New Year’s Eve Countdown over the Winter Sea in Busan – Want to Join?
Introduction
On a cold winter night, voices counting down to the new year slowly gather over the calm sound of waves at Gwangalli Beach. When the lights wrapping around Gwangandaegyo Bridge, the drone show, and the music all come together as one, this nighttime countdown will feel all the more special if you’re hoping to quietly say goodbye to the past year and welcome the one ahead.
New Year’s Eve Countdown over the Winter Sea in Busan
Table of Contents
- Guide
- Program Information
- Impressions (Planned Visit)
- Accommodation
- Restaurants & Cafés
- Nearby Attractions
- Getting There
- Closing
- Photo Snapshots
- Videos
- Related News
Guide
- Event Name : Countdown Busan
- Period : 2025-12-31 ~ 2026-01-01
- Hours : 22:00 ~ 00:10
- Venue : Gwangalli Beach, 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan (Gwangan-dong)
- Admission : Free
- Hosted/Organized by : KNN, Suyeong-gu Office
- Inquiries : 051-850-9000
- 20:30 Arrive near Gwangalli Beach and take a stroll along the shore, checking out the photo spots and atmosphere in advance.
- 21:00 Warm up with hot food while enjoying the activity booths and visitor programs.
- 21:30 Watch the pre-show, including university student busking, and slowly move to secure a spot with a good view of the main stage.
- 22:00 Enjoy the New Year’s concert and invited-artist performances, and take photos with the night view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge in the background.
- 23:50 Before the countdown starts, check the surrounding routes and how you’ll get home one more time.
- 00:00 Shout the countdown together with the crowd and stay to the end to enjoy the drone light show featuring 2,025 drones and the multimedia show.
The winter sea breeze can be strong, so dress warmly.
Since traffic will be heavy when people head home, using public transportation is recommended.
Countdown Busan is a New Year’s celebration held around Gwangalli Beach in Suyeong-gu, Busan, to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new. Having established itself as Suyeong-gu’s signature event, it has grown into one of Busan’s representative festivals. A massive drone show and multimedia show unfold against the backdrop of Gwangandaegyo Bridge, along with celebratory performances and citizen-participation programs, creating a festive space where everyone can join in the fun.
In particular, the countdown and concert held to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse are a time to deliver messages of encouragement and a leap toward the future through a dazzling drone light show. As an outdoor beach event that’s free to attend, it offers citizens and visitors alike the chance to share the very first special moment of the year with the night sea of Gwangalli as their backdrop.
Program Information
Photo zones, various experience booths, and participant activities are prepared so you can soak up the festival mood even before the performances begin. It’s also a great time to wander along the beach, take photos, and enjoy citizen-participation programs.
Citizen-participation programs that help build up the countdown together are prepared, offering visitors the chance to be the stars of the show rather than just spectators. It’s perfect for making memories with family, friends, or a partner.
A concert to welcome the new year is held with live performances on stage. Music and lighting in harmony with the drone show make the Gwangalli night sea even more spectacular, and as you listen, you’ll naturally slip into the countdown mood.
At the stroke of midnight, a countdown performance takes place as everyone in the crowd counts down together. At the same time, a large-scale drone show and multimedia show unfold above Gwangandaegyo Bridge, creating unforgettable scenes.
The drone light show featuring 2,025 drones over Gwangandaegyo Bridge is considered the highlight of the festival. The moment you greet the new year amid a scene where sea, sky, and city lights all blend into one feels all the more special.
Once the countdown and performances are over, a brief closing announcement marks the end of the official event. It’s a nice time to take in the lingering view of the beach and calmly plan your route home.
Because there will be large crowds, it’s best to arrive as early as possible. To get a good view of the performances and drone show, arrive before the event starts and secure your preferred spot in advance.
As this is an outdoor beach event, the night air can feel very cold. If you come prepared with a thick coat, gloves, a scarf, and heat packs or other items to keep warm, you’ll be able to enjoy the performances and countdown more comfortably.
If you find it difficult to attend in person, you can watch the main stage, countdown, and drone show live on the YouTube channels “캐내네 뮤직” and “수영구TV.” It’s also nice to enjoy the New Year’s atmosphere of Gwangalli from the comfort of a warm indoor space.
The sea breeze at night is strong, so bringing a scarf, gloves, and heat packs will help.
If you can’t make it on-site, try watching the live broadcasts on YouTube channels.
Impressions (Planned Visit)
Today is December 7, 2025, so the “Countdown Busan (December 31, 2025–January 1, 2026)” festival has not yet taken place. The upcoming event already fills me with excitement. Since I’m planning to go, the sound of waves from Gwangalli’s night sea and the fireworks of the New Year’s countdown are already echoing together in my mind. Even though I haven’t actually seen it yet, when I close my eyes I can almost hear the overlap of the cold winter air and people’s breaths, which makes the wait for that moment feel longer—but also sweeter.
