Kim Satgat Cultural Festival, a Yeongwol literary tour following the wandering poet’s footsteps
An nameless poet and a bohemian who captivated his era. There is a place where his traces, who wandered like a cloud throughout his life and sang of freedom, are still vividly alive today. That is Yeongwol, Gangwon-do. The special festival unfolding here, the Kim Satgat Cultural Festival, is a meaningful occasion to commemorate the life and literature of the wandering poet Kim Satgat.
Some remember him as an artist ahead of his time, others as a heretic who rebelled against the world. Who exactly was Kim Satgat, and why should we encounter his story in Yeongwol? In the autumn of 2026, let’s follow his mysterious footsteps together through the Kim Satgat Cultural Festival unfolding in Yeongwol.
Kim Satgat, the poet who speaks to us across time
Kim Satgat (Kim Byeong-yeon), who in the late Joseon Dynasty, wore a conical hat to obscure the sky and wandered the country, leaving behind masterful poems. He sublimated his criticism of the era, compassion for humanity, and deep love for nature into poetry. His life remains a paradigm of a true artist who rejected conventional frameworks and pursued freedom. Kim Satgat’s literary spirit today continues to be passed down through the Kim Satgat Cultural Festival.
Why is he commemorated in Yeongwol?
Kim Satgat spent the last part of his life in Yeongwol. Yeongwol’s beautiful natural scenery and simple people put an end to his wandering, and he eventually came to rest here. Therefore, Yeongwol is considered the place where Kim Satgat’s literary footsteps and life philosophy are most deeply imbued. The Yeongwol Cultural Tourism Foundation annually hosts this festival to commemorate this historical and cultural significance, reaffirming Kim Satgat’s spirit.
A Literary Journey Back in Time, Festival Highlights
For three days, from October 16 to October 18, 2026, the Kim Satgat Cultural Festival, filled with diverse programs, will unfold in the area around Kim Satgat’s historic site in Yeongwol and throughout Yeongwol-eup. The festival grounds, operating from 10 AM to 6 PM, will offer an unforgettable experience to all literature lovers.
Traces of Kim Satgat within the Festival
- Main Programs Beginning with the Kim Satgat Memorial Rite, the literary spirit of old scholars is carried on through the Joseon Dynasty Gwageo Daejeon (Chinese Poetry Contest), and the value of Kim Satgat’s literature is re-examined through general/student writing contests, the Kim Satgat Literary Award, the Korean Literature Symposium, and academic symposia. The National Calligraphy Competition and the Outdoor Sketching and Cartoon Drawing Contest provide an opportunity for everyone, regardless of age or gender, to showcase their artistic talents.
- Performance Programs In addition to the opening and closing ceremonies that splendidly mark the beginning and end of the festival, a unique rap competition blending tradition and modernity will also be held, delighting the senses of visitors.
- Permanent Programs At the literature market, you can find various literary works and related merchandise, and ‘Daldal Sik-tak’ adds to the joy of the festival with food embodying the taste of Yeongwol. You can also appreciate the diverse works of Yeongwol artists through local artist exhibitions.
In 2026, a special experience awaits you in Yeongwol
In Yeongwol, where the poet’s free spirit breathes, the unfolding Kim Satgat Cultural Festival will be more than just a festival; it will be a precious opportunity to reflect on our own lives and gain new inspiration through Kim Satgat’s life and literature. In the deepening autumn, recharge your literary sensibilities amidst Yeongwol’s beautiful nature.
Festival Enjoyment Guide
- Check the Schedule It runs from October 16 to October 18, 2026, so set your available dates in advance.
- Pre-research Programs You can create a fruitful viewing plan by checking the main programs you wish to participate in, such as writing contests, performances, and symposia, in advance.
- Comfortable Attire It is recommended to prepare comfortable shoes and clothing so you can enjoy various activities while moving between the Kim Satgat historic site area and Yeongwol-eup.
- Explore Around Yeongwol Along with the festival, explore other famous spots in Yeongwol, such as Cheongnyeongpo and Seonam Village, to make your autumn trip even richer.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Festival Name | Kim Satgat Cultural Festival |
| Period | October 16, 2026 (Fri) ~ October 18, 2026 (Sun) |
| Venue | Kim Satgat historic site area and throughout Yeongwol-eup |
| Operating Hours | 10:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM |
| Host | Yeongwol Cultural Tourism Foundation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What kind of festival is the Kim Satgat Cultural Festival?
The Kim Satgat Cultural Festival is a literary festival held annually in Yeongwol, Gangwon-do, to commemorate the life and literary achievements of the wandering poet Kim Satgat (Kim Byeong-yeon). It features various literary events, performances, and experience programs that carry on the poet’s spirit.
Q2. When and where is the festival held?
It will run for three days from October 16 (Fri) to October 18 (Sun), 2026, with diverse events unfolding throughout the Kim Satgat historic site area and various locations in Yeongwol-eup.
Q3. What are the main programs?
There are abundant literary programs such as the Kim Satgat Memorial Rite, Joseon Dynasty Gwageo Daejeon (Chinese Poetry Contest), Kim Satgat Literary Award ceremony, and academic symposia, as well as entertainment like opening/closing ceremony performances, rap competitions, and a literature market.
Q4. What are the festival operating hours?
It operates daily from 10 AM to 6 PM during the festival period. You can visit within these hours and leisurely enjoy the festival.
Q5. Are there any special preparations needed to participate in the festival?
As there are many outdoor activities, comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, and if you plan to participate in a writing contest or calligraphy competition, it’s good to bring your own writing tools. Don’t forget to bring an outer garment to prepare for autumn weather.
