“It’s the most wonderful time of the year” and Seoul is no exception. As soon as November comes around, Christmas decorations, events and festivities all start to roll out. For a little over two months, Seoul is engulfed in holiday cheer. Here’s some of our favorite ways to take in those sweet Christmas vibes.

Lotte Christmas Market

One of Seoul’s (and our) most anticipated Christmas markets is hands down the Lotte Christmas Market. This outdoor European-style market is set up by Lotte Department Store in Jamsil, in the plaza at Lotte World Mall. It features a massive 22-meter Christmas tree, classic merry-go-round and plenty of booths selling everything from Christmas decorations and holiday cards to festive cookie tins and toys.

As with any good Christmas market, the main attraction is definitely the food. There are plenty of stalls set up with a wide variety of dishes ranging from traditional European fare like gluhwein, butterbeer and goulash to tiramisu, tteokbokki and highball cocktails. Whether you’re craving something savory, sweet or a bit on the alcoholic side to warm you up, there’s something for everyone.

When: November 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (10:30 AM – 10 PM)
Where: 30 Sincheon-dong (Naver Map, Google Maps)

European Christmas Market

The European Christmas Market run by the Seongbuk Global Village Center is one of those hidden-gem Seoul winter events, typically enjoyed by locals. It’s not quite as massive as department store holiday spectacles, but super charming, cultural, and full of old-world Christmas feels.

Every year, the European Christmas market brings together foods from multiple countries giving visitors the chance to sample dishes from across Europe. There’s food from Spain, France, Germany, and so much more. There’s also decorations, gifts and special performances to be enjoyed, but the food is definitely the star of the show; so bring an empty stomach.

When: December 6 – 7, 2025 (12 PM – 7 PM)
Where: Seoul Hansung University Station Exit 2 (Naver Map, Google Maps)

Marché de Noël de Seorae

Every December, for one day only, the quaint neighborhood of Seorae comes to life in full Christmas market mode. The Marché de Noël de Seorae (French Christmas Market of Seorae), is hosted traditionally and lovingly by the French-Korean expat community and local French associations to bring a bit of French holiday cheer to Seoul.

The market features plenty of vin chaud (mulled wine) to keep you warm as you peruse a nice selection of delicious pastries, french foods and handmade crafts. There’s also caroling, performances, various games and prizes for the children and Santa even makes an appearance for the ultimate Christmas photo op.

When: December 6, 2025 (10 AM – 4:30 PM)
Where: 68-2, Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu (Naver Map, Google Maps)

Honorable Mention

The Hyundai Seoul Christmas Market: Atelier de Noël

Truthfully, one of the most popular Christmas markets in Seoul is the one held every year at The Hyundai Seoul in Yeoido. This visually stunning Christmas market pop-up is held on the 5th floor and features a new theme every year. This year’s theme is Atelier de Noël and it engulfs you in a woodsy Christmas workshop wonderland.

While typically this pop-up hosts a variety of photo zones and shops selling all sorts of Christmas decorations and treats, this year is definitely more Christmas than market. This pop-up focuses heavily on photo zones, with only one store selling a small selection of holiday snacks and teddy bears. But if you’re looking to capture the perfect holiday photo this year, this would definitely be the spot.

When: November 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025 (10:30 AM – 8 PM)
Where: The Hyundai (Naver Map, Google Maps)