RI Korean Festival Review!

The Korean American Association of Rhode Island (KAARI) hosted the 3rd RI Korean Festival on Saturday, September 13, 2025, sponsored by the Overseas Koreans Foundation of Korea.

 

The central concept of this event, held as a block party, was to introduce Korean culture to the community and foster communication and inclusion.

 

Traditional Korean games (Hanbok try-on, Tuho, Calligraphy, Ttakjichigi, Jaegichagi nori, Gonggi nori, Ojemi, and Taekwondo) were available at various booths and were enjoyable for both adults and children.

 

Seventeen participants took part in the spicy Ramen eating contest, with first and second place prizes awarded to the bravest winners.

 

New additions to this year's event included a Taekwondo demonstration by the Jeong family, a K-pop demon hunters sing-along, and a Gat and Dopo Demon Custom try-on experience, all of which were extremely popular.

 

This year, the food stalls showcased the true beauty of Korean street food, offering free samples of Dumplings, Tteokbokki, Steamed buns, and Cup Ramen. The instant Hotteok stall, a new product launched this year by Board Member Lee Chan-ho and his wife, proved incredibly popular, drawing a large crowd.

 

The participation of 12 next-generation volunteers further enhanced the event's significance. We anticipate that the next generation's new ideas and contributions will fuel the Korean Association's future growth and development.

 

We sincerely thank the Korean Association members and volunteers who generously donated their talents and time to prepare this event.