‘Star Wars’ Drone Show Dazzles Seoul With 2,000 Lights
On May 5, a spectacular Star Wars-themed performance took place at Jamsil Hangang Park in Seoul, organized in collaboration with The Walt Disney Company Korea.
The event featured a breathtaking 2,000-drone light show that transformed the Han River skyline into a stunning family-friendly spectacle, perfectly timed to coincide with one of the country’s most cherished holidays. Alongside the drone show, various Star Wars-themed activities added to the festive atmosphere.
This drone light show initiative has become a key highlight of Seoul’s spring entertainment calendar. The 2026 Han River Drone Light Show is scheduled from April 10 to June 5 across Yeouido, Ttukseom, and Jamsil Hangang Parks, as part of the broader Seoul Spring Festival, which combines drone displays with live performances and interactive programs.
Having drawn around 280,000 spectators in 2025, the Han River Drone Light Show continues to solidify its status as one of Seoul’s signature nighttime attractions, appealing to both locals and tourists. This growth reflects the increasing international interest in using drone technology as a captivating performance medium.
The May 5 show was the season’s main event, featuring drone formations that highlighted characters from the Star Wars universe, including Din Djarin and Grogu.
The light show lasted 15 minutes, beginning at 8:30 PM, followed by a 10-minute mini drone display with 300 drones. Various cultural and artistic performances also took place before and after the main event. The 2,000-drone display created formations visible from the banks of the Han River, attracting crowds eager to witness the fusion of technology and storytelling.
The timing of the show coincided with the anticipation surrounding ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,’ the franchise’s return to theaters after a long hiatus. The film is set to premiere exclusively in theaters on May 22, following the adventures of Din Djarin and Grogu as they assist the fledgling New Republic after the Empire’s fall. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film features stars like Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White. By hosting the drone spectacle just before the film’s release, Disney and Seoul crafted a unique marketing moment that transcended traditional promotional methods.
In addition to the drone show, a massive “Giant Grogu” sculpture, standing 10 meters tall, was displayed at the “Star Wars Arena” at the Lotte World outdoor grass plaza, complete with interactive Grogu Force photo spots and statues of Din Djarin and Grogu. The 501st Legion Korean Garrison, an official Star Wars fan club, held a parade as part of “2026 Star Wars Day in Korea.” This approach transformed a single film release into a week-long celebration that engaged the entire city.
Drone light shows are emerging as a popular format for public events due to their programmability and adaptability to recognizable characters, making them a modern alternative to traditional fireworks. This event in Seoul exemplifies how technology has democratized large-scale spectacles, allowing cities to create memorable experiences that rival those found in major theme parks.
With the Han River illuminated by thousands of coordinated lights forming beloved characters, the show demonstrated that innovation in entertainment can extend beyond screens and stages.
What did you think of Seoul’s Star Wars drone display? Share your thoughts in the comments.