Yangju to host drone-robot festival from Oct 30 to Nov 1

Yangju City announced on Oct 6 that it will host the 2026 Gyeonggi-Yangju-Ground Operations Command Drone-Robot Festival from Oct 30 to Nov 1 at the Ganap-ri airfield in Gwangjeok-myeon, Yangju. The festival is co-hosted by Gyeonggi Province, Yangju City, and the Ground Operations Command, and organized by a civilian-government-military event committee. [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]

This is the sixth edition of the festival. It will feature exhibitions of advanced drones and robots, military demonstrations, cultural performances, and hands-on programs. [ 2 , 3 ]

On opening day, Oct 30, events include performances by the Yangju Municipal Choir and Yangju Chamber of Commerce nanta, an Army aviation flyover, a Capital Defense Command motorcycle parade, honor guard demonstrations, military band performances, and special martial arts. In the evening, there will be performances by the Ground Operations Command and 1st Corps military bands, a civilian-government-military concert, and a stage by singer Maijin. [ 2 , 3 ]

On Oct 31, the Army Information School will conduct a drone tactical demonstration. At the auxiliary stage in Gwangjeok-myeon, there will be resident autonomy program presentations, a filial piety taekwondo demonstration, and a town singing contest. Evening performances include a concert and singer Ed Heart. On Nov 1, the final day, there will be a Surion helicopter ride experience, a drone-robot competition awards ceremony, and a closing ceremony. [ 2 , 3 ]

Throughout the festival, more than 30 hands-on programs will be available, including armored vehicle and Capital Defense Command motorcycle rides and opportunities to pilot drones and robots. There will also be robot performances and parades. Drone light shows will be held on the evenings of Oct 30 and 31, with fireworks on Oct 31. [ 2 , 3 ]

Yangju City said it will expand shuttle bus service compared to last year, operating eight medium-sized shuttle buses between Yangju Culture and Arts Center and Baekseok Sports Park temporary parking lot and the venue, with 20-30 minute intervals. [ 2 ]

A Yangju City official said, “We have prepared various programs so citizens can directly experience advanced drone and robot technology and military equipment,” and added that the festival, prepared together by the civilian, government, and military sectors, will be a place for families to enjoy and communicate. [ 2 ]