Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival

The floating lantern festival originated from the practice of setting lanterns adrift on the Namgang River during the Battle of Jinju Fortress—one of the three major victories of the Imjin War—as a military signal to communicate with the volunteer militia outside the fortress and as a means for families to exchange news of their well-being. Carrying on this tradition, the citizens of Jinju have organized the “Floating Lantern Contest” as part of the “Gaecheon Arts Festival”—the pioneer of Korea’s regional comprehensive arts festivals, which has been held since 1949—and since 2000, it has been held independently as the “Jinju Namgang Floating Lantern Festival.” The lantern festival has evolved into a celebration embodying citizens’ aspirations for peace, love, happiness, and the fulfillment of their wishes, and today it has grown into a global festival that shares the value of peace with people around the world. Every fall, in “Jinju, the City of Light and Peace,” the spectacular display of floating lanterns along the Namgang River and around Jinju Fortress offers not only beautiful scenery but also a chance to reflect on the historical significance embedded within it.

1. Main Programs: Water-based light displays, land-based light displays, drone light show, water-based fireworks display 2. Side Programs: Night parade, (Concurrent Festivals: Oct. 9–Oct. 18) Gaecheon Arts Festival, Korea Drama Festival 3. Consumer Participation Programs: Hanging Wishing Lanterns, Floating Lanterns, Crossing the Pontoon Bridge 4. Other Activities: Sightseeing cruise experiences, etc.