Fun in Korea: Gimhae Light Festival to be held Aug. 14-23

Gimhae Gaya Theme Park (Photo by Gimhae City/courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)

The 3rd Gimhae Light Festival will illuminate Gimhae Gaya Theme Park from August 14–23, transforming the park into a nighttime attraction inspired by the legendary voyage of Queen Heo Hwang-ok to the ancient Gaya Kingdom.

Running under the theme “Voyage Toward the Light,” this year’s festival marks the beginning of a three-year storytelling series that explores Gimhae’s history through large-scale light displays and media art. Visitors will follow an illuminated route symbolizing the queen’s journey by sea, with themed installations, photo zones, and displays spread throughout the park.

The festival also expands beyond light displays with a variety of evening activities. On weekends and public holidays, guests can enjoy a local food zone, an art market featuring regional artists, and live outdoor performances, including jazz, fusion Korean traditional music, and acoustic concerts.

The official opening ceremony takes place on August 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Gaya Royal Palace area and will feature a traditional drum performance, a K-pop Tron performance, multimedia effects, and a fireworks show with approximately 3,000 fireworks.

The festival is open daily from 5:20 p.m. to 10 p.m., with last admission at 9 p.m. Admission is 2,000 won, while children under 36 months enter free with proof of age.

Advance tickets are available through Naver, with on-site tickets also available daily, subject to weather and capacity. Shuttle buses and expanded parking will operate throughout the festival to help manage traffic.

For more information, visit the Gimhae Gaya Theme Park website.

Fleet Chinhae