Crimson Waves of a Winter Dawn: Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival Travel Story
Introduction
At the tail end of winter, when you stand facing the East Sea, it feels as if the sun that has yet to rise is breathing just below the horizon, infused with a red glow. When the last night of 2025 meets the first dawn of 2026, excited breaths and quiet anticipation will pile up in layers amid the cold sea breeze at Gyeongpo Beach and Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park. Following the sound of the first wave of the new year breaking on the shore, let’s get ready to greet the crimson dawn of the Byeongo Year together.
Crimson Waves of a Winter Dawn: Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival Travel Story
Table of Contents
- Guide
- Program Information
- Visit (Planned) Impressions
- Recommended Stays
- Restaurants & Cafés
- Nearby Attractions
- Getting There
- Closing
- Photo Snapshots
- Videos
- Related News
Guide
- Event Name : Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival
- Event Period : 2025-12-31 ~ 2026-01-01
- Operating Hours : 20:00~00:30 (2026. 1. 1. 06:00~08:00)
- Venue : Gyeongpo Beach and Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park, 515 Gyeongpo-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Anhyeon-dong)
- Admission : Free
- Host : Gangneung-si
- Inquiries : 033-640-5130
- Age Limit : All ages welcome
- Overview : This event lets you enjoy both the last sunset of the old year and the first sunrise of 2026 in one place at two of the East Coast’s most famous sunrise spots: Gyeongpo Beach and Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park.
- 19:00 Arrive at the Central Plaza of Gyeongpo Beach, stroll along the shore, and check out the locations of photo spots in advance.
- 20:00 Enjoy performances at the special stage on Gyeongpo Beach and write your wishes for the new year to hang on the Wishing Tree.
- 22:00 Visit the traditional games experience zone and the New Year Lightning Zone for photo ops and hands-on activities.
- 24:00 Ring in 2026 with the New Year’s countdown and fireworks display at Gyeongpo Beach.
- 06:00 Watch the first sunrise from Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park or Gyeongpo Beach and take part in the hourglass turning ceremony.
- After 08:00 Warm up with a cozy breakfast at a nearby café or restaurant and get ready to head home at a relaxed pace.
Access to certain sunrise facilities may be restricted, so be sure to check in advance.
The Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival is held at Gyeongpo Beach and Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park, two of the East Coast’s signature sunrise spots, and allows you to enjoy both the year’s last sunset and first sunrise in one go. From the final night of December 2025 through the early dawn of January 1, 2026, performances, countdowns, and the sunrise against the backdrop of the winter sea come together to let you deeply feel both the end and the beginning of the year.
With the Year of the Red Horse as its theme, the festival offers special-stage performances, a Wishing Tree, traditional game experiences, a New Year Lightning Zone, and fireworks. Convenience facilities and safety management around the venue are reinforced so families, couples, and friends can stay with peace of mind. The overlapping sounds of waves, drums, and cheering in the early dawn will linger long in your memory.
Program Information
Special performances celebrating the Byeongo Year will unfold on the special stage at the Central Plaza of Gyeongpo Beach. The New Year Lightning Zone, blending lights and music, will also operate so you can enjoy a dazzling nightscape and photo spots with the winter sea as your backdrop.
At Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park, special-stage performances will be held along with the symbolic hourglass turning ceremony. On New Year’s Day, you can quietly wish for a fresh start as you watch the moment when the sand begins to flow again.
Wishing Trees and traditional game experience zones are set up throughout Gyeongpo Beach and Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park, offering programs that families can enjoy together. Write down and hang your wishes for the new year, and spend a warm time playing traditional games such as yutnori.
As midnight approaches on December 31, a New Year’s countdown will take place at Gyeongpo Beach with everyone participating. At the very moment the new year begins, fireworks will light up the night sky and splendidly mark the first moments of the Byeongo Year.
An outdoor photo zone inspired by the shape of a red horse will be installed from December 24 to January 5. You can take photos in different lights by day and night, giving visitors before and after the main festival period a chance to make special memories as well.
Between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. as sunrise approaches, traffic and crowds are heaviest. If you want to enjoy the sunrise at ease, it’s best to arrive early and secure your spot and route in advance.
Access to some facilities, such as the Badabuchegil trail, Badanaeum Campground, and Sacheon Underwater Park observatory, may be restricted at sunrise time. Be sure to check if they are operating before finalizing your travel plans.
Additional convenience facilities, including temporary toilets, are expected to be installed around the venue. If you plan to stay for a long time, checking their locations in advance will make your visit more comfortable.
After the event ends, cleanup will take place promptly. If you also practice packing out your trash while you’re there, you’ll help preserve a cleaner view of the year’s first sunrise.
Visit the photo zones and Wishing Trees early, before lines form, to enjoy them more leisurely.
Right after the fireworks, crowds tend to move all at once. Stay put for a while and move out slowly for safety.
