"Beachgoers took part in the 2026 New Year's Haeundae Polar Bear Festival in South Korea's Busan on Sunday, plunging into the icy waters for the annual swim. Footage captured at Haeundae Beach shows participants walking towards the starting point, waiting on the sand, and then entering the sea to swim. They are later seen posing for photos and gathering on the beach. "At first, I felt scared and wondered why I had come into the sea, but after swimming, I felt extremely good and refreshed," a participant shared. "Swimming is a tough exercise, and it leaves me out of breath, but it gives me a strong sense of determination, which feels good," remarked a second. Participants faced water temperatures of five to seven degrees Celsius (41 to 44.6°F). The festival, held from January 16 to 18, was organised by Busan Ilbo and the BUK Openwater Swimming Association. The 2026 edition followed the theme 'Colourful Polar Bear', featuring the one-kilometre shoreline swim, powder throws, and live performances. According to local authorities, the festival attracts thousands each year and helps boost Busan's reputation as a winter beach destination."