Do not go gentle into that good night, old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light, though wise men at their end know dark is right, because their words had forked no lightning they, do not go gentle into that good night.
Yongsan District to host arts and culture festival next week
A promotional poster for the “ITAEWON, On-Stage” festival / Courtesy of Yongsan District Office
By Jhoo Dong-chan
The Yongsan District Office is set to host a culture and arts festival in the vibrant Itaewon area next week.
The “ITAEWON, On-Stage” festival is set to take place at 4 p.m. on Sept. 5, a district office official said. With about 2,000 visitors expected, the four-hour event will feature various music and other performances and aims to rejuvenate Seoul’s most diverse neighborhood under the festival slogan of “Welcome All Itaewon.”
Starting with Ventus Brass Quintet’s collaborative gig with various percussion players, the festival is expected to come alive with artist Hong Won-pyo’s live pop art drawings and a performance by the Ropeka Choir.
Ambiguous Dance Company will reinterpret Korea’s traditional dance legacy with the latest performing trends. Belgium singer-songwriter Donna Goldn, and psychedelic guitarist and DJ Cityboy from Seoul will ignite the festival's Saturday evening.
Visitors will be invited to participate in various collaborative performances with artists. Young students and children who apply in advance can also join a workshop for live drawing and stage performance.
The district office also said there will be a series of colorful pop-up events, such as a silent headphone dance stage and social media photo wall. Various coupons will also be provided to visitors to enjoy Itaewon restaurants.
The office added that it will cooperate closely with local fire and police departments to ensure safety and prevent possible accidents.
“I hope the festival will revive Itaewon’s signature diverse and fun vibe,” Yongsan District Office head Park Hee-young said. “The office will do its best to host a festival for everyone.”