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On the Day the Winter Earth Playground Opens, Want to Run Around Together at the Good Neighbors World Play Festival?

Introduction

As December deepens into winter, children’s laughter is getting ready to gently warm the chilly air. For one day only, the Pohang Disability-Friendly National Sports Center will turn into an Earth playground filled with games from all around the world, offering families a chance to run, play, and warm their hearts together.

On the Day the Winter Earth Playground Opens, Want to Run Around Together at the Good Neighbors World Play Festival?


Table of Contents

Guide

Basic Information
  • Event Name : Good Neighbors World Play Festival “Let’s Play GO! To the Earth!”
  • Date : Sunday, December 7, 2025
  • Hours : 12:00 ~ 18:00
  • Venue : Pohang Disability-Friendly National Sports Center (166 Yangdeoknam-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Yangdeok-dong)
  • Admission : Free
  • How to Participate : Advance reservation via Naver Booking
  • Hosted / Organized by : Good Neighbors Gyeongbuk Regional Office
  • Inquiries : 053-214-7124 (Good Neighbors Gyeongbuk Regional Office)
  • Event Type : World traditional play and global citizenship education experience for families

Suggested Itinerary
  1. 12:00 Arrive at the venue, walk through the entire space once, and first locate the World Traditional Play Experience Zone.
  2. 13:00 Start with the play zones by continent and gradually take part, experiencing each country’s culture together with your child.
  3. 15:00 Check the schedule for shows like the magic show and bubble show, and secure seats so you can enjoy them at a relaxed pace.
  4. 16:00 Enjoy a good mix of side experiences such as face painting, air bounce, and making Christmas items.
  5. 17:00 Take a family photo at the photo zone and check the procedure in advance for issuing the Global Citizenship Education certificate.
  6. 17:30 Join the recreation, random play dance, and prize draw event, and enjoy the festival atmosphere right up to the end.

Arriving a little earlier than the official start time makes it easier to check where each experience zone is and look around at your own pace.
If you plan to receive a Global Citizenship Education certificate, it’s helpful to check the procedure at the on-site information desk in advance.

Overview

The Good Neighbors World Play Festival “Let’s Play GO! To the Earth!”, organized by the Good Neighbors Gyeongbuk Regional Office, is a place where children can directly experience cultures and traditional games from around the world while naturally learning about the “right to play,” one of the four fundamental rights of the child. Children get to physically experience games from regions where Good Neighbors operates and from various countries, and after participating, they receive a Global Education Completion Certificate, giving them a small sense of achievement to take home.

In addition to world play experiences by continent, the festival offers a rich lineup of performances and hands-on programs such as a magic show, bubble show, and balloon art, making it a great place for the whole family to spend an entire day. Since everything takes place indoors, you don’t have to worry as much about the winter weather, and you can create warm memories in Christmas-themed experience programs and photo zones.

Program Information

World Traditional Play Experience Zone

This is a space where you can personally experience eight types of games from different continents and feel each country’s culture and play traditions. It is designed to naturally foster a sense of global citizenship in children, making it ideal for families to join together.

Magic Show & Bubble Show

A magic performance tailored to children and a sparkling bubble show follow one after another. Check the performance times in advance so you can secure good seats and enjoy the shows comfortably.

Recreation & Random Play Dance

Recreation and random play dance programs where all visitors can come together and have fun. Both children and adults can move their bodies and feel the energy of the festival.

Experience Booths & Photo Zone

There will be experience booths that children will love, such as air bounce, face painting, and making Christmas items. Stylish photo zones are also set up, perfect for capturing your day at the World Play Festival in photos.

Global Citizenship Education Certificate Issuance

After completing the world traditional play experiences and educational programs, you can receive a Global Education Completion Certificate. It serves as a visible record of what your child learned through play and becomes a meaningful memory for them.

Event Prize Draw

During the festival, there will be a prize draw event offering small gifts to participants. Check the event guidelines carefully and join at the scheduled draw time.

