Dongdaemun Festival

Under the theme “A New Sprint of Culture,” a 700-meter stretch of Janghan-ro will be transformed into a car-free cultural and arts street for one day. Performances, hands-on activities, and citizen participation programs will be held throughout the vehicle-restricted sections of Janghan-ro, reinterpreting the road itself as a festival space. Drawing on the historical significance of Janghan-ro—which stretches from Janghanpyeong, where military horses once galloped during the Joseon Dynasty, to the modern-day hub of the automotive industry—the event showcases a new journey that evolves from “horses” to “cars” and ultimately to “culture.” This year, in particular, the festival is strengthening participatory programs that allow citizens to become the stars of the festival, rather than merely watching performances. By utilizing Janghan-ro’s unique spatial characteristics—such as a one-of-a-kind roller rink and events like “The Day My Car Becomes a Store,” which uses citizens’ vehicles—the entire road is transformed into one massive festival venue.

1. Main Program: Art or Party 2. Street Art Performances: Circus, mime, puppet shows, etc. 3. Special Programs: Lazy Floor, Urban Camping, Roller Skating Rink 4. Citizen Participation Programs: Dongdaemun Community, Dongdaemun Planning Group, Open Call for Local Artists