Themed 'Mythical Chrysanthemum Garden,' the festival features chrysanthemum sculptures, bonsai works and more
The 2026 Gukyang Daejeon, a national chrysanthemum festival, opened Friday at Hampyeong Expo Park, kicking off a 17-day run amid a sea of colorful blooms.
Hampyeong-gun said the opening ceremony was held successfully Friday morning at the Butterfly Gate of Hampyeong Expo Park.
About 50 people attended the ceremony, including National Assembly member Lee Gae-ho, Hampyeong-gun County Chief Lee Nam-o, Hampyeong County Council Speaker Kim Yeong-in, county council members, heads of local institutions and civic organizations, and county officials.
The ceremony opened with a performance by the Hampyeong Music Association, followed by introductions of key guests, an opening address and a welcome speech. Attendees then marked the official launch of the festival with a ribbon-cutting.
After the ceremony, participants toured the festival grounds to inspect the main attractions and exhibition facilities. Starting from the Butterfly Gate, they visited the Mythical Chrysanthemum Garden — the centerpiece of this year's theme — along with the premium chrysanthemum bonsai exhibition hall inside the Butterfly and Insect Ecology Center and the Hampyeong Memory Workshop.
Running through Nov. 8, the 17-day festival is themed "Mythical Chrysanthemum Garden" and will showcase a wide array of chrysanthemum sculptures and bonsai works alongside performances and hands-on programs.
"I sincerely thank all those who worked so hard to prepare for the 2026 Gukyang Daejeon," County Chief Lee said. "We will do our utmost to ensure that every visitor can enjoy the festival in a comfortable and safe environment."
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