The cries of forgotten boys echo as a message of peace at the Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival.
In those days when hope was not lost even in darkness, there is a river that unknown young boys protected with their lives on the Nakdonggang River, the last line of defense. Every autumn on its banks, a special festival is held that delivers a message of peace with profound resonance. That is the Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival.
This festival is more than just simple enjoyment; it is a precious time that remembers the painful history of the Korean War, reflects on the spirit of national defense, and helps us realize anew the value of South Korea that ordinary people protected. In 2026, this festival, celebrating its thirteenth anniversary, invites you to a more special story under the slogan ‘Farewell, Nakdonggang, the Boys Who Protected the River.’
The heart of history and peace, where its resonance began
In 1950, the Nakdonggang defensive line, where the fate of South Korea hung in the balance amidst a desperate crisis. Chilgok is a historical place imbued with the noble sacrifices of those who gave their all to protect the nation. The Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival began precisely to commemorate the meaning of this fierce battle and to convey gratitude to all veterans and those who defended the country.
Why talk about peace in Chilgok?
Although the festival presents diverse programs with peace as its theme every year, in 2026, it takes an even more meaningful step. It plans to highlight the existence of young Child soldier who have been relatively unnoticed, and strengthen the festival’s historical and peaceful message by focusing on honoring their sacrifices and spirits. The stories of these small heroes, hidden behind the narratives of student soldiers, will be brought back to life in Chilgok.
- Historical Site The center of the Nakdonggang Battle, which was the last line of defense during the Korean War.
- Inheritance of the Spirit of National Defense A place to remember and appreciate the noble sacrifices and values of those who protected the nation.
- Highlighting Boy Soldiers A special opportunity to recall the stories of forgotten young heroes under the slogan ‘Farewell, Nakdonggang, the Boys Who Protected the River.’
2026 Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival, a special experience you can only find here
Unfolding around the Chilgokbo Ecological Park area, the Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival is full of diverse programs that satisfy all five senses. A special experience awaits you, where you can reflect on historical significance while enjoying time with the whole family.
Stage where melodies of peace flow: Performance Programs
- Theme Performance and Celebratory Performance Grand performances embodying the meaning of the festival blend with celebratory stages by popular singers.
- Peace Music Festival (PMF) Beautiful music singing of peace adorns the banks of the Nakdonggang River.
- Military Culture Performance and Black Eagles Air Show A dignified military band performance and the fantastic Black Eagles Air Show soaring through the sky will unfold.
- Children’s Performance (Youtuber Dr. Egg) The whole family can have a happy time with beneficial and enjoyable performances tailored to children’s eye level.
A path to experience and remember history: Participation Programs
- Nakdonggang Defense Line Theme Park Experience the urgency of that era indirectly at a theme park recreating the actual battlefield.
- Crossing the 430m Pontoon Bridge It offers a unique experience of walking across the River of Peace by crossing a pontoon bridge spanning the Nakdonggang River.
- Boy Soldier Memorial Rest Zone and Craft Experience In a space to remember and commemorate forgotten boy soldiers, you can create special souvenirs embodying messages of peace.
- AI System Utilization Tour Program You can excitingly explore hidden stories and information throughout the festival using cutting-edge AI technology.
The taste of the world and the charm of Chilgok: Food Programs
- UN Participating Nations, Chilgok-gun Food Restaurants You can taste representative dishes from UN participating nations and unique foods from Chilgok-gun all in one place.
- Chilgok Honey Beer, Bundo Sausage Pub (PUB) Enjoy the festival atmosphere with refreshing honey beer made from Chilgok’s local specialties and delicious Bundo sausages.
- Chilgok Farmers’ Market This is an opportunity to directly encounter and purchase fresh agricultural and specialty products produced in the Chilgok area.
2026 Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival Basic Information
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Period | October 15 (Thu) ~ October 18 (Sun), 2026 |
| Operating Hours | 10 AM ~ 10 PM |
| Venue | Chilgokbo Ecological Park area |
| Organizer | Chilgok Cultural Tourism Foundation, ROK Army 2nd Operations Command |
| Admission Fee | Free (some experiences are paid) |
Special Reasons to Visit Chilgok Now
You can only experience all these special moments at the Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival, right now and in 2026. It will not just be a simple autumn festival, but a living educational site that correctly understands the painful history of our nation, commemorates the victims, and teaches future generations the importance of peace.
In particular, the 2026 festival will deeply explore the stories of young boy soldiers who were previously unknown, providing a special opportunity to shed light on another side of the war. If you want to experience historical significance, cultural enjoyment, and a deeply engraved message of peace all at once, this autumn’s Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival will be an unmissable choice. Head to Chilgok now, listen to their stories, and join the journey of creating our peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When and where is the Chilgok Nakdonggang Peace Festival held?
It will be held for a total of 4 days, from Thursday, October 15 to Sunday, October 18, 2026, around the Chilgokbo Ecological Park area. Please note that it operates daily from 10 AM to 10 PM.
Q2. What is the admission fee for the festival?
Festival admission is generally free. However, some special experience programs may incur a small participation fee, so please check the information provided on-site.
Q3. Is it good to visit with children?
Yes, of course. Diverse programs for children, including Youtuber Dr. Egg’s performance, the Nakdonggang Defense Line Theme Park, and craft experiences, are prepared, which will create good memories for family visitors.
Q4. What about transportation and parking during the festival period?
During the festival period, temporary parking lots and shuttle bus services are planned for visitors’ convenience. If using a personal car, please park according to parking instructions, and if using public transportation, it is recommended to check the nearby shuttle bus stops.
Q5. What programs are related to boy soldiers?
Among the boy soldier-related programs, one of the core themes of the 2026 festival is the ‘Boy Soldier Memorial Rest Zone’ and ‘Craft Experience.’ Here, you can participate in meaningful activities to hear the stories of boy soldiers and remember them.
