On Friday, August 7, 2026, the Mission of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN announced the three grand prize winners of the Your-K Your-ASEAN 2026 contest through its official Instagram account, @rokmissiontoasean.

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A post shared by ROK Mission to ASEAN 주아세안대표부 (@rokmissiontoasean)

This annual event, held from June 22 to July 29, 2026, was organized to strengthen friendship between Korea and ASEAN member countries, encouraging people from both regions to express the spirit of togetherness through creative works.

After previously joining the contest in 2023 with a K-pop cover song, this year I was motivated to participate again by presenting an original song and music video titled Side by Side (Korea and ASEAN).

When my work was announced as one of the grand prize winners, the achievement felt truly special because it gave me a valuable experience, showing that opportunities are always open for anyone who keeps trying to create.

Traveling to a country feels incomplete if we don’t explore the vibrant festivals that shape its culture. Festivals are not only about celebration, but they are windows into traditions, beliefs, and community spirit. While this article won’t cover every festival in the region (of course), here are six fascinating events from Korea and some of ASEAN countries that you should definitely know about.

Haman Nakhwa Nori Festival (Korea)

If you’ve watched the drama Perfect Crown starring IU and Byeon Wooseok, you might recall a breathtaking scene in episode 1 where glowing sparks cascade over water. That spectacle is none other than Nakhwa Nori, a traditional Korean firework ritual dating back over 400 years.

Photo by MBC | Source (1) Perfect Crown

August is a month filled with meaning for both Korea and the ASEAN region. It is not only about summer festivals, but also about national pride, cultural heritage, and shared milestones. This month brings together commemorations that highlight freedom, unity, and identity.

ASEAN and ROK Maps

On March 12, 2026, while attending the ASEAN-Korea Influencers Night, I recalled a memorable question posed when we have a casual networking session at that time. The question is about why Indonesian cinemas seem to be filled with horror films.