Over 1,000 students and residents attend; 22 booths and local song contest highlight open-campus festival
Korea Maritime and Ocean University announced Monday that its 2026 Archi Haestival, held Wednesday and Thursday on campus, drew more than 1,000 students and local residents and concluded successfully.
This year's event was organized as an open festival for the surrounding community to participate in and enjoy alongside students. From the planning stage, the university focused on building a program that local residents of all backgrounds could attend without hesitation, aiming to transform the campus into a shared space for the wider community.
A total of 22 promotional and hands-on booths operated throughout the festival, run by university administrative departments, outside organizations and student clubs. Each booth offered activities, entertainment and food for visitors of all ages, drawing not only students but also families.
Evening cultural events brought the festival to its peak, featuring performances by invited singers, student club showcases and a community song contest open to local residents. Retro arcade games and a maritime-themed photo booth proved especially popular, drawing a steady stream of visitors throughout the night.
Korea Maritime and Ocean University President Ryu Dong-geun said the university would use the festival as a springboard to deepen ties with the local community. "We will continue to expand exchanges with local residents and strengthen our role as an open university that grows together with the region," Ryu said.
ook967@heraldcorp.com