Dream Dance Troupe Ulju: Youths Bring the Spirit of Onggi to Life on Stage at Ulsan Onggi Festival

A Festival Rooted in Tradition and Youthful Energy

Did you know that every spring, the quiet village of Oegosan in Ulju-gun, Ulsan, transforms into a vibrant hub of tradition, creativity, and community? The Ulsan Onggi Festival, Korea’s only festival dedicated to Onggi earthenware, has become a cultural phenomenon, drawing over 130,000 visitors in 2024 and growing every year. In 2025, the festival’s spotlight shines on the Dream Dance Troupe Ulju, a group of local children and teenagers who are reimagining the story of Onggi through dance. This isn’t just a performance—it’s a living, moving tribute to centuries-old craftsmanship, interpreted by the next generation.

What is Onggi? The Heartbeat of Korean Pottery

For those unfamiliar, Onggi refers to traditional Korean earthenware, crafted from soil, water, fire, and wind. These iconic brown jars have been at the center of Korean daily life for over a thousand years, used for fermenting kimchi, storing sauces, and preserving food thanks to their breathability and durability. At the Ulsan Onggi Festival, you don’t just see Onggi—you feel it. Master artisans from Oegosan demonstrate their skills, and visitors of all ages can get their hands dirty, stepping on clay and shaping their own pots. The festival’s theme this year explores how Onggi’s form, earthy texture, and communal spirit can be expressed not just in pottery, but in movement and performance.

Dream Dance Troupe Ulju: Empowering Youth Through Art

The Dream Dance Troupe Ulju is more than a dance group—it’s a cultural education movement. Supported by Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, and the Korea Arts & Culture Education Service, the troupe was launched to nurture holistic growth in Ulju’s children and teens. Over five years, the project secured 400 million KRW in national funding, ensuring that young participants receive professional training and a platform to express their stories. Last year’s performance, inspired by the Bangudae Petroglyphs and the hope for UNESCO World Heritage recognition, was a hit, blending history, art, and youthful imagination. This year, the troupe’s 25 members have been training for months, preparing to interpret Onggi’s legacy through dance—focusing on its circular forms, tactile qualities, and the tradition of passing skills from generation to generation.

The 2025 Ulsan Onggi Festival: A Community Celebration

The festival itself is a feast for the senses and the soul. Held from May 3rd to 5th in Oegosan Onggi Village—the largest Onggi production site in Korea—it features everything from live pottery demonstrations to hands-on workshops, concerts, fireworks, and even eco-friendly art installations made from recycled materials. Local volunteers, known as the Onggiz, play a crucial role in the event’s smooth operation, embodying the festival’s spirit of togetherness. This year’s slogan highlights how Onggi, once a staple of every Korean kitchen, is finding new life as modern home décor and natural fermentation vessels, bridging past and present.

Cultural Insights: Why Onggi Matters to Koreans

Onggi isn’t just pottery—it’s a symbol of resilience, community, and sustainable living. For centuries, Onggi jars lined the courtyards of Korean homes, quietly fermenting the nation’s favorite foods. The skills to make Onggi were passed down through generations, and each jar tells a story of family and place. In a rapidly modernizing Korea, festivals like Ulsan Onggi Festival help revive interest in traditional crafts, making them relevant for new generations. The Dream Dance Troupe’s performance is a perfect example of this cultural continuity, as young dancers embody the values and aesthetics of Onggi through their movements.

Community Reactions: Pride, Curiosity, and Inspiration

Online communities and local blogs are buzzing with excitement and pride. On Naver and Daum, comments highlight the festival’s growth and the unique charm of seeing youth interpret tradition. Many praise the Dream Dance Troupe’s creativity, noting how their performances make history and heritage feel accessible and alive. Some express nostalgia for Onggi’s role in their childhood, while others are impressed by the festival’s eco-friendly initiatives and the inclusive atmosphere that welcomes families, tourists, and locals alike.

A Must-See for International Visitors and Fans of Korean Culture

If you’re a fan of K-culture, the Ulsan Onggi Festival offers a rare window into Korea’s living traditions—beyond K-pop and dramas. You’ll witness the artistry of Onggi masters, join workshops where you can mold your own pottery, and experience how Korean youth are shaping the future of their heritage. The Dream Dance Troupe Ulju’s performance is a highlight not to be missed, blending contemporary dance with ancient themes in a way that’s both moving and thought-provoking. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a family traveler, or simply curious about Korean traditions, this festival is a celebration of creativity, community, and continuity.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Onggi and Youth Arts in Korea

The success of the Dream Dance Troupe Ulju and the Ulsan Onggi Festival points to a broader trend in Korea: a renewed appreciation for traditional arts, powered by the energy and imagination of young people. As the festival continues to grow, so does its impact—bringing together artisans, educators, families, and visitors from around the world. With each performance and every jar of Onggi, a new chapter in Korea’s cultural story is being written, one that honors the past while embracing the possibilities of the future.