Busan’s Shiwol Festival returns revitalized in September

Busan’s annual Festival Shiwol is set to return this September, promising a plethora of new and exciting events that seek to enhance the city’s global reputation. This festival, orchestrated by the city government, encompasses various cultural activities and business forums aimed at boosting tourism and commerce in Busan. Taking inspiration from renowned festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) in the U.S., Shiwol integrates performances, exhibitions, and industry discussions to attract cultural icons and entrepreneurs to the city of Busan.

As part of this year’s expanded edition, the festival’s duration has been doubled from eight to 13 days, with 23 events slated to participate to draw in an ambitious goal of 3 million tourists, building on the success of the previous year which saw 2.9 million visitors. Unlike last year’s concentrated events around Haeundae Beach, this year’s festivities will spread across different neighborhoods, including the North Port area.

Busan’s Tourism and MICE Industry Division Director, Ko Mi-jin, expressed the city’s rich tapestry of cultural events, foreseeing a promising future for Busan as a global event hub by merging MICE initiatives with existing attractions like the Busan International Film Festival and Busan International Rock Festival. Recognizing the festival’s potential economic impact, particularly in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, the city anticipates a surge in tourism with last year’s festival already demonstrating a significant uptick in foreign visitors and spending.

Featuring a broad array of programs, this year’s Shiwol Festival introduces innovative additions to captivate attendees and showcase Busan’s charm. Notable highlights include the “Tour of Seven Bridges,” a cycling event spanning Busan’s iconic bridges, and a spectacular drone light show competition illuminating the North Port skyline. Complementing these events, K-pop stars and jazz musicians are set to grace the outdoor stage during the Shiwol Concert, promising a lively and engaging experience for up to 28,000 spectators.

Furthermore, the Shiwol Conference will serve as a platform for industry leaders in culture, IT, and bio sectors to exchange ideas and foster collaboration. Beyond these activities, attendees can indulge in a variety of other festivities such as the Busan Craft Beer Festival, Busan International Food Conference, and the Busan Design Festival. To streamline ticket purchases and enhance user experience, ticket sales for this year’s festival have been outsourced, and specialized apps for B2C and B2B participants will be introduced.

Mark your calendars for this exciting event running from September 21 to October 3, promising an immersive cultural experience that celebrates Busan’s rich heritage and dynamic spirit. Get ready to witness the vibrant fusion of arts, entertainment, and innovation at Busan’s remarkable Festival Shiwol this September.