Busan's Winter Magic: The 2025 Gwangbok-ro Winter Light Tree Festival

If you are visiting Busan this winter, the Gwangbok-ro area in Nampo-dong is a destination you cannot miss. Known as one of Busan's most representative winter events, the Gwangbok-ro Winter Light Tree Festival returns for the 2025-2026 season, transforming the streets into a brilliant display of K-Culture and festive warmth.

A Street Bathed in Light

From early December through February, Gwangbok-ro becomes a canvas of light. Tall streetlamps glow in shades of blue, yellow, and pink, wrapping the street in a warm embrace that contrasts beautifully with the cold winter air.

• The Canopy of Light: Above the crowds, a zigzagging feast of lights covers the sky. You will see designs resembling blue waves and sparkling snowflakes, making the dark winter sky appear as if it is embroidered with stars.

• Photo Spots: The street is lined with trees dressed in "light clothes," featuring delicate flower decorations and illuminated deer sculptures that seem to gaze quietly at the passersby.

• Rudolph and the Sleigh: Don't miss the golden illuminated sleigh and Rudolph. It is a favorite spot for visitors to capture memories, with laughter and camera flashes filling the air.

Walking through this scenery, the expressions of people look as warm as if they were gathered around a fireplace. It is a place where everything—and everyone—seems to shine.

Festival Programs and Events

This year's festival runs under the theme of "Brilliant Winter Light containing K-Culture." Beyond the visual spectacle, various programs invite visitors to participate.

• Opening Ceremony: The festival kicks off on December 5, 2025, with a grand countdown and lighting ceremony that wakes up the street with light.

• Cultural Performances: Throughout the festival period, the main stage and streets will host busking performances by local Busan musicians, filling the air with music that complements the visual beauty.

• Citizen Participation: There are special events where citizens and visitors can participate in lighting the trees themselves.

Special Workshops (December 20–21): On the weekend before Christmas, special experience programs will be held, including a Christmas Cooking Class and Mini Tree Making.

Visitor Information

2025 Gwangbok-ro Winter Light Tree Festival

• Dates: December 5, 2025 – February 22, 2026.
• Location: 72-1 Gwangbok-ro, Jung-gu, Busan (Gwangbok-ro and Gwangbok Jungang-ro areas).
• Admission: Free

How to Get There

• Subway: Take Line 1 to Nampo Station. Use Exit 1 or Exit 3. It is a short 4-minute walk to the main street.

• Bus:

• • Get off at Nampo-dong Theater District: Buses 5-1, 6, 7, 9, 11, 17, 26, 41, 71, 113, 1003 (Express).
• • Get off at Gukje Market: Buses 15, 40, 81, 126, 135, 186, 58-1.

Reference: VisitKorea