellence, particularly honoring the legacy of the esteemed poet Jung Ji-yong.

Engaging Youth and Honoring Literary Excellence

A key highlight of this year’s festival is the Literature Exchange event, designed to connect local youth with past winners of the prestigious Jung Ji-yong Literary Award. This initiative seeks to inspire the next generation of writers and foster a deeper thankfulness for poetry within the community. The Jung Ji-yong Literary Award, established to commemorate the poet’s contributions, continues to recognize outstanding achievements in Korean literature. As a notable example, in 2024, the award received over 300 submissions, highlighting its importance within the literary landscape.

Diverse Programs and Interactive Experiences

The jiyong Festival offers a rich tapestry of activities designed to appeal to a wide audience. Visitors can immerse themselves in unique literary experiences such as Jiyonghakdang (Jiyong School), spontaneous guerrilla poetry busking performances, and a colorful cosplay parade inspired by Jung Ji-yong’s works. Families can also enjoy a variety of games and interactive experiences tailored to all ages.

Main Stage Events and Cultural Highlights

The Sanggye Sports Facility serves as the festival’s central hub, hosting a diverse range of events that blend literature and performance. Key highlights include:

• The 37th jung Ji-yong Literary Awards ceremony,celebrating the year’s most outstanding poetic achievements.
• The 31st Ji Yong Rookie Literary Awards, recognizing emerging talent in the field.
• A memorial song contest, paying tribute to Jung Ji-yong’s enduring influence.
• A modernism fashion show, exploring the intersection of literature and visual arts.
• A performance by the Chungbuk Provincial symphony Orchestra, adding a touch of classical elegance to the festivities.

Along with these main stage events, the Jiyong Literary Park hosts a variety of poetry-centered programs, including painting contests, national poetry recitals, cultural yard festivals, and special lectures on the humanities.These diverse offerings ensure that there is somthing for everyone to enjoy.

Creating an Immersive Atmosphere

To enhance the overall festival experience, organizers have created a welcoming and immersive atmosphere. A healing shelter provides a tranquil space for relaxation and reflection,while landscape lighting and photo zones add a touch of magic to the surroundings,ensuring that visitors can enjoy the festival both day and night.

The Heart of the Festival: The Jung Ji-yong Literary Award Ceremony

The highlight of the Jiyong Festival is undoubtedly the 37th Jung Ji-yong Literary Award Ceremony, held on May 17th at the main stage. This year’s winner, poet Huh Yeon, will be honored alongside past recipients and othre prominent figures in the literary world.The ceremony serves as a testament to the enduring power of poetry and its ability to connect people across generations.

“This exhibition is the result of the sweat and sincerity of our local artists, and it contains the emotions of poet Jeong Ji-in and the charm of our hometown, so it will be a great gift-like impression for visitors.”
Hwang Kyu-cheol, Okcheon County Governor

Additional Attractions and Activities

Beyond the main events, the Jiyong Festival offers a variety of additional attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. These include a children’s theme park, amusement park, and a “festival live car” featuring games and events hosted by professional MCs. these diverse offerings ensure that the festival has something for everyone, making it a truly memorable experience for all who attend.