Introduction
On Christmas, Seoul changes into a fascinating winter wonderland – with a unique mix of festive lights, fun events, and cultural experiences. Christmas in Seoul is usually for couples hoping to have a romantic holiday. Although Christmas is not traditionally celebrated as a family holiday in South Korea, overtime it has become more and more popular among younger generations. In fact, if you’ve seen a K-drama or two, you might have seen the couples celebrating Christmas more as a romantic occasion rather than a family one.
However, at the end of the day, Christmas is all about forgetting work and spending time with your loved ones. Seoul has a lot to offer at this time of the festive month so Seoulmates, get your notepad ready and note down these amazing attractions, and popular locations for an eventful Christmas!
Christmas Lights and Displays
You’d be surprised to see the city adorned with sparkly lights–especially in areas like Myeongdong, where the Myeongdong Cathedral features a brilliant hillside of lights and wishing trees for visitors so that they can express their hopes for the new year.
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Don’t forget to head over to The Hyundai Seoul department store because it’s one of the largest indoor Christmas display in South Korea! But be careful, you might just get swept away with the crowd because it attracts lots of visitors who come to see the beautiful European-style Christmas villages.
Christmas Markets
Christmas is a time for small-businesses to really showcase their products as they know that it’s a time not just for the locals, but for tourists to explore Seoul too. You can find a wide range of markets popping up throughout the city.
The famous Gwanghwamun Square would usually host a European-style Christmas market from December to January where you enjoy food, drinks, and even zones to take photos in.
Another place is the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) that holds a Christmas market. It’s a significant landmark in Seoul and is known for its architecture, exhibitions, and different events. So rest assured, there’s a lot to see and explore in Seoul!
Festive Activities
Festival in South Korea is an experience you can’t miss! Tourists enjoy going to the ice skating rinks that are set up in popular landmarks in Seoul such as Seoul Plaza, Lotte World Ice Garden, or Olympic Park ice rink.
Interestingly, Lotte World Adventure – a gigantic indoor theme park – is transformed into a festive theme park with beautiful decorations and even spectacular performances that you can enjoy with your friends and family.
Just make sure to see the dates and timings so that you won’t miss any show or event.
Cultural Experiences
When you’re visiting a new country, it’s all about the cultural experience and South Korea welcomes you warmly with their cultural performances and events that you feel as if you’re diving into a whole new world.
Visitors can enjoy Christmas-themed performances at various places like Lotte World and Everland amusement parks. These performances may vary in dates and times, so be sure to keep checking their specific websites so you don’t miss a show!
The famous Namsan Seoul Tower too becomes a kind of romantic spot for couples who want to enjoy a scenic view and create unforgettable memories. Many couples write their names on locks and lock it, hoping to stay together for the rest of their lives.
Popular Locations for Celebrating Christmas
Myeongdong: Myeongdong is well-known for its boisterous shopping streets and street food vendors. It’s mostly lively during Christmas because of its giant Christmas tree and a festive atmosphere that’ll make you want to take Korea back home with you.
Cheonggyecheon Stream: Straight out of a disney movie, the beautiful and scenic area has decorations and lights along the stream, making it one of the many spots for a romantic getaway for couples and a fun-filled night for families.
N Seoul Tower: N Seoul Tower, or Namsan Seoul Tower is quite famous among locals and tourists alike. It’s a romantic destination that’s sure to make your Christmas even more cheery.
Conclusion
Christmas in Seoul is sure to help you create beautiful memories. While it is less common to see traditional family gatherings, you can expect to see people enjoying dining at restaurants, strolling through the markets, watching performances, and just spending time at cafes throughout the city.
It’s an experience like no other! The city is filled with lights, romance, and activities that is sure to make your Christmas unique – in a Korean way.
Image Sources:
https://www.habkorea.net/lets-go-to-cheonggyecheon-2018-seoul-christmas-festival/
https://www.trazy.com/zh-TW/spot/219/seoul-plaza-ice-rink-%EC%84%9C%EC%9A%B8-%EC%8B%9C%EC%B2%AD-%EC%95%84%EC%9D%B4%EC%8A%A4-%EB%A7%81%ED%81%AC
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXXx94tqqxY&ab_channel=WalkingOn
https://www.cktravels.com/seoul-christmas-lights-events-things-to-do/
https://lonelytravelog.com/2012/02/22/seoul-n-seoul-tower/
Author: Aaliyah
