Christmas in Korea vs the West: Why It Feels More Like Valentine’s Day

FLip Korea
2 hours ago
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Shinsegae Department Store, Myeongdong in Seoul, South Korea, illuminated with a giant Christmas tree and festive lights, showcasing Korea’s modern holiday atmosphere. — Credit: Shutterstock

Christmas in Korea: A Celebration of Love and Lights

December 25 is a national holiday in South Korea, but it is not a family-centered celebration. Instead of big home dinners or exchanging many gifts, most Koreans treat Christmas as a romantic day out. It is a time for couples, friends, and young people to enjoy the winter atmosphere together.

Cafés release seasonal drinks, bakeries sell colourful Christmas cakes, and department stores transform into glowing light shows. Many couples exchange small gifts, matching accessories, or handwritten notes, not expensive items.

While Western homes are filled with family gatherings, laughter, and traditional meals, Korean streets are filled with dates, selfies, and music. For Koreans, Christmas is about shared moments rather than large family reunions.

Traditional-style Manhole Coffee Western in Seoul, South Korea decorated for Christmas with a tree, wrapped presents, and warm lights, reflecting the romantic, Valentine’s Day-inspired way Koreans celebrate the holiday and Harry Potter vibe — Credit: Kpop Map, Manhole Cafe

How Foreigners Experience Christmas in Korea

Foreign visitors often expect home-like family traditions and are surprised to see that Koreans spend Christmas outside, not around a table. Expats and tourists can still enjoy a cosy, festive vibe by visiting cafés, hotels, or churches that host English services and dinner events.

Christmas Fantasy parade at Everland in Yongin, South Korea, with performers in festive costumes and colorful floats celebrating Korea’s lively holiday season — Credit: Everland

Where to Go for Christmas in Korea:

Myeongdong: Seoul’s top shopping and light display area.
Cheonggyecheon Stream: Famous for its winter illuminations and photo spots.
Everland & Lotte World: Massive Christmas festivals with fireworks and parades.
Hongdae & Itaewon: Ideal for nightlife and themed Christmas parties.

Cultural Differences at a Glance

Aspect	Korea	Western Countries
Meaning	Romantic and commercial	Family and religious
Main Activity	Dining out, light shows, shopping	Home gatherings, feasts
Gifts	Small or symbolic	Family-wide, traditional
Food	Cakes and café drinks	Roasted meals and desserts
Atmosphere	Urban, social	Cozy, homely

Christmas in Western Countries

Credits: Bercelo, Vinpearl, Orthocristian

Travel Tips

Book dinner reservations early. In Seoul, December 24 and 25 are among the busiest days of the year for restaurants and cafés. If you want a local-style experience, grab a Christmas cake from Paris Baguette or Tous les Jours and stroll along Cheonggyecheon to see the lights.