62 Things to Do in Seoul in December

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Gwanghwamun Square Christmas Market, a popular spot for holiday cheer with dazzling lights and a lively atmosphere.

Tip: This market is only open for a short period in December, so plan your visit accordingly.

Wander along Cheonggyecheon Stream and be mesmerized by the Seoul Lantern Festival, where thousands of illuminated lanterns create a magical, glowing wonderland.

Tip: The festival is free to attend and offers a beautiful evening stroll.

Experience the dazzling Christmas decorations and lights at the Lotte Department Store, a beloved spot for holiday window displays and festive cheer.

Tip: Check the store's schedule for specific light show times.

Marvel at the elaborate and often whimsical Christmas decorations at The Hyundai Seoul, a modern shopping destination that goes all out for the holidays.

Tip: Reservations may be required, so check in advance.

Enjoy a classic winter activity by sledding down the slopes at Ttukseom Hangang Park, offering a fun and affordable way to experience snow in the city.

Tip: Check the operating schedule as it can be subject to weather conditions.

Lace up your skates and glide around the Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink, a popular winter attraction offering a festive atmosphere and affordable fun.

Tip: Skate and helmet rental is included in the low admission fee.

Witness the spectacular Seoul Light DDP, a dazzling projection mapping show that transforms the Dongdaemun Design Plaza into a canvas of light and color.

Tip: This event typically runs from mid-December to the end of the month.

Experience the enchanting Christmas illuminations at Shinsegae Department Store, known for its elaborate holiday decorations that draw crowds.

Tip: The displays are often up until the end of January.

Step into a winter wonderland at the Lotte World Tower Christmas Market, featuring charming stalls, festive treats, and a carousel.

Tip: There's a small fee for night entry, and fast passes are available.

Discover the enchanting Garden of the Morning Calm's light festival, where the botanical garden is transformed into a magical display of illuminated art.

Tip: Consider an evening tour to fully appreciate the light installations.

Experience the vibrant and festive atmosphere of Myeongdong at night, with streets aglow with twinkling lights and a palpable holiday spirit.

Tip: Perfect for a post-dinner stroll and soaking in the festive mood.

For an unusual holiday experience, visit Jogyesa Temple during Christmas to see its unique festive decorations and serene atmosphere.

Tip: A peaceful alternative to the bustling Christmas markets.

Enjoy ice skating at Olympic Park, offering another great venue to embrace the winter season with a fun outdoor activity.

Tip: Check for seasonal opening dates and times.

Join the locals at the Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony on New Year's Eve, a traditional event to welcome the new year with a resonant bell toll.

Tip: Arrive early as large crowds are expected.

Visit Pocheon Herb Island for its dazzling Christmas Eve light festival, a popular spot known for its extensive and beautiful light displays.

Tip: Expect large crowds, especially on Christmas Eve.

Explore the trendy Seongsu-dong area for various Christmas-themed pop-up stores, offering unique shopping and festive experiences.

Tip: Keep an eye out for brands like TIRTIR, SKIMS, and JUNGSAEMMIN.

Admire the impressive Christmas decorations at the Starfield Library, where the towering bookshelves are adorned with festive lights and ornaments.

Tip: A great spot for photos with a unique holiday backdrop.

Enjoy a winter walk or hike in Namsan Mountain Park, offering scenic views of the city even in the colder months.

Tip: Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Experience the tranquility of Seoul Forest during winter, a spacious park perfect for a peaceful stroll amidst nature.

Tip: It's a great place for a quiet escape from the city bustle.

Visit Yeouido Hangang Park for a refreshing winter walk along the Han River, offering open spaces and city skyline views.

Tip: Enjoy the crisp winter air and expansive scenery.

Explore the festive atmosphere at the Lotte World Mall Christmas Market, a popular spot for holiday shopping and seasonal treats.

Tip: This market is often mentioned as a must-visit.

Discover the festive Christmas decorations within the COEX Mall, a large underground complex that embraces the holiday spirit.

Tip: A good option for holiday cheer if the weather is particularly cold.

Experience a warm and festive Christmas at Lotte World, an indoor theme park perfect for enjoying holiday attractions without the cold.

Tip: Be prepared for crowds, as it's a popular spot for couples.

Warm up with a delicious skewer of Eomuk (fishcake), a popular Korean street food perfect for a cold winter day.

Tip: Easily found in subway stations and on street corners.

Savor the sweet taste of Bungeoppang, a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste, a delightful winter treat.

Tip: Often sold by street vendors during colder months.

Indulge in a warm and gooey Hotteok, a sweet Korean pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, perfect for winter.

Tip: A popular street food snack, especially during winter.

Explore the vast grounds of Olympic Park, offering open spaces and walking paths suitable for a winter's day out.

Tip: Good for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the winter air.

Enjoy a family-friendly outing at Seoul Children's Grand Park, which offers outdoor spaces for a winter visit.

Tip: A good option for those with children looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.

Visit Naksan Park for its charming walking paths and city views, offering a pleasant outdoor experience even in winter.

Tip: Known for its picturesque views, especially at dusk.

