A thrill that splits heaven and earth! What awaits at the 22nd Ground Forces Festival?
Tired of ordinary autumn weekends? What if your heart raced with a roar, and the scene of a future war unfolded before your eyes? South Korea’s largest military culture festival, where you can experience everything about the Republic of Korea Army in one place, Ground Forces Festival is ready to once again heat up the Gyeryongdae (계룡대) Airfield in Chungcheongnam-do (충청남도) in the autumn of 2026.
This festival, continuing for 22 years, goes beyond simple barracks experiences, offering a special opportunity to experience the present and future of our Army with all five senses and feel a sense of pride. This year, in particular, it will convey a more profound message under the theme of ‘The Republic of Korea Army Protecting the Daily Lives of the People’.
What amazing sights and experiences await you? Let’s unveil them now.
Is this real? Everything about the Army experienced with all five senses
Every autumn, the Gyeryongdae (계룡대) Airfield in Chungcheongnam-do (충청남도) transforms into a giant outdoor exhibition space. The Ground Forces Festival is South Korea’s largest military culture festival hosted by the Army, a non-profit public interest event designed to build trust in the military and share the Army’s progress with the public.
The festival’s magnificent journey and key information
The Ground Forces Festival, which began in 2002 and is celebrating its 22nd year, continues to evolve each year, welcoming visitors with even richer programs. Beyond simple barracks experiences, it is filled with innovative content that offers a glimpse into the future battlefield.
- Event Period From Thursday, October 1, 2026, to Monday, October 5, 2026, lasting a total of 5 days.
- Operating Hours Operates daily from 09:00 to 17:00, allowing you to enjoy the festival all day.
- Venue Held at the Gyeryongdae (계룡대) Airfield in Chungcheongnam-do (충청남도), the heart of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces.
- Organizer Hosted by the Ground Forces Festival Planning Group, ensuring perfect event execution.
Beyond Imagination! Ground Forces Festival Highlights Preview
This Ground Forces Festival will feature innovative demonstrations that offer a glimpse into the future of the Army, including an exhibition of the latest Korea-U.S. combat equipment. It’s filled with programs that go beyond simple viewing, allowing direct participation and enjoyment. What programs, then, await you?
A moment to directly feel the heart of the future Army
Main Programs of Overwhelming Scale
- Opening Ceremony Magnificent performances spectacularly announce the prelude to the festival.
- Army Policy Promotion Center You can see the vision of the future Army and the development of advanced science and technology, such as AI-based systems and intelligent smart units, at a glance.
- Mechanized Unit Army TIGER+ and Drone Unit Demonstration You can witness dynamic demonstrations of the Army’s powerful mobile forces and drone technology, which will be central to future warfare.
- Korea-U.S. Combat Equipment Exhibition This is a rare opportunity to see state-of-the-art weapons up close and hear vivid explanations from experts.
- Road Parade A large-scale march will unfold, allowing you to fully appreciate the grandeur of the Army and foster patriotism.
Thrilling Participation Programs to Enjoy with Your Whole Body
- Combat Equipment Riding Experience Climb directly onto tanks, armored vehicles, etc., to feel like a trainee and create unique memories.
- Military Motorcycle Riding Experience Sit on an exciting military motorcycle, take commemorative photos, and have a special experience.
- Hyungung (현궁) Simulated Firing You can virtually operate the latest anti-tank missile ‘Hyungung’ and have a realistic firing experience.
- KCTC MILES Experience Indirectly experience survival combat training with equipment used in actual training grounds and learn tactics.
- Survival Experience Enjoy a thrilling survival game, testing your teamwork and strategic skills.
- Family Photo Shoot Take special commemorative photos with the whole family in front of Army equipment and create unforgettable memories.
Ground Forces Festival, Why Should You Definitely Go Now?
The 2026 Ground Forces Festival is more than just an event to support soldiers; it’s a rare opportunity to directly witness the current state and future of South Korea’s security. This year, in particular, you can more deeply experience the Army’s transformation incorporating AI and advanced science and technology, and it’s filled with diverse programs that the whole family can enjoy.
| Festival Features | Key Content | Value of Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Future Army Vision | Exhibition of the latest Korea-U.S. combat equipment, Army TIGER+ and drone-bot demonstrations, AI·advanced technology-based combat system demonstrations | Enhance understanding of future defense technology and the Army’s progress |
| High-Quality Military Culture | Military band and honor guard performances, Taekwondo demonstrations, Military Police MC maneuver demonstrations, Army performance team shows, Road Parade | A splendid and moving cultural and artistic experience presented by the Army |
| Public Participation Type | Combat equipment/military motorcycle riding, Hyungung (현궁) simulated firing, KCTC MILES/survival experience, Drone competition | Creating unique experiences and special memories that people of all ages can enjoy |
The Ground Forces Festival, where you can encounter the strength and future of the Army that is difficult to access in daily life, will provide unforgettable emotions and experiences to people of all ages. We highly recommend you join the Army’s festival to be held in October 2026, at Gyeryongdae (계룡대) in Chungcheongnam-do (충청남도)!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When and where is the Ground Forces Festival held?
The Ground Forces Festival will be held for 5 days, from Thursday, October 1, 2026, to Monday, October 5, 2026, daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, at the Gyeryongdae (계룡대) Airfield in Chungcheongnam-do (충청남도).
Q2. What is the admission fee for the festival?
The Ground Forces Festival is a non-profit public interest event aimed at promoting the Army’s future policies and spreading positive values about the military. Therefore, you can participate freely without a separate admission fee.
Q3. What main programs can I expect?
Main programs are prepared, starting with the opening ceremony, including the Army Policy Promotion Center, Army TIGER+ and drone unit demonstrations, and the Korea-U.S. combat equipment exhibition. In addition, you can enjoy various cultural performances such as military band and honor guard performances, and Taekwondo demonstrations.
Q4. Are there any good experiential programs for children to participate in?
Yes, there are various programs for children to directly participate in and enjoy, such as combat equipment riding experience, military motorcycle riding experience, Hyungung (현궁) simulated firing, KCTC MILES experience, survival experience, and family photo shoot.
Q5. Can I purchase food and beverages at the festival site?
Various convenience facilities will be prepared at the festival site for visitors. For specific information on food and beverage booth operations, it is most accurate to check the official festival website.
