2025 Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival
The River of History, Holds Peace
Exhibition of creative lanterns made by students from elementary to university Expressing their imagination and artistic talentA space showcasing Jinju’s charm through unique lanterns representing the history and identity of each town and district
"New in 2025: a theme zone titled “Power of Korea.”This exhibition highlights the beauty and excellence of Hangul through lanterns, illuminat- ing its cultural value with creative design. The lantern motifs, combining “letters + images,” are presented in a typography series by artist Park Ji-hoo, blending text and drawings to create new stories within Jinju Fortress. The theme “Beyond What is Seen, What is Read” delivers joy and depth to visitors."
The 2025 theme “Power of Korea” follows last year’s “K-Culture.” Its main message: “The spirit of Korea blooming in light, lanterns of hope brightening the world.”The festival’s main zone features a tower lantern embodying the theme, a wish-tree experience symbolizing hope, and a giant pine representing resilience.
"Follow a day in the life of a soldier defending Jinju Fortress in bygone times. Diary of Soldier Kim Chun-bok, March 17 (Seonjo Year 15):“Another day has passed safely, and I lift my brush.From dawn to dusk, guarding the fortress is no different from other days, yet leaving a few lines will bring joy when I look back one day.”"
"Inside the fortress, Minecraft friends were repairing the walls and tending trees in peace. Suddenly, the sky darkened: “The Darth Vader legion… logged ON!!”Notorious for wiping out strongholds without leaving a single block, they approached. Gathering quickly—Steve, Alex, the Iron Golem, and Wolf Ducky—traded tense glances. “We’ll have to log on, too.”Usernames popped into chat: [Steve has joined the server] [Alex has joined the server]Game characters summoned into reality spark children’s curiosity and transport them into a realm of fantasy."
A showcase of K-Culture for the MZ generation.Lanterns themed on iconic K-Culture content illustrate its global influence on MZ audiences. The fountain area becomes a lively zone of youth, music, and light.
Dreams of space science for the future.Charming astronaut characters enjoy a fantastic journey across Earth in a newly created historic setting. With Astronaut Hamo, Astronaut Ayo, and the giant “Byori,” a luminous cosmos unfolds in the city center.
A cozy, welcoming exhibition where families of all ages are greeted by dinosaur lantern colonies and can enjoy time together.
Making Precious Family MemoriesPhoto spots decorated with lanterns symbolizing good fortune create special moments for visitors.
Ten theme zones—Jinju Sword Dance, Shared Boat, Symbiosis, Sense of Ages, Coexistence, Joy & Sorrow, Living Legacy, Citizen Participation, King Sejong, and Traditional Elegance—provide an even richer layout than last year.Each zone features signature lanterns and dynamic moving lanterns, harmonizing with the Namgang’s scenery and the screen-like backdrop of Jinju Fortress.