Jinan Plateau Kimchi-Bossam Festival
Nov 14 – Nov 15, 2026 · Happening now · Jeollabuk-do
Overview
The Jinan Plateau Kimchi-Bossam Festival is a regional festival held in Jinan-gun, Jeonbuk State, organized to combine Korea's own traditional kimjang (kimchi-making) culture with a festival format in order to spread a community culture shared by family and neighbors. Amid a dietary environment that is gradually changing due to the rise of nuclear families and single-person households, the festival aims to revisit the traditional value of kimjang culture and to share affection among neighbors through the process of making and sharing kimchi together. A variety of hands-on and participatory programs are run, including kimjang experience programs using local agricultural products grown in the clean natural environment of the Jinan Plateau, as well as kimchi and bossam food programs, which also help promote the excellence of local specialty agricultural products and encourage the consumption of local produce. It is a festival where visitors can experience both the continuation of traditional kimjang culture and the value of local agricultural products.
Why go
This festival centers on kimjang, Korea's traditional kimchi-making culture, reimagined as a shared community event rather than a private household task. Visitors can join hands-on kimchi and bossam-making programs using produce grown on the Jinan Plateau, a highland area known for its clean environment and local agriculture. It's a good pick for travelers who want a genuine, participatory taste of Korean food culture rather than a purely spectator event.
Getting there from Seoul
Jinan-gun sits inland in Jeonbuk State (North Jeolla), with Jeonju as the nearest major transport hub. From Seoul, take a KTX or intercity bus to Jeonju (roughly 2–3 hours depending on mode and departure station), then transfer to a local intercity bus or taxi for the final leg to Jinan-eup. Driving from Seoul is also an option and may be more convenient given the rural venue location.
Tips
- Mid-November on the Jinan Plateau can be cold, so dress in warm layers.
- Bring a bag or container if you plan to take home kimchi or bossam you make.
- Confirm program schedules, any registration requirements, and fees locally or with the organizer (Jinan Local Food Jinan Branch), as these details aren't fixed in advance.
Best for: families, food lovers, cultural travelers.
Photos
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization 
Photo: Korea Tourism Organization
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Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go. Official site