By John Redmond
The Namyangju Slow Life International Festival will promote healthy eating and an eco-friendly lifestyle during its five-day run starting Sept. 22.
Under the theme “Food, City and Health,” the international festival will bring together participants from around 40 countries. It will take place at the Sports and Cultural Center in Namyangju, a city northeast of Seoul.
“Slow life” aims to improve quality of life by adopting traditional methods of eating and living.
“Namyangju Slow Life International Festival will be held to share daily happiness and create a slow life world in the slow life planet,” the event organizer said in the invite.
The organizer based the event on the three core spirits, a philosophy advocated by Joseon-era intellectual Jeong Yak-yong (1762-1836), also known as Dasan. His philosophy is aimed at improving the environment, economic value and the social status of rural regions.
The festival will feature a variety of exhibitions, performances, forums and opportunities to taste foreign foods and drinks from countries including Germany, Egypt, Peru, Spain and Vietnam.
Wives of foreign ambassadors stationed in Korea will introduce dishes and the food cultures of their countries, while famous Korean chefs will explain their latest recipes.
At the opening ceremony, Korean designer Lie Sang-bong will hold a fashion show in collaboration with 30 designers, with 40 models appearing on the catwalk.
Admission is 7,000 won for adults and teenagers 5,000 won. Admission includes a 2,000 won coupon redeemable as cash at the festival venue. All programs outside the paid program areas are free.
Online reservation (until Sept. 25) is 5,000 won for adults and 4,000 won for teenagers.
For information in Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese call 1330. Visit
to reserve tickets or
for further details.