The Gwangalli M Drone Light Show, a signature nighttime attraction at Gwangalli Beach, is facing uncertainty over its future operations due to newly strengthened drone flight safety regulations.
As of March, the Korea Institute of Aviation Safety Technology (KIAST) revised its standards for nighttime drone swarms. While the required 100-meter safety distance between drone flight zones and spectator areas remains unchanged, the new rule redefines the starting point of that distance to include the drone takeoff and landing zone.
This means measurements now begin from the sandy beach where drones are staged, not just the airspace above the sea where performances take place.
Under current conditions, the Gwangalli show cannot easily meet the updated safety distance, as the drone staging area on the beach is located directly adjacent to roads and commercial areas crowded with spectators.
The show typically uses around 700 drones and up to 2,000 for special events. For flights exceeding 1,000 drones, the required safety distance increases to 150 meters.
Due to previous incidents involving drone malfunctions and injuries to spectators, KIAST has recommended relocating the takeoff and landing site.
In response, Suyeong District plans to continue shows under existing approvals through August, while exploring solutions in consultation with flight operators and safety authorities.
A district official stated that while adjustments are needed, the safety standards can be applied flexibly based on on-site conditions and control plans and noted that they hope for no disruptions to the show.
