The 2023 Gwangju Fringe Festival 

By Olivia Laurel 

With the slogan “Dreamlike Breaking Away,” the 2023 Gwangju Fringe Festival focuses on recovery and reconciliation as the world is back in full force from the pandemic. Located in the heart of Gwangju (May 18 Democracy Square and the Asia Culture Center), this international festival will have many different types of performance art from seven countries like France, Spain, the Philippines, China, and Malaysia, to name a few.  

One performance group from England, Rara Woulib, will send you on an emotional journey as they walk through the downtown streets of Gwangju. Paired with upbeat music, dance, and dystopian costumes, they will guide you through a whole new perspective on life. Another artist, Lara Castiglioni from France, will inspire you with a combination of fire and dance that will lift your creative spirit. 

Along with these international influences, there will be a wonderful representation of Korean artists as well. Tong-Je (통제), a two-man acrobatic show, and BONGnJOULE (봉앤줄), a tightrope artist, will offer amazing and dramatic vertical experiences. In addition, the “Would You Mind Project” will be there to raise awareness on environmental issues through a talkative visual performance. Even the local dance troupe “Present” will be working with Gwangju residents to proudly perform in the streets. 

Happening from this October 20-22, be sure to mark your calendar and join in to see all the spectacular talent. There will also be numerous vendors selling delicious food and beautiful art that you will not want to miss out on. Get cultured and open your eyes to the world at the 2023 Gwangju Fringe Festival! 

The Author 

Olivia Laurel is an English professor at Gwangju University and has been residing in South Korea since 2009. When she is not teaching, she enjoys creating art and has participated in several different art shows across the country. Her favorite medium to work with is painting with mixed media designs.