With Christmas around the corner, Busan’s major department stores are launching full-scale holiday markets, offering everything from festive decorations to themed photo zones all designed to bring the city into peak holiday spirit despite ongoing high prices.

Lotte Department Store Busan Main Branch is hosting its sprawling Christmas Market through December 28 at the B1 Signature Popup Zone, featuring 50+ brands across three phases.

From premium tree ornaments and décor to party foods, desserts, craft beers, and exclusive holiday photo booths, shoppers can enjoy a packed lineup of seasonal treats. Phase 1 features brands like Illuakiki, Seven Gardeners, Alessi, Haribo, and a Christmas-themed BYTP photo studio making its Busan debut. Later phases introduce limited-edition character goods, Christmas tableware, and popular year-end gift collections.

Inside the main entrance, an oversized curtain backdrop and giant Tonttu characters create a hot new holiday photo spot. A meet-and-greet with the official Santa of Finland will also take place on December 14.

Shinsegae Centum City has transformed the mall into a “Musical Wonderland” through December 31.

Its centerpiece, a 4.5-meter-tall Christmas tree surrounded by 20+ smaller trees, sets the stage for immersive hologram installations. From December 11 to 25, a special “Hologram Wall” will feature performers from Kinky Boots and Beetlejuice, letting visitors take photos with musical characters through a hologram booth.

Shinsegae’s signature character “Poovilla,” large-scale media façades, and LED holiday décor spread throughout the store complete the festive atmosphere.

Fleet Chinhae