Seoul Lantern Festival, Seoul’s main winter festival, will brighten up the night from December 15, 2023 to January 21, 2024. This year marks the 15th year of the festival, and will be expanding for the first time to include Gwanghwamun Plaza and Seoul Plaza, making it the largest it has ever been! 

This year’s theme is “White Night in Seoul” and will feature LED lanterns made of hanji (traditional Korean paper), air balloons, kinetic art, and more fun lighting displays. As 2024 is the Year of the Dragon, special displays will focus on dragons, including a large blue dragon at Gwanghwamun Plaza, and the “White Dragon” display at Cheonggyecheon Stream. 

Gwanghwamun Plaza Market is a Christmas market for local small businesses. Vendors will have everything to enjoy a joyful holiday season, from Christmas products to craft items, and winter treats. Other programs include Christmas and New Year’s photo zones and participatory events. This year’s market will also include food trucks and dining booth area during the festival period. 

Seoul Lantern Festival & Gwanghwamun Plaza Market 
Period: December 15, 2023 – January 21, 2024 / 18:00-22:00 
Venues: Gwanghwamun Plaza, Sejong-ro Park, Seoul Plaza, Cheonggyecheon Stream (Cheonggye Plaza - Mojeongyo Bridge section) 
Instagram: @seoullanternfestival