Table of Contents
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at one of South Korea’s most spectacular autumn festivals! The Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival (진주남강유등축제) transforms the serene Namgang River into a dazzling sea of light, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in 2025, this is an event you simply cannot miss.
A Glimmering Spectacle on the Namgang River
Imagine thousands of colorful, uniquely shaped lanterns floating and sparkling on the water, casting a magical glow on the night sky. This is the essence of the Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival. It’s not just a festival of lights; it’s a journey into the rich history and culture of Korea, particularly the city of Jinju. The festival offers a fantastic opportunity for unique photos, a deep cultural experience, and a glimpse into a historically significant event. It typically takes place in early October, with the official dates for 2025 to be announced soon.
Official 2025 Dates & Festival Hours
The Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival 2025 will officially take place from October 4 to October 19, 2025, lasting for 16 days along the scenic Namgang River and within Jinjuseong Fortress in Jinju City, South Korea.
Each evening, the Yudeung (Lantern) Exhibition lights up the river from 6:00 PM to midnight (18:00–24:00), filling the entire area with glowing lanterns that reflect beautifully on the water. Visitors can enjoy the most stunning views between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM, when the lights are at their brightest and the festival is most lively.
Special performances such as drone shows and fireworks displays are scheduled on October 4, 8, 10, and 18 at 8:00 PM, creating magical highlights throughout the event.
While the main schedule is confirmed, visitors are encouraged to check the official festival website or Visit Korea for any real-time updates regarding weather adjustments or program details.
Tickets & Admission Fees
The Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival is a ticketed event, which helps maintain its quality and scale. You can purchase tickets either online or at the booths located at the festival entrance. We highly recommend buying your tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially on crowded weekend days.
Festival Highlights & Main Attractions
The Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival is a feast for the senses, with countless activities and sights. The most captivating display is the collection of thousands of lanterns floating on the Namgang River, creating a surreal and beautiful scene. You’ll also find a special exhibit showcasing unique designs from around the world and historical lanterns that depict figures and stories from Korea’s past.
Beyond the stunning visuals, you can engage in hands-on experiences like making your own lantern or floating a wish lantern on the river, a meaningful tradition for many visitors. You can also walk across the temporary floating bridges, which offer an incredible vantage point for photos. The festival also features a variety of daily traditional cultural performances, street shows, and a selection of delicious Korean street food to try.
History & Significance of the Festival
The Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival is not just visually stunning; it holds deep historical meaning. Its origins trace back to the Imjin War (1592-1598), when lanterns were used by the people of Jinju as a military communication tool and a signal for families to know they were safe during the Siege of Jinju. Today, the festival honors the resilience and patriotism of the Jinju people and serves as a way to remember those who sacrificed their lives.
How to Get to Jinju
Jinju is easily accessible from major Korean cities. From Seoul, the fastest way is to take the KTX train from Seoul Station to Jinju Station (about 3-3.5 hours). Alternatively, frequent intercity buses run from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal. If you’re coming from Busan, an intercity bus from the Seobu (Sasang) Bus Terminal will get you to the Jinju Intercity Bus Terminal in about 1.5-2 hours. Once in Jinju, use local buses or taxis to get to the festival grounds along the Namgang River.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Visit
To make your trip as smooth as possible, book your accommodation in Jinju as early as you can, as rooms fill up quickly. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and bring a jacket as October evenings can be cool. For the best experience, try to visit on a weekday to avoid the large crowds and arrive just before sunset to watch the magical transition from day to night. If you’re a photography enthusiast, a tripod is highly recommended for stunning long-exposure shots of the lanterns on the river.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Jinju Lantern Festival free? No, it is a ticketed event. What’s the best time to see the lanterns? After sunset is when the lanterns are lit and are most beautiful. Can I fly directly to Jinju? No, there are no direct flights to Jinju. The closest major airport is Gimhae International Airport in Busan, from which you can take a bus to Jinju.
The Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival 2025 promises to be an enchanting experience, combining artistic beauty, historical significance, and the vibrant spirit of Korean culture. Start planning your trip today!
Read more: Full Moon Festival in Hoi An – A Magical Night by the Lanterns
