From October 15 to 19, 2026, the 53rd Gochang Moyangseong Festival will be held for five days in Gochang, Jeonbuk. Set against the backdrop of Gochang-eupseong Fortress, this festival honors the historical spirit of national defense and carries forward traditional culture. It is best known for Dapseongnori, a time-honored folk tradition of walking along the stone ramparts while praying for health and longevity. It offers a wonderful opportunity to stroll along historic fortress walls in the crisp autumn air and make lasting memories.
Here is the essential information you need to plan your visit. While admission policies may vary during the festival period, regular admission rates to Gochang-eupseong Fortress (as of May 2024) are listed below.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | Oct 15 (Thu) – Oct 19 (Mon), 2026 |
| Location | Around Gochang-eupseong Fortress (1 Moyangseong-ro, Gochang-eup, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province) |
| Slogan | "Connecting Traditions, Opening the Future" (as of 2024) |
| Fortress Admission | Adults: 3,000 KRW / Youth & Military: 2,000 KRW / Children: 1,500 KRW (as of May 2024) |
| Free Admission | Residents of Gochang-gun (with valid ID) |
| Guided Tours | 10:00 – 17:00 (commentary providing deep insight into the fortress's history) |
The Gochang Moyangseong Festival offers an abundance of sights and activities. Here is a guide to the signature events to help you make the most of your visit:
A few practical tips to help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit:
Gochang-eupseong, the main stage of the festival, is also affectionately known as Moyangseong Fortress. Built in 1453 (the first year of King Danjong's reign during the Joseon Dynasty) to guard against Japanese coastal incursions, this natural stone fortress holds deep meaning because it was constructed through the unified labor of local commoners.
In particular, the tradition of Dapseongnori originated from women walking the walls carrying flat stones on their heads to pack the earth tight and fortify the ramparts. Over centuries, that arduous labor transformed into a celebratory folk ritual praying for health, longevity, and good fortune. The festival proudly carries this historical heritage and ancestral ingenuity into the modern day.
Q. Can I visit Gochang-eupseong Fortress outside the festival period? A. Yes. Gochang-eupseong Fortress is open year-round from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (as of May 2024). If you prefer a peaceful, contemplative stroll along the quiet stone walls away from festival crowds, visiting on regular days is also a wonderful choice.
Q. Where is the most convenient place to park? A. The official public lot is located at 182-6 Eumnae-ri, Gochang-eup (as of May 2024). It accommodates around 100 vehicles, but it fills up very quickly during the festival. When full, you may need to rely on temporary overflow lots or roadside parking directions throughout the town, so an early arrival is best.
Q. Is participation in Dapseongnori required? What makes it special? A. It is not mandatory, but it is the defining highlight of the festival. Originating as a folk custom of stepping on fortress stones to wish for good health and long life, it embodies the spirit of our ancestors who turned the toil of fortress-building into a joyful community celebration. If you want a truly unique cultural experience, joining the walk is well worth it.
Looking for more September Autumn Festivals? Explore our curated guides to discover more seasonal travel ideas.