We investigate a new method for achieving pure red up-conversion luminescence with high efficiency by taking advantage of the long lifetime of I-4(13/2) energy level and large absorption cross-section of Er3+ at similar to 1500 nm near-infrared. Single red up-conversion emission is obtained in Er3+, Tm3+-co-doped NaYF4 host pumped by 1510 nm. Introduction of a core-shell structure further improves the up-conversion luminescence efficiency. Luminescence integral intensity of NaYF4: 10%Er3+, 2%Tm3+ @NaYF4 is 16.19 times to that of NaYF4: 10% Er3+, 2%Tm3+ at 1510 nm excitation, which increase 4.69 times excited by 980 nm. At the same excitation power density, emission intensity of NaYF4:10%Er3+, 2%Tm3+ @NaYF4 core-shell structure sample excited at 1510 nm is 1.44 times higher than 980 mn. Er3+, Tm3+ ions present different red emission mechanisms under two excitation sources. The up-conversion luminescence under 1510 nm excitation provides a wider application as similar to 1500 nm near-infrared is the safe wavelength for human eyes.