National cooking competition on Saturday; Paju Ginseng Marathon draws 1,000+ on Sunday
Paju will host the 21st Paju Gaeseong Ginseng Festival at the Imjingak tourist site Saturday and Sunday.
The festival has established itself as a signature autumn event blending agriculture, tourism and culture, centered on the city's prized six-year-grown Gaeseong ginseng.
Now in its 21st year, the festival will offer a wide range of programs for both residents and tourists.
On Saturday morning, the 17th Paju Jangdan Sambaek National Cooking Competition will take place, featuring skilled chefs competing in dishes themed around Paju's three signature agricultural products — rice, soybeans and ginseng.
The opening ceremony will include a stage shared by the Paju mayor, the Paju City Council and the Paju Municipal Arts Troupe. Visitors can also take part in making ginseng bibimbap and enjoy free tastings.
Saturday afternoon will feature performances by youth and teenagers showcasing their talents. A new "Moonlight Theater" will screen the film "Seungbu" and offer free refreshments, adding to the autumn evening atmosphere.
On Sunday, the Paju Ginseng Marathon — themed around the health benefits of Paju ginseng — will draw about 1,000 participants. A circus performance and a ginseng auction will follow, offering additional entertainment.
The festival will close with performances by So Chan-hwi and Min Su-hyeon, expected to give visitors a memorable autumn send-off.
A touring vehicle will operate at the festival grounds for families. Free parking will be available at the Imjingak outdoor auxiliary lot (1177-8 Majeong-ri, Munsan-eup) and the Peace Parking Lot (989-1 Majeong-ri, Munsan-eup). A shuttle bus will also run between Munsan Station and the festival site.
pjh@heraldcorp.com
