What is Boryeong Mud Festival? (When & How to Celebrate)

Every summer, Boryeong, a town about 200 km south of Seoul, transforms into a giant playground for the Boryeong Mud Festival. This event isn't just about getting dirty; it's a celebration that brings millions together to enjoy mud baths, mudslides, and various mud-based activities.

Since its start in 1998, it's grown into one of South Korea's most popular festivals. Visitors flock to this summer festival not only for the fun but also for the health benefits of the mud, which is said to be good for the skin.

The festival's vibrant atmosphere is bolstered by lively K-pop performances, a mini water park, and a bustling marketplace offering local specialties. The festival dates for this year run from July 25 to August 10, 2025, perfect whether you're looking to indulge in some mud wrestling, enjoy the seaside, or simply experience a unique cultural event.

Origins of the Festival

The first Boryeong Mud Festival was held in July 1998 at Daecheon Beach. Organized to promote the benefits of Boryeong’s mineral-rich mud, which contains minerals like bentonite and germanium, it aimed to highlight its use in Korean skincare products.

Professor Jung, a jury member for a cultural tour festival, played a crucial role in its inception. The idea was to showcase the therapeutic benefits of the mud, and initially the festival lasted just four days, but managed to attract a significant number of visitors.

Evolution Over the Years

From its modest beginnings, the Boryeong Mud Festival has grown exponentially. By 2007, it was attracting over 2.2 million visitors; the festival has since expanded to last for two weeks every July, transforming the quiet seaside town into a bustling hub of activity.

Events now include mud baths, mudslides, and mud swimming competitions, as well as a fair amount of mud slinging. The festival's popularity isn't just limited to locals; it draws people from around the world, including Europe and the Americas.

The festival also features cultural events, such as K-pop and EDM concerts, and opening and closing ceremonies, which add to its vibrant atmosphere. The festival's growth has significantly boosted tourism in Boryeong, turning it into a popular summer destination.

Boryeong Mud is packed with minerals like germanium and bentonite. Germanium is known for its healing properties, helping to detoxify and rejuvenate the skin. Bentonite, on the other hand, is great for absorbing toxins and excess oil from the skin.

This mineral-rich mud is taken from the Boryeong mud flats and used extensively at the festival. The mud’s ability to emit far-infrared rays further enhances its healing effects, promoting better blood circulation.

The mud is known to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and provide deep cleansing. Cosmetics made from the mineral-rich mud are popular for their skin-enhancing qualities; festival activities like mud massages and mud baths offer a more relaxing way to enjoy these benefits.

Mud Wrestling and Games

One of the main attractions is mud wrestling. Participants get down and dirty in specially set-up mud pits, battling each other for fun. Besides wrestling, there are various mud games like mud slides and mud pools.

These games are designed to allow everyone to experience the therapeutic properties of Boryeong's mineral-rich mud. There's even a mud prison where friends can playfully lock each other up before getting covered in mud!

Live Music and Performances

Music lovers will enjoy the festival's lineup of live music and performances. The event features a variety of artists over the course of a couple weeks, including popular K-Pop stars like IU and PSY. Their performances create an electrifying atmosphere, drawing huge crowds.

There's also EDM music in between to keep everyone dancing and partying. The energy from these live performances, paired with the mud activities, makes for an unforgettable combination.

Fireworks and Night Events

As the sun sets, the festival continues with enchanting night events. The spectacular fireworks display is a highlight, lighting up the sky with vibrant colors. Nighttime also brings more music and entertainment. Festival-goers can dance the night away to live DJ sets on the beach.

How to Get There

To get to the Boryeong Mud Festival, you can take a bus from the Central City Bus Terminal in Seoul; the journey typically takes around two hours. An alternative is to take a train to Daecheon Station, with direct trains available from Yongsan Station in Seoul.

For international travelers, arriving at Incheon International Airport and then taking a bus or train to Boryeong is a convenient option. However, it’s essential to check the bus and train schedules in advance, especially if you plan to travel on weekends when it’s busier.

Accommodations Near Daecheon Beach

Finding accommodation near Daecheon Beach makes it easier to take part in the festival activities. Various lodging options are available, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to Korean pensions and affordable motels.

Hotels like Mud Hotel and Hanwha Resort are popular choices but tend to fill up quickly during the festival, and are often full during festival dates months in advance. Budget travelers might consider guesthouses or local motels, which offer a more economical way to stay close to the action.

Tickets and Admission Fees

Admission to many parts of the festival is free, but certain areas and events are part of a ticketed event. These include the Paid Zone and Family Zone, which often feature specialized activities. Tickets for these zones can be bought online or on-site.

Prices range from around 10,000-30,000 KRW ($7-$21 USD), depending on the events you wish to attend. Some packages include entry to multiple areas and activities, making them a good option if you plan to participate fully. Always check for any discounts or special deals, especially for families or groups.

Shops and Markets

There're many shops and markets at the festival wjere vendors sell souvenirs, festival gear, and clothing. Many market stalls offer fun items like mud-proof phone cases, waterproof bags, and festival T-shirts.

For those wanting a unique experience, there's body painting, where artists create intricate designs using festival mud. Sunscreen and other necessities are available in convenience stores and come other locations.

Medical and Safety Services

Safety at the festival is a priority. There are several first aid tents staffed with trained medical personnel, where they provide immediate care for minor injuries and more severe cases. Hydration stations are scattered throughout to prevent dehydration - staff remind visitors to drink water regularly.

Security personnel are visibly present to ensure everyone's safety, assisting with crowd control and address any concerns quickly. Their presence ensures that all attendees can relax and have fun, so try not to pay them too much attention.

What to Wear

At the Boryeong Mud Festival, dressing appropriately is key. You’ll want to wear old clothes and a swimsuit underneath - since you'll be covered in mud, avoid anything valuable or light-colored. A simple t-shirt and shorts are ideal.

Footwear: Go for waterproof sandals or old sneakers. Flip-flops and going barefoot aren’t recommended as the ground can be slippery.

Accessories: Bring a waterproof bag to hold your essentials; sunglasses and a hat can help protect from the sun; and don't forget to bring along a towel and change of clothes for the trip home.

Mud Festival Etiquette

Being courteous and respecting others can enhance everyone’s experience - Koreans and tourists alike come to enjoy the festivities, so keeping a friendly attitude is important.

Mud Activities: Follow instructions for activities like mud baths and mudslides. Be patient and wait your turn.

Children: Be mindful of children participating. They're there to have fun too, so ensure their safety and enjoyment by watching your actions around them.

Body Paint and Spa Areas: Respect these designated zones. Don’t rush or overcrowd the spaces, allowing everyone a chance to enjoy the offerings such as body painting and mud massages.