Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea – The scenic Jaein 폭포 (Jaein Falls) Camping Ground in Yeoncheon County was brimming with vibrant energy on April 26th as it played host to the highly anticipated '2025 Camping Culinary Festival'. Co-organized by Ilgan Sports and edaily, the three-day extravaganza, running from April 25th to 27th, carries the charming theme of "A Drop of Romance, A Spoonful of Memories," promising attendees a unique blend of culinary competition and outdoor revelry.

Established as a premier 'Meok-ping' (eating and camping) festival in South Korea, the Camping Culinary Festival has garnered a reputation for showcasing the exceptional culinary talents of its participants, who consistently present high-caliber dishes. This year marks a significant milestone for the event as it relocates from its previous venue at Jaraseom Auto Camping Ground to the expansive grounds of Yeoncheon, making it the largest edition in its history. The move to Yeoncheon, known for its stunning natural landscapes and proximity to attractions like the majestic Jaein Falls, adds a picturesque backdrop to the culinary festivities, further enhancing the overall camping experience for attendees.

Upon arrival on the 26th, the 150 participating teams were greeted with a generous welcome kit valued at over ₩100,000 (approximately $75 USD). This substantial offering, which often includes premium food ingredients, cooking utensils, and sponsor merchandise, lived up to the buzz that "simply participating is worth it," fostering a sense of excitement and appreciation among the contestants. The provision of such high-value welcome kits underscores the organizers' commitment to ensuring a rewarding experience for all participants, regardless of their performance in the culinary competition.

The heart of the festival on Saturday was the fiercely competitive culinary showdown. The 150 teams enthusiastically engaged in the cooking competition, each striving to impress the esteemed panel of judges with their creative and delectable dishes crafted under specific themes that added an extra layer of challenge and ingenuity to the contest. The aroma of diverse cuisines filled the air as participants meticulously prepared their culinary masterpieces, transforming their campsites into temporary outdoor kitchens.

Presiding over the judging process was renowned star chef Raymond Kim, a prominent figure in the South Korean culinary scene known for his innovative approach and discerning palate. He was accompanied by a panel of four other experts specializing in camping and culinary arts, ensuring a comprehensive and fair evaluation of the entries. Each judge was tasked with selecting their top three dishes to advance to the final round, culminating in a selection of twelve finalists who represented the pinnacle of camping gastronomy at the festival. The stakes were high, with substantial cash prizes and coveted camping gear awaiting the top three winners, along with special awards designed to recognize outstanding creativity and culinary skill, providing memorable accolades for the deserving participants.

Beyond the intense culinary competition, the festival grounds offered a diverse array of engaging activities designed to cater to attendees of all ages. During the final judging of the cooking competition, a dedicated children's program, "Ottogi Kids' Cooking Class," provided young campers with a fun and interactive culinary experience, fostering an early interest in cooking. Simultaneously, other kid-friendly activities such as face painting and a nostalgic "Memory Arcade" offered entertainment and amusement for the younger participants, ensuring that the festival was a family-friendly event with something for everyone to enjoy.

As the culinary competition concluded and the tantalizing aromas subsided, the festival transitioned into an evening of cultural enrichment and entertainment. Attendees were treated to a "Small Forest Concert" featuring the soulful vocals of singer Seo Young-eun and the dynamic duo Two High, providing a soothing and enjoyable musical backdrop to the camping ambiance. Following the musical performances, an expert-led stargazing event offered a unique opportunity to learn about celestial constellations and appreciate the clear night skies of Yeoncheon, adding a touch of wonder and education to the evening's festivities.

The final day of the festival, April 27th, featured a practical and community-oriented event: the "Camping Flea Market." This provided a platform for campers to freely exchange their used but still valuable camping equipment, promoting sustainability and fostering a sense of camaraderie among outdoor enthusiasts. The flea market not only allowed participants to declutter their gear and find new treasures but also encouraged interaction and the sharing of camping experiences and tips within the community.

The '2025 Camping Culinary Festival' in Yeoncheon successfully blended the thrill of culinary competition with the joys of outdoor camping, creating a memorable experience for all attendees. The record-breaking scale of the event at its new location underscores its growing popularity and its significance as a highlight in South Korea's camping and food culture. By offering a diverse range of activities, from competitive cooking to entertainment and community exchange, the festival truly embodied its theme of "A Drop of Romance, A Spoonful of Memories," leaving participants with lasting impressions of gastronomic delight and festive camaraderie amidst the beautiful natural setting of Yeoncheon. The organizers, Ilgan Sports and edaily, have once again proven their ability to curate a unique and engaging festival that celebrates both culinary artistry and the spirit of outdoor adventure.