The rich and vibrant history of the ancient Baekje Kingdom is coming to the heart of Seoul. The Chungnam Culture and Tourism Foundation announced that it will host a special tourism promotion pop-up store titled 「Play Baekje, Travel Chungnam」 for three days, starting from Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20, at the CN Gallery located in Bukchon, Jongno-gu. 

Bridging Ancient Heritage and Modern Seoul 

Designed primarily for metropolitan tourists, this autumn pop-up store focuses on the historical and cultural legacy of Baekje, centered around the historical capitals of Gongju (Ungjin period) and Buyeo (Sabi period). The main objective is to showcase the unique tourism appeal of South Chungcheong Province (Chungcheongnam-do) and seamlessly translate urban interest into actual visits to the region. 

Building on the success of earlier promotional spaces—such as the "Chungnam Sunset Camping" pop-up earlier this year, which attracted over 3,000 visitors in three days—this exhibition takes a deeper dive into Korea's glorious Three Kingdoms period. 

Immersive Experiences and Interactive Content 

Visitors to the Bukchon pop-up will have a rare opportunity to experience the heritage of the Ungjin and Sabi eras alongside previews of the upcoming 72nd Baekje Cultural Festival. To engage modern travelers, the venue features a dynamic mix of cutting-edge technology and cultural displays: 

Interactive Tech Zones: Visitors can test their skills with AR archery, dive into a virtual reality (VR) roller coaster ride exploring historical landscapes, and participate in interactive QR mobile games. 
Royal Photo Zones: A specially designed royal throne (Eojwa) photo zone allows guests to capture memorable moments fit for a Baekje monarch.
Local Flavors and Travel Info: In connection with the "2026 Chungnam Travel Festa," the pop-up offers comprehensive guides on regional tourist spots, accommodations, and gourmet food paths, complemented by local delicacies such as Gongju chestnuts. 
Furthermore, street promotions featuring mascot costume characters from Gongju and Buyeo, alongside winners of the King Muryeong and Queen Selection Pageants, will enliven the Bukchon alleyways to draw crowds directly to the gallery space. 

Looking Ahead: The 72nd Baekje Cultural Festival 

The grand finale of this promotional push is the upcoming 72nd Baekje Cultural Festival, scheduled to run for nine days from October 3 to October 11. 

In Gongju: Festivities will span across Geumgang Sinar Park, Mirseom Island, Gongsanseong Fortress, and the old downtown district, featuring traditional rituals, media art, and local food zones. 
In Buyeo: Events will light up the Jeongnimsaji Temple site, Stone Pagoda Street, and the Gwanbuk-ri ruins, celebrating the theme of the magnificent Sabi Baekje culture.
Choi Dong-seok, Head of Tourism Business at the Chungnam Culture and Tourism Foundation, expressed high expectations, noting that experiencing Baekje culture in Seoul will spark a desire to travel directly to Gongju, Buyeo, and the wider Chungnam region.

For travelers looking to step back 1,500 years into history while enjoying modern interactive media, visiting the Bukchon pop-up this weekend serves as the perfect gateway to discovering South Chungcheong Province.

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