Travel
Check out the 39th Haeundae Polar Bear Festival on Jan. 17-18
haps Magazine Korea
January 16, 2026
Haeundae Polar Bear Festival (Photo courtesy of Busan Tourism Organization)
Busan’s iconic winter tradition, the 39th Haeundae Polar Bear Festival, returns this weekend with a concentrated two day program of music, sea swimming, and participatory events at Haeundae Beach.
This year’s festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, transforming Haeundae’s winter shoreline into a lively gathering point for locals, domestic travelers, and international visitors.
Saturday, January 17
Night Wave Haeundae
An evening beach concert set against the winter sea, featuring groove and soul focused live performances by popular bands including Bluewha and Brown Tigger Band.
This night program sets the tone for the festival weekend with music, lights, and ocean views at Haeundae Beach.
Sunday, January 18
1 km Open Water Swim
8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Hosted by the Busan Ulsan Gyeongnam Open Water Swimming Association.
Polar Bear Festival Opening Ceremony
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Includes the Polar Bear Fan Stage, celebration performances, and the festival’s first ever “Colorful Dive” style opening.
Side Events And On Site Programs (Sunday)
Polar Bear Sled Race
9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
A new team based race where five participants pull a human “polar bear” on a sled.
Polar Bear And Unusual Sports Challenge
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Hands on sports style activities hosted by the festival team.
National Geographic Media Environment Campaign – Save the Polar Bear
10:10 a.m. to 10:25 a.m.
A special stage event using photography and media to highlight ocean and polar bear conservation.
Sea Swimming Fan Zone
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Experience booths and promotional activities run by open water swimming groups.
Polar Bear Running Race
Preliminary round: 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Final round: 10:50 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
A short fun run featuring polar bear themed outfits.
K Winter Food Zone
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Warm winter snacks including fish cake and cup ramen for participants and visitors.
A Winter Festival Anyone Can Enjoy
Known for blending humor, bravery, and community spirit, the Haeundae Polar Bear Festival remains one of Busan’s most recognizable winter events. While the cold sea swim draws global attention, the expanded lineup of concerts, games, and food zones makes it easy to enjoy without entering the water.
All events take place at Haeundae Beach, and most programs are free to attend. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and arrive early on Sunday, when the main events draw the largest crowds.