According to recent information, the “COUNTDOWN BUSAN @ GWANGALLI BEACH” event that used to be held at Gwangalli Beach was scheduled for December 31, 2024–January 1, 2025, but was cancelled once. Remembering this makes me think that the details of this year’s event—whether it will go ahead as planned, and the final venue and time—might still not be completely confirmed, so I’m keeping a close eye on updates from local communities and the official website. Another schedule that interests me is a tour that starts on December 31, 2025, spending New Year’s Eve at Yongdusan Park and then greeting the first sunrise of the year the next morning at Homigot in Pohang. When I imagine the moment when twinkling lights, the rhythm of the stage, and the scent of the sea all come together in the night air, I feel that no matter where I end up spending the New Year, the countdown scene at Gwangalli will always remain in a corner of my memory.
Accommodation
Gwangalli Beach, where Countdown Busan takes place, is conveniently located near Haeundae, the Suyeong riverside area, and downtown Busan, giving you plenty of accommodation options. If you choose a hotel near Haeundae Beach, you can enjoy a relaxed check-in with sea views, while staying in Seomyeon or Jungang-dong makes it easy to combine your visit with city sightseeing the next day.
12, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 237beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan (U-dong)
A large hotel near Haeundae Beach with sea views and a range of facilities.
Sea-view rooms sell out quickly during year-end and peak seasons, so it’s best to book in advance.
Distance: 3.6 km
31, Gunam-ro 12beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan (U-dong)
A design hotel in the heart of Haeundae with great access to restaurants and cafés.
It’s close to the subway, making it convenient to travel between Gwangalli and downtown by public transport.
Distance: 3.6 km
287, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan (Jung-dong)
Located right in front of Haeundae Beach, this hotel is ideal for seaside walks and night views.
There are many cafés and amenities nearby, making it nice for an evening stroll.
Distance: 4.0 km
20-11, Hwangnyeong-daero 7beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan (Beomcheon-dong)
A downtown business hotel near Seomyeon, convenient for shopping and dining.
You can reach Gwangalli and Haeundae by subway or bus, giving you plenty of transport options.
Distance: 5.2 km
30, Songjeong Gwang-eogol-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan (Songjeong-dong)
Close to Songjeong Beach, this accommodation is ideal if you want to enjoy a quiet seaside village atmosphere.
If you’re planning to drive and visit both Gwangalli and Haeundae, it’s a relaxed and flexible option.
Distance: 7.5 km
114, Jungang-daero, Jung-gu, Busan (Jungang-dong 4-ga)
A harbor-view hotel near Busan Station with good access to Nampo-dong and Yongdusan Park.
Its location is especially convenient if you’re planning city sightseeing or traveling to another region the next day.
Distance: 8.9 km
17, Dongbusan-gwangwang 7-ro, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan
Located within the Osiria Tourist Complex, this is a good base for a trip that combines shopping and theme parks.
It’s worth considering if you’re planning a relaxed family trip by car.
Distance: 9.4 km
11, Taejong-ro 65beon-gil, Yeongdo-gu, Busan (Daegyo-dong 1-ga)
Located near Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, this hotel lets you enjoy both Busan Port and the city nightscape.
If you plan to explore Nampo-dong and Yeongdo together, the location makes your route efficient.
Distance: 9.8 km
For easy access by public transport, accommodations along Subway Line 2 are convenient.
Restaurants & Cafés
Before or after enjoying the countdown in Gwangalli, it’s nice to explore the many great eateries around the beach, Haeundae, and Yeongdo. From restaurants with sea views to quintessential Busan seafood spots, there’s a wide range to choose from to suit your taste.
9-5, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 344beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan (Millak-dong)
A restaurant near Gwangandaegyo Bridge where you can dine close to the sea.
You might have an early dinner before the countdown, or visit later at night once the crowds thin out.
Distance: 1.1 km
66-17, Bunpo-ro, Nam-gu, Busan (Yongho-dong)
A place where you can enjoy warm shabu-shabu—perfect for a hearty meal before or after the winter night beach event.
On the day of the event, consider shifting your mealtime a bit earlier for a more relaxed visit.
Distance: 2.5 km
154, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan (U-dong)
A restaurant where you can dine while gazing out at the Haeundae sea, ideal for soaking up the year-end mood.
You might stop by for brunch or an early dinner, then head on to Gwangalli.
Distance: 2.7 km
52, Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan (Jung-dong)
An eel specialty restaurant on Dalmaji-gil where you can enjoy generous portions of grilled eel.
