Christmas Events for Kids in Seoul (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

12 min read · 한국어로 읽기

For 2026, we confirmed 22 Christmas events for kids in Seoul. The season opens on October 30 with 2026 Shinsegae Department Store Christmas Holiday Market and runs until February 9 with Seoul Plaza Skating Rink. Of these, 3 are free. Every listing links straight to the host. This page is part of our guide to Christmas events for kids in South Korea.

The short version

  • Kids’ Christmas events confirmed for 2026 in Seoul, Bucheon, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Goyang and more: 22
  • First: 2026 Shinsegae Department Store Christmas Holiday Market, Seoul, October 30
  • Free events: 2026 Shinsegae Department Store Christmas Holiday Market, Times Square Christmas Market 'Town Square': Luca's Wreath Workshop and Starfield Library Christmas 'Dokkaebi Santa and Christmas'

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by town, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (registration, ages, what is included).

At a glance: Christmas events for kids in Seoul

Kids’ Christmas events
22 confirmed for 2026
Towns
Seoul, Bucheon, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Goyang and Suji-gu, Yongin
Season
October 30 to February 9
Free events
3
Last checked

Free 3Ticketed and paid 19

Free Christmas events for kids in Seoul

Christmas marketFree

2026 Shinsegae Department Store Christmas Holiday Market

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A holiday market is held at Sweet Park on the first basement level of Shinsegae Department Store's Gangnam branch. The space is decorated around the birth story of new characters Pompo and Pubilla, and there is a big Christmas tree photo spot.

Entry is free and you can visit without a reservation. Products are bought separately at each booth. The main store's market runs Dec 10 to 31, and on the main store's outer wall you can see Christmas lights every day from 5 pm to midnight, Nov 6 to Jan 31. Because it is inside a department store, a nursing room and diaper changing tables are available.

Parent tip: Seeing the lights on the main store's outer wall in the evening makes a nice add-on.

Host
Shinsegae Department Store (opens in a new tab)
Where
Shinsegae Department Store Gangnam, B1 Sweet Park, 서울 서초구 신반포로 176, 06546 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Shinsegae Department Store (opens in a new tab)

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Rally’s Christmas research

Rally the corgi has 21 more Seoul events researched for you.

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Coming up on this page

  • 16 Shows
  • 7 Lights
  • 4 Markets
  • 2 Santa
  • 3 Free

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Christmas marketFree

Times Square Christmas Market 'Town Square': Luca's Wreath Workshop

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The first-floor atrium of Times Square is decorated as a Christmas village with a big tree, a sweets shop and a seasonal market. Here, Luca's Wreath Workshop is held every weekend and holiday, where you can make a Christmas wreath.

Market admission is free. The workshop is first come, first served, with registration by QR code on the day next to the stage in the first-floor atrium. Because it's an indoor mall, it's comfortable to visit even on cold or rainy days. There is also an event giving a gift if you spend ₩30,000 or more at the market that day.

Parent tip: It's first come, first served, so go early to register. It's close to Exit 6 of Yeongdeungpo Station, so public transit is recommended. Expect it to be in Korean.

Host
Times Square (opens in a new tab)
Where
Times Square 1st Floor Atrium, 서울 영등포구 영중로 15, 07335 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Times Square (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Starfield Library Christmas 'Dokkaebi Santa and Christmas'

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This year the Starfield Library inside COEX Mall is decorated as a fantasy Christmas together with Lee Mi-ye, author of The Dallergut Dream Department Store. There are displays recreating scenes from the story and a big Christmas tree, so it's a nice place to look around with your child and take photos.

There is no admission fee and you can walk right in without a reservation. The story can reportedly be opened only at the library itself. Because it's inside the mall, nursing rooms, diaper-changing tables and stroller rental are available.

Parent tip: It gets crowded on weekend evenings, so weekdays or daytime are recommended. You can rent a stroller inside the mall. Expect it to be in Korean.

Host
Starfield Library, Starfield COEX Mall (opens in a new tab)
Where
Starfield Library, Starfield COEX Mall, 서울 강남구 영동대로 513, 06164 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Starfield Library, Starfield COEX Mall (opens in a new tab)

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Ticketed and paid Christmas events for kids in Seoul

Admission, tickets or a fee apply. Where a host has not posted a price yet, the listing says so.

