The 2025 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, one of South Korea's most beloved winter festivals, kicked off last Saturday in the charming town of Hwacheon, located in Gangwon Province. This iconic event, which runs until February 2, 2025, offers visitors the unique experience of ice fishing on the frozen Hwacheon stream.

Held just 25 kilometers from the inter-Korean border and about 90 kilometers northeast of Seoul, the festival draws in crowds eager to participate in traditional activities such as barehanded fishing, sledding, and more.

As early as 8:30 a.m. on the opening day, visitors arrived bundled up in winter clothing, ready to catch the elusive sancheoneo (mountain trout). Attendees lowered their rods into the ice holes, with many soon cheering as they reeled in fresh catches. Some guests also enjoyed outdoor grilling areas, where they could barbecue the fish they've caught.

"I come every year, but this time, I plan to enjoy both the festival and a nighttime concert at Seon Deung Street," said Kim, a participant from Seoul.

The Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival, which began in 2003, consistently attracts over 1 million visitors annually. Known for its lively atmosphere and unique activities, it has garnered global attention. In 2011, it was named one of the world's seven wonders of winter by a leading global news organization, and last year, the New York Times featured it as one of the five must-see winter festivals in Asia.

With a population of just 23,000, Hwacheon has become a must-visit destination each winter, welcoming nearly 100,000 international visitors every year.