Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival (진주 남강유등축제)

The tradition of yudeung, or floating lanterns, dates back to the Battle of Jinjuseong Fortress, one of the three major victories of the Imjin War (Japanese invasions of Korea, 1592–1598). During the battle, lanterns were floated on the Namgang River as military signals to communicate with Righteous Army forces outside the fortress and as a means for families to exchange messages and check on one another. Jinju has carried on this tradition by organizing the Yudeung event as part of the Gaecheon Art Festival, first held in 1949 and regarded as Korea's first comprehensive regional arts festival. Since 2000, the festival has been held independently as the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival.
Over the years, the floating lanterns have come to represent hopes for peace, love, happiness, and the fulfillment of wishes. Today, the festival has grown into an international event that brings people from around the world together to share the value of peace. Every fall, lanterns light up the Namgang River and Jinjuseong Fortress, creating a spectacular nighttime scene in Jinju, the “City of Light and Peace.” Along with creating a beautiful landscape, the lanterns invite reflection on the historical significance embedded in this long-standing tradition.

Event Program

Floating Lantern Exhibition, Land Lantern Exhibition, Drone Light Show, Water Fireworks Show  

Start date

2026-10-03  

End Date

2026-10-18  

Performance Time

13:00-23:00  

Venue

Areas around Jinjuseong Fortress and the Namgang River  

Fee

Free  

Host Company

Jinju-si, Jinju Culture and Arts Foundation, Jinju Culture and Tourism Foundation  

Host's Contact Information

+82-55-761-9111, 755-9111  

Introduction

Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival originates from the floating lanterns that were used during the Jinjuseong Fortress Battle of the Imjin War (1592-1598) as a military strategy to prevent Japanese troops from wading the Namgang River. The highlights of the festival are the floating of lanterns along the Namgang River and the parade of lanterns created by local students themselves. In addition, the festival has various events and programs including a fireworks show, water lighting show, cultural performances, and more.

Programs

Exhibition of floating lanterns, hanging wishing lanterns, floating yudeung, fireworks display