JEJU, Jan. 14 (Korea Bizwire) — The iconic Jeju Fire Festival will return to Saebyeol Oreum from March 14 to 16, 2025, but with a significant change: its signature ceremonial burning of hillside fields will be replaced by a virtual fire display combining media art and live performances, addressing previous environmental concerns.
Jeju City announced on January 13 that the 2025 festival will proceed under the theme “We Light Up Hope,” featuring a diverse array of programs celebrating new year aspirations. The festival’s redesign follows extensive consultations with citizen planning committees, nationwide content submissions, and advisory panel recommendations, all aimed at creating a sustainable signature event for Jeju.
The virtual fire display will feature performances by Yang Bang-ean, a prominent Japanese-Korean musician, alongside other artists, integrated with media art installations. This modern interpretation aims to preserve the festival’s connection to Jeju’s pastoral heritage while eliminating environmental impact.
Traditional elements will remain, including torch processions and the burning of moon houses (daljibtaeugi). The festival will also feature a “Lighting Up Hope” performance combining shows by 1,000 traditional musicians from various districts with audience participation in passing the “flame of hope.”
The three-day celebration begins March 14 with a flame-lighting ceremony at Samseonghyeol. The opening day includes hope-wishing rituals, various competitions, and interactive experiences, culminating in an evening ceremony themed “Hope Sprouts.”
On March 15, the festival will feature torch parades and moon house burning ceremonies under the theme “Hope Rises,” highlighted by Yang Bang-ean’s performance alongside digital fire effects. The musician, born in Japan to a Jeju father and North Korean mother, is known for transcending musical and cultural boundaries.
The final day, March 16, themed “Hope Connects,” will host a youth music festival, tree seedling distribution, and a special market featuring discounted local products.
“While preserving our identity and ecological values, we’re working to expand this into a truly citizen-participatory festival,” said Kim Wan-geun, mayor of Jeju City. “As this is our first year of implementing these changes, we ask for your interest and support.”
City officials emphasized that visitor safety and convenience will be prioritized, with particular attention to site cleanliness and crowd management.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)