Yangdong Back to the Jang (BACK TO THE JANG) Hongtak Festa
Nov 12 – Nov 14, 2026 · Gwangju & Jeollanam-do
The 2026 edition ran Nov 12 – Nov 14, 2026. 2027 dates have not been announced yet; this page is updated automatically when the organizer publishes them. Check the official site for the latest.
Overview
The Yangdong Back to the Jang Hongtak Festa is a festival held to promote and revitalize the charm of traditional markets by combining hongeo (fermented skate), the signature specialty of Gwangju's Yangdong Market, with takju (Korean rice wine) from the Gwangju region. Seven market merchant associations — including Yangdong Market, Su Market, Yangdong Bokgae Shopping Center, Gyeongnyeol-ro Market, the Dried Seafood Market, and Dakjeon-gil Market — participate together to create synergy through market integration and attract more visitors. During the event, a variety of hongtak food booths will operate, along with a '1,000 KRW Makgeolli Booth' where visitors can taste representative Gwangju makgeolli brands such as Mudeungsan Makgeolli and Bia Makgeolli for 1,000 KRW per glass. In addition, a receipt payback event will offer Onnuri Gift Certificates and hongeo tasting experience coupons, and a variety of cultural performances and special programs will take place, including an opening ceremony performance, the Heungbuja Song & Dance Showcase, the Hongtak Table-Setting Competition with Master Chef An Yu-seong's Gourmet Show, and an EDM DJ party. This festival is a representative traditional market festival in Gwangju where visitors can enjoy Yangdong Market's unique food culture that connects tradition and generations.
Why go
This festival spotlights Gwangju's distinctive hongeo (fermented skate) and local takju (rice wine) culture at Yangdong Market, with seven market merchant associations joining forces for food booths, tastings, and performances. It's a good chance to sample a strong regional specialty alongside everyday market life rather than a staged tourist event.
Getting there from Seoul
Take the KTX from Seoul (Yongsan or Seoul Station) to Gwangju Songjeong Station, roughly two hours, then a short taxi or local bus ride to Yangdong Market in Seo-gu. Express buses also run from Seoul's Central City or Nambu Bus Terminal to Gwangju's bus terminal, taking about three and a half to four hours, with onward local transport to the market.
Tips
- Look for the 1,000 KRW makgeolli booth to try Mudeungsan and Bia makgeolli, two well-known Gwangju brands, at a low cost.
- Keep your receipts — a payback event offers Onnuri Gift Certificates and hongeo tasting coupons.
- Hongeo has a strong, pungent flavor that's an acquired taste; if you're new to it, pair it with takju and other market food as locals do.
Best for: food lovers, market culture, local cuisine, nightlife.
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Reach travelers heading to Gwangju & Jeollanam-do: sponsor this page.
Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go.