- Within just seven days of opening, these two hallmark winter events in Seoul have drawn 560,000 visitors, becoming the city's must-visit attractions and photogenic hotspots on social media.
- Special Christmas-themed programs, including ornament and mood lamp crafting and photo opportunities with Santa Claus, are captivating visitors.
2024 Seoul Lantern Festival: A Dazzling Return
Returning after two years, the Seoul Lantern Festival launched on December 13 under the theme "SOUL LANTERN: Play with the Light of SEOUL" and will continue through January 12, 2025. This year's festival lights up the entire Cheonggyecheon area with 242 dazzling light installations stretching from Cheonggye Plaza to Samilgyo Bridge.
Key highlights include:
- The 8-meter-tall "Sandaehee Lantern," a modern reinterpretation of the Joseon Dynasty's movable stage "Sandae" and traditional mask dance performances, "Sandae-nori," measuring 5 meters wide and 8 meters high.
- The "Gwanghwamun Lantern on Cheonggyecheon" at Mojongyo Bridge and the grand "Royal Procession Lanterns" leading to it.
- These 60 large-scale installations have become crowd favorites for their scale and intricate artistry.
2024 Gwanghwamun Market: Santa Village Comes to Life
Now in its third year, the Gwanghwamun Market opened on December 13 and will run until January 5, 2025, under the theme "Santa Village at Gwanghwamun Square." Located around the Sejong the Great statue, the market offers a feast of sights and experiences to embrace the holiday spirit.
Highlights include:
- A 15-meter-tall Christmas tree surrounded by 47 vendor booths and various festive photo zones.
- A special photo event under the tree, where visitors can meet Santa Claus and receive Christmas gifts. This free event runs until December 25 and has drawn great interest.
- Santa Village: Home to the towering Christmas tree and 45 booths offering handmade goods such as Christmas-themed knitwear, candles, glass ornaments, and more. Social media users have been flocking to the five photogenic spots beneath the tree, decorated with party balloons, gift boxes, and a cozy fireplace setup.
- Santa Village Food Street: Five booths offer a range of festive treats, from European Christmas drinks and desserts to traditional Korean snacks.
- Santa Village Plaza: Features interactive photo zones, including Santa's sleigh and a wishing fountain where visitors can toss coins and make wishes. These attractions elevate the festive atmosphere for all ages.