Visit (Planned) Impressions
Today is December 24, 2025. Since the “Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival” takes place from December 31, 2025 to January 1, 2026, I’d like to go over the information with a sense of excitement ahead of the upcoming celebration. Just imagining what scenery, sounds, and people will gather as we wait for the first sunrise of the new year already warms my heart. In my mind, the quiet winter sea is already rippling first, and I can almost feel the scent of the dawn air and the sound of waves breaking.
The upcoming “Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival” is being prepared in different colors across multiple cities. At Ganjeolgot in Ulsan, a drone show and fireworks are set to sparkle under a golden backdrop. I imagine the breaths and heart-pounding awe of those watching the sun emerge over the horizon together will remain in memory for a long time. At Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung and Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park, various performances, light-ups, and traditional game experiences themed around the Year of the Red Horse are being prepared, and I’m already looking forward to the drumbeats and laughter that will be carried on the winter sea breeze. At Wando Sinji Myeongsashilli Beach, you can welcome a renewing morning while sharing New Year tteokguk to the sound of waves and the clear air of the Marine Healing Center, which makes me picture the many different faces of New Year’s sunrise celebrations.
Wherever you choose to be, the expectation and excitement hidden in the dawn air before the first sunlight appears, the red glow reflected on each other’s faces, and the warmth of sharing a bowl of tteokguk will all feel truly special. As I prepare a thicker coat and a warm scarf for the winter sea of Gangneung, I quietly await that first moment of the new year, when the more people gather, the warmer the mood seems to become.
Recommended Stays
If you want to enjoy both the sunset and the sunrise, staying close to the venue is the most comfortable option. Here is a list of accommodations within about a 10-minute walk or drive from Gyeongpo Beach. Choose while keeping your planned route in mind.
30-5 Gyeongpo-ro 463beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Close to Gyeongpo Beach, making it ideal for resting right after watching the sunrise.
If you expect to check in late at night, it’s safer to inform the property of your arrival time in advance.
Distance: approx. 0.3 km
![Companion by Gyeongpo [Korea Quality]](http://tong.visitkorea.or.kr/cms/resource/68/2948968_image2_1.png "Crimson Waves of a Winter Dawn: Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival Travel Story")
35-22 Gyeongpo-ro 371beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A certified-quality accommodation where you can expect pleasant facilities and a certain standard of service.
During peak season, rooms tend to sell out early, so once your sunrise plans are set, it’s best to book right away.
Distance: approx. 1.2 km
St. John’s Hotel, 307 Changhae-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
With large hotel facilities and an infinity pool, it’s great for a relaxed hotel stay before and after the sunrise.
Parking is relatively ample, but it may get crowded during the sunrise season, so arriving a bit early is recommended.
Distance: approx. 2.0 km
5 Jinrihanggu 2-gil, Sacheon-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Located along the Sacheon coast, it’s perfect if you want to enjoy a quiet atmosphere with sea views.
You’ll need to drive to the venue, so it’s a good idea to allow extra time in your schedule.
Distance: approx. 4.5 km
8-6 Gyodonggwangjang-ro 100beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
Located in downtown Gangneung, making it convenient for enjoying both the sea and the city.
If you’re driving, factor in travel time to the venue and plan for an early departure at dawn.
Distance: approx. 5.2 km
8 Gyodonggwangjang-ro 100beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
Situated in the heart of downtown Gangneung, with excellent access to restaurants and cafés.
Ideal if you want to return to the city after sunrise and rest fully before a late checkout.
Distance: approx. 5.2 km
255 Yeomjeon-gil, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A resort-style property where you can enjoy both golf and relaxation, with good access toward Jeongdongjin.
Driving takes a bit longer, so make sure to allow plenty of time in consideration of the sunrise.
Distance: approx. 9.0 km
16-2 Hongjilmok-gil, Yeongok-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
A good choice if you’d like to stay in a hanok and experience the quiet nights and mornings of Gangneung.
As it is some distance from the venue, consider it when you want to combine a tranquil stay with a sunrise experience.
Distance: approx. 9.0 km
If you choose accommodation within walking distance of Gyeongpo Beach, you can enjoy the countdown and fireworks without having to drive after midnight.
Restaurants & Cafés
After waiting for the sunrise in the cold sea breeze, a bowl of hot soup or a sweet dessert feels even more welcoming. Focusing on the Gyeongpo, Gangmun, and Chodang areas, we’ve picked restaurants and cafés that fit well with the event route and are ideal for breakfast or a late brunch.
25 Changhae-ro 350beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gangmun-dong)
A great place to fill up on warm noodle dishes such as makguksu and sundubu kalguksu.
It may be relatively quiet right after sunrise, so consider visiting around brunch time.
Distance: approx. 1.4 km
21 Changhae-ro 350beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gangmun-dong)
A café close to the sea, perfect for savoring the lingering mood of the dawn sea over a warm coffee.
If you want a window seat, try to avoid peak hours.
