Do Koreans Celebrate Christmas? A Deep Dive into Christmas in Korea

In the bustling streets of South Korea, the festive spirit of Christmas weaves its magic, answering the question, “Do Koreans celebrate Christmas?” with a resounding yes. Christmas in Korea has carved its own niche becoming the holiday to celebrate mainly as couples and friends. Join ThxKorea as we embark on a yuletide journey through Korea, exploring how Christmas is cherished here.

Traditions and Activities for Christmas in Korea

• Light Festivals and Decorations: Cities like Seoul are adorned with spectacular light displays, creating a festive atmosphere. Key areas like Myeongdong and Cheonggyecheon Stream turn into winter wonderlands, perfect for evening strolls. 
• Christmas Markets: Inspired by European Christmas markets, these pop-up markets are filled with holiday crafts, food, and music. Namsangol Hanok Village and Garden of Morning Calm are popular spots, offering a glimpse into Korea’s Christmas spirit.
• Concerts and Performances: Winter is a season of K-pop Christmas specials and concerts, showcasing Korea’s vibrant pop culture. Christmas in Korea will often house K-pop Idols singing classic Christmas Songs.

How Do Koreans Typically Celebrate Christmas?

• Romantic Date Night: Christmas in Korea is popularly celebrated as a couple’s holiday, much like Valentine’s Day. Many young couples plan romantic outings, with Seoul offering a plethora of cozy cafes and picturesque spots for memorable dates.
• Church Services: For the Christian population in Korea, attending midnight mass or church services is a significant part of the celebration. These services are often followed by fellowship and sharing meals.
• Gift Giving: Exchanging gifts is a growing trend, especially among the younger generation. While not as commercialized as in some Western countries, Christmas in Korea is still the time for gift-giving which is seen as a gesture of care and affection.
• Christmas Events: Major theme parks like Lotte World and Everland host special Christmas events and parades, drawing crowds looking for a fun and festive experience.
• Christmas Day Closures?: Unlike most western countries you will find restaurants and malls still open on Christmas day, offering absolute convenience that you won’t find elsewhere.

Festivities and Events During Christmas in Korea

Major Events & Festivals during Christmas in Korea 

• Seoul Christmas Festival: Along the picturesque Cheonggyecheon Stream, this festival lights up downtown Seoul with dazzling illuminations, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for holiday photographs.
• Everland’s Christmas Fantasy: This theme park extravaganza offers festive parades, themed shows, and a Christmas market. Ideal for families, it’s a festive wonderland of joy and merriment.
• Myeongdong Christmas Market: In the heart of Seoul’s shopping district, this market transforms into a vibrant hub of festive stalls, seasonal treats, and unique Christmas gifts.
• Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival: Experience a fairy-tale world as this garden becomes a luminous paradise with millions of lights, offering a serene and scenic Christmas celebration.
• Busan Christmas Tree Festival: Famous for its towering Christmas tree and light displays, Gwangbok-ro in Busan becomes a festive focal point, offering a distinct holiday experience.
• Seoul Plaza Christmas Tree & Gwanghwamun Square: The heart of Seoul city comes alive with the iconic Seoul Plaza Christmas tree, a symbol of the holiday season. The nearby Gwanghwamun Square often features festive events and activities, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Popular Destinations for Christmas Celebrations

• Lotte World Tower: This landmark skyscraper provides special Christmas events, panoramic city views, and festive activities inside it’s mall.
• N Seoul Tower: A top choice for couples, offering breathtaking views and special decorations that enhance its romantic appeal during Christmas.
• Haneul Park: For a tranquil celebration, this park provides a natural retreat, combining winter scenery with subtle festive decorations.
• Hongdae and Itaewon: Known for their nightlife, these areas buzz with themed parties and events, especially popular among the youth and expat communities.

Top Christmas Markets in Korea!

Le Marche De Noel Seorae Maeul Park 2023

• Date & Time: December 9, 2023 (10 AM – 4 PM)
• Location: Lycee International Xavier (23 Bibong-gil)
• What to Expect: Embrace the festive spirit at Le Marche De Noel. This Christmas market offers a blend of French culture and holiday cheer. Visitors can explore a variety of stalls selling artisanal crafts, traditional French holiday treats, and unique gifts. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, reminiscent of a quaint European Christmas market, making it a perfect destination for families and friends.

European Christmas Market

• Date & Time: December 9 – 10, 2023 (12 PM – 7 PM)
• Location: Seoul Hansung University Station Exit 2 (Dongsomun-dong 2ga 130-2)
• What to Expect: Step into a European wonderland in the heart of Seoul. This market brings a slice of European Christmas traditions, featuring handmade crafts, seasonal decorations, and a variety of European foods and sweets. The vibe is vibrant yet traditional, offering a multicultural experience to its visitors.

The Hyundai’s H Village (La Boutique D Harry)

• Date & Time: Now – December 31, 2023
• Location: The Hyundai (108 Yeoui-daero, 5F)
• What to Expect: The Hyundai’s H Village transforms into a Christmas hub, offering an upscale holiday shopping experience. Expect high-end gifts, luxury decor items, and exclusive Christmas merchandise. The ambiance is sophisticated and festive, perfect for those looking to splurge on premium holiday items.
• Notice: Admission to The Hyundai’s H Village Christmas is free, and visitors can view it through advance reservations or on-site waiting.

