South Korea is not just popular for K-foodie and idols. There are many festivals and locals and tourists alike can enjoy despite the language barrier. One of those events is the annual 'Boryeong Mud Festival'.
The mudfest is held in a small town named Boryeong (hence the name!) that is located on the Western Coast about 200km from Seoul. The festival is held during the hot, summer weather of July where people get dirty from being dragged around on the mudflats!
This tourist attraction had a humble history from when it was still an unknown region to most.

Boryeong Mud Festival
The Boryeong Mud Festival began when the region was trying to promote its cosmetics products in 1996. According to locals, the mud of that area is full of beneficial minerals that naturally occurred, such as bentonites and germaniums. The even first started off as a way to attract visitors and spread the knowledge of the mud's benefits.An event attended by millions! Pre-pandemic, the event attracted almost four million people to Daecheon Beach with more than 400,000 international visitors.

Boryeong Mud Festival
One of the Boryeong Mud Festival Organization Committee volunteers, Dong-Seok, cheerfully said, "Foreigners make the festival." That was indeed the truth as it was one of the most popular tourist attractions during summer that helps boost South Korea's tourism business.
Boryeong Mud Festival is held every July and lasts for two weeks.

Boryeong Mud Festival
In order to experience the best out of this event, visitors will do good to research the spots and attractions they wish to visit. Yes, there are more than just mud flats such as mud massage zones, mud prison, and mud pools. All kinds of mud-related entertainment can be enjoyed for the whole day with the one-day pass.The admission fee varies depending on age and type of admission. But they are around $10 per adult.

Boryeong Mud Festival
Because this event is famous not just for tourists but also locals, visitors are advised to plan for their lodgings and transportations beforehand. The best way to get there from Seoul is with the bus that costs about ₩11,000 - ₩18,000 ($10-$16) for a 2-hour trip.

Boryeong Mud Festival

Boryeong Mud Festival
It is an event where even kids can have fun!

Boryeong Mud Festival
While the games may look like fun for adults, parents might be concerned about safety for kids. Don't worry; the team has arranged so that kids can also have mud parties in areas reserved for them.
There are mud pools for kids and if they're not eager to get too dirty, the streets are full of things to see. There are parades, dancers, and jugglers, not to mention local specialties for foodies!
After the mud splash, visitors can enjoy the bands and music events. As the sky darkens, sparks from fireworks adorn the beautiful night sky.

Boryeong Mud Festival

Boryeong Mud Festival
Due to the pandemic, the even's time length had been shortened to three days.

Boryeong Mud Festival
This year, the event will be held from July 17 to July 20. There will still be live music and events as usual. Even if it's short, make sure that you don't miss out on the fun from getting as dirty you can here!
Boryeong Mud Festival