Credit: Lotte Department Store

Christmas trees glowing with colorful lights, media façades straight out of a fairy tale, and carols filling the air. At this time of year, Seoul is filled with holiday cheer. If you’re in the city, don’t miss these Christmas hotspots loved by Hallyu stars. Explore towering trees, have a fun experience, and embrace the magic of the season.

| Lotte Christmas Market

Credit: Lotte Department Store

Credit: Lotte Department Store

Credit: Lotte Department Store

Jamsil World Mall Square, known for hosting various exhibitions and events, has once again been transformed into an outdoor Christmas market this year. Last year, the market attracted about 240,000 visitors, with NCT’s Taeyong making headlines for snapping a selfie in front of the giant sparkling tree. This year’s Christmas market is characterized by the faithful realization of the Christmas markets in Europe. Inspired by European Christmas markets held outdoors, it features 40 outdoor shops offering food, household goods, ornaments, and more. The highlight is the 22-meter-tall Christmas tree—three meters taller than last year—and the merry-go-round evoking childlike wonder, both of which make for perfect photo spots.

| Starfield Library at Starfield COEX Mall

Credit: Shinsegae Group

Credit: Shinsegae Group

Credit: Shinsegae Group

The Starfield Library, a centerpiece of Starfield COEX Mall, hosts a variety of cultural events, including lectures and exhibitions. Unlike traditional libraries, it allows food, drinks, and conversation, making it a perfect spot to relax after shopping. The 13-meter-tall bookshelves and the soaring ceiling make it a great backdrop for selfies. During the Christmas season, the library transforms with a stunning tree and star ornaments, casting a golden glow over the entire space. It’s an ideal place for a romantic date, reminiscent of the scenes shared by Hye-joon (Park Bo-gum) and Jeong-ha (Park So-dam) in the drama “Record of Youth.”

| Gwanghwamun Market

Credit: Seoul Tourism Organization

Credit: Seoul Tourism Organization

Credit: Seoul Tourism Organization

Gwanghwamun Square is a landmark in South Korea, the place where Kim Shin (Gong Yoo) traveled between Canada and Korea through a door in the drama “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,” and where Jin-woo (Hyun Bin) defeated an assassin in “Memories of the Alhambra.” Today, the square features the Gwanghwamun Market, which is themed around Santa’s village. Gwanghwamun Market is composed of three zones: The 14-meter-high Christmas tree is the centerpiece of Zone 1, Santa Village. Enjoy seasonal treats such as vin chaud and gingerbread cookies in Zone 2, Santa Village Food Street, and take pictures at various photo spots, including Rudolph’s sleigh in Zone 3, Santa Village Play Plaza.

* This column was last updated in December 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to confirm details before visiting.