Viewing Tip 1

If you arrive a little earlier than the program start time of 13:00, you can leisurely watch the final preparations for entry and the experience zones, and decide in advance the order of programs you’d like to enjoy.

Viewing Tip 2

Since this festival involves many hands-on activities, it’s easier to get through the day if both parents and children wear comfortable clothes and non-slip shoes.

Viewing Tip 3

If you plan to receive the Global Citizenship Education certificate, checking in advance what’s needed for on-site registration and ID verification will help reduce your waiting time.

Considering the time required at each booth, let your child try the program they’re most excited about first.
For the magic and bubble shows, get your seats 10–15 minutes before the start time for a more comfortable viewing experience.
If you check certificate issuance procedures in the middle of the event rather than at the very end, it will be less crowded.

Visit (Planned) Impressions

The Good Neighbors World Play Festival “Let’s Play GO! To the Earth!” has not begun yet, so I’m quietly getting ready while looking forward to the day that’s just around the corner. Today is November 30, 2025, and the festival will be held for one day only on December 7 in Pohang, which makes this time of excited preparation feel all the sweeter. As I calmly gather information from here and there ahead of the festival, scenes already form in my mind: children’s laughter, the sound of performances, and the bright lights illuminating the venue.

The Pohang Disability-Friendly National Sports Center will be the meeting place for this festival. With programs like the world traditional play experience zone, magic shows, and bubble shows prepared by the Good Neighbors Gyeongbuk Regional Office, it feels as though every corner of the indoor space will be filled with vibrant colors and sounds. In particular, some experiences will have a touch of Christmas spirit, so even with the cold winter approaching, my heart feels like it will stay warm. Knowing that it’s an indoor event, I feel more at ease about the weather, and I picture myself walking in leisurely with my child, both of us dressed comfortably.

Looking at the program, many sensory elements seem likely to leave a lasting impression on children’s fingertips and hearts. I imagine the air bounce swaying like waves of light, the quiet spread of face-paint colors across a child’s face, and the soft feel and popping sounds of balloon art—just thinking about them is exciting. There will also be eight different world play experiences by continent, and I’m looking forward to the scene where the breath of various cultures bends the air as it spreads. The participation method is easy on the mind as well: you can enter for free and even receive a Global Citizenship Education certificate, which leaves an impression. On the day of the festival, there will also be an event prize draw, so I find myself preparing for the day with a little hope for good luck together with my child.

Winter may be approaching, but at this festival, I imagine the warmth of children’s laughter, the colors of balloons, and the fleeting warmth of bursting bubbles dancing in the air. My thoughts are already on their way to the sports center hall in Pohang, and it feels like the faces of the people I’ll meet there will be shining brightly. Once I’ve actually visited the festival, I hope to calmly share vivid stories from the scene, and which routes made the day feel most relaxed and enjoyable, while keeping this sense of anticipation quietly by my side for now.

Accommodation Recommendations

Although the festival can easily be enjoyed as a day trip, it’s also nice to book a nearby place to stay if you’d like to enjoy Pohang’s sea and night views as well. Centered around the Buk-gu area where the venue is located and Yeongildae Beach, here are some accommodations chosen with both accessibility and views in mind.

브라운도트호텔 포항영일대점
Brown Dot Hotel Pohang Yeongildae Branch

113 Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Duho-dong)

Hotel near Yeongildae Beach, ideal for a seaside walk and overnight stay

With easy access to the beach, it’s great for linking the festival with a relaxed walk the following day.

Distance: 3.7 km

호텔야자 포항여객터미널점
Hotel Yaja Pohang Passenger Terminal Branch

162 Samho-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Hanggu-dong)

Close to Pohang Passenger Terminal, convenient when using public transportation

Ideal for planning a stay together with a travel itinerary that uses the terminal.