The #1 spot Event hosts: free events are listed first. One featured spot puts your event at the very top of this page.Ask about the #1 spot

Visit with Santa

The Hyundai Seoul H Village (Christmas in New York City)

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On the 5th floor of The Hyundai Seoul, in Sounds Forest, H Village is set up to look like a New York street from the 1980s and 90s. Brick buildings up to 10 meters tall, neon signs and yellow taxis fill the space, and the story follows Harry the baby bear and his neighbor cats delivering presents.

Entry is by advance reservation. The first reservations opened on Nov 5 at 11 am on The Hyundai Hi online mall, and there is also an on-site QR code waitlist between the 2nd and 4th floors. Foreign visitors can book through Klook. The price and end date are not listed on the official page.

Parent tip: Showing up without a reservation may mean you cannot get in, so check availability in the Hyundai Hi app first.

Host
The Hyundai Seoul (opens in a new tab)
Where
The Hyundai Seoul, 5th Floor Sounds Forest, 서울 영등포구 여의대로 108, 07335 Seoul (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with The Hyundai Seoul (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas market

Lotte Town Christmas Market 2026

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A market themed on a 19th-century English Christmas opens on the World Park lawn plaza at Lotte World Tower. There is a clock tower, a big tree and a two-story carousel, and every hour a Christmas Time Show plays with the chimes of Big Ben. On weekends there are live stage musical performances, and you can also find the Kancho Detective House and a Bellygom pop-up.

Regular admission is free and reserved through the Lotte Department Store mall. The first round opens Nov 9, the second Nov 20 and the third Dec 7, at 2 pm. The admission periods are Nov 19 to 30, Dec 1 to 17 and Dec 18 to Jan 3, respectively. There is also a ₩15,000 Fast Pass.

Parent tip: First check which reservation round your preferred date falls under. It connects directly from Jamsil Station to Lotte World Mall.

Host
Lotte Department Store (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lotte World Tower World Park Lawn Plaza, 서울 송파구 올림픽로 300, 05551 Seoul (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Lotte Department Store (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas lights

Lotte World Adventure Christmas Media Mapping 'Starlight Wishes'

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Films full of Christmas wishes are projected onto the outer wall of Magic Castle on Magic Island. There are four themes: Crochet Castle, Advent Calendar, Gift Workshop and Luminarie, with laser effects and highlight scenes added.

It runs Nov 21 to Dec 31 and can be seen from when the sun starts to set. It is a nice spot to take photos with kids in front of the castle. The ticket price and exact show times are not in the article, so check the official page.

Parent tip: It is an outdoor show, so nights get cold from late November. Bring warm gear for the kids.

Host
Lotte World Adventure (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lotte World Adventure, Magic Island, Magic Castle, 서울 송파구 올림픽로 240, 05554 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Lotte World Adventure (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas market

2026 Gwanghwamun Market

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The Gwanghwamun Market, which the city of Seoul holds every year, reaches its 5th edition this year. This year's theme is a Santa village where time has stopped, and a giant tree and a market village go up around Gwanghwamun Square and Sejongno Park. Booths sell Christmas goods and warm food.

With kids, the immersive photo zones and activity zones stand out. Activity programs and free events are said to run in several spots. The specific activities and time slots have not been released yet, so check the city's official page once more before you go.

Parent tip: You will be outside for a while on winter evenings, so bring warm gear for the kids. Program details may change before opening.

Host
Seoul Metropolitan Government (Seoul Tourism Organization) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gwanghwamun Square and the Sejongno Park area, 세종대로 172, 03154 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Seoul Metropolitan Government (Seoul Tourism Organization) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

2026 Seoul Arts Center and Korea National Ballet 'The Nutcracker' (호두까기인형)

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This is the Korea National Ballet's The Nutcracker at the Seoul Arts Center Opera House, running Dec 11 to 27. It is a year-end show that has been staged every winter since 2000, with Tchaikovsky's music and a lavish stage. The Korea National Symphony Orchestra plays.

