Wonju Yongsoogol Poppy Festival

The Wonju Yongsoogol Poppy Festival, held in the Yongsoogol area of Wonju, Gangwon-do, is a representative local festival that originated from the local residents' love for flowers. It began in 2005 when a resident who returned to farming planted poppies in a field of about 300 pyeong, and since 2007, the village corporation and residents have systematically participated, establishing it as a festival representative of the region. Notably, this is the only resident-organized festival at the 'ri' (village) level nationwide, giving it significant symbolic meaning. Celebrating its 19th edition in 2026, the festival features poppies and 43 other flower species with similar blooming seasons across approximately 13,000 pyeong of festival grounds, offering visitors beautiful natural scenery. Furthermore, as a Poppy Star Village included in the 'Top 20 Star Villages' selected by the public and recognized by experts among 1,200 villages, it enhances the region's status, and is an important event that not only showcases the beauty of poppies but also widely promotes the values and culture of the local community.

The Wonju Yongsoogol Poppy Festival offers various experiences and shopping opportunities under the theme 'A Gift of Flowers and Memories: Dedication and Effort for the Love of Flowers.' Experiences include Poppy T-shirt Making, Barrel Train Ride, and Nature Craft. For shopping, you can purchase commemorative handkerchiefs and red umbrellas at the Poppy Garden Market. Additionally, local agricultural products such as flower seedlings, flower seeds, and handicrafts are available.

The Wonju Yongsoogol Poppy Festival has paid admission. Middle and high school students and adults are 5,000 KRW, while those with mild disabilities, national merit recipients, seniors (65 or older), and groups (30 or more) are 3,000 KRW (proof required, valid for the individual only). Free admission applies to elementary school students and younger, Seogok 4-ri residents, Poppy Village Weekend Farm Allotment holders, disabled groups (inquire by phone), and severely disabled individuals Grade 3 or higher (welfare card required).

The festival takes place at the Poppy Festival Grounds from May 20, 2026, to June 7, 2026. The address is 311 Yongsoogol-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province.