Somehow, there are already only two weeks left in this year, so it’s time to enjoy the best things to do at Christmas in Seoul. There’s something special about the end of the year, with a feeling of nostalgia for the year gone, and yet a joyful anticipation of the new year ahead! We’ve gathered a few ways to spend the end of the year wisely, simply click on each title to see detailed information.
1. Go on a cute Christmas date
I think Christmas probably has to be the most romantic time of the year. What should you do on Christmas that you can’t miss? Take pictures with a Christmas tree in the background, or go skating at an ice rink, maybe? This is a season full of things to enjoy, including the Seoul Lantern Festival. And if you’re looking for more Christmas date ideas, you can find them here.
2. Head to a Christmas market at an outlet mall
The end-of-year atmosphere is bright here, and you can get your shopping done as a bonus! The likes of Shinsegae Premium Outlet in Siheung and Paju, and Lotte Premium Outlet Time Villas attract people every year with spectacular Christmas decorations, and at these outlet malls, you can get excited just by window shopping. If you want to know more about outlets near Seoul, check out our guide here.
3. Spot beautifully-decorated trees at these Christmassy spots
A tree is an essential part of Christmas. There are many places to see Seoul’s best Christmas trees, but among them, we recommend Shinsegae Department Store in Myeongdong, COEX Byeolmadang Library, Yeongdeungpo Times Square, Hyundai Department Store Trade Centre Branch, and The Hyundai Seoul Christmas Market. These large trees are decorated with various ornaments and lights, making you feel happy just by looking at them!
4. Celebrate the winter season at COEX Aquarium
At the end of the year, when the cold wave continues every day, it’s tempting to enjoy an outing in a warm place – so let’s head to the aquarium. COEX Aquarium offers a variety of programs and events that spark joy and curiosity about the marine world, such as underwater performances by mermaids and penguin feeding times. We’d definitely recommend this place, which is home to over 20,000 marine creatures and is home to the largest number of sharks in Korea! For more information about COEX Aquarium’s operating hours and tickets, check here.
5. Go on an unforgettable winter camping trip
There are plenty of camping sites that offer cost-effectiveness and value in Seoul, including Nanji Camping Site, Noeul Camping Site, Seoul Grand Park Camping Site, Jungnang Camping Forest, Gangdong Greenway Family Camping Site, Choansan Camping Site, Ui-dong Family Camping Site, and Cheonwangsan Camping Site. Reservations usually open around the 15th of the month before your visit, and they tend to fill up very quickly, but cancellations often appear, so we recommend checking from time to time for a last-minute getaway.
6. End the year by listening for the New Year’s bells
Could even better things happen to us in 2024? Count down to the New Year with a sense of excitement, and welcome the moment when January 1 arrives at various places in Seoul, including the Bosingak Pavilion bell ringing ceremony, DDP, Yeongdong-daero, and Lotte World Tower.