Daegu City has successfully integrated the city’s traditions into the rhythm of every day’s lives. This has been well expressed by one of K2H Programme participants. K2H is an exchange programme held regularly for local government staff from abroad to learn about Korean culture and local government systems. The positive feedback reflects successful implementation of the programme that contributes to the promotion of the city.
Ikeda Nodoka , joining K2H Programme in 2026, is from Hiroshima, Japan, and works for the Hiroshima City Government. Ikeda came to Daegu to join the K2H Programme, an exchange programme for local government staff from abroad to learn about Korean culture and local government systems. During the programme, Ikeda worked for the Daegu City Government as a trainee. As it was her first visit to South Korea, Ikeda also tried to visit many places and experience Korean culture as much as possible. Below is her experience.
1. A Fragrant Welcome into a Vibrant Community
The moment I stepped onto the historic streets of Yangnyeongsi, the rich, earthy aroma of medicinal herbs wafted through the air. The local shops displayed their herbal remedies with the quiet confidence of a craft that has long outlived passing trends. Beyond the unique scents, what struck me most was the deeply social atmosphere of the festival. I observed countless people—particularly the elderly—warmly conversing and laughing, treating the festival grounds as a familiar, beloved meeting spot. It felt less like a commercial, one-time event and more like a vital community sanctuary where citizens gather to connect, check in on one another, and simply be together. Walking further, I was delighted to see that this warmth extended across generations, with many families and young people filling the entertainment and gourmet food zones with lively energy.
2. Stepping into Living History
International travelers often seek experiences that bridge modern culture with time-honoured traditions. At Yangnyeongsi, the hands-on interactive booths provided the perfect gateway to heritage, allowing visitors to touch, taste, and experience the culture firsthand without the need for lengthy explanations. The historic alleyways and vivid displays exuded a traditional atmosphere typically confined behind museum glass—except here, the heritage was vibrantly alive. Witnessing how deeply the local community treasures and preserves its past made a profound impression on me as a foreigner. It was an incredibly immersive experience that granted me a much deeper understanding of Daegu’s historical roots.
3. Beyond Souvenirs: A Lasting Appreciation
What truly exceeded my expectations was the boundless kindness of the local people. Despite my inability to speak Korean, everyone I met guided me with patient gestures, offered quick translations, and made me feel entirely at home. By the end of the day, the festival had gifted me something far more valuable than standard souvenirs or the lingering scent of herbs. I left with a profound appreciation for the way Daegu seamlessly integrates and celebrates its traditions within the rhythm of everyday life. It is my sincere hope that this festival continues to thrive with its deep history, passing this beautiful living heritage down through generations.
