Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival
October 3, 2026 - October 18, 2026Overview
*The festival information below is from the previous year (2025), and information for the 2026 festival is currently being updated.* The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival originated from the tradition of floating lanterns on the Namgang River during the Battle of Jinjuseong Fortress in the Imjin War, both to prevent Japanese forces from crossing the river and to send messages of well-being to family members. Designated as one of Korea’s premier festivals by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, it is also a prestigious festival that has been selected as a Korea Global Nurturing Festival for five consecutive years and is expanding internationally.
Venue
Jinjuseong Fortress and areas along the Namgang River in Jinju
Program
1. Main program: Lanterns 2. Side programs: Namgaram Eoulmadang, busking performances 3. Visitor participation programs: Love Bridge Crossing Experience, Wish Lantern Hanging Experience, Floating Lantern Experience, sightseeing boat rides 4. Other activities: Stamp & Treasure Tour, Yudeung docent tours, Jinju Grand Food Festival, agricultural and specialty product sales [Fees] - Love Bridge Crossing Experience (one way: KRW 2,000; all-day pass: KRW 6,000) - Wish Lantern Hanging Experience (KRW 10,000) - Floating Lantern Experience (KRW 3,000)
Organizer
Jinju City, Jinju Culture and Arts Foundation (055-755-9111,761-9111) Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival Organizing Committee
Admission fee
Admission is free (some hands-on programs require payment)
Duration
13:00–23:00