2025 Seoul Lantern Festival Lights Up Gwanghwamun Plaza and Cheonggyecheon with Over 4 Million Expected Visitors, Significantly Boosting Tourism and Global Interest in Korea: Know More New Updates

The 2025 Seoul Lantern Festival is captivating locals and visitors alike, lighting up the streets of Gwanghwamun Plaza, Cheonggyecheon Stream, and Uicheon Stream. A major cultural event in Seoul, it showcases an incredible display of light sculptures, media art, and cultural symbolism. This year marks the 17th anniversary of the festival, and it promises to be bigger and more spectacular than ever. Expected to draw millions of visitors from all over the world, the event is set to play a significant role in promoting cultural tourism and positioning Seoul as a must-visit destination for international travelers.

A Festival of Lights: Celebrating Culture and Tradition

The Seoul Lantern Festival is the largest light festival in Asia in terms of the number of visitors. Last year, 3.28 million people attended the festival, and with the festival’s growing popularity, it is expected to attract over 4 million visitors this year. The festival was initiated to highlight Korean traditions and culture, creating a fusion of light and art that brings communities together and promotes cultural appreciation.

This year’s theme, “My Light, Our Dream, and the Magic of Seoul,” is an exploration of the city’s beauty, history, and dreams, illuminated through over 400 light sculptures and innovative media art. From the official opening on December 12th, more than 1 million people flocked to the venue over the weekend, setting the stage for record-breaking attendance numbers. With each passing year, the festival’s international appeal grows, making it an important milestone for Seoul’s tourism industry.

Cultural Tourism and Economic Impact

The Seoul Lantern Festival has become a cornerstone event for tourism in Korea. Each year, it attracts a large floating population, including both local and foreign visitors. The increase in tourist numbers boosts the local economy through spending on accommodation, food, transportation, and souvenirs. The festival also helps elevate the Korean cultural experience, showcasing Korean paper lanterns combined with modern media art to illustrate the fusion of tradition and technology.

The festival’s ability to draw in tourists from all over the world helps bolster Seoul’s position as a cultural hub in East Asia. International visitors, especially those from nearby countries in Asia and Europe, are particularly drawn to the event, which offers an immersive glimpse into Korean culture through light, art, and innovation. The influx of visitors during the festival season also contributes significantly to the city’s tourism revenue, reinforcing the importance of cultural tourism as a driver of the local economy.

A Visual Feast: Exploring the Themes and Installations

The main section of the Seoul Lantern Festival, from Cheonggye Plaza to Samilgyo Bridge, is divided into four captivating themes: Miracle Seoul, Golden Secret, Dream Light, and Seoul Fantasia. Each zone offers a unique visual experience, drawing inspiration from Korea’s history, mythology, and natural beauty.

The first section, Miracle Seoul, sets the tone for the festival with a blend of traditional Korean lanterns and modern media art. Visitors walk through a breathtaking display of light, where Korean paper lanterns combine with cutting-edge projections to create an atmosphere that feels like an art exhibition. This intersection of traditional craftsmanship and technology highlights Seoul’s role as a leader in the global art and culture scene, while offering a deeper insight into Korea’s rich heritage.

One of the standout sections is the “moment of light,” a tribute to the first introduction of electricity to Korea in 1887 at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Using LED images and Korean paper, this installation recreates the historical moment when the country’s first light was switched on, symbolizing the harmony between Seoul’s historical roots and modern urban development.

Collaborative Artworks and Global Participation

One of the key highlights of the 2025 festival is the collaborative content that involves global cultural organizations. This year, Pokémon Korea contributes a stunning display of 100 light sculptures, themed “I LOVE Mermaid King”, placed in a 73-meter section. The interactive exhibit showcases how global brands and entertainment can seamlessly integrate into Seoul’s cultural landscape, further enhancing the international appeal of the festival.

Other major contributors include Nongshim, with a sculpture celebrating the 40th anniversary of Shin Ramen, and EMK Musical Company, E-Mart, and Andong City, which will also present unique themed installations. The Taiwan Tourism Agency and Czech Tourism Agency will also participate, showcasing how cultural tourism has become a global endeavor, with various countries presenting their own heritage through the medium of light sculptures.

These international collaborations not only add diversity to the festival but also help promote tourism in Korea by strengthening ties with other countries. They underscore Seoul’s role as a global cultural destination where countries can showcase their own history and artistry to an international audience.

The Magic of Seoul: The Future of Cultural Festivals

The success of the Seoul Lantern Festival demonstrates the growing power of cultural festivals in promoting tourism and enhancing the global image of Seoul. Events like this are pivotal in attracting international visitors, who come not only for the light displays but for a complete cultural experience. From the virtual reality world tours that let participants explore cities like London and Tokyo, to the food experiences like making Greek yogurt parfaits and tasting Turkish ice cream, the festival offers a multifaceted experience that appeals to all the senses.

