As part of the Funday Korea supporters’ program, we recently visited the vibrant Namsadang Baudeogi Festival in Anseong.

Nestled in the picturesque Anseong Matchum Land, the festival celebrates the artistic spirit of Baudeogi,

a revered figure of the Joseon era, and honors the legacy of Namsadang troupes.

Since its designation by UNESCO's CIOFF (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts) in 2006,

this festival has grown into a cultural spectacle, blending tradition with global arts. 

Our journey started early in Seoul, and by 9:30 AM, we were exploring the scenic Anseongcheon Stream.

Our first activity of the day was a body wash-making workshop at the Anseong Craft and Culture Center,

which was just a short walk from the festival grounds. It was a great way to start the day on a relaxed note.

The instructor welcomed us warmly and showed us how to make our own handmade bodywash.

As we combined our ingredients, the air was filled with the delightful aromas of natural oils and citrus.

Each person had the opportunity to create their own special blend,
with many opting for the sweet and invigorating scent of orange.

The atmosphere was cozy and interactive, with the instructor making sure that

everyone grasped each step and providing individualized

assistance when needed. By the end, we all had beautifully colored, fragrant bottles

of body wash to take home, both a souvenir and a reminder of our time in Anseong. 

One of the festival’s highlights was the array of performances—both traditional and international.

The main stage featured Korean Namsadang performances,

continuing the legacy of Baudeogi and her troupe.

The acrobatic displays, tightrope walking, and folk music were captivating, offering a glimpse

into the centuries-old traditions that were once performed across the country.

But the cultural exchange didn’t stop there. International troupes from countries like Africa,

Thailand, Indonesia, and Europe added a global flair to the festival,

creating a rich tapestry of performances that brought the world to Anseong. 

For those of us who love dressing up in traditional attire, the festival offered free

Hanbok rentals an opportunity not to be missed.

Walking around in colorful Hanboks, we felt even

more connected to the spirit of the festival.

Photobooths were set up throughout the grounds, and we found the perfect

spot for pictures at the fountain and bridge a scene straight out of a postcard. 

Lunch, as always with Funday Korea, was thoughtfully planned to cater to various dietary preferences.

There were options for both vegetarians (bibimbap and kimchi pancakes) and non-vegetarians (beef gukbap).

Afterward, we spent the afternoon fully immersing ourselves in the festival activities, from playing traditional

Korean games like Ddakji to shooting soft snipe darts and trying our hand at crafts like bead jewelry making. 

Between bites of delicious local and international food and countless photoshoots in Hanbok near the picturesque fountains and bridges,

the day flew by. As the sun set, we gathered for dinner, feeling fulfilled by the vibrant experience, before heading back to Seoul. 

The Namsadang Baudeogi Festival truly brings together Korea’s rich heritage

with a celebration of global cultures, an experience not to be missed!