Every year as the nights grow longer, Seoul transforms into a luminous wonderland — and the Seoul Lantern Festival (서울빛초롱축제) is the crown jewel of winter nightlife. Running from December 12, 2025, to January 4, 2026, this year’s edition promises immersive light art, themed zones, and magical walks across the heart of the city — all for free.
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| Seoul Lantern Festival 2025 |
Where to Go & When
📅 Festival Dates: Fri, Dec 12, 2025 – Sat, Jan 4, 2026
🕕 Lighting Hours: Daily • 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Initially 10:00 PM, extended 1 hour)
📍Location: Cheonggyecheon Stream & Uicheon Stream, Seoul
🎟️ Admission: Free
Winding through downtown Seoul, the illuminated route starts at Cheonggye Plaza and runs along scenic streams and bridges — perfect for evening strolls, family outings, date nights, and night photography.
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| Seoul Lantern Festival 2025 |
What to See: The Lights That Tell Stories
✨ My Light, Our Dreams, Seoul’s Magic
The festival’s overarching theme celebrates hope, unity, and the dreams that light up our nights. Lanterns aren’t just pretty — they’re storytellers. Expect displays that blend:
- Traditional hanji lanterns inspired by Korean legends and symbols
- Modern media art and interactive light experiences
- Magical projections and laser effects that animate bridges and water
- Instagram-worthy scenes perfect for night photography enthusiasts
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| Seoul Lantern Festival 2025 |
Four Themed Lantern Zones
As you walk along the stream, each zone feels like a chapter in a storybook:
🌟 Miracle Seoul
From Cheonggye Plaza to Gwangtonggyo Bridge, this opening section reflects Seoul’s journey from past to present — from lantern-lit villages to dazzling cityscapes.
💫 Golden Secret
A playful experience of dreams and youthful energy, with whimsical installations and colorful characters.
🌈 Dream Light
Here, illuminated scenes focus on imagination and future aspirations — perfect for families and kids.
✨ Seoul Fantasia
The grand finale features projection mapping and dreamlike art that feels straight out of a winter fairytale.
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| Pokemons at Seoul Lantern Festival 2025 |
Best Experiences & Photo Spots
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| Seoul Lantern Festival 2025 |
Festival Tips for Visitors
Dress Warmly: Nights in Seoul can be chilly — layers, warm hats, and gloves make your stroll far more comfortable.
Weekday Evenings: Go early on weeknights to avoid weekend crowds.
Nearest Subway: Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5) or Jonggak Station (Line 1) — both are under a short walk from the festival route.
Golden Hour Glow: Arrive just after sunset (~6 PM) to catch the transition from dusk to full illumination.
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| Christmas Tree at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul Lantern Festival 2025 |
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Seoul Lantern Festival isn’t just a light display — it’s an immersive cultural journey that:
- Bridges traditional Korean aesthetics with modern technology
- Creates a festive, shared experience across age groups and cultures
- Turns Seoul’s urban landscape into a winter wonderland of reflection and connection
Whether you’re a traveler planning a winter trip, a local looking for cozy night ideas, or a photographer chasing that perfect shot — this festival is an unforgettable highlight of Seoul’s seasonal calendar. ✨
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| Overall view of Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul Lantern Festival 2025 |
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