'Drone Bot Festival' to Launch from Nov. 30 at Yangju Ganam-ri Airfield

A unique opportunity awaits to experience military drone bot combat system demonstrations, advanced military equipment exhibitions, drone and robot experiences, cultural performances, and various other programs.

Gyeonggi Province will host the "2026 Gyeonggi·Yangju·Army Ground Operations Command Drone Bot Festival" at Ganam-ri Airfield in Gwangjjeok-myeon, Yangju City from November 30 to November 1.

The event brings together Gyeonggi Province, Yangju City, and the Army Ground Operations Command, providing an opportunity to explore the future of advanced defense industry.

The opening ceremony on November 30 will feature Army Aviation ceremonial flights, honor guard and military band performances, and special forces martial arts demonstrations. On November 31, an Army drone tactical demonstration will be held, and on the final day, November 1, a drone bot competition awards ceremony and closing ceremony will take place.

The event venue will offer over 30 programs where visitors can directly operate drones and robots, as well as armored vehicle boarding experiences. On November 1, pre-selected participants will also have the opportunity to board a Surion helicopter.

In the evenings, drone light shows will take place on November 30 and 31, with fireworks following on November 31. Cultural events for residents and military personnel to enjoy together, including performances by the Yangju Municipal Choir and public-private-military cooperation concerts, are also planned.

This event is particularly meaningful as it takes place at Ganam-ri Airfield, which has experienced conflict over noise and property rights restrictions resulting from military facility operations.

Jo Jang-seok, Director of Balanced Development Planning at Gyeonggi Province, stated, "The festival is an event that serves as an opportunity for northern Gyeonggi, a strategic military security area, to advance beyond peace and coexistence to become the hub of future advanced industry. We hope this event will become a venue where many residents visit the festival site, experience advanced defense technology, and share the meaning of coexistence."