The King’s Secret Mineral Water: A Healing Journey with Sejong Daewang to the Chojeong Mineral Water Festival
Are you curious about the story of a king who, feeling unwell, personally set out to find mineral water? King Sejong the Great in history suffered from an eye disease and thirst, and the solution, where he stayed for just 120 days, was none other than Chojeong Mineral Water in Cheongju. In October 2026, the King Sejong the Great and Chojeong Mineral Water Festival, commemorating this great historical background, will return to us.
From the mysterious efficacy of Chojeongyaksu, recognized as one of the world’s top three mineral waters, to the deep wisdom of Hangeul creation and state administration, this festival goes beyond simple sights to convey messages of history and healing. It’s time to follow in the footsteps of King Sejong the Great and explore what the enlightenment and health he gained here mean to us today.
The Miraculous Spring Water That Restored the King’s Health: The Story of Chojeong Mineral Water
Approximately 600 years ago, King Sejong the Great, the sage king who led the Joseon Renaissance, suffered from chronic eye disease and thirst. At that time, the place he sought out on the recommendation of his retainers was Chojeong Mineral Water, meaning ‘pungent medicinal water’. It is also a historical site where he stayed at Chojeong Haenggung for an astonishing 120 days, not only undergoing mineral water treatment but also dedicating himself to the creation of Hangeul and state administration with a spirit of love for his people.
What is so special about Chojeong Mineral Water?
- One of the World’s Top 3 Mineral Waters Recognized as a globally rare mineral water along with Apollinaris from Germany and Shasta from the UK, it boasts historical and scientific excellence.
- Rich Carbonated Minerals Abundant in naturally occurring carbonation and various minerals, it has been known since ancient times for its efficacy in treating skin diseases, stomach ailments, neuralgia, etc., earning it the name ‘Mysterious Water’.
- The King’s Healing Experience Records of King Sejong the Great personally drinking this mineral water, curing his illness, and regaining his health further illuminate the value of Chojeong Mineral Water.
To shed new light on the value of Chojeong Mineral Water, which possesses such a long history and remarkable efficacy, and to commemorate the great achievements of King Sejong the Great, the King Sejong the Great and Chojeong Mineral Water Festival is held annually. We invite you on a meaningful journey where history, health, and culture harmonize, going beyond a simple local festival.
Where the Breath of History Dances: Key Attractions of the Festival
The King Sejong the Great and Chojeong Mineral Water Festival, held in the area of Cheongju’s Chojeong Cultural Park and Chojeong Haenggung (View Map), is filled with diverse programs that trace the footsteps of King Sejong the Great. From official ceremonies to performances, experiences, and participatory events, it will offer a special time that satisfies all five senses.
Festival Highlights You Can Only Find Here!
- Royal Procession This event recreates the magnificent procession of King Sejong the Great on his way to Chojeong, splendidly marking the opening of the festival. Experience the vivid emotion as if you’ve traveled through time.
- Yeongcheonje Ritual A traditional ceremony praying for the miraculousness of Chojeong Mineral Water and the peace and prosperity of the region. In a solemn and reverent atmosphere, you can reflect on the hearts of our ancestors.
- Yangroyeon Feast This event recreates the feast King Sejong the Great held to show respect for the elderly. It is a meaningful occasion to reflect on the virtue of respecting elders and the spirit of a warm community.
- Performance Plaza A variety of attractions will unfold, including relay performances by local art groups, civic cultural and artistic performances, and even thrilling tightrope walking performances, a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, adding to the excitement.
- Experience Plaza Understand our culture through traditional workshop experiences and craft activities, and specifically enjoy a relaxing time like a king by relieving fatigue with a foot bath experience using Chojeong Mineral Water.
Participatory Programs for the Whole Family
- National Youth Literary Contest An opportunity for young people who dream of becoming the next King Sejong the Great to showcase their literary talents.
- Treasure Hunt A participatory program where the whole family can create joyful memories by searching for hidden treasures throughout the festival grounds.
In addition to this, various exhibition spaces will be arranged to provide a deeper understanding of King Sejong the Great’s achievements and the scientific value of Chojeong Mineral Water. Operating from day to night, from 10:00 to 21:00, the festival will offer new delights at every moment.
October 2026: Why You Should Visit the King Sejong the Great and Chojeong Mineral Water Festival
The King Sejong the Great and Chojeong Mineral Water Festival, taking place for three days from October 16th to October 18th, 2026, will go beyond a simple autumn festival to offer us unforgettable experiences and profound resonance. Based on the achievements of the past 20 years, this festival has established itself as a flagship brand festival representing Cheongju, harboring a vision to leap beyond national borders to become a global cultural tourism festival. So, why should you visit here now?
| Festival Value | Unmissable Special Features |
|---|---|
| Wisdom and Emotion in History | The spirit of King Sejong the Great’s love for his people, his great achievements, and the mysterious story of Chojeong Mineral Water which cured the king’s illness, combine to offer a profound historical experience. |
| Healing for Body and Mind | This is a rare opportunity to directly experience the efficacy of Chojeong Mineral Water, one of the world’s top three mineral waters, and revitalize your tired body and mind. |
| Festival for the Whole Family | From the grandeur of the royal procession to traditional experiences, and from the youth literary contest to the treasure hunt, a variety of programs are prepared for enjoyment by all ages. |
| Autumnal Charm in Pristine Nature | You can enjoy the festival amidst the rich bounty of autumn within Cheongju’s beautiful natural environment. Create special memories with the beautiful scenery. |
This festival, hosted by Cheongju City, awaits you with its unique theme where history, culture, and health come together. In the autumn of 2026, we hope you will experience the wisdom of King Sejong the Great and the healing energy of Chojeong Mineral Water with family, friends, and loved ones, and gain new inspiration for life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When and where is the King Sejong the Great and Chojeong Mineral Water Festival held?
It will be held for three days from October 16th to October 18th, 2026, in the area of Cheongju’s Chojeong Cultural Park and Chojeong Haenggung, operating from 10 AM to 9 PM.
Q2. What is the main theme of the festival?
The main theme is to re-illuminate King Sejong the Great’s great achievements and the healing power of Chojeong Mineral Water, and to promote the value of Cheongju’s pristine natural environment and health resources.
Q3. Are there programs for children to enjoy?
Yes, a variety of programs are prepared for children to participate in with fun, including traditional workshop and craft experiences, treasure hunts, and the National Youth Literary Contest.
Q4. Why is Chojeong Mineral Water considered special?
Chojeong Mineral Water is considered special because it is one of the world’s top three mineral waters, alongside Apollinaris from Germany and Shasta from the UK, and it is a mysterious mineral water with historical records of King Sejong the Great curing his chronic illness.
Q5. Are there any special performances to enjoy at the festival?
Yes, a variety of attractions will be presented, including relay performances by local art groups, civic cultural and artistic performances, and even tightrope walking performances, a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
