Gwanghwamun Christmas Market and Seoul’s Top Winter Festivals of 2024

As winter settles in, Seoul transforms into a captivating city of lights and festivities, offering a variety of exciting events and holiday experiences. A key highlight of the season is the Seoul Winter Festa, a vibrant celebration of art, lights, and seasonal charm, taking place across six iconic locations from December 13, 2024 to January 5, 2025.

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Explore the Santa Village at Gwanghwamun Square

Gwanghwamun Square turns into a holiday haven with its massive Christmas tree and the charming Santa Village. Visitors can wander through the Christmas Village Market, featuring handmade crafts and festive souvenirs perfect for the season. Whether soaking in the holiday ambiance or picking out unique gifts, Gwanghwamun is the ultimate winter destination.

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Open during the evenings, this enchanting market invites visitors to soak in the holiday spirit with extended hours from Monday to Thursday (5:30 PM - 9:30 PM) and slightly later hours on weekends (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM).

Divided into three captivating zones, the market offers something for everyone:

1. Santa Village (Zone 1): Enter through a welcoming gate into a whimsical wonderland featuring a towering Christmas tree, booths selling handmade crafts and seasonal trinkets, and festive photo zones perfect for capturing memories.
2. Santa Village Food Street (Zone 2): Indulge in the season’s tastiest treats from food booths serving classic and creative holiday eats that will warm you from the inside out.
3. Santa Village Play Plaza (Zone 3): Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with interactive experiences, special photo zones, and free activities designed to delight visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, savoring delicious snacks, or creating unforgettable moments with loved ones, the Gwanghwamun Christmas Market is a must-visit destination this winter!

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Cheonggyecheon’s Illuminated Magic

Cheonggyecheon stream sets the stage for the Seoul Lantern Festival, themed “Soul Lantern: Seoul, Light in Play”. This interactive display features light installations that respond to touch and movement, creating a mesmerizing experience for all who visit.

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Special Collaborations and Cultural Showcases

This year’s Seoul Winter Festa includes a unique partnership with Squid Game Season 2, presenting exclusive exhibits that highlight Korea’s global cultural influence.

While the opening ceremony at Gwanghwamun was canceled due to political considerations, the rest of the festival offers an array of exciting events and exhibits to enjoy.

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Nature and Art Unite at World Cup Park

World Cup Park showcases an 8-meter-long Eulalia Grass Snake sculpture as part of the 7th Eulalia Grass Art Exhibition. Families and children can also take part in workshops to help create parts of the sculpture, making it a memorable hands-on activity.

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Local Winter Celebrations in Songpa and Seocho

Seoul’s districts have their own unique winter festivities. Songpa District will host “Jamsil Santa Is Coming” on December 19-20, where Santas will deliver gifts to local communities in need. Seocho District, on the other hand, invites you to a performance of The Nutcracker during their “Christmas in Seocho” concert on December 14.

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With breathtaking lights, festive markets, and engaging events, the Seoul Winter Festa is the perfect way to enjoy the magic of winter in Korea. Make sure to explore all the festive fun happening around the city and create unforgettable memories with friends and family this season!

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Photo source: Seoul Metropolitan Government