2025 Seoul Winter Magic: A Guide to the Lantern Festival & Gwanghwamun Christmas Market

Seoul transforms into a glowing fairytale every December, and 2025 is no exception. If you're looking for the heart of the holiday spirit in Korea, look no further than the Seoul Lantern Festival and the Gwanghwamun Christmas Market.

1. Gwanghwamun Christmas Market: "Santa's Village in Winter Fairytale"

This year, Gwanghwamun Square has been reimagined as a nostalgic Santa Village. It's the perfect place to feel the European-style Christmas market vibe right in the center of Seoul.

• Dates: December 12 – December 31, 2025
• Operating Hours: 18:00 – 22:00 (Extended by 30 mins due to popularity!)
• Location: Gwanghwamun Square

What to Expect:

• Santa Village Play Plaza & Market Village: Explore stalls filled with unique handmade ornaments, winter accessories, and crafts.
• Photo Zones: Don't miss the "Nutcracker House" and "Gingerbread House" for your perfect festive selfie.
• Winter Treats: Warm up with a cup of Vin Chaud (Mulled Wine) and freshly made churros while you stroll through the market.

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2. Seoul Lantern Festival: "My Light, Our Dream, the Magic of Seoul"

Just steps away from the market, the Seoul Lantern Festival illuminates the night with hundreds of traditional and modern light installations.

• Dates: December 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026
• Location: Cheonggyecheon Stream (Cheonggye Plaza to Samilgyo Bridge)
• Illumination Hours: 18:00 – 22:00

The 2025 festival theme, "Seoul's Magic," features four distinct zones:

1. Miracle Seoul: Traditional hanji lanterns depicting Korean myths.

2. Golden Secret: A dazzling tunnel of golden lights.

3. Dream Light: Futuristic media art and floating lanterns.

4. Seoul Fantasia: Interactive light displays that respond to your movement.

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3. Pro-Tips for Your Visit

• Bundle Up: December in Seoul is freezing! Wear your warmest thermal layers and bring hot packs (hottok).
• Go Early: The crowds Peak between 19:30 and 21:00. Arriving right at 18:00 allows for better photos.
• Nearby Attractions: After the festival, head to DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) for the Seoul Light DDP media facade show, which runs until Dec 31st.

Make this winter unforgettable by visiting the most magical spots in Seoul. Happy Holidays!