Tuesday through Friday shows are at 7:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday shows are at 2 pm and 6:30 pm, with extra 2 pm shows on Dec 25 and 27. The running time is 120 minutes. Prices run from ₩120,000 for R seats down to ₩10,000 for C seats. Dec 11, 12 and 15 are listed as sold out because of a venue rental.

Parent tip: Only children 48 months and older can enter, and without a document to confirm age they cannot get in even with a guardian.

Host
Seoul Arts Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Seoul Arts Center Opera House, 서울 서초구 남부순환로 2406, 06757 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Seoul Arts Center (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas lights

2026 Seoul Light Gwanghwamun

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Seoul Light Gwanghwamun is a media art show of light and music around Gwanghwamun Square. Centered on the Gwanghwamun media facade show, it includes programs citizens can join and a New Year countdown event.

Hours are daily from 5:30 pm to 10 pm. The Gwanghwamun Market is open at the same time, so many families will probably visit both. The official page does not list an admission fee, so check before you go.

Parent tip: You will be walking outside for a while in the evening, so bring warm gear for the kids. Keep a firm hold of your child's hand on busy weekend evenings.

Host
Seoul Metropolitan Government (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gwanghwamun Square, 세종대로 172, 03154 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Seoul Metropolitan Government (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Year-End Show 'Finding Santa' (산타찾기) at Aideul Theater

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Finding Santa is a year-end children's show at Aideul Theater in Jongno-gu, running Dec 4 to 25. Friday shows are at 7:30 pm, and Saturday, Sunday and Christmas shows are at 1 pm and 4 pm, with Christmas Eve at 7:30 pm. There are no shows on Dec 5 and 6.

The running time is 60 minutes, and children 36 months and older can attend. All seats are ₩30,000. For Monday to Saturday shows you can book until 5 pm the day before, and for Sunday shows until 11 am the day before. There is no dedicated parking lot, so public transit is recommended.

Parent tip: The Dec 4 show is closed to the public because of a group booking, and there are no shows on Dec 5 and 6, so check the dates. There is no parking lot.

Host
Aideul Theater (opens in a new tab)
Where
Aideul Theater, 서울 종로구 성균관로 91, 03088 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Aideul Theater (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Winter Special Family Magical 'Scrooge's Christmas Carol' (스크루지의 크리스마스 캐롤)

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This is a winter special family magical at the Performance Hall of Dream Forest Art Center on Saturday, Dec 12 and Sunday, Dec 13. The story of Scrooge is told through a magic show, and the running time is 55 minutes.

Children 24 months and older can enter, and children under 24 months cannot. All seats are ₩40,000, with a general discount of ₩22,000, a KakaoTalk channel discount of ₩20,000, a welfare discount of ₩18,000 and others listed. An early booking price of ₩18,000 applies through Nov 15. Show times are listed as 11 am, 2 pm and 4:30 pm, but check the booking screen once more for the shows on each date.

Parent tip: Check the show times for each date on the booking screen, and bring proof of eligibility to show on site for the welfare discount.

Host
Dream Forest Art Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Dream Forest Art Center Performance Hall, 서울 강북구 월계로 173, 01013 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Dream Forest Art Center (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

2026 Universal Ballet 'The Nutcracker' (호두까기인형)

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Universal Ballet presents The Nutcracker at the Sejong Center Grand Theater from Dec 17 to 30. Weekday shows are at 7:30 pm, and Saturday, Sunday and Dec 25 shows are at 2 pm and 6 pm. There are two shows on Christmas Day too.

The running time is 120 minutes including a 20-minute intermission. Prices are ₩140,000 for VIP seats, ₩120,000 for R, ₩90,000 for S, ₩60,000 for A and ₩30,000 for B. Children age 4 and up (born on or before Dec 31, 2022) can attend, and when you come with a child you need to bring an ID document showing their date of birth.

Parent tip: Preschoolers who do not meet the age rule cannot enter, so be sure to bring proof of age.

Host
Universal Ballet (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts Grand Theater, 서울 종로구 세종대로 175, 03172 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Universal Ballet (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

'The Nutcracker' (호두까기 인형) 2026 M Year-End Ballet

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This is the 2026 M Year-End Ballet, The Nutcracker, at Mapo Arts Center's Art Hall MAC from Dec 18 to 20. The Friday show is at 7:30 pm, and the Saturday and Sunday shows are at 1 pm and 5 pm.

