Illuminating Christmas Spirit in Ulsan's Design Street
울산광역시 남구 삼산중로74번길

As the year comes to a close, Ulsan’s Samsan Design Street transforms into a vibrant winter destination filled with festive illuminations and Christmas-themed light installations.
From Hyundai Department Store to Wanglidan Road, the 2026 Merry & Bright Carnival Happy Namgu light festival offers dazzling photo zones and a warm holiday atmosphere that continues through February 2026.
Year-End Light Festival in Ulsan Nam-gu
As the end of the year approaches, visiting downtown Ulsan allows you to enjoy brilliant illuminations that create a joyful Christmas mood throughout the city.
Every year from mid-November, the lighting ceremony at Samsan Design Street marks the beginning of a large-scale light festival that extends to Babo Square Design Street and Wanglidan Road, helping energize local businesses.
I recently visited Ulsan Design Street to experience this seasonal light festival firsthand.
Main Illumination Route and Festival Theme
The main light display runs along the central street connecting Hyundai Department Store to Upscare, creating a continuous corridor of colorful illuminations.
This year’s festival theme, “2026 Merry & Bright Carnival Happy Namgu,” welcomes visitors with whimsical decorations such as hot air balloons and horse sculptures.
The celebration of Christmas, once centered on religious meaning, has now evolved into a festival enjoyed by everyone. Bright decorations featuring Rudolph, Christmas trees, and star-shaped lights naturally evoke the spirit of the season.
Photo Zones and Christmas Highlights
Walking through Ulsan Design Street, I discovered numerous photo spots featuring jingle bells, snowmen, and a silver palace-style installation.
One of the most eye-catching installations was a giant chandelier hanging above the street, instantly drawing attention from passersby.
The Omnibus Lighting Fiesta theme extends across Babo Square Design Street, Wanglidan Road, and Samsan Design Street, making it fun to compare different lighting concepts as you walk.
Hidden Light Tunnels and Alley Views
Across the main street, the alley near Lotte Department Store offers another highlight with a luminary light tunnel.
Above the tunnel, an angel with wings appears to be flying overhead, adding a dreamy and enchanting touch to the scene.
Every year, large Christmas trees are installed in front of Hyundai Department Store and Ulsan Department Store, welcoming visitors with a classic holiday atmosphere.
Warm Holiday Mood Until February 2026
Many visitors enjoy shopping and taking photos in front of the massive Christmas trees, capturing memories against the glowing lights.
The warm and emotional atmosphere created by the illuminations makes it easy to forget the winter cold while strolling through the festival.
At Ulsan Design Street, a figure wearing a horse mask greets visitors in celebration of the upcoming New Year of 2026. Wishing everyone a joyful end to 2025 and a bright start to the new year.
Until February 2026, Ulsan Design Street will continue to shine with festive lights filled with Christmas spirit, making it a perfect spot for winter walks and year-end outings.
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