What Is the Gochang Green Barley Field Festival?
Every spring, the rural town of Gochang in Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province (전북특별자치도) transforms into one of Korea’s most photogenic destinations. Roughly 770,000 square meters of young barley blanket the rolling hills of Hakwon Farm in vivid emerald green — and the Gochang Green Barley Field Festival is the best time to see it.
First held in 2004, the festival has grown into one of the country’s premier landscape agriculture events, attracting an average of 300,000 visitors each year. The timing is deliberate: barley reaches its most brilliant shade of green between mid-April and mid-May, right before the grain begins to ripen and turn golden.
2026 Festival Details
Here’s everything you need to know at a glance:
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Dates | April 18 – May 10, 2026 |
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily |
| Venue | Hakwon Farm area, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang-gun |
| Address | 150 Hakwon-nongjang-gil, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk (전북특별자치도 고창군 공음면 학원농장길 150) |
| Admission | Free |
| Organized by | Gochang-gun / Gochang Green Barley Field Festival Committee |
| Phone | 063-563-9897 |
| Website | Gochang-gun Tourism |
Programs and Events
The festival is more than just scenery — a full lineup of performances and activities runs throughout the three-week event.
Opening Ceremony
The first day kicks off with pre-show entertainment and celebratory performances to mark the start of the festival.
Cultural Performances
- Nongak street performances: Traditional Korean farmer’s music and dance, performed right in front of the barley fields — an energetic, uniquely Korean experience.
- Barley path busking: Live musicians perform along the walking trails that wind through the fields, adding a relaxed soundtrack to your stroll.
Special Events
- UNESCO “Find the 7 Treasures” hunt: An interactive event where visitors search for items tied to Gochang’s UNESCO-designated heritage sites — great for families and curious explorers.
- SNS photo events: Share your barley field photos on social media for a chance to win prizes.
Admission
Admission is completely free. No tickets, no reservations — just walk in and enjoy. This makes it one of the best-value spring outings in Korea.
How to Get There
The festival takes place at Hakwon Farm, located at 150 Hakwon-nongjang-gil, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk (전북특별자치도 고창군 공음면 학원농장길 150).
For detailed transportation options, check the Gochang-gun Tourism website or call the festival office at 063-563-9897.
Tips for Visitors
- Check the dates: The festival runs April 18 – May 10, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Plan accordingly.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The site covers roughly 770,000㎡ of open farmland — flat, walkable shoes will make a big difference.
- It’s free: No excuse not to go. Perfect for a budget-friendly day trip.
- Stay updated: Program schedules can change. Check the Gochang-gun Tourism website for the latest updates before your visit.
- Questions? Call the festival office directly at 063-563-9897.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Gochang Green Barley Field Festival?
The festival runs from April 18 to May 10, 2026. Gates are open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
How much does it cost to enter the Gochang Barley Festival?
Admission is completely free. No tickets are required — just show up and explore.
Where exactly is the festival held?
It takes place at Hakwon Farm in Gongeum-myeon, Gochang-gun. The full address is 150 Hakwon-nongjang-gil, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk (전북특별자치도 고창군 공음면 학원농장길 150).
What programs and events are available at the festival?
The festival features an opening ceremony with live performances, traditional nongak (farmer’s music) street performances, busking along the barley field paths, a UNESCO treasure hunt event, and SNS promotional events.
How big is the barley field?
The barley fields span approximately 770,000㎡ — one of the largest scenic barley landscapes in South Korea. The festival draws around 300,000 visitors each year and has been a flagship agricultural tourism event since its debut in 2004.
How can I contact the festival organizers?
Call 063-563-9897 for any questions. You can also find updated information on the Gochang-gun Tourism website.