Children 48 months and older can attend, and the running time is 110 minutes. Prices are ₩77,000 for R seats and ₩55,000 for S seats. Some prices vary by date or period, so check the full price list before booking. It is fairly close to Hapjeong and Sangsu subway stations, so it is easy to reach by public transit.

Parent tip: The running time is long, so the 1 pm show may suit younger children better.

Host
Mapo Arts Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Mapo Arts Center, Art Hall MAC, 서울 마포구 대흥로20길 28, 04174 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Mapo Arts Center (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Seoul Plaza Skating Rink

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This winter, the Seoul Plaza rink is set up with the city's mascot Haechi welcoming skaters with open arms. It costs ₩1,000 per hour, and skate and helmet rental is included. A separate rink for children and beginner lesson programs are also said to be offered.

There are photo zones where you can take pictures with Haechi, a Haechi Time, and seasonal cultural performances for Christmas and the year-end holidays. On Christmas Eve, Dec 24, it stays open until 1 am. Operation may pause for a while depending on weather or air quality.

Parent tip: Operation can stop depending on weather and air quality, so check the official page before you leave. Gloves and thick socks are a good idea.

Host
Seoul Metropolitan Government (opens in a new tab)
Where
Seoul Plaza, 세종대로 110, 04524 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Seoul Metropolitan Government (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

2026 Christmas Musical 'Rudolph's Christmas Present' (루돌프의 크리스마스선물)

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This is a live children's musical at Seongsu Art Hall on Saturday, Dec 19 and Sunday, Dec 20, three shows a day. The running time is 55 minutes, short enough for young children to stay focused to the end.

Children 24 months and older can enter, and children under 24 months cannot. Preschoolers must enter with a guardian. The regular price is ₩45,000 for R seats, and with the basic discount it is listed as ₩22,000 for R seats on the 1st floor and ₩18,000 for S seats on the 2nd floor. Prices can vary by date and period, so check the full price list before booking.

Parent tip: Bring diapers and snacks, and since a sibling under 24 months cannot enter, arrange for someone to watch them.

Host
Seongsu Art Hall (opens in a new tab)
Where
Seongsu Art Hall, 서울 성동구 성수동1가 656-323, 04782 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Seongsu Art Hall (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Christmas Ghibli & Disney OST Concert

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This Christmas concert is at Lotte Concert Hall on the 8th floor of Lotte World Mall on Monday, Dec 21 at 7:30 pm. It plays music from Studio Ghibli and Disney films in classical arrangements. The running time is 120 minutes including a 15-minute intermission.

Prices are ₩120,000 for R seats, ₩100,000 for S, ₩70,000 for A and ₩50,000 for B. The viewing age is listed as 5 and up, but the notice text states the age rule differently in places, so it is best to check with the venue before booking.

Parent tip: It is an evening show, so it may run late for young children. Check the age rule before you book.

Host
Lotte Concert Hall (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lotte Concert Hall, 서울 송파구 올림픽로 300 롯데월드몰 8층, 05551 Seoul (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Lotte Concert Hall (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Bucheon

Christmas show

2026 Bucheon Cultural Foundation Children's Show, Family Magic Show 'Magic Christmas' (매직크리스마스)

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The Bucheon Cultural Foundation presents the children's show Magic Christmas at the Fantasia Theater of Bokosagol Cultural Center from Dec 3 to 5. It is a family show built around magic, and the running time is 60 minutes.

It is open to all ages, and all seats are ₩15,000. Children 12 and under who come with an adult get 20% off, pregnant women get 30% off, and people with disabilities and national merit recipients get 50% off. The show times are not listed on the page, so be sure to check the time for each date on the booking screen.

Parent tip: You need to show a proof document on site to get the discount. Check the show times before booking.

Host
Bucheon Cultural Foundation (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bokosagol Cultural Center Fantasia Theater, 경기 부천시 원미구 장말로 107, 14544 Bucheon (opens in maps) (near 서울)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Bucheon Cultural Foundation (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Stage M Christmas Film Music & Carol Concert 2026, Bucheon

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This Christmas film music and carol concert is in the Small Concert Hall at Bucheon Arts Center on Tuesday, Dec 22. There are two shows, at 3 pm and 7:30 pm, and the 3 pm show was added later.

