Discover Korea’s Roots: Geumsan World Ginseng Festival 2025
- FLip Korea
- Aug 26
- 3 min read
Every autumn, the quiet town of Geumsan in Chungcheongnam-do bursts into life with one of Korea’s most iconic cultural celebrations, the Geumsan World Ginseng Festival.
This year, the 43rd edition will take place from September 19 (Fri) to 28 (Sun), 2025, welcoming visitors from all over Korea and the world to celebrate the legacy of Korean ginseng.
Why Geumsan? The World Capital of Ginseng
Geumsan is not just a town, it is the birthplace of Korean ginseng.
For over 1,500 years, this region has been home to the cultivation, trade, and cultural traditions surrounding ginseng.
In fact, for more than 400 years, Geumsan has stood as the largest ginseng market in the world, attracting traders and visitors seeking the root’s legendary health benefits.
This deep-rooted history makes Geumsan the perfect setting for a festival that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
Credit: geumsan_travel
What Awaits You at the Festival?
The Geumsan World Ginseng Festival transforms the entire town into a living stage of culture, wellness, and entertainment.
Visitors can look forward to:
Hands-On Ginseng Experiences
Try your hand at harvesting ginseng, just as Korean farmers have done for centuries.
Visit the Health Experience Center to discover the science behind ginseng’s benefits.
Taste Korea’s Ginseng Cuisine
From traditional Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) to creative ginseng-infused snacks, you’ll get to experience the root in both traditional and modern ways.
Performances & Cultural Programs
Enjoy a wide range of shows: from traditional Korean dance and music to contemporary performances that bring culture to life.
Join in cultural exchange events where visitors from around the globe come together.
International Ginseng Trade Fair
Shop for high-quality ginseng products at affordable prices directly from trusted producers.
Explore booths featuring wellness goods, beauty items, and local specialties.
Future-Oriented Family Fun
Experience activities that combine ginseng with cutting-edge robotics and AI technology.
Perfect for families and children who want to mix tradition with the future.
Recognized as One of Korea’s Best Festivals
The Geumsan World Ginseng Festival has been celebrated for its excellence year after year.
It has been:
Selected 10 times as one of Korea’s Best Festivals by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
Designated as an Honorary Cultural Tourism Festival, highlighting its national and international importance.
With such recognition, the festival is not only a local celebration but also a global cultural gathering that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
Why You Should Go This Year
The 2025 festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with an even greater mix of heritage, food, performance, and innovation. Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a food lover, a health-conscious traveler, or simply looking for a fun autumn outing, the Geumsan World Ginseng Festival offers something for everyone.
It’s more than just a festival, it’s a journey into the heart of Korean tradition, a chance to learn why ginseng is called the “root of life,” and an opportunity to create lasting memories with friends, family, and fellow visitors from around the world.
Stay updated and catch behind-the-scenes festival highlights on Instagram: @geumsan_travel
✨ Geumsan World Ginseng Festival 2025
📍 Geumsan World Insam Expo Square & Medicinal Herb Street, Geumsan, Korea
📅 September 19-28, 2025
This autumn, go to Geumsan and discover why it’s truly the World Capital of Ginseng.
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