'A chance for northern Gyeonggi to emerge as a hub of future advanced industries'
Gyeonggi Province will co-host the 2026 Gyeonggi-Yangju-Ground Operations Command Drone-Bot Festival at Ganapri Airfield in Gwangjeok-myeon, Yangju, from Friday through Sunday, together with Yangju City and the Army's Ground Operations Command.
Now in its sixth year, the festival was established to promote civilian-government-military cooperation and raise awareness of the future of advanced defense industries. Gyeonggi Province, Yangju City and the Ground Operations Command are co-hosting the event, with a civilian-government-military organizing committee overseeing operations.
The program includes demonstrations of the military's drone-bot combat systems, exhibitions of advanced military equipment, hands-on drone and robot experiences, and cultural performances.
The opening ceremony on Friday will feature a celebratory flyover by Army aviation, performances by the honor guard and military band, and a special forces martial arts demonstration. On Saturday, the Army will conduct a drone tactical demonstration, and the final day — Sunday — will close with an awards ceremony for the drone-bot competition and a closing ceremony.
Visitors will also have access to more than 30 hands-on programs, including opportunities to pilot drones and operate robots, as well as armored vehicle rides. On Sunday, pre-registered participants selected in advance will be able to ride a Surion helicopter.
Drone light shows are scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings, with a fireworks display added on Saturday night. Cultural events bringing together residents and military personnel — including a performance by the Yangju City Choir and a civilian-government-military harmony concert — will also be held.
The festival carries added significance as it takes place at Ganapri Airfield, an area that has long been a source of conflict due to noise and property restrictions stemming from military operations. Gyeonggi Province has supported the event since last year to inject vitality into the border communities of northern Gyeonggi Province, which have faced development constraints under military regulations, and to broaden the foundation for civilian-military cooperation.
The province expects the festival to expand exchanges between residents and the military, raise the profile of advanced drone and robot technology and the defense industry, and contribute to revitalizing the local economy.
Admission to the festival grounds is free, though some hands-on programs carry a fee. Free shuttle buses will run from temporary parking lots at the Yangju Arts and Culture Center and Baekseok Living Sports Park to the venue.
Jo Jang-seok, director of Gyeonggi Province's Balanced Development Planning Office, said the festival is "an event that creates an opportunity for northern Gyeonggi — a strategic hub of military security — to leap forward as a center of future advanced industries, beyond peace and mutual prosperity." Jo added: "Since this was prepared together by civilians, government and the military, I hope many residents will visit the venue to experience cutting-edge defense technology and share in the spirit of mutual cooperation."
pjh@heraldcorp.com