The running time is 90 minutes including a 10-minute intermission. Children 4 and older can attend, and all seats are ₩40,000. Discounts are listed for national merit recipients, people with disabilities, Culture Nuri Card holders, Youth Culture Arts Pass holders, and children and teens. It is a nice way to get into the Christmas mood with kids over familiar film music and carols.

Parent tip: With kids, the 3 pm show is easier.

Host
Bucheon Arts Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bucheon Arts Center Small Concert Hall, 경기 부천시 원미구 소향로 165, 14548 Bucheon (opens in maps) (near 서울)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Bucheon Arts Center (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Bundang-gu, Seongnam

Christmas show

The Nutcracker (호두까기 인형), Seongnam (Bundang-gu, Seongnam)

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The Nutcracker runs for 22 shows in total at Naraeul Theater in Korea Job World, Seongnam, from Dec 5 to 26. There are no shows on Sundays, and at 65 minutes it works well for children who find a long ballet tiring.

Children 48 months and older can attend. All seats are ₩60,000, with preschoolers (age 7 and under) at ₩27,000, elementary to high school students at ₩35,000 and Bundang-gu residents at ₩42,000. An early booking price of ₩30,000 applies through Nov 30. Guests who have visited Korea Job World can see it for ₩35,000.

Parent tip: Without a discount proof document you will have to pay the difference on site. Check the shows for each date before booking.

Host
Korea Job World (opens in a new tab)
Where
Korea Job World Naraeul Theater, 경기 성남시 분당구 탄천로 215, 13558 Bundang-gu, Seongnam (opens in maps) (near 서울)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Korea Job World (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Cheoin-gu, Yongin

Christmas show

2026 Christmas Musical 'Merry Christmas, Grandpa Santa' (메리크리스마스 산타할아버지), Yongin (Cheoin-gu, Yongin)

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This is a live children's Christmas musical at Cheoin Hall in the Yongin Cultural Center on Saturday, Dec 5 and Sunday, Dec 6. There are three shows a day, at 11 am, 2 pm and 4:30 pm, and the running time is 55 minutes.

Children 24 months and older can attend, and each person needs their own ticket. Children under 24 months are free if a parent holds them. All seats are ₩40,000, with an online booking discount of ₩22,000, a KakaoTalk channel discount of ₩20,000, a Yongin Joy Culture follow discount of ₩19,000 and others listed. Discounts for people with disabilities and national merit recipients are checked with a proof document on site.

Parent tip: Proof documents for discount tickets are checked at pickup, so bring them with you.

Host
Yongin Cultural Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Yongin Cultural Center, Cheoin Hall, 경기 용인시 처인구 중부대로1392번길 15, 17044 Cheoin-gu, Yongin (opens in maps) (near 서울)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Yongin Cultural Center (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Goyang

Christmas show

Universal Ballet 'The Nutcracker' (호두까기인형), Goyang

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This is Universal Ballet's The Nutcracker at Aram Theater in Goyang Aram Nuri on Saturday, Nov 14 and Sunday, Nov 15. Saturday shows are at 2 pm and 6 pm, and Sunday's is at 3 pm. The running time is 120 minutes including a 20-minute intermission.

Children 5 and older can attend. Prices are ₩90,000 for R seats, ₩70,000 for S, ₩50,000 for A, ₩30,000 for B and ₩20,000 for C. It suits families who want to see The Nutcracker early, before the Christmas season starts in Seoul.

Parent tip: It is toward Ilsan, so allow plenty of travel time from Seoul.

Host
Goyang Aram Nuri (opens in a new tab)
Where
Goyang Aram Nuri, Aram Theater, 경기 고양시 일산동구 중앙로 1286, 10414 Goyang (opens in maps) (near 서울)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Goyang Aram Nuri (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Suji-gu, Yongin

Christmas show

2026 Christmas Musical 'Santa Claus and the Bremen Town Musicians' (산타클로스와 브레멘음악대), Yongin (Suji-gu, Yongin)

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This children's Christmas musical is at Keun Eoullimadang in the Yongin Lifelong Learning Center on Friday, Dec 25, three shows that day. The running time is 60 minutes.

