Christmas in Korea

The holiday season in Korea offers a unique experience for expats and digital nomads, blending traditional Korean festivities with a touch of Western influence. For those spending their first Christmas and New Year's in Korea, the atmosphere is a fascinating mix of the new and the familiar, with plenty of events and customs to discover.

Christmas in Korea

Christmas in Korea is a public holiday, and while it may not be celebrated with the same intensity as in Western countries, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many. The holiday is more commercial and couples-oriented, with romantic dinners and gift exchanges being common. Families and friends also exchange presents, often practical items or money in envelopes. The figure of Santa Claus, known as 'Santa Haraboji' (Grandfather Santa), is recognized, and you'll see him depicted in decorations and commercials.

New Year's Celebrations

New Year's (Seollal) is one of Korea's most significant holidays, with celebrations that are rich in tradition and family-oriented. It's a time when many Koreans travel to their hometowns to perform ancestral rites and spend time with family. Traditional games, wearing hanbok (traditional clothing), and the sharing of a special soup called tteokguk, made with sliced rice cakes, are all part of the festivities. Eating tteokguk is believed to grant the consumer good luck for the year and add a year to their age.

Festive Events and Decorations

In the lead-up to the holidays, Korea transforms into a winter wonderland with lights, Christmas trees, and decorations adorning the streets and shopping centers. Major cities like Seoul and Busan host festive markets and concerts. Areas such as Myeongdong and Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul are particularly well-known for their spectacular light displays and festive ambiance. Christmas markets, like the European Christmas Market in Seoul, offer a variety of holiday goods, foods, and the opportunity to enjoy the festive spirit.

Church Services and Religious Observance

Christianity is one of the major religions in Korea, and many people attend church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Midnight mass is a popular service, and churches are often adorned with beautiful lights and nativity scenes. For those who are religious, or simply enjoy the tradition of Christmas services, there are numerous churches offering services in English and other languages to cater to the expat community.

Traditional Foods and Desserts

While you may not find the traditional Western Christmas turkey on the table, Korean holiday foods are a treat in themselves. Christmas is often celebrated with a cake, which is usually a sponge cake covered with cream and festive decorations. For New Year's, in addition to tteokguk, many enjoy jeon (savory pancakes), mandu (dumplings), and a variety of side dishes as part of the celebration.

Spending Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Christmas Eve is often a date night for couples, while Christmas Day is more family-centric. Many people take advantage of the holiday to rest and enjoy leisure activities, such as going to the movies or visiting theme parks, which often have special Christmas events and performances. Shopping malls and department stores also join in the festivities with sales and events to attract customers looking for the perfect gift.

As the holiday season unfolds in Korea, expats and digital nomads will find a charming mix of Korean tradition and festive cheer. From the twinkling lights of Seoul to the heartfelt family gatherings during New Year's, there's a warmth and joy to be found in the Korean winter. Whether you're savoring a slice of Christmas cake, bundling up for a stroll through a market, or joining in the New Year's customs, the holidays in Korea are a time to make new memories and experience the unique blend of cultures that the country has to offer.