Gwangalli Eobang Festival

The Suyeong region has historically been an area where the fishing industry flourished due to its abundant marine resources. Following the establishment of Gyeongsang Jwasuyeong during the Joseon Dynasty, the concentration of naval forces led to issues with food supply; consequently, naval commanders required off-duty soldiers to participate in fishing alongside local fishermen. As fishermen provided fishing boats and naval forces contributed navigation skills and labor, the local fisheries industry further developed. With increased catches, the supply of provisions for the naval forces also became smooth. In the 11th year of King Hyeonjong (1670), a "Eobang" (Fishing Office) was established within the fortress to provide guidance on fishing techniques for the encouragement and promotion of the industry. The "Jwasuyeong Eobang Nori," which depicts the fishing process of the time in the form of a play, is currently designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage and is being preserved and passed down. The Gwangalli Eobang Festival uses the name "Eobang" to signify the continuation of this tradition and is Busan's representative festival themed around the Gyeongsang Jwasuyeong and the folk culture of traditional fishing villages.