Children 24 months and older can attend. Children under 24 months can enter free with a proof document, but they must come in with an adult guardian. The regular price is ₩40,000 for R seats, and the standing discount prices are ₩24,000 for R seats and ₩20,000 for 2nd floor S seats. Some discounts require a proof document.

Parent tip: A sibling under 24 months can come in free on a lap if you bring a proof document.

Host
Yongin Lifelong Learning Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Yongin Lifelong Learning Center, Keun Eoullimadang, 경기 용인시 수지구 문정로7번길 15, 16827 Suji-gu, Yongin (opens in maps) (near 서울)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Yongin Lifelong Learning Center (opens in a new tab)

New events in Seoul every week

Rally looks for new Christmas events in Seoul every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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More Christmas events for kids in South Korea

A story for the trip home

Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents. It is a cozy story to share on the way home after a big day out.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolour corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. Ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon.com (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Seoul: questions parents ask

What are the 2026 Christmas events for kids in Seoul?

For 2026, we confirmed 22 Christmas events for kids in Seoul, each on its host’s own page: Lotte Town Christmas Market 2026, 2026 Christmas Musical 'Merry Christmas, Grandpa Santa' (메리크리스마스 산타할아버지), Yongin (Cheoin-gu, Yongin), Winter Special Family Magical 'Scrooge's Christmas Carol' (스크루지의 크리스마스 캐롤) and 19 more. Each one is listed above with times, cost and a link to the host.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Seoul?

Yes, 3 of the 22 events here are free: 2026 Shinsegae Department Store Christmas Holiday Market, Times Square Christmas Market 'Town Square': Luca's Wreath Workshop and Starfield Library Christmas 'Dokkaebi Santa and Christmas'. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa this year in Seoul?

Where to see Santa: The Hyundai Seoul H Village (Christmas in New York City). Check the listings above for times and booking.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Seoul?

Christmas story times on this page: Starfield Library Christmas 'Dokkaebi Santa and Christmas'. Library story times are usually free; ones with a meal or show are ticketed.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city, library or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 9, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

The story of Christmas in Seoul

Seoul spends the winter nights covered in light: paper lanterns float on the Cheonggyecheon stream and a European-style Santa village rises on Gwanghwamun Square. Korea hung a Christmas tree made of hundreds of lanterns as far back as 1897, and the city still celebrates with glowing things.

How Seoul celebrates, and what visitors will notice

Seoul's Christmas is a city of lights, markets and stage shows more than a church-and-home holiday. The big public events cluster around Gwanghwamun Square and the Cheonggyecheon stream, where in winter 2025 a Santa village, a media art light show and a lantern festival ran side by side. In the weeks before Christmas, department stores and malls also open their own markets and decorated spaces.

For a visiting family this means plenty of evening outings, indoor options when it is cold, and lots of ticketed children's shows. December 25 is a public holiday in Korea. It first appeared in the official holiday rules in 1949, so expect families to be out together on the day.

The traditions a child will meet

Gwanghwamun Market is the closest thing Seoul has to a European Christmas market. In 2025 its Santa village had a gate, a play square and a market village, with a Nutcracker house, a cookie house photo spot and, for the first time, a Rudolph carousel. Haechi, the Seoul city mascot, was there to meet kids.

The lantern festival along the Cheonggyecheon uses hanji, traditional Korean paper, to make glowing lanterns: in 2025 there was a 15-meter lantern for the stream's 20th restoration anniversary and more than a hundred fish-shaped lanterns floating on the water. Another tradition is the Christmas Seal, a small sticker sold around Christmas since 1932, whose money goes toward fighting tuberculosis. It is a sweet way to talk to kids about giving.

Planning a Christmas visit to Seoul with kids

The season on this page starts in late October and runs into early February. Department-store and mall markets open first, the Starfield Library at the Coex mall opens on November 13, and the Lotte World Tower market starts on November 19. In December the city's main events begin: Gwanghwamun Market and Seoul Light Gwanghwamun both open on December 11, 2026, and the Seoul Plaza ice rink on December 18.

