In Korea, there is no Halloween, no Thanksgiving and Christmas is considered a “couples holiday”, but that doesn’t mean there is nothing to look forward to. The build up to Christmas is still strong in Korea with bright lights hanging from every store. As much as I love Christmas decorations, it is nice to see some more traditional lights hanging and floating along the Cheonggyecheon Stream (청게천). The Seoul Lantern Festival has arrived and is here until November 17th. It kicks off the holiday season for me, and has become my own Christmas tradition in Korea.
Twice a year (in the spring and in the fall) the Cheonggyecheon Stream is lit up at night with paper lanterns. The warm glow of the lanterns create such a fun atmosphere, for friends, families and couples to wander the stream. Every year I go to the festival there are different lanterns presented along the stream!
The lanterns range from cutesy animals, to classic Christmas trees, but the majority of lanterns represent a significant time in Korean history.
This lantern actually moved up and down, and created an awe-struck audience in front of it.
All of us trying to get a group picture quickly without someone walking in front of us.
Near one end of Cheonggyecheon there is a “wishing well” where you can throw in your coins while making a wish. These wishing wells are common in Korea, and can be found in many of the ponds or artificial lakes sprinkled across the country.
After walking in one direction along the river, we decided to take a quick break before viewing the rest of the festival. We stopped by a little coffee truck parked beside the river and got some hot chocolate (핫 초코 – literally translated as ‘hot choco’). Delicious.
We all squealed with joy when we saw the Christmas tree lantern floating and flashing before our eyes.
The above photo was my absolute favourite installation at this year’s festival. Nothing quite like walking under hundreds of lanterns, with nothing but more bright lanterns ahead.
Oh Korea.
The 셀카 (selca), otherwise known as a “selfie” is completely acceptable to do in public here, and is probably one of Korea’s favourite ways to capture a moment. No shame.
The girls, and a curious little boy.
Okay, this cute little seal was a close second to my favourite thing at the festival this year. I may have even transformed into my Korean alter ego and repeatedly said “아! 진짜, 진짜 귀여운!” (Ah! SO CUTE!) while taking pictures of it from all angles.
I was convinced these were Christmas elves, until I looked closer at the sign, and realized it was a continuation on Korean history.
Every year I look forward to sharing the lantern festival experience with new expats, since it is such a picturesque Korean experience.
I will miss this holiday tradition once I leave Korea, but I am looking forward to a Christmas with my family next year.
What symbolizes the beginning of winter and the holiday season for you? What is different about your experiences at home, and living abroad?
Nomadicbee 