The festival’s growing popularity also signifies the increasing importance of cultural tourism in Seoul’s overall tourism strategy. With the rising demand for immersive, authentic experiences, the Seoul Lantern Festival is well-positioned to become an integral part of Korea’s cultural tourism calendar, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Moreover, as the global tourism industry continues to rebound post-COVID-19, Seoul is poised to take full advantage of its cultural offerings. The Seoul Lantern Festival is just one example of how the city is capitalizing on its rich cultural heritage to foster greater international understanding and cooperation through art and tourism.

Light as a Bridge: Celebrating Diversity and Cultural Exchange

The Seoul Lantern Festival serves as a metaphorical bridge, connecting cultures through the universal language of light. This year’s theme, “My Light, Our Dream, and the Magic of Seoul,” is a celebration of diversity, highlighting how light can illuminate the common dreams and aspirations shared by people across the world. It serves as a reminder that despite cultural differences, the beauty of art, light, and creativity transcends borders and unites people from all walks of life.

For travelers and tourists, the Seoul Lantern Festival offers an opportunity to engage with the city’s dynamic culture in a unique and accessible way. It also encourages deeper reflection on the role of light in the world, not just as a source of illumination, but as a symbol of hope, harmony, and collective progress. Visitors can explore Seoul’s historical significance while marveling at contemporary art that pushes the boundaries of what a cultural festival can be.

Conclusion: Seoul’s Lantern Festival and the Future of Tourism

The 2025 Seoul Lantern Festival will undoubtedly attract millions of visitors, continuing its legacy as a major cultural event in Seoul and Asia. By combining traditional elements of Korean culture with cutting-edge media art, the festival serves as an immersive celebration of light, culture, and creativity, while promoting Seoul as a vibrant and welcoming global city. For both local residents and international tourists, it is a must-visit event that offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Korea, with cultural offerings that continue to elevate Seoul’s tourism industry.

As the festival grows in scale and significance, it will remain a symbol of Seoul’s commitment to cultural exchange, showcasing the city’s ability to blend the past with the future and provide a platform for artistic expression that resonates with audiences worldwide. Seoul’s Lantern Festival is more than just a celebration of lights; it is an invitation to experience the magic and wonder of the city itself.

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Chen Yanshun, the chairman of China’s BOE Technology Group, visited South Korea to meet with Samsung Electronics officials in Seoul. The meeting follows a legal dispute between BOE and Samsung Display over OLED technology, which was settled in favor of Samsung.

As per the information via Yonhap, Chen Yanshun met with Yong Seok-woo, head of Samsung’s Display Business, at the company’s headquarters in Suwon. The main topic of discussion of this two-day trip was boosting BOE’s supply of LCD panels to Samsung.

At present, Samsung buys all of its TV display panels from Chinese companies. The talks suggest that the two firms are looking for ways to work together more closely in the future, even after their legal dispute.

Earlier this year, the US International Trade Commission (ITC) issued a preliminary ruling that could have stopped BOE from sending OLED panels to the United States for over 14 years. The settlement has now cleared the way for both companies to move forward without a long legal battle. It had caused tension.

But now Chen’s visit is a positive sign for business relations between BOE and Samsung. Even after the legal dispute, BOE and Samsung are finding ways to collaborate and grow together. By expanding LCD panel supplies, both companies could benefit and help them stay competitive in the global display market.

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South Korea’s Korean Air, Asiana, Jin, Busan, and Air Seoul to Launch Starlink’s Ultra-Fast In-Flight Wi-Fi Across Fleets Starting in 2026, Revolutionizing Passenger Connectivity

South Korea’s aviation landscape is on the brink of a transformative upgrade as Korean Air and its affiliated carriers — Asiana Airlines, Jin Air, Air Busan, and Air Seoul — confirmed plans to bring Starlink’s high‑speed satellite Wi‑Fi service to their passenger fleets. This initiative, verified through official airline notices, corporate announcements, and regulatory filings, marks the most significant enhancement to in‑flight connectivity ever undertaken by any Korean carrier.

Passengers flying with these airlines can expect a dramatic shift in how they stay connected above the clouds. The initiative, a first for South Korean aviation, signals a strategic focus on digital infrastructure and customer experience that aligns with international tech trends.

A New Era of Seamless Connectivity Begins in the Air

Korean Air, alongside Asiana Airlines — now part of the unified Hanjin Group following the 2024 merger process — officially disclosed that Starlink internet systems will be installed across their entire aircraft fleets in phased rollouts beginning late in 2025. This means passengers flying both domestic and international routes will soon enjoy access to robust, high‑speed Wi‑Fi comparable to ground‑based broadband.