It’s a good dinner spot after strolling around Haeundae and Cheongsapo.
Distance: 4.7 km
52, Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan (Jung-dong)
A restaurant specializing in Busan-style mackerel dishes, perfect for seafood lovers.
There may be waits at year-end, so it’s wise to allow extra time for your meal.
Distance: 4.7 km
134, Eomgwang-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan (Gaya-dong)
A Korean beef barbecue restaurant suitable for a hearty dinner.
It works well if you plan to dine in the city and then move on to Gwangalli by public transport.
Distance: 7.9 km
13, Wachi-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan (Cheonghak-dong)
A popular restaurant in Yeongdo known for its distinctive atmosphere and menu.
You can explore cafés and observatories in Yeongdo during the day, have dinner here, then head to Gwangalli for the countdown.
Distance: 8.9 km
214, Bongnae-naru-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan (Bongnae-dong 2-ga)
An atmospheric space overlooking Busan Port, where you can enjoy both a café and exhibitions.
Visit during the day to take photos and relax, then head to Gwangalli in the evening for the countdown.
Distance: 9.1 km
Window seats at sea-view restaurants and cafés fill up quickly, so pay attention to the time you visit.
Nearby Attractions
If you plan your day around Countdown Busan and also visit nearby Haeundae, Busan Cinema Center, and Yeongdo, your day will feel even richer. We recommend a loop course: spend the day leisurely exploring exhibitions, libraries, and parks, watch the sunset from observatories or the beach, and then move on to Gwangalli.
120, Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu, Busan (U-dong)
A quiet cultural space where you can browse books and materials related to film.
It’s a nice place to visit during the day before the countdown, slowly flipping through books and feeling the year-end atmosphere.
Distance: 2.1 km
40, Seojeon-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan (Jeonpo-dong)
A charming cultural space near Jeonpo-dong Café Street.
Stroll around Seomyeon, stop by here to unwind, then head to Gwangalli in the evening for the countdown.
Distance: 4.8 km
125, Beomil-ro, Dong-gu, Busan (Beomil-dong)
A multi-purpose cultural space showcasing contemporary art and various exhibitions.
After viewing the exhibits, take the subway to Gwangalli to enjoy both culture and festivities in one day.
Distance: 5.5 km
Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan
A popular photo spot with panoramic views of Haeundae and the sea.
Visit around sunset to enjoy a landscape where the sunset and city lights blend together.
Distance: 5.7 km
13, Sincheon-daero 162beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan (Bujeon-dong)
An unusual cultural space that presents mathematics through hands-on exhibits and educational programs.
It’s great for families to visit during the day, then continue on to the Gwangalli countdown in the evening.
Distance: 5.9 km
164, Isunshin-daero, Dong-gu, Busan (Choryang-dong)
A harbor park with a seaside promenade and wide-open views.
Take a quiet walk here while feeling the sea breeze, then head to Gwangalli to meet yet another night sea.
Distance: 7.7 km
72, Chansaemi-gil, Yeongdo-gu, Busan (Bongnae-dong 5-ga)
A wooden-boat experience space where you can soak up the charm of classic boats and spend a special time out on the water.
Enjoy the experience during the day, then head to Gwangalli in the evening to get ready for the countdown and make the most of your day.
Distance: 8.9 km
Dongdaesin-dong 2-ga, Seo-gu, Busan
A monorail that goes up and down a hill, offering a unique way to enjoy city views.
Ride it during the day for city panoramas, then in the evening head to Gwangalli for night views and the drone show.
Distance: 9.4 km
If you plan to visit observatories at sunset, bringing a tripod will help with night photography.
Getting There
Public Transportation — The event site is Gwangalli Beach, 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan (Gwangan-dong). From Gwangan Station on Subway Line 2, it’s about a 10-minute walk. If you take the bus, get off at the “Gwangalli” stop and you’ll easily find the beach and event area.
By Car — If you’re driving, you can use public parking lots near Gwangalli, but parking may be very limited around New Year’s. Since there may be a surge of cars after the event ends, using public transportation is strongly recommended.
When walking from Gwangan Station, crowds may slow you down, so allow extra time.
Closing
Countdown Busan is a festival that lets you quietly send off the past year by the winter night sea of Gwangalli and welcome the first moments of the new year amid drone shows, music, and the cheers of the crowd. The time when fireworks, lights, and the sound of waves come together will stay in your memory for a long time, taking on different meanings depending on who you share it with.
If you’re planning to spend this night where the cold sea breeze mingles with warm body heat and excitement, consider arriving a bit early to walk along the beach and calmly get ready for the performances and countdown. May Gwangalli’s dazzling first scene of the new year shine brightly over the year ahead of you.
