There are two types of fireflies: Luciola lateraiis Motschulsky and Lychnur is rufa Olivier.  The former lives in clean waters, feeds on melanian snails, and both male and female have wings.  The latter, on the other hand, lives on the land, is slightly larger than the former with brighter light, and feeds on snails in damp forests.  Fully-grown females do not have wings.  For this reason, they climb up the grass and blink its light to attract the flying males.

 Fireflies are an environmental index that indicate clean environment.  They are the most sensitive organisms to the environmental changes and reduce their numbers accordingly. Muju-gun is Korea¡¯s only remaining firefly and melanian snail habitat.  Muju-gun uses its firefly, a natural preservation, to hold a festival which focuses on the importance of environmental protection and traditional culture.

<Origin and Characteristics of Festival>
* Environmental festival in clean waters and clear air
* Festival of hope with dreams, hometown, and memories
* Festival of rituals and themes
*Festival of love and sharing in the nature
* Festival of history based on the story of using fireflies for diligent study
*Distinguished festival of culture + environment + tourism + economy

Time: Every JuneEvents: Firefly Mystery Expedition, Firefly Ecology Hall, Traditional Folk Experience, Culture/Art Festival, Korea Art Competition (writing, eloquence, drawing), National Children¡¯s Soccer Competition, Firefly Children¡¯s Singing Contest, Firefly Singing Contest, Traditional Craft Contest, Traditional Food Contest, National Firefly Marathon.
http://www.firefly.or.kr