The 2026 Chilwon Town Tug-of-War Festival
Choi Yoon-hee, 14th SNS Reporter
The Chilwon Town Tug-of-War Festival in the Year of the Fire Horse
- Date: March 20 (Friday) - March 21 (Saturday), 2026
- Location: Special stage in front of the Chilwon Administrative Welfare Center, Ham-an
- Hosted by: Chilwon Town Tug-of-War Committee (Chairman Kim Chang-kyu)
- Sponsored by: Gyeongsangnam-do / Ham-an County / Ham-an County Council
The Chilwon Town Tug-of-War Festival, filled with the meanings of tradition and harmony, was grandly held from March 20 to 21 in front of the Chilwon Administrative Welfare Center in Ham-an. Living in Gimhae, it was my first time witnessing this event. The scale was large, the atmosphere was vibrant, and the festival was so splendid that I couldn't help but be amazed.
On Friday, March 20, the pre-event celebration took place, and on Saturday, March 21, the main event unfolded, making it likely that Ham-an was bustling with excitement throughout both days.
Let me share my perspective on the 'Chilwon Town Tug-of-War Festival in the Year of the Fire Horse'.
???? Pre-event: March 20, 2026 (Friday) 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
???? Main event: March 21, 2026 (Saturday) 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Prior to the tug-of-war, a variety of performances (traditional trot, folk music, rituals, fusion gayageum, fan dance, fusion Korean music, etc.) were held to elevate the festive atmosphere, and soon the seating area was packed. The tension in the air was palpable, as if the event could start at any moment, making it a joyful and thrilling experience to capture photos.
As a first-time visitor to the festival, I was so busy observing that I missed the introduction of some important figures. Dressed in the outfits of the Blue Dragon and White Tiger teams, they entered the arena, adding to the excitement.
The opening ceremony featured the introduction of past tug-of-war leaders and congratulatory messages from various dignitaries, followed by the impressive declaration of the leader for the Year of the Fire Horse.
When I arrived, there were still empty seats, but as the start time approached, the crowd swelled. After all pre-event activities concluded, the official tug-of-war commenced with a declaration from Chairman Kim Chang-kyu of the Chilwon Town Tug-of-War Committee.
As the declaration ended, confetti burst into the air, creating a beautiful scene reminiscent of flower petals raining down. Everyone gathered moved toward the tug-of-war rope, and I joined in the excitement.
The Chilwon Town Tug-of-War, traditionally held on the first day of the second lunar month, symbolizes the community spirit of Chilwon, Chilseo, and Chilbuk, who have cultivated the fields together for generations. After a brief hiatus since the 1960s, it has been revived since 2005, preserving this valuable cultural heritage.
The rope, approximately 130 meters long, weighing about 40 tons and over 1 meter in diameter, is crafted from 500 bundles of straw. The spectacle of securing one end of the rope and placing a large wooden post to stabilize it drew much attention. The event staff worked diligently to ensure safety.
Divided into the Blue Dragon and White Tiger teams, about 3,000 residents participated in this grand tug-of-war. There is a traditional belief that if the winning team emerges in a given year, it will bring a bountiful harvest and good health, making the competition fierce.
After the tug-of-war concluded, the community gathered for a celebration. The meaning of this event extends beyond mere competition; it embodies the traditions of unity and cooperation passed down through generations.
As the event concluded, volunteers prepared a free meal of beef soup for all attendees. The spirit of community and tradition was palpable, and I was truly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this vibrant celebration.
Although my parents, who are from Ham-an, could not join me, I felt their presence as I shared photos from the event. I hope to see Ham-an continue to thrive as a cultural hub in Gyeongsangnam-do.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/arahaman/224227038300
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