Many events are free to enter, with booths, food and rides paid separately. There are also many children's musicals, Nutcracker ballets and Christmas concerts through December, in Seoul and in nearby cities. Most are in Korean, so check with the host if language matters. Some venues need advance reservations.

A tree made of lanterns in 1897

Christmas reached Korea in the 1880s, and in 1897 a school called Pai Chai School hung a Christmas tree made of hundreds of lanterns in front of its hall. The lanterns were Korean ones, so the tree looked like nothing in the West. It is a fun story to tell while you stand under the glowing lanterns on the Cheonggyecheon.

Traditions today

  • Gwanghwamun Market Santa village: A European-style Santa village on Gwanghwamun Square. In 2025 it had a Nutcracker house, a cookie house photo zone and a Rudolph carousel, and in 2026 it runs from December 11 to January 10, 2027.
  • Seoul Lantern Festival: Traditional paper lanterns line the Cheonggyecheon stream from Cheonggye Plaza to Samil Bridge. In 2025 it was the festival's 17th year, lit from 6 to 10 pm.
  • Seoul Light Gwanghwamun: A media facade light show that uses the buildings on Gwanghwamun Square as a screen. In 2026 it runs from December 11 to January 3, 2027, evenings from 5:30 pm to 10 pm.
  • The Christmas Seal: A small sticker sold since 1932, around Christmas each year. The money helps fight tuberculosis.
  • December 25 as a holiday: Christmas Day has been listed as a public holiday since 1949, and families spend it together.
  • Making wishes: In 2025 Seoul Light Gwanghwamun had a wish wall where visitors left messages, and the Gwanghwamun Market had a tree for hopeful messages.

A fact for kids

In winter 2025 more than a hundred glowing fish made of traditional paper floated on Seoul's Cheonggyecheon stream, like a school of lit-up fish swimming along.

Questions about Christmas in Seoul

Is Seoul worth visiting at Christmas with kids?

Yes. Seoul turns its squares and streams into light displays, and the season has Santa villages, markets, an ice rink and plenty of children's shows. It is cold, so many families mix outdoor evenings with indoor options like the Starfield Library, malls and theaters.

When do the Christmas markets in Seoul open in 2026?

The mall markets start first: Shinsegae's Gangnam store from October 30 and the Times Square market in Yeongdeungpo from October 31. The Lotte World Tower market opens on November 19, and Gwanghwamun Market opens on December 11 and runs to January 10, 2027.

Are there free Christmas events in Seoul?

Yes, several. The Starfield Library decorations, the Shinsegae holiday market and the Times Square market and wreath workshop are free. Gwanghwamun Market is free to enter, and booths and food cost extra. The Lotte World Tower market has free general admission with advance booking.

Where can kids see a giant Christmas tree in Seoul?

In 2025 a large tree stood on Gwanghwamun Square to open the Seoul Winter Festa. In 2026 you can also visit the big tree at the Starfield Library in the Coex mall, which is decorated from November 13 to January 31 and is free, and a big tree photo zone at the Shinsegae Gangnam market.

What is the Gwanghwamun Market like?

It is a European-style Santa village. In 2025 it was split into a gate, a play square and a market village, with a Nutcracker house, cookie house photo spot, Rudolph carousel, crafts, holiday items and a food area. The 2026 version runs from December 11 to January 10, 2027, with a Santa village theme and a giant tree.

What is Seoul Light Gwanghwamun?

It is a media art show that uses buildings on Gwanghwamun Square as screens. In 2026 it runs from December 11 to January 3, 2027, nightly from 5:30 to 10:00 pm, with programs where citizens can take part. In 2025 it also had a wish wall.

Is there ice skating for kids in Seoul?

Yes. The Seoul Plaza rink opens on December 18, 2026 and runs to February 9, 2027, daily from 10:00 am. It costs 1,000 won for one hour, including skates and a helmet, and there is a separate kids' rink with beginner lessons.

How does the Lotte World Tower Christmas market work?

It runs from November 19 to January 3, 2027, daily from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm, with a 19th-century England theme, an hourly Christmas Time Show, a carousel and live musicals on weekends. General entry is free with advance booking, and a fast pass costs 15,000 won.

