Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival 2026: Lanterns Return October 3–18

Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival 2026: Lanterns Return October 3–18

The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, through Sunday, October 18, around Jinjuseong Fortress and the Namgang River in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province.

The Korea Tourism Organization’s listing gives an overall operating window of 1 p.m.–11 p.m. and lists general admission as free. Announced attractions include lantern displays on land and water, drone-light shows and fireworks. The overall hours do not establish the lighting time or guarantee that every show takes place daily. english.visitkorea.or.kr

Build your visit around the current program rather than a photograph from a previous year. Before booking transportation, confirm the date and location of any performance you particularly want to see. Check whether bridges, experiences, food or other optional activities have separate charges or reservations.

For a smoother evening:

• Choose an entrance and viewing area before arriving.
• Allow time to walk between the river and fortress areas.
• Check traffic controls, shuttle information and the last ride home.
• Save a meeting point that everyone can recognize.
• Review same-day weather and program notices.

An overnight stay may make the evening easier if the last train or bus leaves before your preferred program ends. Compare the accommodation location with the actual festival entrance, not only its distance from central Jinju.

Riverfront paths can become crowded after dark. Keep children close, stay behind barriers and avoid stopping in narrow walking lanes to take photographs. Visitors with mobility or sensory needs should ask the organizer about access routes, viewing conditions and loud or flashing effects before selecting a show.

The official listing provides +82-55-761-9111 and +82-55-755-9111 for inquiries. Review the official VISITKOREA festival listing and follow its link to the organizer for the detailed timetable.

Announced dates, general hours, locations and admission checked: September 28, 2026. Individual shows and outdoor operations may change. The banner is an illustrative artwork, not a photograph of the 2026 installation.