Gwanghwamun Square Market & Lantern Festival

• Date & Time: December 15, 2023 – January 21, 2024 (6 PM – 9 PM on Sun – Fri, 5:30 PM -10 PM on Sat and holidays)
• Location: Gwanghwamun Square (172 Sejong-daero)
• What to Expect: Gwanghwamun Square Market is an enchanting blend of a traditional Christmas market and a Lantern Festival. Visitors can enjoy stunning lantern displays while shopping for gifts, seasonal snacks, and participating in various festive activities. The market’s atmosphere is lively and illuminated, making it an ideal spot for evening strolls.
• More Information : Seoul Lantern Festival  

2023 Winter Seoul, My Soul 

• Date & Time :  December 15, 2023 (Fri) ~ Jan 15, 2024 (Mon)
• Locations : All around Seoul, from DDP to Gwanghwamun Square, Bosingak, Songhyeon-dong, Hangang Park, and more.
• Main programs : From 11 PM on December 31st, the highlight of <Seoul Winter 2023>, the ‘Countdown’ and ‘Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony’, will take place in the Bosingak to Sejong-daero area. To allow everyone in the city to share in the New Year’s Eve moment, the event will be broadcast live not only from Bosingak and Sejong-daero but also from Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and Gwanghwamun Square.

DDP Christmas Market

• Date & Time: December 21 – 30
• Location: 281 Eulji-ro (DDP B2 Market)
• What to Expect: Hosted at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, this market is a must-visit for those who appreciate modern design and unique gifts. The DDP Christmas Market combines art, fashion, and design, offering a contemporary take on the traditional Christmas market. The atmosphere here is trendy and futuristic, catering to a young and hip crowd.

Best Foods & Gifts for Christmas in Korea

Traditional and Modern Christmas Foods in Korea

• Korean Christmas Cuisine: While Christmas in Korea does not have a national holiday dish, the holiday has brought a blend of Western and Korean culinary traditions. You’ll find Western-style Christmas cakes, often beautifully decorated with Christmas-themed designs, alongside traditional Korean dishes. Many families opt for a modern feast that includes both Korean and Western fare, such as bulgogi, japchae, and roast chicken or turkey.
• Festive Sweets and Treats: Bakeries and cafes across Seoul offer an array of festive sweets and seasonal beverages. From intricately designed gingerbread houses to special Christmas cookies and peppermint-flavored drinks, the city embraces the sweet side of the holiday.

Common Gift-Giving Practices

• Exchanging Gifts: In Korea, exchanging gifts during Christmas is becoming increasingly popular, especially among young people and families with children. Common gifts include clothing, electronics, cosmetics, and toys for children. Many stores in Seoul offer special Christmas sales and gift packages.
• Corporate Gifting Culture: It’s also common for companies to give year-end bonuses or gifts to employees as a token of appreciation. These corporate gifts often include practical items or gift cards.
• Charitable Giving: Reflecting the spirit of the season, many people in Korea participate in charitable activities and donations during Christmas. This can range from volunteering at local shelters to participating in charity events and donating to those in need.

How Do You Say Merry Christmas in Korean?

• Basic Greeting: The most common way to say “Merry Christmas” in Korean is “메리 크리스마스” (Meri Keuriseumaseu), a direct transliteration from English. This phrase is widely recognized and used across South Korea during the festive season.
• Formal Greeting: For a more formal setting, you might use “즐거운 크리스마스 되세요” (Jeulgeoun Keuriseumaseu doeseyo), which translates to “Have a joyful Christmas.”

Other Popular Christmas Greetings and Phrases in Korean

• Wishing Happiness: “행복한 크리스마스 보내세요” (Haengbokhan Keuriseumaseu bonaeseyo) means “Spend a happy Christmas.” It’s a warm way to wish someone a happy holiday.
• New Year Greetings: Around Christmas, it’s also common to start wishing people a happy new year with “새해 복 많이 받으세요” (Saehae bok manhi badeuseyo), which means “Receive lots of luck in the New Year.”
• Thank You Phrase: To express gratitude for a gift or a kind gesture, you can say “감사합니다” (Gamsahamnida), which means “Thank you.”
• Greeting Cards: If you’re writing a Christmas card, you might include “크리스마스에 눈이 내리면 좋겠어요”(Keuriseumaseue nuni naerimyeon johgesseoyo), meaning “It would be nice if it snows on Christmas.”

Conclusion: The Festive Charm of Christmas in Korea

In summary, Christmas in Korea is a unique blend of modern celebrations and cultural nuances. From the twinkling lights of Seoul Plaza to the festive markets, Koreans have embraced the Christmas spirit. As we’ve explored, participating in city-wide festivities in Korea showcases the magic and delightful celebrations. So, if you find yourself in Korea during this magical time, immerse yourself in the festive cheer and create unforgettable memories in the heart of this vibrant culture.