Gwangju Kimchi Festival

Gwangju has long been blessed by nature, where the plains, mountains, fields, and sea around the Yeongsan River all come together, making it a city renowned for good food. Among its specialties, Gwangju kimchi stands out for its rich flavor and character — so much so that it's known by name alongside "Jeolla-do kimchi." Gwangju kimchi is made with a generous mix of vegetables and seasonings, including anchovy sauce, glutinous rice porridge, and whole sesame seeds. Choosing fresh ingredients, preparing them with care, following the most basic method, and adding a personal touch of hand-made flavor — that's the special recipe behind Gwangju kimchi. The Gwangju World Kimchi Festival is a hands-on event where Korea's kimchi food culture and traditions come together, celebrated as the country's leading kimchi festival that everyone can enjoy. It also serves as a valuable marketplace connecting kimchi producers and consumers for trade and promotion.