Best Christmas Lights in Seoul

Christmas in Korea is a very magical time. Koreans love to decorate for the holiday and as a result, you’ll see the biggest shopping centers put on their most remarkable Christmas displays in Seoul. In this blog post you’ll find the absolute best Christmas lights in Seoul.

I lived in Korea for almost six years making me an expert on where to go take photos, experience Seoul Christmas events, and really get into the Christmas spirit.

I personally have always hated Christmas in Korea because it is a glorified couples holiday. You may be thinking, “Do they celebrate Christmas in Korea?” In short, yes, but it’s not what you think it is. This holiday is bigger than Valentine’s Day. When I was a teacher in South Korea, I was always subject to griping and crying from my students about how they were single.

Whether you’re visiting Seoul for Christmas or living in Korea and want to put a little Christmas cheer in your life, then here’s the best darn list of Christmas illuminations in Seoul you’ll find on the internet. And the best part? Every single Christmas illumination on this list is free except for Lotte World and Everland.

Blog Posts You Might Like

• The Best Seoul Christmas Guide
• The Ultimate Guide To Winter in Korea

How To Take Photos

I’m truly proud of how far my photography has come since I started blogging. The majority of the photos you see in this post were taken by me. There’s a few in here who were taken by my girl Linda, from Linda Goes East and by Brooke who you can find on TikTok here. I always get questions about my equipment and how I edit, so here are some of the best tips and tricks.

I’m constantly asked what camera I use to take my photos. I use the Sony A7III with the Sony 16-35mm lens because it’s a great multipurpose and every day use lens.

I use my iPhone 14 Pro to take videos and photos. In addition, my two favorite tripods are this foldable one for my DSLR and the travel tripod for your iPhone. If you can’t be bothered to get a DSLR camera (I know how expensive they are) then consider using this attachable phone camera lens.

Winter in Seoul & Korea Ebook

Coming soon! 

Get Travel Insurance 

A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance. Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency. I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance which you can book here. With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:

1. Trip Cancelation – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
2. Emergency Medical – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
3. Medical Evacuation – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
4. Trip Interuption – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
5. Trip Delay – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses.

If this plan isn’t for you then you can check out the different travel insurance plans World Nomads has here.

How To Get Around 

The best way to get around Korea is by purchasing a T-Money card at any convenience store and loading it with money. You can also purchase the mobile version via Klook and get a 5,000 won top off coupon to use with your purchase.

I also recommend getting the Discover Seoul Pass so you can visit the major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discounted price. It comes in increments of 24/48/72 hours. 

How To Stay Connected 

Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer wifi for free and you can connect to various free spots around the city. However, if you don’t want to be reliant on that, you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone.

What To Pack For Winter in Korea 

I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way when you buy all of your favorite Korean products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite travel suitcase brand is Béis. I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage. Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account.

What To Wear For Winter in Korea 

Wondering what to wear in Korea in winter? South Korea winter temperatures are super cold at night, but never fear. Below are some of my favorite staple pieces I wore during winter in South Korea. This list will help you create the perfect winter outfit in Korea. In my experience, Korea winter styles usually consist of skirts for many woman although they are paired with fleece lined tights to keep warm. For an extensive guide on what to wear in winter in Korea and what to pack for winter in Korea, click here. 

• American Eagle Curvy Skinny Jeans – I basically live in high waisted skinny jeans all autumn. I especially love the Curvy Jeans from American Eagle. They stretch and fit in all the right places.
• Ugg Boots – Winter boots in Korea are an absolute must!
• Sweater Dress – If you plan on going out to dinner at night or you just like to be flirty or girly, then you should definitely have a few dresses like this in your wardrobe.
• Long Padded Jacket – I will almost always have this staple in my Korea winter outfit. A good winter jacket in Korea is a must. 
• Sheertex Rip Resistant Tights – If you have a fur baby like I do, these are a godsend. Trust me, these are HARD to destroy and totally worth the investment.
• Warm Scarf – The weather gets a bit chilly in Korea at night in Autumn. I always keep my long scarf in my bag for when that happens.

Winter Weather in Korea 

Winter weather in Korea honestly varies month by month. Korea in winter can be either very mild or very cold. The Korea winter months are usually from December to February. 

December Weather in Korea 

South Korea in winter has temperatures ranging from … Korea in December brings average high temperatures of 37°F (3°C) and an average low temperature of 19°F (-7°C). It’s the second coldest month behind January. 

