Why You Can’t Miss the Jangheung Key Shellfish Festival: Top Experiences and Local Delicacies

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The 23rd annual Jeongnamjin Jangheung Pen Shell Festival kicked off to big crowds, sparking fresh optimism for the local economy. Mouthwatering seasonal seafood and immersive, hands-on activities appear to be the main draw.

Jangheung County reports that roughly 10,000 people — tourists and residents alike — flocked to the opening ceremony at Sumun Port in Anyang-myeon on May 1. The festival runs through May 5 and features a variety of programs centered on pen shells harvested from the area’s pristine waters.

Food and hands-on fun: a recipe for longer stays and more spending

A tempting lineup of pen shell dishes kept visitors lingering. From Jangheung samhap and grilled plates to tangsuyuk-style sweet-and-sour and hearty porridge, vendors turned local seafood into a foodie-focused boost for regional products.

Interactive experiences were another major draw. The festival offered pen-shell preparation workshops, cultural programs for children, and a pop-music contest, all designed to attract families and keep attendees engaged.

A Jangheung County official said, “With so many tourists and residents attending, the festival got off to a lively start. We’ll do our best through the final day to keep operations running and ensure a safe, enjoyable event for everyone.”