Gunsan is hosting the 2026 Craft Beer & Blues Festival from June 12 to 14 at the Modern History Museum and inner harbor area [1].
City officials are using the event to attract summer tourists and establish Gunsan's identity as a specialized craft beer city [2]. By combining local gastronomy with live music, the city aims to boost regional tourism and economic activity during the early summer season.
This year marks the fifth iteration of the festival [3]. The event features 15 domestic and international breweries providing more than 50 varieties of craft beer for attendees to sample [4]. In addition to the drinks, 17 blues bands are scheduled to perform throughout the three-day period [4].
The festival is located around the Gunsan Modern History Museum and the inner harbor, blending the city's historical architecture with the festive atmosphere. Organizers have set the admission fee at 6,000 won, which includes a 5,000 won voucher that attendees can use for purchases at the event [5].
Local officials said the pairing of blues music and craft beer is intended to create a romantic atmosphere for visitors. The strategy focuses on creating a unique cultural experience that differentiates Gunsan from other coastal tourism hubs in Jeollabuk-do.
“The event features 15 domestic and international breweries providing more than 50 varieties of craft beer.”
The repetition of this festival for a fifth year indicates Gunsan's long-term strategy to pivot toward niche cultural tourism. By linking a specific musical genre with a craft industry, the city is attempting to build a 'brand identity' that attracts a specific demographic of urban travelers and food enthusiasts, moving beyond traditional historical sightseeing.