January Weather in Korea

Winters in Korea typically get very cold during the first month of the year. Korea in January brings average high temperatures of 34°F (1°C). In the evenings temperatures reach an average low of 16°F (-8°C).

February Weather in Korea

Winter weather in South Korea typically starts warming up near the end of the month. Korea in February brings temperatures ranging from 39°F (4°C) to 19°F (-7°C). This is a very cloudy month, but it eventually starts to warm up at the end. 

Public Holidays in Korea During Winter 

There are lots of notable public holidays in Korea during winter. Since many people have off during all these public holidays you’ll see many people traveling during this time. Seoul in December is also super fun because you’ll find all sorts of romantic Christmas lights throughout the city. It’s also a great opportunity to learn and experience Korean culture. In 2023, the Korea public holidays are: 

• Christmas Day – December 25, 2023 
• New Year’s Day – January 1, 2024 
• Seollal (Chinese New Year) – February 10th – 12th, 2024

Map of the Best Christmas Lights in Seoul

I’m giving away all of my secrets! Surprise! Go forth young padiwon and take the most amazing photos of Seoul during Christmas. I did most of the exploration so you can enjoy it to the fullest and pick and choose which places you want to go.

1. Times Square Shopping Mall

The Times Square Shopping Mall Christmas Tree is one of the most famous Christmas displays in Seoul. Every year it is decorated a bit differently, but stunning nonetheless. Fun fact. If you’re looking for tasty food, then definitely go into the mall to warm up. You’ll find my favorite restaurants, Din Tai Fung (soup dumpling chain from Taiwan) and Shake Shack. In addition, there’s also a huge SPAO inside. If you’re a Harry Potter fan like me, then you’re going to love the Harry Potter collection they come out with every year around the holidays.

2. IFC Shopping Mall

Christmas is celebrated in South Korea in the best way… With fun events and Christmas lights. There are so many things to do in Seoul in December it’s hard to get to them all. Seoul at Christmas is truly a spectacular sight. The IFC Shopping Mall has gorgeous Christmas decorations in Korea. I loved their ring light display with lit up animals.

3. NC Shinguro Shopping Mall

Located of Subway Line 1, the NC Shinguro Shopping Mall took their Christmas decor inspiration from France. Many of the shopping malls there had hanging Christmas trees beautifully glittering. These are some of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Korea.

4. Lotte World Mall Outdoor Displays

I lived very close to this Lotte Department Store, thus I was always the first to capture the new displays. Like the other malls, the theme changes every year. Korean Christmas decor is very similar to what you’d find in the USA. In 2020, they took inspiration from the “A” shaped homes where you could wander inside. You can find their yearly Christmas display in the courtyard of the Lotte World Mall.

5. Lotte World Mall Indoor Displays

In the normal Lotte World Mall, there is a staircase decorated according to the seasons and holidays. To find it, take the escalators all the way to the fifth floor and walk toward all the restaurants. It’s in front of the 7/11 and nearby the walkway the connects the fancy Lotte with the normal Lotte. South Korean Christmas honestly makes Seoul look like a winter fairytale.

6. Signiel Hotel

Funny story. I dressed up in a sparkly dress and wore my fur jacket so I looked bougie af walking into the Signiel. If you look the part, I guarantee no one is going to say anything if you take a few pictures like I did. One of my favorite things to do in Seoul in winter is sit down for an excellent Christmas afternoon tea. In addition, you could also indulge in Signiel Seoul’s Christmas afternoon tea. The views from the hotel cannot be beat so book your stay at the Signiel hotel here.

7. Lotte Department Store

Across the street from the Lotte World Mall is the Lotte Department Store. This is an extension of the fancy Lotte so expect to see name brands. Christmas in Seoul always has a theme with Lotte. In 2020, it was Christmas in Finland with TonTon. I love the giant LED light snowflakes displayed on the building every year. Korea Christmas decorations are big and over the top.

8. Lotte World

You can always count on Korean amusement parks for getting really into the holiday spirit. If you’re feeling super homesick, then consider going to Lotte World. They have a HUGE indoor skating rink, plus a really cute parade. It’s most crowded on Christmas Day in Korea. You can book your tickets to Lotte World here.

9. Seoulism Cafe

During December in Seoul, many cafes bring out Christmas trees and decorations. Korea’s best cafe serves up the holiday cheer every year. Seoulism’s exterior and interior are beautifully making it a typical Seoul Korea Christmas.

