Christmas is a magical time celebrated worldwide, but did you know that its traditions and meaning can differ greatly depending on the country? In South Korea, Christmas is a special holiday that combines Western customs with Korean culture, resulting in a unique and vibrant celebration.
Although it may not hold the same religious significance for everyone as it does in traditionally Christian countries, Christmas in Korea focuses more on sharing joy, creating memories, and spending time with loved ones. In this post, we’ll explore how Koreans celebrate Christmas, the traditions that make it unique, and tips for experiencing a Korean Christmas if you’re visiting during the holiday season.
0. Words & Phrases
Christmas is called 크리스마스[keu-li-seu-ma-seu] in Korean. Click the speaker button to listen!
It is also called 성탄절 which means a holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus.
People will say "메리 크리스마스 Merry Christmas!" to friends when you speak casually.
If you want to say "Merry Christmas!" politely, consider using those two examples.
즐거운 came from the word 즐겁다 to be joy. 보내세요 came from the word 보내다 which means to spend (time). So you are wishing a person to have a joyful Christmas.
"행복한" is derived from "행복하다," which means "to be happy." Therefore, you are wishing someone a happy Christmas. Those versions are good to use for someone older than you.
1. What is Christmas Like in Korea?
In South Korea, Christmas is a national holiday. It transcends its religious roots to become a cultural and social occasion. Despite only roughly 30% of the population being Christian, the holiday is widely embraced by people of all faiths. The emphasis is on festive celebrations rather than religious practices, similar to how Valentine's Day or New Year’s Eve is observed.
In Western countries, Christmas is more of a family event, but it tends to be seen as a romantic or commercialized occasion in South Korea. Couples often use it as a chance for intimate dates, and friends also celebrate together.
Streets are decorated with lights, stores provide special Christmas discounts, and cafes offer seasonal beverages, fostering a joyful and cozy ambiance throughout December.
2. Christmas Celebrations
Decorations and Festive Atmosphere
In contrast to Western homes where Christmas trees are a common sight, Korean households typically don’t have elaborate decorations. Instead, the festive atmosphere is primarily generated by businesses, malls, and public areas. Major cities such as Seoul and Busan are renowned for their spectacular Christmas lights and themed decorations. For example, Myeongdong, a bustling shopping area in Seoul, is a popular destination during the holidays due to its twinkling lights and carol music.
Church Services and Religious Observances
For individuals who observe Christmas as a religious holiday, participating in a special church service is a crucial aspect of the day. Throughout Korea, churches conduct Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services featuring hymns, nativity plays, and community gatherings. These celebrations frequently involve sharing traditional Korean meals following the service.
Gift-Giving and Cards
In Korea, gift-giving during Christmas doesn't hold the same importance as it does in Western nations. Rather than extravagant gifts, people often exchange small tokens of appreciation such as chocolate, cakes, or handwritten cards or letters. However, for children, the idea of Santa Claus referred to as "산타 할아버지" (Santa Grandfather), has gained widespread recognition. Just like Western countries, Korean kids belive that they have to behave well to receive a gift from 산타 할아버지.
3. Food and Festive Treats
Christmas Cakes
A distinctive feature of Korean Christmas celebrations is the widespread popularity of Christmas cakes. These cakes, often artistically decorated and available at bakeries such as Paris Baguette and Tous Les Jours, are seen as essential for the holiday. In contrast to the dense fruitcakes common in Western customs, Korean Christmas cakes usually consist of light sponge cakes adorned with whipped cream, fruits, or festive decorations. Ice cream cakes are also very popular!
Korean Twist on Holiday Meals
In Western cultures, Christmas dinners typically consist of turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes, whereas in Korea, the holiday meal is more likely to feature Korean barbecue, fried chicken, pizza, or other food that they like and share with friends or family. On Christmas Eve, restaurants and delivery services experience a significant increase in orders, as many people opt to eat out or order takeout instead of preparing meals at home.
4. Romantic and Social Activities
For numerous Koreans, Christmas is akin to a romantic holiday like Valentine’s Day. Couples frequently organize special outings, exchange presents, and take photos in front of festive light displays.
Ice-skating rinks, like the one at Seoul Plaza, have become popular spots for couples and families alike. Furthermore, numerous individuals relish visits to amusement parks such as Lotte World or Everland, where they can enjoy Christmas-themed parades and shows.
Both friend groups and individuals celebrate holiday festivities by dining out, singing carols in karaoke rooms, or meeting at cafes. The focus is on spreading warmth and joy with others, irrespective of one's relationship status.
5. How to Enjoy Christmas in Korea as a Visitor
Festive Destinations
Seoul Christmas Festival: Held along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, this event features breathtaking light displays, food vendors, and live music performances.
Namsan Tower: Couples can experience a romantic view of Seoul's Christmas lights from this renowned landmark.
Busan Christmas Tree Festival: Situated in Nampo-dong, this yearly event is well-known for its enormous Christmas tree and joyful ambiance.
Seasonal Activities
Explore a Christmas market: Markets with a European flair, such as the one at Seongbuk Global Village Center, featuring handmade crafts, mulled wine, and distinctive holiday gifts.
Try ice skating: Numerous cities set up public skating rinks, offering an enjoyable and budget-friendly activity for everyone.
Wrap-up
Christmas in Korea combines tradition, romance, and modernity, offering a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you're attending a church service, enjoying a festive cake, or walking through illuminated streets, the season is an opportunity to spread joy and make lasting memories.
If you're in Korea in December, immerse yourself in the local customs and enjoy the festivities with an open heart. While Christmas in Korea might not feature stockings by the fireplace or snow-dusted rooftops, its appeal is found in the warmth of its people and their distinctive ways of celebrating the season.
Commentaires