What is the Starfield Library Christmas display?

The Starfield Library inside the Starfield Coex Mall is decorated for Christmas with a fantasy story theme and a large tree. It is free and open daily from 10:30 am to 10:00 pm, from November 13 to January 31.

Is there a Christmas wreath workshop for families?

The Times Square market in Yeongdeungpo hosts a free wreath-making workshop on weekends and holidays from 1:00 to 7:00 pm, from October 31 to December 25. Market entry is free.

What is Lotte World Adventure's Christmas show?

A media mapping show called Starlight Wishes plays on the Magic Castle with four themes. It runs from November 21 to December 31, starting around sunset, and requires a Lotte World Adventure ticket.

What is The Hyundai Seoul Christmas village?

The Hyundai Seoul department store opens its H Village on the 5th floor on November 10, with a New York City theme, Harry the baby bear and New York cats. Visits are by reservation, and the end date should be checked with the store.

Where can kids watch The Nutcracker in Seoul in 2026?

There are several. The Seoul Arts Center and the Korea National Ballet perform from December 11 to 27, Universal Ballet at Sejong Center from December 17 to 30, and a year-end ballet at Mapo Arts Center from December 18 to 20. The Seoul Arts Center and Mapo shows suit ages 48 months and up, and Universal Ballet suits ages 4 and up.

What children's Christmas shows are on in Seoul?

Options include Rudolph's Christmas gift musical on December 19 and 20 for children from 24 months, Finding Santa from December 4 to 25 for ages 36 months and up, and a family magic show based on A Christmas Carol on December 12 and 13. Several of these list discounted tickets from 18,000 won.

Is there a Christmas concert for families in Seoul?

On December 21, 2026, a Christmas concert of Ghibli and Disney film music takes place at Lotte Concert Hall. It lasts 120 minutes and is listed for ages 5 and up. Tickets are 50,000 to 120,000 won.

Are Christmas events in Seoul in English?

Most events are in Korean. The markets, light shows and rink do not depend on much language, but for musicals and workshops check with the host about English support.

Is December 25 a holiday in Seoul?

Yes. December 25 was added to the official public holiday rules in 1949, and it is still a day off. That means families are out together and popular places can be busy.

What was the Seoul Winter Festa in 2025?

It ran from December 12, 2025 into early January 2026 at six places: Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggyecheon, Seoul Plaza, DDP, Bosingak and Uicheon. The opening ceremony took place on Gwanghwamun Square. Different programs had different hours.

What was special about the 2025 Cheonggyecheon lanterns?

It was the 17th Seoul Lantern Festival. It included a 15-meter lantern marking the stream's 20th restoration anniversary and over a hundred fish-shaped paper lanterns floating on the water. The stream was divided into four zones with their own names and moods.

How crowded was Gwanghwamun in 2025?

About 1.08 million people visited the Gwanghwamun Market and the Cheonggyecheon light festival during the first three days, December 12 to 14. Go in the evening with time to spare, and dress warmly.

What is a Christmas Seal?

It is a small sticker people put on letters and gifts. It came to Korea in 1932 through a Canadian missionary doctor, Sherwood Hall, and since 1953 the Korean National Tuberculosis Association has issued it each Christmas. The money funds finding, treating and preventing tuberculosis.

Why were Christmas carols hard to hear in Seoul in the early 2010s?

Because of a copyright fee dispute, carols were hard to hear on the street. On December 9, 2015, an agreement removed the carol royalties, and shops and streets could play them freely again.

Sources

  1. 광화문이 빛났다! 빛·공연·마켓까지 '2025 서울윈터페스타' 개막, 서울시 미디어허브
  2. 청계천에 펼쳐진 겨울밤의 기적! 17주년 '서울빛초롱축제', 서울시 미디어허브
  3. 광화문에선 유럽 감성 성탄 마켓 열려, 헤럴드경제
  4. 크리스마스(한국 크리스마스 연표), 국가기록원
  5. 크리스마스 씰, 국가기록원
  6. 성탄절 공휴일 지정 연혁(1946년 휴일 목록, 1949년 대통령령 제124호), 다음 뉴스
Kelsey Cecil
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