10. Myeongdong Lotte Department Store

The Lotte Department Store in Myeongdong is also an incredible place for Christmas decorations in Seoul because they really go all out. They deck it out with thousands of Christmas lights and it’s seriously a magical wonderland. This display is sure to make you remember Christmas in Seoul Korea.

11. Shinsegae Department Store in Myeongdong

Right down the street from the Lotte Department Store is the fancy Shinsegae Department Store. Every year they decorate the front of the store with beautiful lights and every 30 minutes, they have an LED light show. It’s definitely worth stopping by to see it. While I lived in Korea, going to this display became my favorite Christmas tradition in Korea.

12. Seoul Lantern Festival 2023

The Seoul Light Festival sees Seoul lit up beautifully. This year, the festival will take place from December 19, 2023 – December 31, 2023. They have several Seoul Xmas displays in the stream and the theme changes every year.

13. Imperial Palace Seoul

The Imperial Palace Seoul has a very cute Christmas themed high tea. They also have a giant Christmas tree in the lobby where you can take photos. There’s even a really cute Christmas village. Seoul in December really looks luxurious.

14. Banyan Tree Seoul

One of my favorite places in Christmas photos in Seoul is Banyan Tree. In 2020, they did a German inspired Christmas village. The kids could ride on the Christmas train around it and you could can see the Christmas Pyramid as well. Read my review of the Banyan Tree Seoul here or you can book your stay at the Banyan Tree here.

15. Conrad Seoul

All the big hotels in Seoul are happy to bring their Christmas Seoul to keep their guests coming back. The staff at the Conrad Seoul were very kind when I asked them if I could take photos in the lobby and told me I was more than welcome and to just be aware of my surroundings as not to disturb others. You can also book your stay at the Conrad Seoul here.

16. JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square

Fun fact, if you decided to visit the JW Marriott, then they’ll also be running Barbie Salon de Ddalki. It takes place every year starting in November/December. I highly recommend doing the Barbie buffet because it’s one of my favorite traditions. Their lobby is also decorated with a cute Christmas tree and the setting is very intimate so it feels like Christmas in your house. You can book your stay at the JW Marriott in Dongdaemun Square here.

17. Park Hyatt Seoul

Out of all the places mentioned,Park Hyatt Seoul has the absolute BEST high tea in the whole city. The beautiful views of the city from up above are insanely scenic. Their lobby has some amazing Christmas decorations as well, but the real treat is posing with the high tea tray overlooking the ice skating rink at the Coex Mall. You can book your stay at the Park Hyatt Seoul here.

18. CoEx Mall Skating Rink

What’s a little Christmas magic without an ice skating rink? Every year the CoEx Mall puts up an ice rink outside. The theme changes from year to year, but my favorite was the Chanel Ice Rink. It costs about 5,000 won for the skate rentals and equipment and is so worth it. I went five times in 2019!

19. Intercontinental Seoul CoEx

The Intercontinental Seoul at the CoEx Mall is in the area and they display an enormous Christmas tree made out of purple and silver ornaments. My favorite part are the swirling lights that adorn it at the top.

20. Banpo Floating Islands

This is a well kept secret in Seoul. Every year the Banpo Floating Islands get decorated for Christmas and New Years. The lights go up by the end of November and stay up until February. The setting is so romantic being by the Han River with all these gorgeous lights.

21. Starfield Library

Not only does Starfield Library offer thousands of titles in multiple languages you can read for free, but it also has seasonal decorations. Again, every year the theme changes, but my all time favorite was the 2020 snowflake Christmas tree.

22. Hyundai Department Store in Gangnam

I came across this display walking home from Thanksgiving dinner and thought it was the most precious thing. They had a Christmas tree with an LED display at the bottom counting down the days until Christmas and also an LED light show on the building with different winter themed foods and objects.

23. Grand Hyatt Seoul

If you love ice skating then Grand Hyatt Seoul has an amazing ice rink! The trees around the rink are decorated with thousands of glittering lights making it a winter wonderland. What makes the Grand Hyatt so special is that they’re situated on a mountain and you can see Seoul City down below. To book your stay at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, click here.

24. Everland

Everland is always a great day trip from Seoul. They put up romantic illuminations every year. Plus, during the holidays, they give special discount. The illuminations are stunning and well worth it to go get some Christmas cheer. You can book your tickets to Everland here.

Visiting Seoul in December should definitely be on your bucket list! A South Korea Christmas Holiday is sure to fill you with wonder. After all a Christmas tradition in South Korea is to have the twinkliest lights. Go big or go home! These lights stay up past the New Year in Seoul and into February.

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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