🌅 2025 Seongsan Sunrise Festival: Event Schedule and Nearby Restaurants

Hello, this is your tip guide! 😊

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to welcome the New Year of 2025! 🎉 If you’re looking for a special way to ring in the new year, look no further than the Seongsan Sunrise Festival. 🌟

Held at the iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, this festival offers a unique way to experience the first sunrise of the year. Visitors can enjoy a mix of cultural events, outdoor activities, and breathtaking views while making New Year’s wishes.

This event is more than just a celebration—it's a symbol of unity for locals and visitors alike. By promoting local specialties and boosting the regional economy, the Seongsan Sunrise Festival is truly a meaningful start to the year. Let’s dive into the details to plan your perfect New Year’s celebration!

🗓️ 1. Seongsan Sunrise Festival Overview and Schedule

The Seongsan Sunrise Festival offers a mix of tradition and modernity, with events divided into three themes: Welcoming Fortune, Receiving Fortune, and Sharing Fortune.

🔹 Festival Overview

Dates: December 31, 2024 (Tuesday) – January 1, 2025 (Wednesday)
Location: Seongsan Ilchulbong, Seogwipo City, Jeju Island
Slogan: "Brilliant Seongsan Sunrise, Singing New Hope for the Year!"
Capacity: Up to 7,200 people at a time
Organizers: Seongsan Sunrise Festival Committee / Jeju Special Self-Governing Province

🔹 Festival Schedule

🎈 December 30 (Tuesday) - Welcoming Fortune

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Seongsan Sunrise Clean Walk
- A scenic walk along Seongsan Ilchulbong's trail, focusing on preserving Jeju’s natural beauty.
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Seongsan Sunrise Pop Star
- A fun singing competition featuring local residents. Expect laughter and talent in abundance! 🎤
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Seongsan Sunrise Youth Festival
- A vibrant showcase of performances by Jeju’s talented youth.

🎉 December 31 (Tuesday) - Receiving Fortune

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Seongsan Sunrise Hope Parade
- A lively parade featuring residents from 14 villages in traditional attire, spreading hope and unity.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Seongsan Sunrise Club Day
- Performances by local cultural clubs, perfect for discovering hidden talents.
6:00 PM – 11:30 PM: Seongsan Sunrise World Music Festa
- A grand concert with musicians from Jeju and around the globe. 🌍 Stunning light shows will add to the excitement.
11:30 PM – Midnight: Countdown to the New Year
- Celebrate the end of the year with laser shows and New Year’s greetings.

🌅 January 1 (Wednesday) - Sharing Fortune

Midnight: Sunrise Bonfire and Laser Show
- A traditional bonfire ceremony where wishes are written and burned to bring good luck.
5:00 AM – 7:00 AM: Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Hike
- A special hike for 900 participants. The view from the peak is unforgettable.
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Rice Cake Soup Sharing
- Enjoy a warm bowl of rice cake soup to welcome the New Year with good fortune.

🌄 2. The Special Charm of Seongsan Ilchulbong

Seongsan Ilchulbong is a natural treasure recognized worldwide. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it’s also listed as one of the New7Wonders of Nature and included in Korea’s Top 10 Ecotourism Destinations.

The sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong is so magnificent that it has been immortalized in history—it’s even mentioned in the ancient Korean scripture of the Tripitaka Koreana. Watching the golden rays light up the ocean and sky is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Legend has it that making a wish during this sunrise doubles your blessings for the year.

🍴 3. Best Restaurants Near Seongsan Ilchulbong

After enjoying the festival, treat yourself to some delicious local cuisine at these top restaurants near Seongsan Ilchulbong.

1️⃣ Eosang

Recommended Dishes: Assorted Sashimi, Seafood Platter, Seafood Ramen
Highlights: A newly opened restaurant with excellent food quality and unbeatable value for money. Takeout is available. Conveniently located next to the Seongsan Ilchulbong Bus Stop.

2️⃣ Ojori Haenyeo House

Recommended Dishes: Abalone porridge, fresh conch sashimi
Why Visit?: The dishes are prepared with seafood caught directly by Jeju’s famous haenyeo (female divers).

3️⃣ Ocean-Flavored Noodles

Recommended Dishes: Jeju pork noodle soup, anchovy noodle soup
Why Visit?: A cozy spot to enjoy Jeju’s traditional noodle dishes, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

🎁 4. Tips to Fully Enjoy the Seongsan Sunrise Festival

1️⃣ Arrive Early:
To secure the best spot to watch the sunrise, arrive at least an hour before sunrise time (around 7:30 AM).

2️⃣ Dress Warmly:
The early morning sea breeze can be extremely chilly. Bring gloves, scarves, and heat packs to stay comfortable.

3️⃣ Bring Your Wish:
Write your New Year’s wishes in advance, or use the materials provided at the festival to hang them on the wish tree or burn them at the bonfire ceremony.

4️⃣ Explore Nearby Attractions:
Combine the festival with visits to nearby spots like Udo Island, Seopjikoji, and Gwangchigi Beach for a richer experience.

💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Seongsan Sunrise Festival free to attend?

A: Most of the festival programs are free, but some specific experiences may have a small fee.

Q: Where is the best spot to see the sunrise?

A: The peak of Seongsan Ilchulbong offers the best view, but Gwangchigi Beach is a great alternative if you prefer a less crowded spot.

Q: Are there other sunrise spots in Jeju besides Seongsan Ilchulbong?

A: Yes! Hallasan, Hamdeok Beach, and Udo Island are also popular sunrise destinations.

🏷️ Tags

#SeongsanSunriseFestival #SeongsanIlchulbongSunrise #JejuTravel #NewYearFestival #JejuRestaurants #SunriseHiking #KoreaFestival

Kick off your 2025 in style at the Seongsan Sunrise Festival, where tradition meets breathtaking nature. May your New Year be filled with happiness, prosperity, and unforgettable memories! 🌟