Hwaseong Special City World Culture Festival Brings Together 3,000 Domestic and Foreign Residents in Unity

Hwaseong Special City (Mayor Jung Myung-geun) held the "2026 Hwaseong Special City World Culture Festival" on the 13th at Hyungnam Dowon Sports Park to commemorate the 19th Day of World Citizens.

Approximately 3,000 domestic and foreign residents participated in the festival, experiencing and exchanging cultures. In particular, it was designed as an occasion to understand and respect each other's diversity beyond nationality, race, and generation, and to share the values of a multicultural society.

The festival opened with African traditional performances and a country-by-country entrance parade featuring residents from 17 nations. Participants entered wearing traditional costumes from their respective countries, showcasing diverse cultures, and sang "Beautiful Country" together to add deeper meaning to unity.

The first part featured an opening address, congratulatory remarks, commendations for contributors, and congratulatory performances by a multicultural choir. In the second part, the "Foreign Resident Talent Show," a total of 10 teams participated, presenting songs and performances to sustain the festival's energy.

Throughout the venue, various side events were operated, including experience spaces showcasing traditional cultures from 7 countries, a world food zone, and a promotional zone, providing visitors with opportunities to experience cultures from multiple nations.

Lee Hee-jung, Director of Gender Equality and Family Affairs, said, "This World Culture Festival was an occasion where domestic and foreign residents understood each other's cultures and naturally blended as neighbors in the local community," and added, "We will expand opportunities for cultural exchange so that residents with different cultural backgrounds can interact and strengthen their sense of belonging and cohesion as members of the local community."