▲ This photo of the annual Gokseong World Rose Festival is provided by Gokseong County. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

SEOUL, May 21 (Yonhap) -- The 16th Gokseong World Rose Festival will open Friday and run through May 31 at the Seomjingang Train Village in Gokseong, South Jeolla Province.

 

This year's festival is themed "Sweet Sixteen, Rose Adolescence — Excitement, Growth and Change" and will feature rose displays, performances, hands-on programs and nighttime illuminations.

 

The festival grounds have been expanded beyond the existing rose garden area to cover the entire train village.

 

The signature program, "Find the Golden Rose," has been relocated to the Chichi Ppoppu Playground Plaza, while experience zones and promotional booths have also been reorganized.

 

An opening ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, beginning with the "Welcome Rose Parade" featuring local residents, followed by opening performances and celebratory concerts.

 

During the festival period, visitors can also participate in interactive programs such as the Rose Garden Busking Challenge and the Romantic Rose Proposal event.

 

Operating hours for Seomjingang Train Village will be extended from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. throughout the festival, allowing visitors to enjoy the rose garden and activity programs during the day and illuminated nighttime scenery and performances in the evening.

 

A Gokseong County official said Wednesday that preparations had been completed to welcome visitors with beautiful rose landscapes and a wide range of programs.

 

The official added that tourists will also be able to experience the train village's signature attractions, including a steam locomotive and rail bike rides, alongside the rose festival.

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