By Jina Lee

Editor, GSIS Newsletter

Spending your winter break in Seoul? While many of your classmates might head home for the holidays, Seoul offers an incredible array of winter festivities that make staying in the city a delightful choice! This is your perfect chance to experience Korean winter culture beyond the campus walls. We've curated this guide to help you make the most of your break in Seoul - from spectacular light festivals to traditional New Year celebrations!

Spectacular Light Festivals in Seoul

Seoul Light Gwanghwamun 

Experience Seoul's iconic illumination festival featuring stunning media art displays in the historic Gwanghwamun area. Running from December 13, 2024, to January 5, 2025, enjoy the spectacular light shows:

- Weekdays: 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM

- Weekends: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

- Special Year-End Programs: 6:00 PM - Midnight

Check out their Instagram and website

Seoul Lantern Festival

Don't miss the 16th Seoul Lantern Festival at Cheonggyecheon! This year's theme, "Play with the Light of Seoul," brings over 200 light installations and interactive experiences from December 13, 2024, to January 12, 2025. A perfect spot for your winter evening stroll!

Check out their website and instagram

Winter Sports and Activities in Seoul

Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink

Seoul's winter landmark opens on December 20, 2024! Operating until February 9, 2025, the rink welcomes visitors with extended hours:

- Sunday to Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM

- Saturdays & Holidays: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Great news for tourists: Free admission with the Discover Seoul Pass!

Check out their website here

Yeouido Snow Sledding Park

Located at Yeouido Hangang Park, this winter wonderland is open from December 24, 2024, to February 16, 2025 (9:00 AM—5:00 PM). Visitors can enjoy sledding, mini-Viking rides, and other fun winter activities. Admission is 6,000 won, and additional activities are available for purchase.

Special Year-End Events

SEOULCon

Join the city's biggest influencer festival at DDP from December 28, 2024, to January 1, 2025! With 3,500 content creators from 50 countries, Korean culture, and lifestyle are experienced through various events and performances. Most programs are free, though some special events may require separate registration.

Check out their website and instagram

Gwanghwamun Market

Visit the magical Christmas market around Gwanghwamun Square (December 13, 2024 - January 5, 2025). Don't miss the unique Santa Village and browse through handmade crafts and seasonal items!

Check out their wesbite and instagram

New Year's Eve Bell Ringing Ceremony

Welcome 2025 at Bosingak! Join this spectacular event on December 31, 2024 (23:30-00:30). It will feature the traditional bell-ringing ceremony, LED performances, and the unveiling of the "Midnight Sun," a massive 30-meter display. Experience the magic as 15,000 LED wristbands light up the night sky!

Check out their webstie

Tips for Visitors:

- Dress warmly in layers - Seoul winters can be pretty cold!

- Book popular activities in advance, especially during the holiday season

- Check social media accounts of events for real-time updates and special announcements

The GSIS newsletter wishes you a wonderful winter break full of Seoul adventures!

Remember to share your experiences with your classmates when the new semester begins.