Andong’s “Wolyeong Night Walk” draws 110,000 visitors, blending tradition and modern charm
From Joseon-era merchant parades to night history plays, Andong’s signature summer festival runs through the 10th
The summer nights of Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, are aglow with a festival where tradition meets modern creativity. Wolyeong Night Walk (Wolyeong Ya-haeng), Andong’s flagship summer night festival, opened on August 1 and has already drawn more than 110,000 visitors during its first weekend. The event will continue for 10 days until August 10.
This year’s theme, “Coexistence of Tradition and Modernity”, has captivated audiences with a variety of night-time programs designed to engage all five senses. Expanded hands-on activities and illuminated nightscapes have encouraged longer stays, boosting the local economy through increased lodging and business revenue.
Among the highlights are “Wolyeong Merchants”, a reenactment of a Joseon-era merchant parade, and “Wolyeong Inn”, a reconstruction of a traditional market scene—both offering visitors a vivid glimpse into the past. Families have also enjoyed puppet shows, traditional games, and the Yeongnak Restaurant food truck zone.
The cultural heritage tour program, “Wolyeong Night Story: Yi Hwang Tour”, saw early reservation sell-outs, reflecting its popularity. Local artists’ performances under the banner “Summer Vibe” and the upcoming open-air historical play “The Sound of the Wind from Seogando” at Imcheonggak starting August 7 are also drawing attention.
To enhance accessibility, the city is operating shuttle buses every 10–15 minutes from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
An official from Andong’s Cultural Heritage and World Heritage Team stated, “Wolyeong Night Walk is a leading night festival that leverages national heritage. We will continue to develop it into a cultural tourism model that thrives alongside the local community.”