2025 Gwanghwamun Christmas Market: A Magical Year-End Experience
On December 14, 2025, Gwanghwamun Square in the heart of Seoul is filled with a festive atmosphere.
The Gwanghwamun Christmas Market, which opened on Friday, December 12, welcomes citizens with its dazzling sights and activities, illuminating the night alongside the Cheonggyecheon Seoul Lantern Festival.
Here, we bring you vibrant scenes from the market and useful information for visitors.
The Gwanghwamun Christmas Market runs from December 12 to December 31, 2025, in the Gwanghwamun Square area.
Operating hours are daily from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, with extended hours until midnight on December 31.
Some market stalls were already operational around 4:30 PM, before the official opening time.
Public transportation is the most convenient way to visit, especially with Gwanghwamun Station's Exit 9 being close to the market entrance.
Although the first weekend saw large crowds, orderly entry was maintained with the help of guides.
If driving, you can use the Sejongro Public Parking Lot, Kyobo Bookstore Parking Lot, or Gyeongbokgung Parking Lot, but be aware that they may be full during the year-end.
To enjoy the market efficiently, we recommend starting at Gwanghwamun Station and heading toward Gyeongbokgung. The market begins in front of the King Sejong statue, where you can naturally encounter various shops and photo zones.
The Gwanghwamun Christmas Market boasts a stunning light display.
A large Christmas tree, which shines even brighter at night, serves as the main photo spot.
Mirror selfie zones throughout the tree are perfect for creating special memories.
You can also find cute Haechi dolls and Lego-themed sculptures as popular photo spots throughout the market.
Don't forget to enjoy the Cheonggyecheon Seoul Lantern Festival alongside the market.
Cheonggyecheon features a variety of colorful light sculptures, including a giant King Carp, futuristic neon signs, traditional hat-shaped lanterns, and fire-breathing peacock sculptures, providing a fantastic night view.
The reflection of light on the water captivates visitors, offering a richer experience than last year.
The market showcases a variety of products, mainly featuring charming Christmas decorations and gifts that have attracted many foreign visitors.
Although the layout has slightly reduced in size from last year, it still offers a delightful browsing experience.
Another joy of the festival is the food.
From churros and cookies to warm meals like German sausages and goulash, a variety of foods are available.
Thanks to the mild weather, many people enjoyed warm meals at the food truck zone.
Non-alcoholic mulled wine and hot chocolate are also popular warming drinks.
If you are with children, don't miss the carousel and Haechi experience zone.
Completing a stamp tour around the market allows you to ride the carousel, and the Haechi experience zone offers small events to participate in.
Since the market has been bustling with visitors since its opening day, it's essential to keep safety in mind while enjoying your time.
For a more enjoyable experience, warm clothing is a must as the event is held outdoors.
Visiting during sunset allows you to enjoy both festivals with stunning night views.
The Gwanghwamun Christmas Market and Cheonggyecheon Seoul Lantern Festival provide a wonderful opportunity to pause amidst busy daily life and experience special moments at year-end.
We hope you create unforgettable winter memories with family, loved ones, and friends in this place filled with diverse sights, activities, and delicious food.
Gwanghwamun Square, filled with warm lights and laughter, beautifully concludes 2025.
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