Jinju Lantern Festival: Lighting Up the Namgang River in South Korea
- Jetta Allen
- Aug 21
- 7 min read
What Is the Jinju Lantern Festival? A South Korea Autumn Highlight
The Jinju Lantern Festival, also known as the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival, is South Korea’s largest lantern celebration, held each October in Gyeongsangnam-do. I’d always been curious about the different lantern festivals in Korea. In fact, I had always considered the one in Seoul, but I wanted something that felt less rushed, more relaxed, and family-friendly.
So, for my birthday last year, I joined a trip organized by Osan ITT, and it became one of my favorite travel memories. I brought a friend, packed for cool autumn weather, and prepared for a huge riverside event that totally exceeded my expectations. This is your unofficial lantern festival South Korea travel guide, based on firsthand experience, glowing lanterns, and a lot of delicious street food.
We were ready for a huge riverfront space, cool autumn weather, and the glow of lanterns with an ancient fortress as their backdrop. What we experienced was nothing short of epic! Seeing the Namgang River lanterns stretch endlessly into the horizon was breathtaking, each one glowing with color and story.
The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival is South Korea’s largest lantern festival, held each October in Gyeongsangnam-do. This year, over 70,000 lanterns illuminated the Namgang River and the historic Jinjuseong Fortress, one lantern for each of the 70,000 people who died during the Imjin War in the late 1500s. The symbolism is powerful, and when you stand on the riverbank watching the lanterns stretch into the distance, it feels both solemn and celebratory.
Top Reasons to Visit the Jinju Lantern Festival This October
Perfect Autumn Weather for Outdoor Festivals
Unlike Seoul’s lantern festival in November, when the chill has already settled in, Jinju’s takes place during the crisp, comfortable days of October. The weather is perfect for lingering outside, and you won’t find yourself shivering while trying to enjoy the view. During the day it was t-shirt weather and at night, a light jacket or hoodie! Of all the autumn festivals in South Korea, Jinju’s offers a rare mix of history, warmth, and space to breathe—making it perfect for a laid-back evening outdoors.
Spacious Riverfront Setting and Citywide Celebration
Another reason? Space. Jinju’s festival is spread out along miles of the Namgang River, on both sides, meaning the crowds have room to breathe. Instead of being shoulder-to-shoulder, you can stroll at your own pace and really take in the atmosphere. And it’s not just lanterns. The festival feels like a citywide celebration, lined with food trucks, local vendors, carnival-style games, and endless street snacks. Imagine spending an evening wandering riverside paths lit by glowing sculptures, then grabbing skewered meats, tteokbokki, or hotteok from a vendor before watching floating lanterns drift downstream. Honestly, it’s one of the best things to do in Jinju.
Walking Among the Lanterns on the Namgang River
And just when you think it can’t get more magical, the festival invites you to do something truly unforgettable, walk among the lanterns themselves. Where else can you walk across a floating temporary bridge, right through the river? At this festival, there are multiple areas where you can walk across the river right through the lanterns! Walking across the dragon bridge is one of my favorite memories in Korea. You can truly interact close up with the lanterns and see something so unique, you will want to go back each fall!
Of course, it’s not just the lanterns that make this festival special, it’s the setting too.
Historic Backdrop of the Jinju Lantern Festival: Jinjuseong Fortress
One of the most striking features of the Jinju Lantern Festival is its setting. Chokseongnu Pavilion rises dramatically above the river as part of Jinjuseong Fortress, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop.
This pavilion is one of the most famous in Korea, first built in 1241 during the Goryeo Dynasty by Magistrate Kim Ji-dae. Over the centuries, it has served as a military command post during wars and as a gathering place for scholars and poets in times of peace.
Though it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, most notably after the Japanese invasions of the late 1500s and again following the Korean War, the pavilion today still stands as a national treasure.
Its wide, sweeping roofline and river views make it a favorite scenic site in the entire Yeongnam region, often praised in historic poems and paintings. Seeing thousands of lanterns reflected in the water with Chokseongnu silhouetted above is something you won’t forget. The Jinjuseong Fortress night lights add another layer of magic—casting golden shadows across the river that make you stop and just take it all in.
What to Expect at the Jinju Lantern Festival: Events, Food & More
If you’ve been hesitant to go to a lantern festival because of the cold or the crowds, Jinju will change your mind. The combination of history, atmosphere, and autumn beauty makes it one of Korea’s most memorable seasonal experiences. It’s no surprise this is considered one of the best festivals in South Korea, there’s something unforgettable about watching thousands of lanterns float under fortress walls, surrounded by the smells of street food and the buzz of celebration.
So, this October, skip the Seoul crowds, and head south or do both! But you don’t want to miss the Jinju Lantern Festival! Walk along the Namgang River, take in the lanterns, eat your fill of festival food, and watch as Jinju glows brighter than ever. Thanks, Robyn, for going with me!
If you are in the Pyeongtaek community, check out Osan ITT and book your trip! The driving, hotel stay, and tour guide are all planned out, helping you enjoy the short trip!
