Jeongseon Arirang Festival (정선아리랑제)

Arirang is a globally renowned Korean folk song. The song is rooted in many different regions and thus Korea has several versions of “Arirang.” “Jeongseon Arirang” is the source of all “Arirang,” and in recognition of its value, it was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2012. The Jeongseon Arirang Festival is held to preserve and develop the folk song. It starts off with the Chilhyeon Ritual Ceremony, held in honor of the patriotic fidelity of chilhyeon, the seven loyalists in the last years of the Goryeo dynasty who appear in the origin story of “Jeongseon Arirang.” The ceremony also prays for a successful festival and the well-being of the county’s people. The festival features 83 events, including the Arirang Parade and the National Arirang Singing Contest. ◎ Jeongseon ArirangBefore attending the Jeongseon Arirang Festival, it is recommended to listen to “Jeongseon Arirang.” Hearing its melodious highs and lows while viewing the winding mountain ridges surrounding Jeongseon will enhance your understanding and appreciation of “Jeongseon Arirang.” ◎ Chilhyeon Ritual Ceremony The Chilhyeon Ritual Ceremony honors the patriotic loyalty of seven sages—Jeon O-ryun, Sin An, Kim Chung-han, Yi Su-saeng, Byeon Gwi-su, Kim Wi, and Go Cheon-u—who remained loyal to Goryeo Dynasty during its fall.