GWANGJU — The 22nd annual Gwangju 'Memory of Chungjang Festival' officially kicked off on October 15th, transforming the historic streets of Geumnam-ro and Chungjang-ro into a vibrant celebration of nostalgia. Running until the 19th, this year's festival is centered around the theme of "A Fairytale of Memories," aiming to inject new life into the old city center commercial district, a goal since its inception in 2004.
The festival, designated as a representative cultural tourism event by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, promises a five-day journey blending 70s and 80s nostalgia with the imaginative wonder of classic fairytales.
A Star-Studded Opening and Generational Music
The grand opening on the main stage at Geumnam-ro featured an immersive fantasy musical and mini-concert structured into four acts, specifically designed to evoke strong memories for the 7080 generation. The star-studded lineup included performances by celebrated artists such as Jung Yeo-jin (known for "Daddy's Word"), Kim Kwang-jin ("Magic Castle"), and the "Trot Queen" Jang Yoon-jeong. The first day was capped off by a powerful finale performance by the iconic Kim Chang-wan Band.
Asia Culture Street and the Spirit of Gwangju
On the 16th, the festival will hold "Asia Culture Day," near the Asia Culture Center (ACC), featuring the 'Asia Culture Street.' Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the food, culture, and traditional games of various Asian nations. Highlighting Gwangju's modern history, a cooking contest will also be held, inviting participants to create rice balls—a profound symbol of sharing and community during the May 18th Democratization Movement.
The Festival's Zenith: Massive Parade and Fireworks
The highlight of the festival, the spectacular 'Chungjang Parade,' is set to be grander than ever, expanding its scale and scope. On the 18th at 7 PM, the renowned Lotte World Parade Team will march through Geumnam-ro 1-ga to 3-ga, presenting a magical procession.
The parade, themed as a "Nostalgic Fairy Tale," will be led by the Lotte World Marching Women's Band, followed by performers dressed as fantasy characters, including Flower Queens, jewelers, and World of Light topiary characters, creating an utterly immersive experience. Following the parade, the festival will conclude its major evening event with a dazzling Lotte World Night Fireworks display over the May 18th Democracy Square.
Lim Taek, the Head of Dong-gu District Office, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This festival will be a place where everyone becomes the protagonist of their own fairytale, building new, unforgettable memories. We hope many citizens will participate in this event filled with nostalgia, childhood wonder, and emotional depth."
With a rich program combining music, global culture, historical significance, and a spectacular parade, the 22nd Memory of Chungjang Festival is set to solidify its status as Gwangju's premier street culture event and a vital source of revitalization for the city's historic core.
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