According to the statements published on the Korean Air corporate site, the first steps involve preparatory work and certification testing for equipment installation this year. The earliest flights featuring Starlink connectivity are expected by the third quarter of 2026, with subsequent expansion across all aircraft types over the following year.

How Starlink Technology Will Elevate the Flying Experience

Starlink, a low‑Earth‑orbit satellite internet network operated by SpaceX, uses thousands of satellites approximately 550 kilometres above the planet to provide fast, low‑latency data transmission. This is a substantial technological upgrade over older geostationary systems that hang 35,000 kilometres above the Earth. Industry reports note that Starlink can deliver speeds of up to 500 Mbps, enabling streaming, cloud computing, gaming, and robust messaging services while airborne.

For passengers, this translates to uninterrupted video calls, real‑time collaboration tools, entertainment streaming, and even online shopping — experiences once limited or unstable during flights. The new service positions the Hanjin Group’s airlines alongside global carriers that have already embraced next‑generation connectivity as a standard offering.

Prioritising Long‑Haul and Popular Aircraft

The rollout timetable is carefully structured. Korean Air and Asiana Airlines will prioritise their long‑haul wide‑body aircraft — specifically Boeing 777‑300ERs and Airbus A350‑900s — given their heavy use on international routes and extended flight times where connectivity matters most to business and leisure travellers.

Budget‑focused carriers such as Jin Air will begin with its Boeing 737‑8 fleet, while Air Busan and Air Seoul are currently evaluating their aircraft mixes to determine installation sequences. All carriers intend to complete installations across their entire network by the end of 2027, aligning with broader strategic goals and regulatory safety approvals.

Official Government and Corporate Approvals

While the technical rollout is airline‑led, it represents an important alignment with South Korea’s civil aviation policies. National regulators, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, oversee certification and safety approvals for satellite communications equipment on aircraft. The phased timeline reflects compliance with these regulatory processes as well as broader airspace coordination requirements.

This collaboration between carriers, tech providers, and regulatory bodies underscores the multi‑layered effort required to bring universal, high‑speed internet to flights departing and arriving in and out of Korea.

Why This Matters to Travellers and the Industry

Internet access has become a defining factor in how airlines compete for customers. As global travel rebounds and passenger expectations evolve, connectivity is no longer a luxury — it’s an essential part of the modern flight experience. Research indicates that reliable onboard Wi‑Fi increasingly influences booking decisions, especially for business travellers.

For Korean aviation, adopting Starlink means closing a digital gap and setting a new benchmark for service quality. It positions Korean carriers at the forefront of technological adoption in Asia — a region rapidly integrating advanced digital services across consumer sectors.

Broader Adoption Among Global Airlines

Korean Air and its partners are not alone in turning to Starlink. Leading global airlines — including carriers in Europe, the Middle East, and North America — are also moving toward similar satellite Wi‑Fi platforms as standard equipment. The proliferation of these systems reflects a global pivot toward next‑generation connectivity that transforms flights into truly connected spaces.

This trend signals how essential satellite internet has become in even the most mobile environments, ensuring that passengers’ digital lives — work, entertainment, communication — remain uninterrupted at 35,000 feet.

What Passengers Should Expect Next

Passengers flying with these airlines in 2026 and beyond will likely experience Wi‑Fi that rivals many ground‑based broadband connections. Airlines have not yet confirmed whether the service will be free or subscription‑based, but the installation itself represents a clear investment in elevating onboard service standards.

Customers planning travel on Korean Air and its affiliates are advised to check airline communications ahead of departure for the latest information on routes equipped with Starlink connectivity, as phased rollouts will see some aircraft updated before others.

A Connected Sky: The Future of Korean Air Travel

As the final preparations take shape in 2025, passengers can anticipate a new chapter for South Korean airline travel where connectivity becomes as expected as safety and comfort. This leap toward high‑speed in‑flight internet parallels broader innovations in aviation technology and travel experience enhancement.

For many fliers — business travellers sending emails at cruising altitude, families streaming movies, remote workers attending virtual meetings — this advancement will feel like arriving in the future. When Korean Air or its sister carriers finally switch on Starlink on a wide scale, it will mark a significant milestone in how people connect in the skies.

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Indulge in Luxury this Christmas at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul with Exclusive Holiday Offerings

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul has unveiled its festive holiday decorations, turning its lobby into a contemporary winter scene that blends modern design with the warmth of the holiday spirit. Featuring sculptural trees and rich red, gold, and green tones, the hotel’s seasonal transformation brings a vibrant and elegant atmosphere to the property, offering a perfect setting for travelers visiting Seoul during the holidays.

