For one day only, a festival where visitors can taste foods from around the world in one place will be held in Seongbuk District, Seoul. From traditional dishes prepared on-site by embassy chefs to beloved local eateries in Seongbuk and climate-friendly cuisine using eco-friendly ingredients, a wide variety of foods will fill the Seongbuk-ro area.
Nurimasil is a world food festival hosted by Seongbuk District and the Seongbuk Cultural Foundation and supported by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. About 40 embassies and several universities are clustered in Seongbuk. The festival began in 2008 as an event that showcases foods and arts and culture from around the world, drawing on these local characteristics. It started as a multicultural food festival and changed to its current name in 2019. This year marks the 18th edition.
This year's festival theme is "as the earth tastes." It reflects the aim of enjoying together the lives and food cultures of diverse people living on the planet in their own ways. On the day of the festival, more than 100 booths for food, performances, and a flea market will be set up along Seongbuk-ro.
The biggest draw is the embassy food. This year, embassies from 26 countries based in Seongbuk will take part. That is seven more than the 19 countries last year. Chefs working at the embassies will participate directly to present traditional dishes from their countries. Visitors can experience hard-to-find local foods at close range.
Local favorites will also join in. Food booths featuring famous alley eateries in Seongbuk and community groups will operate. Dishes from popular local restaurants that usually require waiting in line can be found in one place. A dedicated climate gastronomy zone will introduce foods made with low-carbon, eco-friendly ingredients.
Festival food will be served in reusable containers. Since 2022, Seongbuk District has restricted the use of disposable items at the festival site. Visitors receive food in reusable containers and return them afterward. Those who bring personal containers can also request takeout. Simple tables for sitting or standing will be set up throughout the streets.
Performances and hands-on programs will continue. The large-scale parade "Starry Show," featuring direct participation by local residents, will open the festival. It will showcase attractions that blend cultures from various countries. Cultural experiences for children have also been prepared. In the "Starry Adventure" zone, visitors can try on traditional clothing from around the world and enjoy multicultural games. Across the streets, performances by local arts groups and busking will also be held.