Distance: 4.3 km

호텔 라자비(raza b)[한국관광 품질인증/Korea Quality]
Hotel Razavi (raza b) [Korea Tourism Quality Certification / Korea Quality]

12-2 Chilseong-ro 47beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Jungang-dong)

Quality-certified lodging in the city center, convenient for combining with sightseeing in downtown Pohang

Close to the downtown commercial district, making it easy to plan meals, walks, and other side activities.

Distance: 6.1 km

브라운도트호텔 포항 죽도점
Brown Dot Hotel Pohang Jukdo Branch

51 Jukdoro 40beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Jukdo-dong)

Near Jukdo Market, perfect for exploring the market and enjoying a food tour

Close to the market and commercial area, making it great for family meals and walks.

Distance: 7.1 km

에이원호텔 해도점
A1 Hotel Haedo Branch

140 Jungang-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Haedo-dong)

Accommodation base in Nam-gu, conveniently located for getting around the city

Great for combining a 1-night-2-day stay with sightseeing in the Nam-gu area.

Distance: 7.1 km

포항스테이호텔
Pohang Stay Hotel

1 Jungang-ro 131beon-gil, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Haedo-dong)

Urban business hotel with facilities suitable for both families and couples

Close to the main downtown area, making it advantageous for getting around by public transport.

Distance: 7.2 km

노블리온 호텔
Nobleon Hotel

20 Huimang-daero 659beon-gil, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Daejam-dong)

Near a quiet residential and commercial area, suitable for family stays

Ideal for a relaxed overnight stay while enjoying nearby cafés and restaurants.

Distance: 9.4 km

호텔영일대
Hotel Yeongildae

11 Haengbok-gil 75beon-gil, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Daejam-dong)

Located between the city center and the beach, convenient for various routes

If traveling by car, it works well as a base for exploring different parts of Pohang.

Distance: 9.9 km

Since the festival ends in the evening, staying near Yeongildae Beach lets you enjoy a night walk by the sea.
On weekends and around year-end, rooms can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is the safer choice.

Restaurants & Cafés

Around Buk-gu near the venue, you can easily grab a light meal, or head down toward Yeongildae Beach to enjoy a cup of coffee while looking at the sea. Taking travel time and routes into account, here are places that are comfortable to visit with children.

톡톡톡
Tok Tok Tok

19-1 Jangnyang-ro 174beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

A local favorite restaurant, suitable for family meals

A good place to stop by before or after the festival for a simple but filling meal.

Distance: 1.0 km

죽천회타운
Jukcheon Hoe Town

91-2 Jukcheon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Cluster of sashimi restaurants where you can enjoy seafood near the Pohang coast

Great for a fresh sashimi dinner after the event.

Distance: 1.3 km

카페 스페이스워크
Cafe Space Walk

273 Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Hwanho-dong)

View café near Hwanho Park, ideal for enjoying the sea view

Perfect for a relaxed tea time after the festival while taking in views of the Pohang sea.

Distance: 2.3 km

오브레멘
Of Bremen

191-1 Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Café along Haean-ro, conveniently located for a stroll-and-stop visit

Nice for a leisurely dessert time while exploring the Yeongildae area.

Distance: 2.9 km

유재용손만두
Yoo Jaeyong Handmade Dumplings

10 Daesin-ro 36beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

A good place for a quick, warm dumpling meal

The menu is expected to be easy and approachable, making it comfortable for dining with children.

Distance: 5.2 km

해동회수산
Haedong Hoe Susan

12 Daesin-ro 26beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

A sashimi restaurant where you can enjoy local Pohang seafood

Great for families who want to enjoy sashimi in a neat, quiet setting rather than a large group.

Distance: 5.2 km

스시무라
Sushi Mura

3 Daei-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Sushi restaurant with a menu focused on Japanese cuisine

A good option if you plan to travel to the Nam-gu area for your meal.

Distance: 9.2 km

신선도횟집
Sinsundo Hoetjip

1870 Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Sashimi restaurant located on Haean-ro in Buk-gu, Pohang

Nice for a relaxed dinner when you’re planning a coastal drive along the sea.

