Christmas Village at Gongseri Catholic Church in Asan, Chungnam
As the year 2025 approaches its end in December, the Christmas season brings a stunning transformation to a notable destination. The star of the show is the Gongseri Catholic Church in Asan, Chungnam.
Established in 1890, Gongseri Church is a significant Catholic shrine honoring martyrs, and in December, it is adorned with beautiful Christmas lights that illuminate the entire church.
Surrounding the church are the Stations of the Cross and a magnificent protected Zelkova tree, adding to the church's charm. Built during the Gojong era, Gongseri Church transforms beautifully for the Christmas season, introducing the 2025 Gongseri Christmas Village.
This year, the Christmas decorations have begun, and I visited the church to witness the festive setup. Although drone photography is restricted after sunset, I was fortunate to capture the church's Christmas lights as they were turned on at 5 PM.
The church is situated on a hill connecting Asan Bay and Sapgyocheon, where early missionaries first landed to begin their mission, leading to the establishment of the church in 1894.
Initially, a private house was used as a church, but in 1897, a rectory was built, and the main church was completed in 1922, becoming the first parish in Chungcheongnam-do.
Upon hearing about the Christmas decorations, I visited but found the display somewhat understated. A nun informed me that the full decorations had not yet been installed, and this year, the large Christmas tree typically placed in front of the church would not be set up. Visitors should keep this in mind.
The church grounds include the graves of three martyrs from the Byeongin Persecution and feature a parish with a capacity of 130, a rectory, a retreat house, and a meeting room.
Surrounded by centuries-old Zelkova trees and lush vegetation, Gongseri Church is renowned for its year-round beauty, not just during the Christmas season.
Before the sun fully set, I took a leisurely stroll around the church with my camera. Although the temperature was mild, the hilltop location often brings strong winds. Therefore, visitors should dress warmly with gloves, hats, and scarves, and bringing hand warmers is advisable for a comfortable experience while enjoying the Christmas atmosphere.
The sparkling lights were beautiful, and when I visited, the church was relatively quiet, likely because the decorations were still in the early stages. However, I expect many visitors will soon come to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
The stunning architecture of Gongseri Church, adorned with twinkling lights, reflects the hard work of many individuals who make this festive display possible.
While the decorations may be less extravagant than in previous years, they are still enchanting and beautiful. I plan to revisit next Wednesday to see the changes.
Despite the absence of the large Christmas tree, the installed lights create a warm and inviting Christmas village atmosphere at Gongseri Church.
This year, a new photo zone has been added at the entrance plaza, featuring Santa and Rudolph. Two charming Santa and Rudolph sleighs are also set up, making it a perfect spot for memorable photos. A nun mentioned that the full decorations should be completed by the end of next week, so those wanting to see a more elaborate display should visit after the second week of December.
The joyful image of Santa spreading happiness and cheer brings smiles to all who see it.
Surrounding the statue of the Virgin Mary, the Christmas decorations at Gongseri Church shine brightly.
This concludes the beautiful and enchanting view of the 2025 Gongseri Christmas Village. As the year draws to a close, I encourage everyone to visit Gongseri Church with loved ones to enjoy the decorations and celebrate the birth of Jesus.
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