Experience the Dazzling Nights of Busan with the Gwangalli M Drone Light Show
역삼동 Kev2025. 4. 28. 13:00
Gwangalli and Haeundae have become not only Busan’s, but also Korea’s most iconic beach destinations. All year round, especially in summer, countless young travelers flock to these vibrant shores. What could be more romantic than the perfect blend of summer and the sea? With dazzling city lights dancing on the night waves, no other hotspot even comes close.
Synchronized Drones Paint the Night Sky in the Gwangalli M Drone Light Show
I still remember being amazed during the opening ceremony of the 2018 winter games in Pyeongchang, when a massive Olympic ring appeared in the sky, formed by hundreds of drones. It was a moment that truly showed how incredibly IT has advanced. Now, that same kind of awe-inspiring sensation can be experienced in person over the waters of Gwangalli Beach in Busan.
Spectators gather on the beach to watch the drone show
Countless drones get ready for takeoff
Every Saturday night, the Gwangalli M Drone Light Show lights up the skies over Gwangalli Beach. As Korea’s first permanent drone show, it features anywhere from several hundred to as many as 1,500 drones in synchronized flight. With just two 10-minute performances each night, the beach bursts into life with eager spectators, turning Gwangalli into a weekend hotspot. Competition for the best viewing spot can be more intense than you might expect.
A digital world built on 0s and 1s
Semiconductor chips and circuits
Smartphones and software apps
As the drones lift off from the sandy beach and perform in perfect harmony with the music, the crowd erupts in cheers and gasps of awe. The Gwangalli Drone Show unveils a new theme and engaging content every week, inspired by seasonal highlights. The theme on this particular night was “Endless Motion, Smart City.” As you watch the stunning choreography of the drones, the brief 10-minute performance seems to fly by in an instant.
A ‘touch’ for smarter living
VR: a must-have for the future
A dazzling drone show illuminates the night sky over Gwangandaegyo Bridge
The Gwangalli Drone Show is scheduled to run through the end of next year, transforming what was once a one-day-only fireworks festival into a regular weekly nighttime spectacle. Unlike traditional fireworks, drone shows produce significantly less air pollution, noise, and fire risk, making them a safer and more sustainable alternative. With growing popularity and public interest, there’s hope that even more opportunities to enjoy these shows will follow.
Preparing to set sail: a public yacht at The Bay 101
An up-close view of the dazzling Marine City skyline from the yacht
While exploring the area around Dongbaekseom Island and Marine City in Haeundae, it’s easy to spot yachts gliding across the sea—most of them offering tours for visitors. Although yacht tours are often seen as a luxury, public tours that accommodate up to 20 passengers offer a more budget-friendly option. A one-hour cruise typically costs between 20,000 and 40,000 won per person, making it an accessible experience for many.
A look inside the yacht, where blankets and light refreshments are provided
A look inside the yacht, where blankets and light refreshments are provided
Several yacht tour operators are available around Haeundae. Among them, "Yacht Tale," departing near The Bay 101, stands out as a certified marine tourism venture designated by the Korea Tourism Organization. As the first yacht company to receive this certification, passengers can enjoy a safer and more reliable maritime experience.
Gwangandaegyo Bridge as seen from the sea
Gwangandaegyo Bridge as seen from the sea
Fireworks display aboard the yacht
Departing from Dongbaekseom Island, the yacht cruises past Gwangalli Beach before returning to Marine City. Opting for an evening tour offers a unique perspective of Haeundae’s dazzling night view from the water. Onboard activities like daytime fishing, nighttime fireworks, and Polaroid photo sessions keep the experience lively and memorable.
Night Views of Busan: Haeundae Marine City Coastal Walk
Night view of Marine City from Dongbaekseom Island
Entrance to the Marine City Coastal Walk
The Bay 101 in Dongbaekseom Island is one of the top night view spots in Busan. Across the water, the towering skyline of Marine City creates a mesmerizing view comparable to Hong Kong’s skyline. Walking along the coastal promenade lined with skyscrapers is another great way to experience Busan’s vibrant nightlife.
Haeundae Cinema Street
Haeundae Cinema Street
Starting at the entrance of Marine City, a long coastal promenade stretches along the breakwater. On one side, the expansive ocean unfolds, while on the other, a forest of skyscrapers rises. Befitting Busan’s reputation as a city of cinema, the walkway includes Haeundae Cinema Street, featuring various film-themed sculptures, posters of movies shot in Busan, and handprints of famous movie stars, creating an entertaining exhibition for visitors.
Terrace Café Olivia offers the perfect spot to Enjoy Marine City’ stunning night view
A relaxing tea time
Though primarily known as a residential area, Marine City boasts many charming cafés. Most offer terrace seating, making them ideal spots to take a relaxing break while strolling around.
Spectacular Night View from Haeundae X The Sky, Busan’s Tallest Observatory
Haeundae LCT
Now it’s time to take in Busan’s stunning night view from its highest vantage point—Haeundae X The Sky, located in Haeundae LCT. Standing at an impressive height of 400 meters above sea level, it is Korea’s second-tallest observation deck after Seoul Sky. From the 100th-floor observatory, the cityscape of Haeundae appears miniature, yet its beauty feels almost surreal.
The night view of Haeundae as seen from X The Sky
The thrilling “Shocking Bridge,” a transparent glass bridge on the 100th floor
One side of the observatory features the “Shocking Bridge,” a glass walkway whose reinforced glass floor, though perfectly safe, can make even the bravest hesitate to take a step. The world's highest Starbucks is also here—while the coffee is excellent, it’s the breathtaking night view that truly steals the show.
