
| Published & Edited by Seoul Tourism Organization This newsletter, issued by Seoul Tourism Organization, is intended for Seoul Partner Travel Agencies and related organizations around the world. Issued on the second Wednesday of every month, the newsletter introduces some of Seoul's best hidden charms and newest attractions. We look forward to your continued interest and support as we bring you a variety of content in the future! |
‘A Winter Festival of Lights and Romance in the Heart of Seoul’ |
As the cold winter winds begins to blow, Seoul’s nights shine brighter than ever. The Seoul Lantern Festival and Gwanghwamun Market return once again, ready to fill the city — and travelers’ hearts — with warmth and wonder
With colorful lights brightening every corner of the city, unique souvenirs capturing the essence of Seoul, and the warm, inviting aromas of delicious food wafting through the streets of Gwanghwamun — this winter, Seoul glows brighter than ever before. Step into a “Seoul illuminated by Light”, improved and enhanced more than ever before |

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| Lights and Dreams – The Magic of Seoul Comes Alive! Since its inception in 2009, the Seoul Lantern Festival — now in its 17th year — returns once again as the city’s signature winter celebration, brightening the season with light and joy. In 2024, the festival attracted 3.27 million visitors over 49 days and was internationally recognized with a Silver Award (Cultural Event category) and a Bronze Award (Festival category) at the 2025 Eventex Awards, reaffirming its growing global appeal. This year, under the theme “My Light, Our Dream, The Magic of Seoul,” the festival will showcase a dazzling array of attractions — from hanji (traditional Korean paper) lanterns to media art light installations — illuminating Seoul’s winter nights. Follow the trail of beautiful lights and take a leisurely stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream promenade to experience the true charm of the Seoul Lantern Festival. You can also enjoy the 2025 Seoul Lantern Festival along the Uicheon Stream this year. And don’t miss “The Royal Parade,” one of the most popular attractions from the 2024 festival, making its return along Uicheon Stream! This year’s Seoul Lantern Festival also offers exclusive benefits for Seoul Partner Travel Agencies. ● Christmas or New Year D.I.Y. Kit ● Seoul Lantern Festival Card Stickers
● Dream Package Postcards
After enjoying the festival, stop by the Information Center to receive a special souvenir commemorating the 2025 Seoul Lantern Festival! (※ The location of the Information Center will be announced later.)
Experience magical moments that can only be found at the Seoul Lantern Festival this winter! |
- Period: Dec. 12 (Fri), 2025 – Jan. 4 (Sun), 2026 - Hours: 18:00 – 22:00 - Address: Cheonggyecheon Stream area — from Taepyeong-ro 1-ga 1 to Janggyo-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul (Cheonggye Plaza to Samilgyo Bridge) Uicheon Stream area — from Ssangmun-dong, Dobong-gu to Suyu-dong, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul (Uigyo Bridge to Suyugyo Bridge) - Fee: Free admission - Homepage: https://www.stolantern.com - SNS: @seoullanternfestival
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| Santa Village Comes to Gwanghwamun Square Now in its fourth year, Gwanghwamun Market has been transformed into a Santa Village reminiscent of a European Christmas town. The market was created to promote nighttime tourism in Seoul and to support local small businesses. Over 100 local small businesses participate in Gwanghwamun Market, offering a wide variety of seasonal goods, handmade crafts, and delicious treats. From charming trinkets to dazzling handmade crafts, the market overflows with the spirit of Christmas. Find the perfect surprise for your loved ones this holiday season! Also, exclusive benefits await Seoul Partner Travel Agencies! ● Gwanghwamun Market Stickers ● Acrylic Keyrings
After exploring the Gwanghwamun Market, visit the Information Center to receive a special souvenir to commemorate the 2025 Gwanghwamun Market! (※ The location of the Information Center will be announced later.)
Come warm up this winter at Gwanghwamun Market! |
- Period: Dec. 12 (Fri) – Dec. 31(Wed), 2025 - Hours: 17:30 – 21:30 - Address: 175, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Gwanghwamun Square area) - Fee: Free admission - Homepage: https://www.stolantern.com - SNS: @gwanghwamunmarket
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How did you like Seoul’s radiant nights, glowing with magical lights? The Seoul Lantern Festival and Gwanghwamun Market, now richer and more vibrant than ever, creates some of the most heartwarming moments of Seoul’s winter each passing year. Seoul is ready to welcome you once again with radiant smiles beneath glowing lanterns and streets overflowing with warmth. What new lights and stories will illuminate Seoul’s nights this year? As excitement fills the air, the promise of a brilliant festival unfolding in the heart of the city makes this winter truly worth waiting for. May Seoul’s winter shine even brighter, as a cherished memory of your winter journey. |
2024–2025 GO! SEOUL Newsletter & FAM Tour Locations | |
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