Embark on a journey to discover Korea's top spots for welcoming the 2026 New Year's first sunrise. This guide covers the symbolic significance of
Ganjeolgot, home to the earliest sunrise, and the picturesque
Jeongdongjin, a favorite for its unique seaside train station. Prepare for an unforgettable start to your year with our detailed travel tips.
☰ Table of Contents
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🌅 Why Koreans Are So Passionate About the New Year's First Sunrise?
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☀️ Experience Korea's Earliest Morning: The Charms of Ulsan's Ganjeolgot
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🚂 Sea Right Off the Train: The Romance of Gangneung's Jeongdongjin
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💡 Pro Tips: How to Fully Enjoy Your 2026 New Year Sunrise Trip!
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🤔 Frequently Asked Questions About New Year Sunrise Spots
🌅 Why Koreans Are So Passionate About the New Year's First Sunrise?
As December 31, 2025, draws to a close, millions of Koreans are already planning their annual pilgrimage to catch the first sunrise of 2026. This tradition is much more than simply admiring a beautiful landscape; it's a profound cultural ritual. It represents a fresh start, a moment for introspection, and an opportunity to make wishes and set new goals for the upcoming year.
There's a deep-seated belief that witnessing the first sunrise brings good fortune and helps manifest one's aspirations. This collective hope transforms popular sunrise locations into vibrant, albeit chilly, gathering spots. Among the many options, Ganjeolgot and Jeongdongjin stand out as perennial favorites, each offering a unique charm that captivates the hearts of many.
☀️ Experience Korea's Earliest Morning: The Charms of Ulsan's Ganjeolgot
If your goal is to be among the very first in Korea to greet the sun in 2026, then Ganjeolgot in Ulsan is your ideal destination. It proudly holds the title for the earliest sunrise on the Korean mainland, beating Homigot by one minute and Jeongdongjin by five minutes.
Sending Wishes from the Giant Wishing Post
Ganjeolgot is famous for its iconic giant Wishing Post, which stands as a sentinel of hope. Visitors can write their New Year's wishes on postcards and drop them into this massive mailbox. It is said that wishes sent from here, the point where the new year begins first, are particularly auspicious. It's also the most popular photo zone, so be prepared for a short wait to capture that perfect commemorative shot.
Enjoying the Scenic Coastal Promenade
Beyond the mailbox, the area features a beautifully maintained coastal walking path. As the sun begins to climb, strolling along the rugged cliffs of Ulsan provides a sense of peace and renewal. The "Ganjeolgot Sunrise Festival" usually takes place here, offering local snacks like hot 'tteokguk' (떡국, rice cake soup) and various cultural performances to keep the festive spirit alive despite the cold.
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Travel Info: To use
Ulsan Ganjeolgot public transport, take City Bus No. 715 from Ulsan Station (KTX) or the city center. Given the massive crowds, taking a taxi or using the special festival shuttle buses is often more convenient than driving a private car.
🚂 Sea Right Off the Train: The Romance of Gangneung's Jeongdongjin
For those seeking a more romantic and nostalgic New Year's sunrise experience, Jeongdongjin in Gangneung is unparalleled. Famous for having the train station closest to the sea in the entire world, the atmosphere is inherently cinematic.
The Romance of the Seaside Train Station
Stepping off the train onto the platform and immediately feeling the sea breeze is a sensation unique to Jeongdongjin. It became a legend after being featured in the classic drama 'Sandglass.' Many travelers take the overnight 'Sunrise Train' from Seoul (Cheongnyangni or Seoul Station) to arrive just in time for the dawn. It is the ultimate New Year's pilgrimage for couples.
Exploring Sandglass Park and Local Flavors
Adjacent to the station is Sandglass Park, which houses one of the world's largest hourglasses—it takes exactly one year to turn over! Watching the ceremony where the glass is rotated at midnight is a highlight of the Jeongdongjin Sunrise Festival. After the sun rises, warm up with a bowl of Gangneung's famous Chodang Tofu (초당두부, soft tofu made with seawater) at a nearby local restaurant.
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Accommodation & Transport: Secure your
Jeongdongjin New Year accommodation at least 2-3 months in advance, as hotels like the Sun Cruise Resort sell out instantly. For transport, the
KTX-Eum from Seoul is the fastest way to Gangneung, where you can then take a local train or shuttle to Jeongdongjin.
💡 Pro Tips: How to Fully Enjoy Your 2026 New Year Sunrise Trip!
To make your 2026 New Year's sunrise trip as smooth as possible, follow these practical tips. Preparation is key to enjoying the moment without the stress of cold or crowds.
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Check Real-Time Sunrise Times: The sunrise at Ganjeolgot is expected around 7:31 AM, and Jeongdongjin around 7:39 AM, but always check a weather app for 2026-specific adjustments due to atmospheric conditions.
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Layering is Mandatory: The wind chill by the East Sea is fierce. Wear thermal base layers, a thick down jacket, and wind-resistant outer gear. Don't forget a hat and gloves!
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Plan for Traffic: Roads leading to Ulsan and Gangneung will be congested starting the evening of Dec 31st. Arrive at your destination city the night before if possible.
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Important Warning: Temperatures often drop below -10°C (14°F) with the wind chill. Avoid long periods of stillness; move around to keep circulation going and use
disposable hand warmers (hot packs).
💡 Key Summary
- Ganjeolgot is the earliest spot to see the sun; use Bus 715 or shuttles for public transport and don't miss the giant Wishing Post.
- Jeongdongjin offers a romantic train-access view; book accommodation early and visit the Sandglass Park.
- Sunrise festivals at both locations provide food, warmth, and cultural experiences to ring in the new year.
- Preparation for the extreme winter cold and heavy traffic is essential for a successful trip.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions About New Year Sunrise Spots
Q. Which sunrise spot is better for families with young children?
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A. Ganjeolgot is generally recommended for families as the terrain around the viewing area and coastal path is relatively flat and spacious, making it easier to navigate with children compared to the more crowded train station environment of Jeongdongjin.
Q. Are there any special events or festivals at these locations?
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A. Yes! The Ganjeolgot Sunrise Festival features
drone shows and concerts, while Jeongdongjin holds a sandglass rotation ceremony. Both offer free 'tteokguk' and various hands-on cultural activities on New Year's morning.
Q. What food should I try nearby?
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A. In Ulsan, look for warm seafood soups or local
Ulsan pears. In Jeongdongjin (Gangneung), the must-eat dish is Chodang Tofu, and fresh sashimi or '
sundubu-jjigae' are great for warming up after the sunrise.
📌 Good Posts to Read Together
We hope this detailed guide helps you plan a meaningful trip to witness the first light of 2026. Whether you choose the early glow of Ganjeolgot or the romance of Jeongdongjin, may your new year be bright!
Happy New Year! 새해 복 많이 받으세요!
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