The Gangwon Human Resources Institute, led by Director Kim Hak-chul, has announced the hosting of the "2026 Gangwon Adult Literacy Festival 'Cheongchun Mangae'" at the Donghae Gymnasium. Scheduled for September 16, this vibrant event is designed to share the remarkable educational achievements of adult literacy learners across the province, boost their self-esteem, and highlight the profound social value of lifelong learning.

Held in celebration of September as "National Literacy Month," the grand festival is co-hosted by the Ministry of Education and Gangwon State, with joint organization by the Gangwon Human Resources Institute, the City of Donghae, and the National Institute for Lifelong Education. Furthermore, the event receives official sponsorship from the Gangwon State Legislative Assembly and the Gangwon State Office of Education, emphasizing a cooperative regional commitment to educational equity and continuous growth.

Bringing together approximately 850 participants—including adult learners, dedicated literacy instructors, and regional administrative officials—the "Cheongchun Mangae" festival offers a comprehensive program that blends artistic expression, digital empowerment, and emotional connection. The opening ceremony features a dynamic dancesport performance by Kim Min-seo, a designated future talent of Gangwon State, setting an energetic and celebratory tone for the day.

A central highlight of the festival is the poetry essay (Shihwa) exhibition and awards ceremony. Out of numerous heartfelt submissions from adult learners who have late-in-life mastered reading and writing, 10 outstanding works will be honored. Top accolades include the prestigious Gangwon State Governor’s Award (bestowed upon two recipients), alongside honors presented by the Provincial Assembly Speaker, the Superintendent of Education, the President of the Gangwon Human Resources Institute, and the Head of the National Institute for Lifelong Education. Selected learners will also have the opportunity to publicly recite their inspiring works, sharing stories of resilience, overcoming personal hardships, and discovering the joy of literacy.

Following the awards, the main program showcases the artistic talents of adult learners through a collective student recital. Sixteen teams comprising 482 participants from various regional literacy institutions take the stage to present diverse performances, including traditional Arirang melodies, group dances, choral singing, and musical instrument ensembles. These performances symbolize far more than mere artistic display; they represent a public celebration of personal reinvention, confidence regained, and active community participation.

In addition to the main stage events, the festival features special interactive experience booths, most notably the "Visiting Hangeul Sunny Bus". Recognizing that modern literacy extends far beyond traditional reading and writing, this mobile digital learning center provides hands-on training for essential everyday digital skills. Participants can practice navigating digital kiosks to order food and beverages, purchase intercity bus tickets, and handle administrative tasks, thereby bridging the digital divide that often isolates older adults in modern society.

Reflecting on the deeper significance of the event, Director Kim Hak-chul of the Gangwon Human Resources Institute stated, "Literacy education is not merely a matter of academic learning; it is a vital starting point that opens up an entirely new chapter in life. We hope that this 'Cheongchun Mangae' festival serves as a meaningful platform where learners can mutually encourage one another's educational journeys and spark a widespread culture of lifelong learning across every corner of our province."

Local governance leaders, including Donghae Mayor Lee Jung-hak, have echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that mastering letters serves as a bridge reconnecting marginalized citizens to society. By evolving past basic literacy into comprehensive digital and social empowerment, initiatives like the Gangwon Adult Literacy Festival ensure that no citizen is left behind in the pursuit of knowledge, dignity, and self-reliance.

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