HONOLULU (KHON2) — Get ready to dive into the vibrant flavors and rich culture of Korea at the 20th Annual Korean Festival Hawaii, happening over two days on August 2 and 3.
The festivities kicked off Friday night with a special movie screening at Consolidated Ward Theaters, featuring the Korean film Night of the Assassin.
The main event takes place August 3, at Kakaako Mauka Gateway Park from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This all-day festival will showcase a feast of Korean food, lively entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Festivalgoers can expect a variety of handcrafted goods, both local and imported from Korea, available for purchase with festival scrip.
Highlighting the entertainment lineup will be the KPOP female group Spia, set to close the festival with a performance at 5 p.m. The stage will feature continuous acts from local talents and performers flown in from Korea, including a Korean fashion show by Jung Art & Company and a showcase by the Arang Go Go Janggu Team. Other attractions include a Taekwondo demonstration, performances from Hawaii-based KPOP dance groups, and the Korean Farmers Music Association.
Food lovers can indulge in a selection of delicious Korean dishes, including kimchi, Korean pancakes, kalbi, mandoo, bibimbap, tteokbokki, and Korean BBQ chicken. This year, participating restaurants include 88 Mart, BO Hawaii, Cheehoo Treats, and many more.
The festival promises to be a true community event, with more than 500 volunteers from over 40 Korean and local organizations joining forces to support the occasion. Organizers expect to welcome over 20,000 residents and visitors to celebrate Korean culture.
Net proceeds from the festival will benefit the Korean community and support local initiatives, including trade and tourism missions, business-friendly legislation, scholarships, and outreach programs focused on personal finance for seniors and immigrants.