MCST’s ‘Korea Is Performing’ raises curtain on 1,700 stages at massive scale this October and November

The entire country is turning into one vast performance venue. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Arts Management Service are launching the “2026 Korea Is Performing” campaign nationwide from Oct. 1 through Nov. 30. More than a publicity drive, the campaign is a major project that brings together over 1,700 diverse performances taking place across the country under a single brand, offering audiences an expansive cultural and artistic experience.

Three flagship festivals create an artistic crossroads linking the world and local communities

The campaign centers on three major events: the Seoul International Performing Arts Festival (SPAF), the Performing Arts Market in Seoul (PAMS) and the Re:bound Festival. Held from Oct. 8 to 25 at venues including the National Theater of Korea, the Seoul International Performing Arts Festival will present more than 20 acclaimed international productions and domestic collaborative works spanning theater, dance and music. It offers a prime opportunity to see the cutting edge of contemporary performing arts.

The Performing Arts Market in Seoul will follow from Oct. 13 to 16. A key platform driving the international expansion and distribution of Korean performing arts, it is expected to serve as a hub for global artistic exchange. The Re:bound Festival, running from Oct. 16 through Nov. 14 at venues including the Seoul Arts Center, will bring hidden gems from regional communities to Seoul’s main stages, demonstrating the strength and diversity of local arts.

An official from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said, “We planned this carefully so everyone can easily discover and enjoy the new works pouring out during the fall season,” expressing confidence in the campaign. Ticketing and detailed schedules are available on the official website (www.kstagefesta.kr).