Chrysanthemum Festival at the Gochang Incident Memorial Park
- Original source
- blog.naver.com
Hello.
As the autumn breeze gently blows, the Gochang Incident Memorial Park in Sinwon-myeon, Gyeongnam, is adorned with a spectacular wave of colorful chrysanthemums.
This year's Chrysanthemum Viewing Festival, celebrating its 19th edition, will take place from October 19 to November 1 under the theme 'The Peak of Autumn, Blooming with Chrysanthemums'.
???? Why it's a 'Viewing Event' and not a 'Festival'
Unlike other events, this gathering at the Gochang Incident Memorial Park is referred to as a 'Viewing Event' rather than a 'Festival'.
While this space holds the weight of innocent victims and painful history, it has transformed into a joyful place where visitors can smile and appreciate vibrant sculptures and diverse chrysanthemums, rather than remaining a site of heavy and dark taboos.
This change embodies the meaning of overcoming past pains and moving toward a brighter tomorrow.
Remembering the Painful History of the Gochang Incident
In February 1951, during the Korean War, over 719 innocent civilians were brutally massacred by the 9th Regiment (led by Colonel Oh Ik-kyung) under the 11th Division of the Republic of Korea Army (commanded by Brigadier General Choi Deok-shin).
The victims included 364 children under the age of 15, 295 individuals aged 16 to 60, and 60 elderly individuals (333 men and 386 women), with more than half being children who had barely begun to blossom.
Soldiers committed heinous acts by burning the bodies with dry wood and oil, and moving children's remains to Hongdonggol Valley for secret burial, distorting the narrative to portray them as casualties of combat with enemy forces.
On March 29, 1951, the truth was revealed in the National Assembly by Congressman Shin Joong-mok from Gochang, leading to the formation of a joint investigation team. However, Colonel Kim Jong-won and others conspired to obstruct the investigation by attacking the team, an act that is utterly unacceptable for soldiers tasked with national defense.
Despite the long-standing efforts of the victims' families and the local community, the complete truth and meaningful restoration of honor remain unresolved.
???? A Spectrum of Colorful Chrysanthemums and Five Themed Gardens
As you stroll through the park, a question arises: why do we habitually refer to 'yellow chrysanthemums' when there are so many vibrant colors blooming all around?
Here, a dazzling array of chrysanthemums proudly displays their beauty, far beyond just yellow.
The park is thoughtfully designed with five themed gardens:
1. Welcome Flower Path: A space greeted by a stunning butterfly sculpture.
2. Memory Garden: A resting area that offers beautiful memories.
3. Field of Hope: A space for hope and healing through chrysanthemums.
4. Childlike Flower Maze: An area for experiencing mazes and model exhibitions.
5. Future Chrysanthemum Garden: A special exhibition space showcasing new chrysanthemum varieties from Gyeongsangnam-do.
???? Enjoyable Experiences & Events
Under the clear sky, the sight of people walking joyfully among the blooming flowers reflects true relaxation and happiness.
Barefoot Path & Small Chrysanthemum Viewing Trail: Stroll along the neat viewing path and enjoy a barefoot walk.
Weekend Trolley: On Saturdays and Sundays, ride the fun trolley to explore the park in a lively manner.
Experience Events (History Education Center & Lifelong Learning Center): Participate in the 'Gyeongsangnam-do New Chrysanthemum Variety Evaluation' and receive coupons to create potted chrysanthemums at the History Education Center, along with making hand mirrors at the Lifelong Learning Center.
Location: 2924 Sincharo, Sinwon-myeon, Gochang-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do
Duration: October 19 (Mon) to November 1 (Sun), 2026 / 14 days
This autumn, may all who visit find warmth and healing for those who have lived with wounds through the chrysanthemum viewing, sharing peace and harmony from the depths of their hearts. Create joyful and happy memories filled with the fragrance of brightly blooming chrysanthemums at the Gochang Incident Memorial Park!
Source :https://blog.naver.com/geochanggun/224451095038
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