Gunam-ro and Haeundae Beach area to glow with the '2026 Haeundae Light Festival'

[Financial News] Haeundae District, Busan, announced on the 6th that it will hold the 13th Haeundae Light Festival from the lighting ceremony on the 28th through January 10 next year.
This year's festival is themed 'Deep Dive Haeundae' and presents a journey of light that grows brighter the deeper it descends from the surface into the deep sea. Light sculptures and media art themed around the sea, voyages and the deep sea will be installed along the route from Gunam-ro (Haeundae Square) to the sandy beach, offering visitors an experience like exploring underwater.
During the festival, Haeundae Square will be transformed into a dynamic space for a voyage toward the deep sea. The 'Cruise Gate,' marking a cruise ship's departure, and a 30-meter-long 'Tunnel of Light' will greet visitors.
A photo zone inspired by waves and light sculptures evoking a party aboard a cruise ship will line the route. Media art about ocean exploration will also be screened on LED panels installed on a giant diver sculpture, and is expected to draw attention.
The Christmas trees lighting up Haeundae Square will also receive a special treatment. A total of 11 trees, with the tallest reaching 6 meters, will form a lush 'Christmas Tree Forest' and create a fairytale-like winter scene. Snow machines will also run during the Christmas season, adding to the magic of a White Christmas with falling snow.
A full-fledged deep-sea exploration begins upon entering the sandy beach. At its center stands a 12-meter-long ship sculpture, a landmark of the festival.
Various marine creatures, a giant whale, a submarine sculpture and a sea turtle arch create a scene from the deep sea around it. At the end of the journey of light, visitors will encounter a giant pearl oyster sculpture glowing with shimmering light and a golden treasure chest. The exploration that began at the surface thus culminates in a jewel forest beneath the deep sea.
Interactive lights that change color when visitors touch them will also be installed throughout the festival grounds, allowing everyone to enjoy moving and changing the light themselves. On weekends, a range of hands-on activities, including making glow-in-the-dark sea bracelets and aquarium-lamp mood lights, will also be offered to give visitors special winter memories.[email protected] Byun Ok-hwan Reporter