Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Seoul (2025–2026)
Seoul’s New Year’s Eve celebrations usually split into two styles: real official countdown venues, and places with fireworks or strong New Year vibes. Use this clean guide to pick the best spot to welcome 2026.
Two Ways to Do New Year’s Eve in Seoul
Official countdown / main venue events:
You’ll get the full “everyone counting down together” energy—often with ceremonies, performances, and big screens.
Fireworks or New Year atmosphere:
Great for photos and skyline views, but it can feel more like “watching the New Year arrive” than a communal countdown.
Official Countdown Events (Main Venues)
1) Bosingak (Jongno) — Traditional Bell-Ringing
Format: The bell is rung 33 times at midnight (00:00).
Transport: Jonggak Station (Subway Line 1).
Why go: Korea’s most traditional New Year ritual—iconic and symbolic.
Tip: Crowds get intense. Arrive early for a better viewing spot.
2) Dongdaemun DDP — Media Art + City Countdown + Fireworks
Start: Dec 31 from around 23:00.
Format: Media art, light shows, performances, and a live countdown moment.
Transport: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Lines 2/4/5).
Why go: Modern, youthful, and extremely photogenic.
3) Gwanghwamun Square — Winter Festa Core Zone
Dates: Dec 12, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026.
Format: Light installations plus strong city-center holiday energy.
Transport: Gwanghwamun Station (Subway Line 5).
Why go: Big open views in central Seoul—easy access and great night photos.
4) Shinsegae Square (Myeongdong) — Official Countdown Show
Format: Giant media facade + performances + official countdown atmosphere.
Ticket note: Some designated stage areas may require advance lottery/booking (deadline noted as Dec 18).
Free viewing: Outer areas usually still let you feel the countdown vibe.
Transport: Hoehyeon Station (Subway Line 4, Exit 7).
Why go: Seoul’s “Times Square” energy—bright, loud, and exciting.
Fireworks & Strong New Year Atmosphere
5) Lotte World Tower (Jamsil) — Landmark Night Views
What to expect: Fireworks or large-scale light shows in many years (details vary).
Best viewing: Tower plaza, Seokchon Lake, and the wider Jamsil area.
Transport: Jamsil Station (Subway Lines 2/8).
Why go: Strong skyline visuals—perfect for photos and “welcome 2026” night shots.
Note: Often more “watch the New Year” than “count down together.”
6) Lotte World — Theme Park New Year’s Eve
Dec 31 hours: 10:00–24:10 (ticket sales close 22:00 / entry closes 23:00).
Format: Winter festival atmosphere, performances, and special year-end programming (fireworks vary).
Transport: Jamsil Station (Subway Lines 2/8).
Best for: Couples, friends, and families who prefer a fun night without city-center crowd pressure.
Quick Pick Guide
Most traditional: Bosingak
Most photogenic + modern: DDP
Best city-center mood: Gwanghwamun
Best skyline vibes: Lotte World Tower / Seokchon Lake
Most relaxed “event” style: Lotte World
Dr. Beau’s Note
Seoul’s best New Year’s Eve experience depends on your goal. If you want a true shared countdown, choose Bosingak, DDP, or Shinsegae Square. If you want visuals and photos with less pressure, head to Jamsil for skyline views.
FAQ
Which spot is best for a real countdown?
Bosingak, DDP, and Shinsegae Square offer the strongest official countdown energy.
Which spot is best for photos?
DDP for modern visuals, and Jamsil (Lotte World Tower / Seokchon Lake) for skyline shots.
What is the easiest place to reach?
Gwanghwamun Square and Shinsegae Square are central and transit-friendly.
About Dr. Beau
Dr. Beau is a Korea-based beauty editor and SEO strategist focused on travel-friendly, photo-ready experiences—curated with clarity and practicality for global readers.
