The stunning Seoul Lantern Festival – A New Year’s Choice in Korea

The vibrant city of Seoul, known for gathering the world’s most cutting-edge fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products, will host an eye-catching event this year – the “2009 HI Seoul Cultural Festival,” running from December 19 to January 24, 2010. This joyful celebration will take place in areas such as Seoul Plaza and Cheonggyecheon Stream, with the theme of “light,” featuring various neon light displays and illuminated towers to delight visitors visually.

During the 7th edition of the “2009 HI Seoul Cultural Festival,” key buildings across the city including Independence Gate, Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, and Seoul City Council will be decorated with colorful lights. Seoul Plaza will feature an ice-skating rink, light-decorated chairs, sleds, Eskimo igloos, towers, and other structures. Especially around Cheonggyecheon Stream, a silver-white light curtain will be set up, with street decorations using snowflake lights, and a laser light show will be performed each evening.

Throughout the festival, 345 trees along the road between Gwanghwamun and Sungnyemun will be adorned with white lights. The glow from passing vehicles and the festive tree lighting will make Seoul’s nightscape both romantic and dazzling. The city’s landmark, the Han River Bridge, will also be beautifully illuminated during the festival. For more detailed information about the event, you can visit the official website or contact the Korea Tourism Organization.

When visiting Seoul, you definitely shouldn’t miss the shopping spree for designer goods, cosmetics, and fashion. Seoul’s subway network is highly convenient, making it the best mode of transport for tourists. With eight lines in total, Myeongdong is the top shopping district, where you can find everything you want to eat or do. To experience traditional Korean culture, head to Jongno and Insadong, where nobility once gathered, or explore the nearby Samcheong-dong area, which still retains many traditional Korean houses—perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the bustling Dongdaemun area either, where large 24-hour malls allow you to shop until dawn.

2009 Seoul Lantern Festival
Event Period: December 19, 2009 ~ January 24, 2010
Event Locations: Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Plaza, and others
Enquiry Line: (02)3290-7150
Event Website: www3.hiseoulfest.org/

Read More: Eat and Shop at Omotesando (provided by Tripass Attractions)