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.

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.

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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.

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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.

Haeundae Yacht Tour: Night View from the Sea

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.

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.

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.

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  The night view of Haeundae as seen from X The Sky

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  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.

Source: KTO 9suk9suk

Narrative & Photos: Son Changhyeon, Travel Writer

* This column was last updated in April 2025, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.