Distance: 10.0 km

Restaurants may be crowded right after the festival ends, so planning your route in advance will make it easier to move around.
If you’re with children, it’s more comfortable to have an early dinner somewhere close to the venue and then head to your accommodation.

Nearby Attractions

If time allows before or after the festival, it’s a great idea to visit nearby seaside and scenic spots to take in Pohang’s winter landscapes. Here are some locations chosen within a comfortable distance from the venue.

포항 해상스카이워크
Pohang Marine Skywalk

518 Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Yeonam-dong)

Skywalk that feels like walking on the sea, with unobstructed coastal views

On clear days, the horizon and cityscape spread out beautifully, making it great for photos.

Distance: 0.9 km

죽천해수욕장
Jukcheon Beach

43 Jukcheon-gil, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

A small, cozy beach that’s perfect for a quiet seaside walk

A nice place to briefly stop and soak in the calm mood of the winter sea.

Distance: 0.9 km

영일대전망대
Yeongildae Observatory

Marine Sports Academy, 173 Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Viewpoint overlooking both Yeongildae Beach and the city

Visit at sunset to enjoy the sky and sea dyed in shades of red.

Distance: 3.1 km

영일대 장미원
Yeongildae Rose Garden

Duho-dong, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Rose garden that offers a different atmosphere each season

Nice for a short stroll and a few photos along with a beach walk.

Distance: 3.3 km

송도솔밭도시숲
Songdo Pine Forest Urban Park

141 Songdohaean-gil, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Songdo-dong)

Urban forest filled with pine trees, ideal for both walks and relaxation

A nice place to take a quiet walk while enjoying sunlight filtering through the trees.

Distance: 5.4 km

곡강천생태공원
Gokgangcheon Ecological Park

Yongcheon-ri, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Ecological park where you can feel the river and nature up close

Perfect when you want a quiet walk away from the city.

Distance: 7.3 km

칠포해오름전망대
Chilpo Sunrise Observatory

1581 Haean-ro, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Scenic spot for viewing both sunrise and the coastline

Visit early in the morning or at dusk to capture the changing colors of the sky.

Distance: 7.4 km

도음산산림문화수련장
Doeumsan Forest Culture Training Center

646 Doeum-ro, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

A space where you can enjoy both rest and forest experiences

Ideal when you want to feel the calm air of nature, different from city sightseeing.

Distance: 9.5 km

If you combine the festival with a visit to Yeongildae Beach, you can experience both the sea and the city in a single day.
Winter sea winds can be strong, so it’s a good idea to bring a coat, scarf, and other warm clothing.

Getting There

Public Transportation — The venue is the Pohang Disability-Friendly National Sports Center, located at 166 Yangdeoknam-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Yangdeok-dong). You can take city bus routes that stop around the Yangdeok-dong area in Buk-gu, Pohang-si, and then walk from a nearby stop. Available bus routes and stops will vary depending on your departure point, so please check the latest information using Pohang’s public transportation guide or a map app before your visit.

By Car — Enter “포항시장애인형국민체육센터” or “경상북도 포항시 북구 양덕남로 166” into your navigation system or map app to receive directions. For parking availability near the venue, parking fees, and peak congestion times, it’s helpful to contact the event organizer or the center in advance to better plan your schedule.

Right after the event ends, demand for taxis and private cars may increase, so deciding your way home in advance will give you peace of mind.

Closing

The Good Neighbors World Play Festival “Let’s Play GO! To the Earth!” is an indoor winter event where you can warmly enjoy traditional games from around the world while revisiting children’s “right to play.” Through continent-themed play experiences, performances, and various side programs, families can fill their day with laughter and learning.

There is no admission fee, and you can join simply by reserving via Naver and even receive a Global Citizenship Education certificate, making it a meaningful experience to remember. On a short winter day in December, it might be just right to visit the Pohang Disability-Friendly National Sports Center and discover a heartwarming Earth playground with your child.

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Source: This post was created with reference to the Korea Tourism Organization API as well as YouTube and news links.

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