We honestly weren’t expecting this from Jinju. The Jinju Lantern Festival turned out to be one of the most dazzling events we’ve seen in Korea, a celebration where history, culture and art meet in one breathtaking display of light.
The lanterns float on the Nam River itself, reflecting a kaleidoscope of colours across the water, with artistic installations telling the story of Jinju’s heritage. The show-stealer is the legendary dragon lighting up the night sky, the symbol of the city’s spirit. Above it all sits Jinjuseong Fortress, beautifully illuminated for the festival, and we found hidden riverside spots with the best views away from the main crowds.
Getting there and around
The film doubles as a practical guide: we compare first and second class on the KTX down from Seoul, check into a genuinely great budget hotel, ride a pedal rail bike, walk the fortress by day and finish with a boat ride among the lanterns.
If you’re in Korea while the festival is on, make the detour, Jinju rewards it. It slots perfectly into a southern itinerary alongside Busan and Namhae.
Photos from Jinju
A couple of stills from the festival trip in October 2024 that the film could not do justice to.
There’s more from this trip on our YouTube channel, we film the real sights and sounds, no fluff. You’ll also find us on TikTok and Instagram.