Check out the TIRTIR pop-up store in Seongsu-dong for a festive shopping experience and to discover their latest offerings.

Tip: Part of the Christmas pop-up scene in Seongsu.

Visit the SKIMS pop-up store in Seongsu-dong for a chance to explore their collection in a festive holiday setting.

Tip: Another popular brand with a temporary store in Seongsu.

Discover the JUNGSAEMMIN pop-up store in Seongsu-dong, offering a unique holiday shopping opportunity.

Tip: Explore the various brand pop-ups in the area.

Experience the charm of the Hello Kitty pop-up store in Seongsu-dong, a delightful stop for fans of the iconic character.

Tip: A fun and nostalgic stop in the Seongsu area.

Embark on a winter hike in Bukhansan National Park, offering stunning natural landscapes and invigorating trails.

Tip: Ensure you have appropriate gear for cold-weather hiking.

Take a day trip to a nearby ski resort for a day of skiing or snowboarding, enjoying the winter sports available outside Seoul.

Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Escape the cold by visiting one of Seoul's indoor water parks, offering a fun and warm aquatic experience for all ages.

Tip: A great option for families looking for indoor entertainment.

Experience the excitement of ice fishing festivals, particularly the renowned Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, a major winter event.

Tip: These festivals often attract large numbers of participants.

Explore The Hyundai Seoul, a contemporary shopping mall known for its impressive architecture and seasonal decorations.

Tip: It's a popular spot for both shopping and experiencing holiday vibes.

Visit Lotte World Mall for its festive Christmas decorations and a wide array of shopping and dining options.

Tip: A good place to experience holiday cheer indoors.

Experience the festive atmosphere of Gwanghwamun Square, a central hub for holiday events and decorations in December.

Tip: Often hosts major Christmas markets and festivals.

Stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, especially beautiful during the winter lantern festival, offering a serene urban escape.

Tip: A picturesque spot for evening walks.

Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a futuristic architectural landmark that hosts various events and light festivals in winter.

Tip: Check for any special winter exhibitions or light shows.

Enjoy the open spaces and winter scenery at various Han River Parks, perfect for a refreshing outdoor experience.

Tip: Several parks along the river offer different amenities.

Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of Myeongdong, especially vibrant at night with holiday lights and festive energy.

Tip: Great for shopping and experiencing the holiday atmosphere.

Visit the area around Lotte World Tower, which hosts a popular Christmas market and offers impressive city views.

Tip: The surrounding area is beautifully decorated during the holidays.

Experience the festive holiday displays at Shinsegae Department Store, a prime location for elaborate Christmas decorations.

Tip: Known for its stunning window decorations.

Participate in the Seoul Winter Festa, a large-scale festival featuring light displays and various events across multiple locations.

Tip: This festival often includes the Seoul Lantern Festival.

Discover unique and cozy themed cafes scattered throughout Seoul, offering a charming escape from the winter chill.

Tip: Look for cafes in lesser-known neighborhoods for hidden gems.

Visit Jogyesa Temple for a serene and culturally rich experience, especially interesting during the Christmas season for its unique decorations.

Tip: A tranquil spot to experience a different side of holiday traditions.

Discover the holiday spirit within COEX Mall, a vast underground complex that offers a variety of shops and festive decorations.

Tip: A convenient place to find entertainment and shopping away from the cold.

Enjoy a festive and warm Christmas celebration at Lotte World, an indoor theme park ideal for escaping the winter weather.

Tip: Expect it to be crowded, especially with couples.

Warm up with a skewer of Eomuk (fishcake), a quintessential Korean street food that's perfect for a chilly December day.

Tip: Widely available near subway stations and busy streets.

Savor the sweet, warm goodness of Bungeoppang, a delightful fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste, a popular winter treat.

Tip: Look for vendors selling these during the colder months.

Indulge in a freshly made Hotteok, a sweet Korean pancake filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, offering a perfect warm treat.

Tip: A must-try street food during the winter season.

Visit the TIRTIR pop-up store in Seongsu-dong for a trendy holiday shopping experience.

Tip: Part of the vibrant pop-up scene in Seongsu.

Explore the SKIMS pop-up store in Seongsu-dong for a unique shopping opportunity during the festive season.

Tip: Check out the various brand pop-ups in the area.

Discover the JUNGSAEMMIN pop-up store in Seongsu-dong for a festive and engaging shopping experience.

Tip: Explore the diverse pop-up offerings in Seongsu.

Visit the Hello Kitty pop-up store in Seongsu-dong for a dose of nostalgia and festive fun.

Tip: A delightful stop for fans of the iconic character.

Hike through the scenic trails of Bukhansan National Park, offering a refreshing winter outdoor adventure.

Tip: Be prepared with warm clothing and sturdy footwear.

Take a day trip to a nearby ski resort for a day of winter sports like skiing or snowboarding.

Tip: Book your trip in advance, especially during peak times.

Enjoy a warm and fun-filled day at an indoor water park, a perfect escape from the winter cold.

Tip: Ideal for families seeking indoor entertainment.

Experience the unique thrill of ice fishing at a winter festival like the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival.

Tip: These festivals are major winter attractions.