As the night air in the city grows colder, the streets of Seoul are illuminated with dazzling lights—making you quickly forget the biting cold.
Starting in November, as early winter approaches, various parts of downtown Seoul are transformed into festive venues—from massive media facades adorning department store exteriors to pop-up markets that look like they’ve been transported straight from a small European village.
Since huge crowds gather during the year-end season, it’s essential to check the advance reservation schedule and the best viewing spots in advance!
Here are the detailed schedules, advance ticketing information, transportation details, and insider tips for five of Seoul’s must-visit Christmas attractions this winter.
Shinsegae Department Store Media Facade
Shinsegae Department Store’s media facade, which reaches the pinnacle of splendor and grandeur every year!
The Christmas video will premiere on November 6 at 5:00 p.m.
The 3D anamorphic video unfolding on the curved LED screen of overwhelming scale will instantly transform the Myeongdong area into a world straight out of a fairy tale.
Viewing Tip: Anyone can watch the display without a separate advance reservation. The plaza in front of the Seoul Central Post Office or the area near Exit 1 of the Hoehyeon Underground Shopping Center are the best vantage points to take in the entire facade at a glance.
Hours: Daily 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Repeated screenings approximately every 10–15 minutes)
Admission: Free
Byeolmadang Library
If you want to soak up the subtle holiday atmosphere from the warmth of indoors, head to the Byeolmadang Library at Starfield COEX Mall in Gangnam.
Set against the backdrop of a massive bookshelf standing 13 meters tall, the golden Christmas tree and illuminated sculptures bring a warm winter atmosphere to shoppers strolling through the mall every year.
Hours: Daily 10:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Admission: Free
2026 The Hyundai Seoul Christmas Village
The Hyundai Department Store looks just like a Christmas street in New York!
Following the Hyundai Department Store Apgujeong Main Store, which has already become a hot topic on social media, The Hyundai Seoul in Yeouido is also preparing for its transformation.
Book in advance and don’t miss this year’s exclusive Christmas spectacle!
Reservation Information: You can make advance reservations via the The Hyundai Hi app.
Hours: Mon–Thu 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM / Fri–Sun 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Admission: Free
First Round of Reservations Opens: Thursday, November 5
Jamsil Lotte Christmas Market
The “Lotte Town Christmas Market,” where you can experience the spirit of a European Christmas right in the heart of Seoul!
A massive Wish Tree decorated with tens of thousands of lights, a carousel, mulled wine (glühwein) stands, and ornament booths fill the lawn plaza, reigniting that long-forgotten Christmas spirit.
Reservations and Ticket Types: Advance reservations via Naver will be available in three rounds through Lotte Department Store’s official channels. In addition to free general admission tickets for daytime hours, visitors can opt for a paid Fast Pass (which includes a beverage and coupon package) to skip the lines.
Hours: Daily 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Admission: Free general daytime admission / Fast Pass and night admission tickets available for a fee
First Reservation: November 9 (Mon) at 2:00 PM Second
Reservation: November 20 (Fri) at 2:00 PM
Third Reservation: December 7 (Mon) at 2:00 PM
2026 Gwanghwamun Christmas Market
The Gwanghwamun and Cheonggyecheon areas are once again illuminated with light!
We simply cannot leave out the Gwanghwamun Christmas Market, the crowning glory of the year-end season.
Don’t miss the sparkling Christmas trees and street booths, all part of the Seoul Lantern Festival.
Viewing Tip: Since it takes place in an open-air pedestrian plaza, you can freely explore it without a reservation or admission fee. However, large crowds gather every year, so extra caution is advised when visiting. As the outdoor wind can be strong, be sure to dress warmly.
Hours: Daily 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM (Market booths open when the lights come on)
Admission: Free
