Seoul’s Urban Sea Festival Returns After Five-Year Hiatus with Expanded Program
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Seoul residents and visitors will once again experience the vibrant Urban Sea Festival this weekend, marking its return after a five-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 8th iteration of the festival, taking place on Saturday, July 27th, and Sunday, July 28th, promises a comprehensive cultural experience centered around the bustling Noryangjin Fish Market.
A Celebration of Culture and Seafood
The “Sea Festival in the City,” as it’s known locally, has been reimagined with a broader scope and increased participation from private companies, including KB, Dongwon, Paldo, and Viking Market. This expanded collaboration will enrich the festival’s offerings, creating a more dynamic and engaging atmosphere for attendees. The event will span two key locations: Noryangjin Soccer Stadium and Noryangjin Baseball Stadium.
Noryangjin Soccer Stadium will be transformed into a “Culture and Taste Plaza,” featuring a diverse food market and a series of cultural performances. Meanwhile, Noryangjin Baseball Stadium will become a “Healing Park for families,” offering a range of experience programs and games designed for all ages.
Weekend Highlights: Concerts, Auctions, and Culinary Delights
The festival kicks off on July 27th at 2 p.m. with a lineup of performances, including magic and taekwondo shows, and a concert titled “I’m a movement singer too.” A “Noryang Talk Show” will also take place, leading up to the highly anticipated “Blue SEA Concert” at 6 p.m., featuring popular singers Lee Chan-won and Lee Ji-hoon.
Sunday, July 28th, will continue the entertainment with a concert by the winner of “Hidden Singer,” a “Chef’s Seafood Recipe” demonstration, and the “Nodeul Song Festival.” The festival will culminate in a spectacular closing ceremony at 6 p.m., complete with a dazzling laser dance and show.
Beyond the main stage events, attendees can participate in unique experiences such as a seafood auctioneer competition and a tuna dismemberment show, both scheduled from noon on both days. Permanent attractions include a seafood ramen tasting party, a children’s “shrimp float fishing” activity, opportunities to grill autumn shad, and access to 20 different experience booths – including surfing simulations. A direct sales and food market will also be available throughout the weekend.
Supporting Local Businesses and Accessibility
Sixty-three businesses within the Noryangjin Fish Market will offer special pricing on seafood during the festival, providing a boost to the local economy. Furthermore, the Culture Nuri Card will be accepted at both the food market and experience booths, enhancing accessibility for residents.
“As this is a city sea festival that has returned after a long time, we have prepared it as a comprehensive cultural festival that the whole family can enjoy together,” stated Park Il-ha, mayor of Dongjak-gu. He further emphasized the city’s commitment to expanding cultural infrastructure for all residents.
The return of the Urban Sea Festival signals a renewed vibrancy in Seoul’s cultural landscape, offering a unique blend of entertainment, culinary experiences, and community engagement.
