Mapo-gu District Mayor Yoo Dong-kyun joined a magistrate-themed parade Friday morning, marching from the Mapo-gu District Office's civic plaza to the waterside stage at World Cup Park to open the 19th Mapo-naru Saeujeot (salted shrimp) Festival.
Dressed as a Joseon-era magistrate, Yoo led a procession of about 280 participants — including a traditional military band, actors playing constables and commoners, and a folk percussion troupe. The march, filled with the bold sounds of the military ensemble and the lively rhythms of the folk drummers, brought the atmosphere of the old Mapo riverside port back to life in the heart of the city.
As the procession reached the waterside stage, a reenactment of a vessel's arrival unfolded, with a traditional yellow-sailed boat pulling in carrying salted shrimp. The scene — a boat laden with goods being welcomed ashore — evoked the bustling energy of the historic ferry landing.
Yoo inspected the salted shrimp, declared "It's a barrel!" and struck a large ceremonial drum three times to officially open the festival. Colorful smoke then billowed across the venue, lifting the festive mood.
A performance team led by Park Ae-ri and a neighborhood folk percussion group followed with a communal celebration show, adding to the day's excitement.
"I hope everyone enjoys this lively autumn festival with family and neighbors — savoring the atmosphere of the old Mapo port where yellow-sailed boats once came and went, and picking out some delicious salted shrimp," Yoo said.
The 19th Mapo-naru Saeujeot Festival runs through Sunday at the Peace Plaza area of World Cup Park.
seouldream01@heraldcorp.com
