Source: Starlike

Starlike Co., Ltd. (CEO Chae Byeong-hyo) announced that it will hold the comprehensive subculture events 'ILLUSTAR FES 12' and 'ILLUSTAR FES 13' consecutively in Busan and Ilsan this coming August.

'ILLUSTAR FES 12' will take place over two days from Saturday, August 1, to Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Hall 4 of the BEXCO Exhibition Center II in Busan. 'ILLUSTAR FES 13' will follow from Saturday, August 29, to Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Halls 4B and 5 of the KINTEX Exhibition Center I in Ilsan.

'ILLUSTAR FES' is a comprehensive event covering various subculture genres, including manga, anime, games, virtual content, and music. It has grown primarily around its creator market, where creators and fans meet and interact directly. The event features a wide range of derivative works, such as self-published books, fan merchandise, and illustrations, alongside diverse on-site programs including stage performances, cosplay, corporate booths, and indie game demos.

The 12nd and 13rd editions will be held consecutively throughout August in Busan and Ilsan, aiming to welcome visitors as a premier summer festival that bridges the subculture fandoms of the capital and Yeongnam regions. In particular, 'ILLUSTAR FES 12' in Busan will provide broad participation opportunities for local visitors and creators at BEXCO, while 'ILLUSTAR FES 13' at KINTEX in Ilsan is planned to offer an even richer on-site experience.

'ILLUSTAR FES 12' will feature subculture creator and corporate booths, indie game booths, stage performances, a dessert zone, and cosplay events, providing visitors with a multifaceted cultural experience to see, enjoy, and participate in. 'ILLUSTAR FES 13' will also showcase a variety of creative content and on-site events centered around the creator market, continuing the festival atmosphere built by creators and fans together.

A representative from the ILLUSTAR FES Organizing Committee stated, "ILLUSTAR FES 12 and 13 are subculture festivals connecting Busan and Ilsan throughout August, and we are preparing them to create a space where creators and visitors can meet and enjoy themselves more closely." They added, "To repay the support we receive each time, we will ensure safe and comfortable event operations while delivering the special joy that can only be felt on-site."

Meanwhile, detailed information regarding tickets, participation guidelines, and specific programs for 'ILLUSTAR FES 12' and 'ILLUSTAR FES 13' can be found on the official website and official social media channels of ILLUSTAR FES.