The progress of humankind has gone hand in hand with recording, sharing, and widely disseminating knowledge and information. At its center is the invention of metal movable type, which dramatically transformed the knowledge culture of humanity.

Jikji, published in 1377 at Heungdeoksa Temple in Cheongju, is the world’s oldest extant metal-type printed book. It is a proud cultural heritage that shows the outstanding creativity and technology of our ancestors, and a symbol of innovation that opened a new era of knowledge and information.

This year’s Jikji Culture Festival is held under the theme “Jikji, Opening the Door of Time.” From exhibitions that reconnect us with the documentary culture of the past and demonstrations of metal-type casting, to a variety of hands-on experiences for citizens and future-oriented content using AI and digital technology, we have prepared a rich program.

I hope this festival will continue the records left by Jikji some 650 years ago through today’s citizens, and unfold them again as records for the future. I hope it will be a time for citizens to enjoy and take part together, and newly discover the value and charm of Jikji.

Cheongju City will develop the spirit of creation and innovation embodied in Jikji into new content that brings together culture, technology, and citizen participation, and will strive so that Cheongju may leap further—beyond being the birthplace of Jikji—to become a world-class city of documentary culture.

We ask for your continued interest and participation in the 2026 Jikji Culture Festival held in “Cheongju, the Citizens’ Special City,” where citizens are the true owners. Thank you.