▲ This undated Yonhap file photo shows a sand work at the Haeundae Sand Festival, the nation’s largest sand-themed festival, held at Haeundae Beach, Busan. (Yonhap)

BUSAN, May 15 (Yonhap) -- The Haeundae Sand Festival, the nation’s largest sand-themed festival, opened Friday at Haeundae Beach.

This year’s festival is being held under the theme “A Time Journey Through Busan in Sand” and will run for four days through Sunday across Haeundae Beach and the nearby Gunam-ro area.

A total of 17 sand sculptures depicting Busan’s history, charm and major landmarks are on display at the venue.

The works portray historical scenes from the port city, including the Joseon Tongsinsa diplomatic missions, Busan’s role as a temporary wartime capital during the Korean War and Busan Port, as well as contemporary images such as the Busan International Film Festival, baseball cheering culture, surfing and hot springs.

Eleven sand sculptors from South Korea and overseas, including artists from the United States, Canada, China and France, participated in this year’s festival.

The festival’s main sculpture was created in a panoramic format to offer visitors a sweeping view of Haeundae’s scenery.

A 7-meter-tall sand observatory engraved with Busan landmarks has also been installed, allowing visitors to enjoy views of the sea from atop the sand structure.

During the festival, a media facade presentation featuring footage of Haeundae’s transformation over the past 100 years will be projected onto the main sand sculpture.

At a special stage on the beach, the festival opened with a celebratory performance by Rumble Fish, followed by K-pop dance competitions and hip-hop and band performances.

The sand sculpture exhibition will continue through June 14 even after the festival concludes.

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