Distance: approx. 1.4 km
89-8 Chodang Sundubu-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
Perfect for freshly made chapssaltteok as a simple snack or edible souvenir.
If you buy some rice cakes in advance, they’ll keep you going while you wait for the sunrise.
Distance: approx. 1.7 km
178 Nanseolheon-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
Desserts made with Chodang tofu offer a unique sweetness you can only taste in Gangneung.
It’s a nice spot to include in a relaxed post-festival café-hopping itinerary.
Distance: approx. 1.7 km
40 Chodang Sundubu-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
A café serving sweet treats such as pudding made with Chodang corn.
Check parking availability and operating hours beforehand for a smoother visit.
Distance: approx. 2.0 km
2959-1 Yulgok-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
A good place to enjoy seafood dishes, well suited for a late lunch after watching the sunrise.
Check reviews in advance for popular dishes and expected wait times to help with your choice.
Distance: approx. 4.5 km
2934 Yulgok-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Gyodong)
A café with a unique concept that adds a bit of fun to your sunrise trip.
There are many popular photo spots, so it’s best to visit at a less busy time.
Distance: approx. 4.7 km
45 Dongbumarket-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Okcheon-dong)
A specialty café ideal for experiencing Gangneung’s coffee culture and roastery scene.
Located near the market, so checking parking and your movement route in advance will make your visit easier.
Distance: approx. 4.8 km
Popular cafés may have limited parking, so consider walking or using public transportation as well.
Nearby Attractions
If you have extra time before or after the sunrise event, we recommend a course that includes Gyeongpo Lake, the Chodang area, and Hands-on attractions in downtown Gangneung. Even if you choose just one or two spots without overdoing it, you can discover another side of Gangneung in winter.
536 Haean-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Anhyeon-dong)
A resort-style pool close to the sea, where you can enjoy different scenery depending on the season.
Operation status and hours may vary by season, so check in advance before visiting.
Distance: approx. 0.3 km
415 Haean-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
A popular walking spot where you can take in the scenery of Gyeongpo, where the lake and the sea meet.
Ideal for a light walk before or after the sunrise; stop by if you have some extra time.
Distance: approx. 0.9 km
131 Nanseolheon-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Chodang-dong)
A space offering digital experience content, great to visit with children.
Check operating hours and experience programs beforehand to make the most of your visit.
Distance: approx. 1.9 km
9 Dongbumarket 3-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Okcheon-dong)
A space where you can experience hanbok and traditional culture up close.
It’s nice to stroll around in connection with the nearby market, making it a good option for a relaxed itinerary the day after the sunrise.
Distance: approx. 5.2 km
14 Nambu-ro 163beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Noam-dong)
A hands-on space where children can meet animals up close.
Checking operating hours and closed days in advance will help you coordinate your schedule.
Distance: approx. 6.8 km
226 Nambu-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Noam-dong)
A park with large grass fields and exercise facilities, good for light walks and workouts.
If you’re staying in Gangneung beyond the event, consider a daytime visit as an additional stop.
Distance: approx. 7.0 km
66 Saimdang-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Hongje-dong)
An indoor play space where you can have fun with young children regardless of the weather.
Weekends and holidays can be crowded, so try visiting at a less busy time.
Distance: approx. 7.1 km
7 Gwansol-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Hoesan-dong)
A space where you can enjoy alcoholic beverage brand experiences and exhibitions, making for an unusual indoor course.
Please check experience program hours and whether reservations are required before visiting.
Distance: approx. 7.9 km
Since the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors is large in winter, alternating outdoor and indoor attractions will help you manage your energy.
Getting There
Public Transportation — The address for Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park is Jeongdongjin 2-ri, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do. Buses 111, 112, and 113 depart from downtown Gangneung about every 30 minutes; get off at Jeongdongjin Station or the stop in front of Hourglass Park. Express bus 109 also runs, so check the timetable and choose the most convenient route. If you’re traveling by train, set Jeongdongjin Station as your destination for convenient access to the venue.
By Car — From downtown Gangneung, you can access Jeongdongjin and Gyeongpo Beach via the Donghae Expressway or National Route 7. Roads may be congested around sunrise time, so plan to leave earlier than usual and check in advance for temporary parking areas and traffic control information near the venue.
Considering the walking distance from parking lots to the beach, be sure to bring warm footwear and gloves.
Closing
The Byeongo Year Sunrise Festival is a chance to feel the end and beginning of a year together as you wait for the first rays of sunlight to rise over the winter night sea. The time you spend at Gyeongpo Beach and Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park, sharing warmth with one another in the cold air, will linger in your memory as long as the crimson dawn light and the sound of the waves.
From performances symbolizing the Year of the Red Horse to the Wishing Tree, fireworks, and the sunrise itself, a series of brief yet intense moments awaits. If you arrive a little early, plan a relaxed route, and dress warmly, you’ll be able to fill the first page of the Byeongo Year more calmly and warmly.
Photo Snapshots
Videos
