2026 Carbon Neutrality Soil Revival Expo
Oct 23 – Oct 25, 2026 · Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Overview
This is a participatory expo that expands the value of Gurye's clean soil and eco-friendly agriculture into exhibition, hands-on experience, gourmet food, performances, and win-win content, allowing visitors to naturally understand and practice the meaning of carbon neutrality by seeing, walking on, touching, and tasting the soil. It sought to turn the broad challenge of responding to climate change and practicing carbon neutrality into the everyday, life-close theme of 'soil and agriculture,' encouraging understanding and voluntary participation from county residents and visitors alike. In addition, centering on Gurye's clean soil and eco-friendly agriculture, it built expo content unique to Gurye by linking Korean wheat, local agricultural specialty products, policies for returning to farming and rural life, and the tourism resources of Jirisan and the Seomjingang River. Moving beyond a viewing-oriented event centered on thematic exhibits, it was organized so that visitors could directly experience the value and importance of soil through participatory programs combining walking, hands-on experiences, gourmet food, performances, sales, and overnight tourism. Through this event, the organizers aim to contribute to revitalizing the local economy and creating community value by building a cooperative system in which local farmers, related organizations, businesses, cultural and artistic figures, and residents take part as both content providers and event operators.
Why go
This hands-on expo turns Gurye's clean soil and eco-friendly farming into something visitors can see, walk on, touch, and taste, combining exhibits with participatory activities, local food stalls, and performances. It draws on the area's agricultural specialties and its closeness to Jirisan and the Seomjingang River, making it a good add-on for a rural south Jeolla itinerary.
Getting there from Seoul
Gurye is in Jeollanam-do, reachable from Seoul by train on the Jeolla Line to Gurye-gu Station or by intercity/express bus to Gurye's bus terminal; either option takes roughly half a day. From the station or terminal, a short taxi or local bus ride brings you to Seosicheon-ro in Gurye-eup, where the expo is held.
Tips
- Wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty, since the experience involves walking on and handling soil.
- Try the food stalls featuring Korean wheat and Gurye's local agricultural specialty products.
- Combine the visit with nearby Jirisan or the Seomjingang River, as the expo is built to connect with those tourism resources.
Best for: families, food enthusiasts, eco-tourism, nature lovers.
Other festivals in Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Seomjinggang Interntional Experimental Arts Festvial
Sep 22 – Oct 30, 2026
The Seomjinggang International Experimental Arts Festival is a traditional art festival that takes place in Gokseong, Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City. The festival invites over 100 artists from around the world, and "seeks to explore the philosophical, ecological, and artistic meanings and values encapsulated by the river."
Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Gokseong Simcheong Children's Grand Festival
Oct 8 – Oct 11, 2026
Under the theme 'A Special Day as a Gift for Children!', the Gokseong Simcheong Children's Grand Festival is held every October at Gokseong Seomjingang Train Village, one of Gokseong's representative tourist attractions. On the main stage, a rich lineup of performance programs is presented, including popular character shows, musicals, and magic. In addition, throughout the Train Village — including the Rose Garden and the Lawn Square — various participatory programs and attractions are offered for families to enjoy together, such as the Rose Garden Children's Mission Exploration Team and children's playgrounds. The festival aims to let every family who visits become the main character, laughing together and making special memories, and to give all families a special time they will remember for a long time.
Reach travelers heading to Gwangju & Jeollanam-do: sponsor this page.
Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go.