Jeongdong-gil, where the autumn breeze lingers: A romantic afternoon at the 27th Jeongdong Culture Festival

A path where history blossoms with every step: An autumn afternoon in Jeongdong

These days, when a chilly breeze tickles the skin, there is a place I find myself missing: Jeongdong-gil in Jung-gu, Seoul. As you walk along the Deoksugung(Palace) stone wall path, traces of modern history emerge from amidst the autumn leaves that have begun to turn red. I rushed over at the news that the 27th Jeongdong Culture Festival was being held on this street, which starts in front of the Kyunghyang Shinmun headquarters and leads through the St. Francis Educational Center and the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) to the Daehanmun Gate of Deoksugung(Palace).

Jeongdong, which was the center of diplomacy, culture, and education during the days of the Korean Empire (Daehan Jeguk), carries a profound resonance in its name alone. Walking while breathing in the scent of the past that permeates every corner of the street, you encounter those 'small but certain happinesses' (so-hwak-haeng) that make your heart feel at ease without needing to do anything special. During this festival period, Jeongdong-gil was filled with a bit more vibrant energy than usual.

A festival scene overflowing with art on every street

The street festival centered around the Jeongdong Rotary was truly the essence of romance. The first thing that caught my eye was the 'Balloons of Memory' floating high in the sky. Floating under the blue autumn sky, the balloons seemed to be telling stories on behalf of the precious memories we had forgotten.

Sounds of performances by street artists tickled my ears, and the various citizen participation programs set up everywhere made me pause my steps. It was heartwarming to see people huddled together and laughing in front of the nostalgic game arcade, and children sitting in front of an old reed organ, playing rustic melodies. Looking at the expressions of those who were delighted to see their faces being sketched by caricaturists, I realized that the true protagonists of the festival are the citizens walking these streets.

Small tips for fully enjoying Jeongdong-gil

If you want to fully enjoy the Jeongdong Culture Festival, try visiting between October 23rd and 25th, the duration of the festival. It is great for strolling in the sunlight during the day, and as the sun begins to set, the unique streetlights of Jeongdong-gil turn on, creating an even more emotional atmosphere. While official events are important, the real charm of the trip lies in fully enjoying the inherent atmosphere of Jeongdong-gil itself, regardless of the festival.

It is also great to visit the nearby Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) or Deoksugung(Palace) as they are close by. If you start from the Daehanmun Gate of Deoksugung(Palace) and walk along Jeongdong-gil, you will find your heart calming down thanks to the tranquility provided by the old buildings you meet at the end of the road. You don't need any special plans; just a camera or a cup of warm coffee in your hand is enough. If you want to stop for a moment in the busy city center and feel the breath of history, why not head to Jeongdong-gil this weekend?