Skip to content
Agoda Logo

Christmas in Seoul: A Guide to Holiday Celebrations

Christmas in Seoul: A Guide to Holiday Celebrations

Seoul transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a unique blend of traditional Korean culture and festive holiday cheer. From dazzling light displays to bustling Christmas markets, Seoul has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your Christmas in Seoul.

Experience the Magic of Seoul’s Christmas Lights

One of the highlights of Christmas in Seoul is the stunning light displays that illuminate the city. Head to Cheonggyecheon Stream for the annual Seoul Lantern Festival, where thousands of paper lanterns and light sculptures create a magical atmosphere. Don’t miss the Garden of Morning Calm, a botanical garden that transforms into a fairy-tale landscape with its light festival.


Visit Seoul’s Festive Christmas Markets

Seoul’s Christmas markets are a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up the holiday spirit. The Seoul Christmas Market at Seoul Plaza offers a variety of festive treats, handmade crafts, and live performances. For a more traditional experience, visit the German Christmas Market at Seongbuk-dong, where you can enjoy authentic German food and drinks.


Christmas in Seoul

Indulge in Korean Christmas Cuisine

Christmas in Seoul is not complete without indulging in some delicious Korean cuisine. Many restaurants offer special Christmas menus featuring traditional dishes with a festive twist. Try the Christmas buffet at Lotte Hotel Seoul, where you can enjoy a wide range of international and Korean dishes. For a more intimate dining experience, visit La Yeon at The Shilla Seoul, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite Korean cuisine.


Christmas in Seoul

Stay at Top Hotels in Seoul

Make your Christmas in Seoul even more special by staying at one of the city’s top hotels. Signiel Seoul offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Located in the iconic Lotte World Tower, this hotel provides easy access to shopping and entertainment. Another excellent choice is Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, known for its exceptional service and elegant rooms.

Christmas in Seoul

Enjoy Seoul’s Winter Festivals

Seoul’s winter festivals are a fantastic way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and festive spirit. The Seoul Ice Skating Rink at Seoul Plaza is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Glide across the ice while enjoying the beautiful surroundings and festive music. Another must-visit is the Seoul Christmas Festival at Everland, South Korea’s largest theme park, which offers a variety of holiday-themed attractions and performances.


Christmas in Seoul

Shopping for Christmas Gifts in Seoul

Seoul is a shopper’s paradise, especially during the holiday season. Head to Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts, where you can find everything from high-end fashion to unique Korean souvenirs. For a more traditional shopping experience, visit Insadong, known for its antique shops and art galleries. Don’t forget to check out the Dongdaemun Design Plaza for trendy fashion and design items.


Celebrate Christmas Eve in Seoul

Christmas Eve in Seoul is a time for celebration and joy. Many churches across the city hold special Christmas Eve services, offering a chance to experience the spiritual side of the holiday. For a more lively celebration, join the crowds at Hongdae, a vibrant neighborhood known for its nightlife and entertainment. Enjoy live music, street performances, and festive parties that last well into the night.



Christmas in Seoul

Whether you’re exploring the city’s dazzling lights, indulging in festive cuisine, or shopping for unique gifts, Christmas in Seoul offers a magical experience that combines the best of Korean culture and holiday cheer. Make sure to plan your visit to enjoy all the festive activities and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant city.

You may also like

Southeast Asia Itinerary: Festival Tours and Fun Activities Across ASEAN Countries

Southeast Asia Itinerary: Festival Tours and Fun Activities Across ASEAN Countries

If you're looking to experience the cultural heartbeat of Southeast Asia, there's no better way than timing your trip around its many vibrant festivals. From ancient religious rituals to massive parades and contemporary art shows, festival hopping in Southeast Asia is sure to be an unforgettable adventure. Building an ASEAN itinerary focused on the region's major festivals gives travelers the chance to experience traditions firsthand while also enjoying spectacular performances, local cuisine, and exciting celebrations. This guide will take you through some of the most fun activities in Southeast Asia that you just can't miss.
Feel Revived by Cultural Activities & Hot Springs on a Trip to Ehime

Feel Revived by Cultural Activities & Hot Springs on a Trip to Ehime

Ehime Prefecture offers an abundance of nature and culture. It is full of exciting sea and mountain activities, such as cycling the 70 km Shimanami Kaido route around the islands in the Seto Inland Sea, trekking the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and climbing Mt. Ishizuchi—the highest peak of western Japan. You can also relax at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring areas, or explore Ehime’s historical spots, like Matsuyama Castle and the Edo Period towns. It takes around 30 minutes to travel from Matsuyama Airport to Matsuyama City by airport bus. And with trams that travel within Matsuyama City and to Dogo Onsen, accessing tourist attractions around the area couldn’t be easier!
Top Hotels in Hong Kong: Best Places to Stay Across the City

Top Hotels in Hong Kong: Best Places to Stay Across the City

Whether you’re visiting Hong Kong for the vibrant food scene, high-rise shopping districts, or a peaceful escape in the outlying islands, choosing the right place to stay can elevate your entire experience. This roundup of the top hotels in Hong Kong brings together stylish urban retreats, conveniently located business hotels, and relaxing escapes, all with easy access to the city’s most iconic spots. If you’re wondering where to stay in Hong Kong, these top picks are a great place to start.