1. 2025 at a glance

Dates. December 12, 2025 to January 4, 2026.

Theme. My Light, Our Dream, the Magic of Seoul.

Locations. Cheonggyecheon Stream and Ui Stream with installations across central Seoul.

Admission. Free for outdoor displays. Special programs may vary.

2. The story and the setting

The Seoul Lantern Festival began in 2009 and quickly became one of the city's signature winter events, drawing large crowds each year. It traditionally illuminated Cheonggyecheon and in recent editions expanded to central plazas and, in 2025, to Ui Stream as well.

3. Route plan and best vantage points

Start at Cheonggye Plaza. Walk downstream toward Supyo Bridge for classic reflections. Subway access is easy from City Hall, Gwanghwamun, Jonggak, or Euljiro 1 ga stations.

Branch to Ui Stream. On select nights the neighborhood installations are calmer and family friendly.

Timing. Weekdays near opening time are quieter. Many editions run evening hours roughly 18:00 to 22:00. Always check the day's notice and weather.

4. Photo tips without the stress

Use a faster shutter to freeze visitors and ripples. For silky reflections, brace on the railing and lower ISO rather than using a tripod in crowded zones. Shoot from bridge sides to layer lanterns, people, and skyline.

On another night, pair the festival with Banpo Bridge's Moonlight Rainbow Fountain in its April to October season. It usually runs several times nightly for about 20 minutes, weather permitting

5. What to eat nearby

After your walk, warm up with hotteok and fishcake skewers around Jonggak and Gwanghwamun, or find a late night cafe along the side streets by the stream. On weekends, small pop ups sometimes appear at Gwanghwamun and Cheonggye Plaza during festival periods.