Since its creation in 2011, the Busan Drag Prom has become the second largest LGBT event in Korea. For an entrance fee of W5,000, promgoers can dance the night away and support their community – all proceeds from this event will go to iSHAP (Ivan Stop HIV/AIDS Project), a Busan-based organization that provides sexual health support services and free anonymous HIV/AIDS/STI testing for LGBT individuals; and QIP (Queer in PNU), Pusan National University’s LGBT youth rights group.
The fourth annual Drag Prom will take place at Almost Famous on July 4 and is fittingly themed, “Americana, Who’s Your Mama?” Dance to American hits from every decade, and enjoy special offers, games, and prizes throughout the night. While drag/costumes/fun attire are encouraged, this is a “no judgment” event; guests can come as they are or as they want to be.
This year’s party follows swiftly on the heels of the Korea Queer Festival in Seoul, which initially took hits from both a MERS outbreak and groups of anti-LGBT protesters at its events. However, there has since been much to celebrate, with the recent Supreme Court ruling on same-sex marriage in the U.S. and Seoul’s Pride Parade on July 28 garnering over 6,000 participants.
So whether you want to celebrate American independence, the SCOTUS ruling, the end of the Korea Queer Festival, or just want to celebrate you, why not take a break from the usual weekend routine and head to Busan this Fourth of July weekend? The festivities begin at 9:00 pm on Saturday. For the most up-to-date information, check the event’s Facebook page.