In South Korea, summer heat is met with a wet and wild celebration as water-themed festivals continue to attract large crowds. These events combine energetic music performances, celebrity appearances, and plenty of water to help people cool down during the hottest months.
One such festival, WATERBOMB, has become a popular summer tradition since its start in 2015, except during the pandemic years. Thousands of fans gather to enjoy music while being soaked by water jets, water guns, and showers from the stage. The festival’s lively atmosphere and bold outfits often create viral moments online, helping some artists gain fame.
Another highlight is PSY’s annual “Summer Swag” concert tour. The 2025 season opened recently in Incheon with appearances by stars like BLACKPINK’s Rosé and BIGBANG’s G-Dragon. PSY’s concerts are famous for their heavy water use and celebrity collaborations, including past performances with BTS’ Suga.
These festivals are not only a hit in Seoul but also visit cities such as Incheon, Daejeon, and Busan. This geographic spread boosts local tourism and economies, with the WATERBOMB event estimated to generate over $7 million in economic impact.
However, the festivals face criticism for their use of large amounts of drinking-quality water—PSY’s shows reportedly use around 300 tons of water each. Concerns about sustainability have been raised by public figures and environmental advocates.
Festival etiquette is also a topic of debate. Some attendees have been criticized for spraying water directly into others’ faces or sensitive areas. Additionally, wet festivalgoers boarding public transportation or entering restaurants still dripping have caused complaints.
Regular attendees advise planning ahead, such as booking nearby accommodations and preparing for a full day at the event. Pop music critic Lee Dae-hwa encourages fans to choose festivals thoughtfully and handle logistics like transportation and ticket policies carefully.
As Korea’s water festivals continue to grow in popularity, they offer a fun and refreshing way to escape the summer heat while highlighting the need for mindful celebration and sustainability.
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