This year’s holiday display at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul highlights the property’s commitment to contemporary design while embracing the festive cheer. Alongside the stunning decor, the hotel is offering its annual Confections by Four Seasons program, providing guests with a variety of gourmet take-home treats through January 5, 2026. This combination of holiday aesthetics and culinary indulgence makes the hotel a prime destination for visitors seeking a festive experience in the heart of Seoul.

A Contemporary Winter Wonderland at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

The lobby of Four Seasons Hotel Seoul has been transformed into a stunning winter scene, blending contemporary elegance with traditional holiday elements. Sculptural trees, modern holiday ornaments, and lush floral arrangements in festive colors create a vibrant yet sophisticated atmosphere, reflecting the hotel’s chic and stylish ambiance.

The winter decorations echo the property’s modern design, with sleek lines and minimalist touches that still evoke the warmth and charm of the holiday season. The use of bold red, gold, and green tones throughout the lobby adds a festive pop, while the sleek sculptures and light installations bring a contemporary edge to the traditional winter décor.

Guests entering the hotel are welcomed by a striking holiday display that sets the tone for the exceptional service and luxury that Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is known for. The decorations not only provide a picturesque backdrop for holiday photos but also contribute to the overall atmosphere of warmth and celebration, making the hotel a perfect holiday retreat for both locals and international travelers.

Confections by Four Seasons: Holiday Indulgence

For food lovers and those looking to bring home a taste of the holiday season, the Confections by Four Seasons program offers an exquisite selection of gourmet treats. Available until January 5, 2026, the menu includes a range of indulgent options, such as take-home roasts and cakes, designed to elevate holiday celebrations.

The roasts, including rib-eye and porchetta, are priced between 450,000 and 550,000 won, offering guests the chance to enjoy a luxurious, festive meal at home. These premium cuts are perfect for holiday feasts, providing a flavorful and high-quality addition to any family gathering or holiday party.

For those with a sweet tooth, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul offers a variety of cakes and confections, each beautifully crafted with seasonal flavors and artistic presentation. The Crystal Vanilla Cake (129,000 won) features rich vanilla flavors and is a perfect option for those seeking a classic holiday treat. The Mont Blanc Cake (99,000 won) offers a delicious combination of chestnut flavors and decadent cream, ideal for those looking for something a bit more festive. The Panettone (49,000 won), a traditional Italian Christmas cake, adds a touch of European holiday flair to the menu.

For the ultimate luxury experience, the Diamond Four Seasons Leaf cake (300,000 won) is a showstopper. This decadent creation is designed to be a centerpiece for holiday celebrations, with a combination of refined ingredients and intricate design that embodies the Four Seasons’ commitment to excellence and culinary artistry.

The program also offers a range of chocolates and seasonal treats, making it a popular choice for those looking to indulge or bring a gift home to loved ones. Guests can pre-order these treats or purchase them directly from the hotel’s lobby, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of Four Seasons’ holiday magic even after they leave.

A Perfect Holiday Destination in Seoul

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul’s holiday offerings go beyond just festive decorations and indulgent treats. Located in the heart of Seoul, the hotel is an ideal base for tourists visiting the city during the holiday season. The property is situated near major attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks, making it convenient for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city.

Seoul is known for its festive atmosphere during the holidays, with Christmas lights illuminating the streets, winter markets offering seasonal goods, and cultural events happening throughout the city. The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to visit these festive spots, whether they want to explore Seoul’s historic palaces, take in the views from Namsan Tower, or enjoy a winter stroll through nearby parks.

For those looking for a luxurious winter getaway, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul offers a range of world-class amenities, including a full-service spa, elegant dining options, and exceptional service that caters to every need. Whether you’re in the city for a holiday vacation or a business trip, the hotel provides an exceptional retreat where you can relax and recharge after a day of exploring.

Looking Ahead: More Seasonal Experiences

As the holiday season continues, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is likely to offer even more experiences for guests. The hotel’s dedication to creating memorable, festive moments for visitors ensures that the property will remain a top destination for luxury travelers in Seoul.

The success of its Confections by Four Seasons program and the captivating holiday décor in the lobby show the hotel’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences during the most magical time of the year. Visitors to Seoul can continue to enjoy the festive ambiance of Four Seasons Hotel Seoul long after the holidays are over.

Conclusion: A Luxurious Holiday Experience in the Heart of Seoul

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul’s contemporary winter decorations, along with its Confections by Four Seasons holiday program, offer travelers a unique and luxurious experience during the festive season. Whether you’re enjoying a gourmet holiday roast, indulging in a sweet seasonal treat, or simply taking in the stunning winter scene in the hotel lobby, the property offers something for every type of traveler.

As one of Seoul’s premier luxury hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul remains a top choice for those seeking elegance, warmth, and exceptional service during the holiday season. The combination of stylish design, festive offerings, and world-class amenities makes it a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Christmas in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

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