At a Glance: How to Plan Your Trip to Jinju Lantern Festival
When: October 1–20, 2025
Where: Namgang River & Jinjuseong Fortress, Jinju, Gyeongsangnam-do
How to Get There: Take the KTX to Jinju Station or book a trip via Osan ITT
Admission: Free for most areas, with optional paid activities
Tips: Arrive early on weekends, wear comfy shoes, and bring a tripod for night shots, bring won to pay for things
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Venue: Areas of Jinjuseong Fortress and Namgang River
Jinju Daecheop History Park
경상남도 진주시 본성동 9-9
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Jinju Daecheop History Park
경상남도 진주시 본성동 9-9
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Jinju National Museum
경남 진주시 남강로 626-35 진주성
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Gyeongnam Culture & Arts Center
경남 진주시 강남로 215 경남문화예술회관
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Insam Land Rest Area (Tongyeong Way)
충남 금산군 군북면 어필각로 300
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Eunyeolsa Shrine
경남 진주시 진양호로 603 진양강씨은열공파대종회
Practical Tips & FAQs for Visiting the Jinju Lantern Festival
Ready to plan your own trip? Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Festival Dates, Highlights & Location
The Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival runs annually from October 1 through weekends and select weekdays. In 2024, the festival unfolded from October 5 to 20 under the moving theme “Containing Peace in the River of History,” coinciding with the Gaecheon Arts and Korea Drama festivals. The lantern festival is one of the biggest Jinju October events, drawing locals and visitors alike to the riverside for two full weeks of celebration.
Signature Moments & Interactive Events
Lighting of Hope Lanterns: Attendees—citizens and visitors—can hang wish lanterns to honor those who defended Jinjuseong Fortress, continuing a deeply rooted tradition.
Drone & Fireworks Spectacles: Several evenings host stunning drone shows with 1,000 drones weaving tales of Jinju’s resilience, accompanied by fireworks on key dates like October 5, 10, and 20.
Family Fun & Cultural Activities: Enjoy interactive lantern-making workshops, floating bridge crossings, stamp treasure tours, and performances at nearby museums and festival stages.
Tips from Fellow Travelers
On Sunny Days with Juliette, a traveler shared the festival’s layered experience, from night illuminations lining the riverbanks to daytime exploration of Jinjuseong Fortress and ease of navigation through divided zones.
How to Get There & Local Logistics
Expect efficient setup: In 2024, the festival offered 12,000 parking spaces and 78 free shuttle buses on busy days for visitor convenience.
For those combining interests, the nearby Jinju Rail Bike Park offers a charming outdoor activity along a riverside trail, adding a pleasant daytime excursion to complement the evening festival glow.
FAQs about the Jinju Lantern Festival
Q. When is the festival held?
A. Annually in October, starting around Oct 1, with major events typically between Oct 5–20.
Q. What’s unique about this festival?
A. The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival blends cultural heritage with modern art in a way that truly sets it apart from other Korean festivals.
Q. How can visitors enjoy it?
A. Wander festival zones by day (beautiful lanterns, fortress views), then by night join light shows and enjoy local street food—all accessible via shuttle or rail bike trips.
Q. Transportation tips?
A. Excellent festival infrastructure includes shuttle buses and ample parking; pairing the visit with the Jinju Rail Bike Park can enrich your day itinerary.
Planning to attend the Jinju Lantern Festival this October? Let us know your favorite part or tag us in your photos!
More Amazing Places to Explore in Korea
If the Jinju Lantern Festival sparks your wanderlust, Korea has countless other destinations worth adding to your travel list. From cultural escapes to outdoor adventures, here are a few more ideas to inspire your next trip:
Discover Jeonju Hanok Village – Step back in time with traditional architecture, famous bibimbap, and rich cultural heritage.
Hiking in South Korea – Find the best trails, gear tips, and resources for exploring Korea’s mountains.
Motorcycling in Korea – Adventure seekers can hit the open roads and discover hidden gems by bike.
Sokcho Travel Guide – Where the mountains meet the sea, Sokcho offers hiking, seafood, and coastal views.
Asan: Beyond the Ginkgo Trees – Famous for its autumn ginkgo festival, hot springs, and rich history.
Exploring South Korea’s Dulle Trails – Scenic walking trails that connect villages, heritage sites, and breathtaking landscapes.
Building Lasting Friendships Through Shared Adventures – A reflection on how travel and community build stronger connections in Korea.
Fall Foliage in South Korea – Where to see the most vibrant autumn leaves across the peninsula.
Revitalization of Confucian Culture in Nonsan – Explore how Confucian heritage is preserved and celebrated.
Seoul City Wall Stamp Tour – A unique way to explore Seoul’s history while collecting stamps along fortress trails.
Yeosu Weekend Getaway – A coastal gem offering beaches, cable cars, and island-hopping.
Whether you’re chasing history, nature, or adventure, Korea offers endless opportunities for discovery beyond Jinju.
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