20th Anniversary Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival Celebrates Two Decades of Global Music
The 20th Anniversary of the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival marked a significant milestone in the festival’s history, elevating it from a local event to a global sensation. Hosted by the Incheon Metropolitan City and organized by the Incheon Tourism Organization and Kyunggi Daily, the festival celebrated its two-decade milestone with a bang from August 1 to 3 at Songdo Moonlight Festival Park. This year’s event was particularly special as it attracted a star-studded lineup of both domestic and international artists, solidifying its status as a world-class festival.
The 20th Anniversary of the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival featured performances by renowned acts such as Pulp, Beck, Asian Kung-Fu Generation, Audrey Nuna, Omoinotake, Jaurim, Crying Nut, and many more. These top-notch artists heated up the stage, drawing music fans from around the globe to witness the spectacle. What set this year’s festival apart was the inclusion of overseas artists as headliners for three consecutive days, showcasing a truly global lineup that appealed to a diverse audience.
The festival kicked off on August 1 with ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION headlining the stage, setting the tone for a weekend filled with electrifying performances. Artists like Jang Ki-ha, Little Simz, Touched, and Crying Nut captivated the audience, culminating in an epic opening ceremony and an enchanting drone show that lit up the night sky. The second day saw the legendary British pop band Pulp making their debut in Asia, delivering hits like “Common People” and “Disco 2000” to a captivated audience. The final day featured the king of alternative rock, Beck, who dazzled the crowd with explosive sound and an unforgettable performance, bringing the festival to a successful close.
With over 150,000 attendees, the 20th Anniversary of the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival was a massive success, drawing accolades for its world-class production and stellar lineup. In addition to the performances, this year’s festival also featured a pop-up store selling limited-edition merchandise and an exhibition showcasing past festival posters, adding an extra layer of depth to the overall experience. Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok expressed his pride in the festival’s growth over the past two decades, emphasizing his vision to transform it into a global music event that transcends South Korea’s borders.
Looking ahead, Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok highlighted his plans to develop Incheon as a hub for K-rock, solidifying its reputation as a center for music and culture. The 20th Anniversary of the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival was not just a celebration of music but a testament to the power of art and creativity to bring people together from all corners of the world. As the festival continues to evolve and expand its reach, it is poised to become a global phenomenon that showcases the best of Korean rock to a worldwide audience.