One of the most spectacular events in Busan, the annual Busan Fireworks Festival, is coming up again this year at Gwangalli Beach. The whole bay lights up with fireworks for an hour. It's a must see if you live near Busan. If you don't, it might even be worth traveling to Busan for.
Two years ago I watched from Dongbaek Island, which was great because it’s less crowded and free. Last year, I decided to experience it up close from Gwangalli Beach and bought tickets. They were expensive, but it was fun to experience once. Here’s everything you need to know.
What to Expect at the Fireworks Festival
As you might expect, the festival will get packed. Expect large crowds at Gwangalli Beach. People start arriving at the beach and other popular spots early in the day.
If you don’t have a ticket for the beach, it’s a good idea to claim your spot several hours before the fireworks begin. If you’re someone who doesn’t like too much hustle and bustle, consider watching from a quieter spot.
Expect to see amazing fireworks synchronized with music, with a stunning display of colors and lights over the water. It’s an hour-long show, but you’ll want to stick around to catch the grand finale.
Best Places to Watch Busan Fireworks
Here are the top spots for viewing the fireworks that’ll give you slightly different experiences:
Gwangalli Beach
If you want to be in the center of it all, Gwangalli Beach is the place to be. As the official venue, you'll get a prime view of the fireworks exploding right above the water with the iconic Gwangandaegyo Bridge as the backdrop. With a ticket, your seating is guaranteed, so you won’t need to arrive too early. However, since this spot draws the biggest crowds, it’s still a good idea to get there with enough time to settle in before the show begins.
Hwangnyeongsan Mountain
For a panoramic view of the entire coastline, Hwangnyeongsan Mountain is a fantastic choice. From the mountain, you can watch the fireworks light up the entire bay. This is a great option for those looking to avoid the beach crowds. However, parking is very limited, so it’s essential to arrive early.
Igidae Coastal Park
For a quieter, more scenic experience, Igidae Coastal Park offers a peaceful spot to enjoy the fireworks. It’s less crowded than Gwangalli Beach but still provides a stunning view of the show over the water. Plus, it’s a nice spot to enjoy a bit of nature before the show.
Dongbaek Island
If you're looking for a calmer, family-friendly spot, Dongbaek Island, next to Haeundae Beach, is an excellent choice. This area offers plenty of space for families and is very relaxed compared to Gwangalli. Though it’s further away from the main event, the view of the fireworks over the water is still spectacular. Last year, I arrived fairly late and still managed to find a great spot with a fantastic view.
Best Locations to Watch with Children
For those of you attending with children, Dongbaek Island is a fantastic option. It's not as crowded as Gwangalli Beach, so you can enjoy the show without the stress of dealing with massive crowds. Plus, the open space provides room for kids to move around, and it’s relatively easy to get to.
Date and Location
Date: November 15, 2025 (Saturday)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Gwangalli Beach, Suyeong-gu, Busan
The fireworks show lasts for an hour, but festivities throughout the day make it worth arriving early. Viewing spaces will be available from 10:00 AM on the day of the event, with ticket holders being allowed entry from 3:00 PM.
Tickets
While you can watch the fireworks for free from various spots, you’ll need a ticket for the best, guaranteed views at Gwangalli Beach. For the most up-to-date information visit the website.
Early Bird Ticket
Available starting September 1, 2025. These seats are limited.
- S grade (Chair Only): 56,000 won (20% off).
Regular Ticket
On sale from September 2, 2024 - November 8 (or when the tickets are sold out) at the following prices:
- R Grade (Table + Chair): 100,000 won
- S Grade (Chair Only): 70,000 won
Seating is reserved, and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. You can buy tickets at Yes24. Cancellation is only available by contacting the Yes24 customer center and returning your ticket on time. Purchasing or selling tickets on any secondary market is prohibited and the ticket holder will be held responsible.
What Happens if it Rains?
At noon D-1 the organization will decide whether to hold, postpone or cancel the event in accordance to the weather conditions. Ticket holders will be notified through the official channels. If the event is canceled, you will get a full refund.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival
Arrive Early: Wherever you decide to watch the event, plan to get there early. If you have a ticket for Gwangalli Beach, it’s to avoid the massive crowds. If you watch it in one of the other locations, it’s to claim a good spot.
Use Public Transportation: Parking and driving are a nightmare, so take the subway. The nearby Geumnyeonsan and Gwangan subway stations are convenient and only a small walk.
Bring Essentials: Pack some snacks, a blanket to sit on, and a light jacket. It’s November, and the evening can get pretty chilly.
Stay Safe: Wherever there’s massive crowds it can get dangerous quickly. Follow any directions given by event staff, and always prioritize safety over convenience.
The Busan International Fireworks Festival is truly a highlight of the year and a must-see for anyone living in, or visiting Korea. Whether you’re in the heart of the action at Gwangalli Beach or enjoying a quieter spot, this is the perfect event to enjoy with your family or a date. Be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the show.
