▲ Photo by The Multipliers Team

[This article is written by a JDC Junior Journalist. The JDC Junior Journalist program is an educational project sponsored by Jeju Free International City Development Corporation (JDC). JDC Junior Journalist articles are only briefly edited by mentors before publishing.]

The 52nd Tamna Cultural Festival was held in Jeju Tapdong Square from October 2nd to October 6th. This year the festival began with a big street parade from Samseonghyeol to Seomundari Bridge. Under the theme of “Enjoy the cultural kingdom of Tamna!”, the festival opened various booths and held performances packed with Jeju endemic spirit .

Participants of the festival were wide-ranged this year. There were performers from young elementary students to adults. Also, booths were set up where the older generation could pass along Jeju’s traditional culture to younger generations.

Diverse booths represented Jeju’s characteristic culture. For example, visitors could craft a Haenyo paper doll, make Jeju pottery, wear a Hanbok, and taste Jeju traditional food. “There are lots of interactive booths where people can make or sew things,” said Lee Hyun Kyung, 45, who visited the festival with her daughter. “ I think they are good for my daughter to experience.”

Today, as many Chinese tourists are visiting Jeju, interest in Chinese culture is also increasing. Han Peong Z, from China, ran a booth where visitors could experience Chinese culture. In the booth, people could draw their own Beijing Opera masks and try making a Chinese paper craft and a Chinese knot. “We are here to introduce Chinese culture to Jeju people,” Han said.

This festival was meaningful to locals and visitors from other regions and nations too. Kang Yang Jin, 73, a proponent of Jeju culture said, “This festival is important as people can experience Jeju’s traditional cultures and pass them on to the next generation.”

Even though the festival had many positive aspects, there were some things that could be improved. Lee Hyun Kyung, 45, said, “There are small street vendors, and they ruin the atmosphere of the festival.” Also, cars were allowed to drive in front of some booths, which was a safety concern for visitors.

For more information about the Jeju Tamna Cultural Festival, visit www.tamnafestival.kr or call 064-753-3287.