Dancing Dreams and Diverse Voices

Inside Gwangju Youth Week 2024

By Kidest Tefera

As autumn leaves are teasing to blanket the streets, Gwangju came alive with the hum of youthful energy at the May 18 Democratic Square. On September 27–28, the 2024 Gwangju Youth Week gathered young people from all walks of life under the motto “Leveling Up with Youth Today, Too” (청년들과 오늘도 레벨업). Since its inception in 2015, this annual celebration has become a beloved tradition, offering a platform for young voices to be heard, seen, and celebrated.

The mornings started crisp, with a gentle breeze that danced through the square, hinting at the cooler days to come. As the day warmed, so did the spirits of the crowd, which swelled in number as festival-goers arrived. This year’s event was held at the symbolic May 18 Democratic Square – a fitting backdrop, steeped in history, where young people gathered to dream, inspire, and pursue new opportunities.

With no entry fee, Gwangju Youth Week drew a diverse crowd. From students and families to international visitors, the square was buzzing. Rows of booths lined the walkways, each one brimming with eager faces, from local clubs to student organizations, all eager to share their projects, products, and passions. Booth operators, dressed in colorful attire that reflected their cultures, greeted passersby with warm smiles and inviting gestures. This was more than just an event; it was a celebration of youth in all its forms.

The program lineup was filled with events catering to every interest. Friday kicked off with the International Exchange Exhibition for Foreigners in Korea, where curious attendees immersed themselves in various cultures, sparking conversations about language, food, and traditions. Meanwhile, the Youth Dream-Up Stage showcased inspiring stories from young achievers, their voices carrying over the crowd as they spoke of their aspirations and the hurdles they’ve overcome. The captivated onlookers nodded along, soaking up the motivation that lingered in the air.

The official opening ceremony followed, echoing the festival’s motto. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Youth Level-Up Talk Show, where the community gathered to hear firsthand experiences from successful youth leaders. Their words resonated with the crowd, fueling a collective sense of purpose and determination. The celebratory concert that closed out the evening had everyone on their feet, dancing and singing along, their voices merging into a harmonious blend of cultures and languages.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the energy persisted into Saturday with another day of vibrant events. The Talent Show for Foreign Students had everyone cheering for the unique talents on display, from mesmerizing traditional dances to vocal performances that left the audience in awe. The Youth K-Pop Cover Dance Contest stole the show, with groups from across the globe giving it their all, nailing each move with precision and passion. The crowd cheered loudly, their enthusiasm palpable.

Throughout the day, visitors flocked to the Eco-Friendly Value Consumption Market, where young creators sold sustainable products, promoting conscious consumerism. Nearby, the Youth Item Store offered a glimpse into the innovative minds of local entrepreneurs, showcasing products that reflected their creativity and resourcefulness.

By the time the last performance concluded, a sense of accomplishment and unity lingered over the square. Gwangju Youth Week had once again provided a place where young people could connect, celebrate their diverse identities, and share their dreams with the world. For those two days, the square had been more than just a gathering place; it had transformed into a vibrant canvas, painted with the colors of youth, passion, and boundless potential.

With each passing year, the event grows not just in size, but in significance, echoing the city’s commitment to fostering a space where young people can thrive. And as the crowds dispersed, the memories created during this Youth Week remained—vibrant, warm, and ready to inspire even more young hearts in the years to come.

Source

Gwangju Youth Week. (n.d.). Gwangju Youth Festa. https://gjyouthfesta.com/