Ulleungdo Squid Festival to open July 17 for 24th edition

The 24th Ulleungdo Squid Festival will run from July 17 to 19.

Ulleung-gun held its third Ulleung-gun Festival Committee meeting on June 18, kicking off working-level consultations with relevant agencies, civic groups and local residents on this year's festival, the county said Tuesday. A range of opinions gathered at the meeting will be actively reflected in the festival's operations.

This year's festival is scheduled during the "jogeum" — a neap-tide period when squid catches peak — giving organizers hope it will showcase the quality of Ulleungdo squid and offer visitors a vivid look at life on the fishing grounds.

Holding the event in mid-July, when visitor numbers are relatively low ahead of the peak tourism season, is also expected to help boost local tourism.

This year's edition moves beyond a simple food-and-performance format, significantly expanding hands-on programs that let visitors experience Ulleungdo's nature, culture and fishing industry firsthand.

New flagship programs include the "Hwang U-ru Song Festival," honoring Hwang U-ru, the artist behind "Ulleungdo Twist," and a squid-boat boarding experience that takes participants out to sea on an actual squid fishing vessel.

Returning favorites — squid-catching by hand, squid tasting events, a sea loach-catching contest, a beer-and-pizza party and local cultural performances — will also be staged with greater variety and depth.

"This year we adjusted the timing and restructured the overall program to create a festival that more tourists can enjoy," said Kim Su-han, chairman of the Ulleung-gun Festival Committee. "We will raise the quality of existing content and strengthen distinctive attractions and activities to further enhance the unique appeal of the Ulleungdo Squid Festival."

Nam Han-gwon, the Ulleung-gun county chief, said he hoped the 24th Ulleungdo Squid Festival would draw many tourists to the island to create special summer memories while also helping to invigorate the local economy.