The 16th Gwangju Biennale
Sep 5 – Nov 15, 2026 · Happening now · Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Overview
The 16th Gwangju Biennale, 《You Must Change Your Life》, opening on September 5, 2026, takes its title from the final line of a poem published by Rainer Maria Rilke in 1908. In the poem, the speaker faces a broken ancient statue and experiences a moment in which the way they see the world is overturned. As their perspective and position shift, we come to realize that we can no longer go on living as we did before. I must change.
Other festivals in Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
2026 Culture Day Youth Mike
Mar 12 – Dec 11, 2026
[Cheongchun-eoram: Youth Who Follow Tradition, Seniors Who Seek the New]
Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Earthen Vessels: Stories of Our Lives
Jul 29 – Oct 25, 2026
Earthen Vessels: Stories of Our Lives is a special exhibition held at the National Gwangju Museum. By looking back at earthenware, a type of pottery which has been at the core of our daily lives for a long time, we can encounter the practicality, aesthetic sense, and the stories contained in the earthenware that has been passed down through tradition. This exhibition showcases over 300 artifacts, including a ribbed bottle and large jars excavated from the Cheonghaejin site in Wando.
Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
Gwangju Kimchi Festival
Oct 23 – Oct 25, 2026
*The information below is based on the 2025 festivals. Details for the 2026 festivals will be updated as they become available.*The Gwangju Kimchi Festival is Korea’s representative kimchi festival, offering a variety of kimchi products for purchase and the chance to taste various kimchi dishes. Highlights include the “Thousand People’s Table” featuring diverse kimchi cuisine, a competition to discover kimchi masters, and a kimchi experience school with a range of engaging programs.
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Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go. Official site