Seoul Winter Festa returns Dec. 12, transforming the city into a fantastical winter destination

Seoul Winter Festa (Photo courtesy of Seoul City Government)

Seoul is set to launch its largest winter celebration as the 2025 Seoul Winter Festa opens on December 12 and runs through January 4, bringing 24 days of lights, performances, markets, and global cultural events to six major locations across the city.

This year’s festival aims to turn Seoul into a “fantasy winter city,” inviting both residents and international visitors to step directly into the experience.

The festival opens at Gwanghwamun Square with a dazzling Fantasia Light Parade, Korean dance and musical gala performances, a 150-member citizen choir, and a large-scale lighting ceremony.

Major attractions follow across the city, including the Santa Village Christmas market at Gwanghwamun, expanded Seoul Lantern Festival installations along Cheonggyecheon and Uicheon, the iconic Seoul Plaza skating rink, and immersive media façades at DDP for Seoul Light.

DDP also hosts SeoulCon, where over 3,500 global influencers gather for K-pop concerts, award shows, and K-culture exhibitions. Buskers, interactive art, winter food zones, a quirky “winter sleeping contest,” and K-performance competitions add to the festive energy citywide.

With programs changing daily, the Seoul Winter Festa offers new sights and experiences at every visit, cementing its place as one of the city’s signature global winter attractions.

USAG Yongsan