Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival (진주 남강유등축제)

The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival is an event that continues the practice of making wishes by floating colorful lanterns down the Namgang River. This practice of over 400 years originated from the Siege of Jinju in 1592. The festival begins at sunset when lanterns of various shapes and sizes are lit on the Namgang River. World Pungmul lanterns, wish lanterns, traditional lanterns, religious lanterns, and customized lanterns embroider the night with colorful lights. Fireworks and lighting shows are held against the backdrop of this beautiful night view, along with various cultural shows. The festival operates food trucks where visitors can enjoy delicious foods from around the world.

◎ The Siege of Jinju and Yudeung
During the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592, yudeung (oil lanterns) were lit in the battle at Jinjuseong Fortress to stop the Japanese army from crossing the Namgang River. The lanterns were also used as a means of contacting families outside the fortress.

Basic Information

Postal Code	52708
Homepage	yudeung.com
Address	287 Gangnam-ro, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Usage Information

Event End Date	2025-10-19
Event Location	Areas of Jinjuseong Fortress and Namgang River
Event Start Date	2025-10-04
Performance Time	13:00-23:00
Host Organization	Jinju-si, Jinju Art & Culture Foundation
Host Contact	+82-55-761-9111
Organizing Agency	Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival Committee
Usage Fee	Free

Detailed Description

Introduction

The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival is an event that continues the practice of making wishes by floating colorful lanterns down the Namgang River. This practice of over 400 years originated from the Siege of Jinju in 1592. The festival begins at sunset when lanterns of various shapes and sizes are lit on the Namgang River. World Pungmul lanterns, wish lanterns, traditional lanterns, religious lanterns, and customized lanterns embroider the night with colorful lights. Fireworks and lighting shows are held against the backdrop of this beautiful night view, along with various cultural shows. The festival operates food trucks where visitors can enjoy delicious foods from around the world.

◎ The Siege of Jinju and Yudeung
During the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592, yudeung (oil lanterns) were lit in the battle at Jinjuseong Fortress to stop the Japanese army from crossing the Namgang River. The lanterns were also used as a means of contacting families outside the fortress.

Programs

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