As the chill of December settles over Seoul, one neighborhood is ablaze with warmth, music, and the tantalizing aromas of European holiday fare. The 14th European Christmas Market, held in Seongbuk-gu, has once again transformed the city’s Daepyeong District into a vibrant crossroads of cultures, drawing both locals and foreign residents to celebrate the spirit of Christmas in true continental style.
On December 6, 2025, the festivities officially kicked off at the Baram Madang plaza in front of Seongbuk-gu Office, a new venue that expanded the market’s reach and comfort for visitors. According to Naeway Broadcasting, the event has grown considerably since its inception in 2010, now boasting a record 23 booths representing 15 different countries. This year’s participants include Greece, Germany, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Austria, Italy, Georgia, Czech Republic, Croatia, Poland, France, Finland, and Hungary, each bringing their own unique slice of holiday tradition to Seoul.
The opening ceremony was a truly international affair, attended by about 15 ambassadors and their spouses, alongside Seongbuk-gu Mayor Lee Seung-ro and local council members. The crowd was also joined by notable cultural ambassadors such as Chef Mikael and French influencer Elodie, who mingled with festival-goers and posed for commemorative photos. The sense of shared celebration was palpable, with the crowd’s excitement matching the brisk winter air.
Speaking on behalf of the assembled diplomats, Emilia Gatto, the Italian ambassador to South Korea, delivered a heartfelt address in Korean. "The food culture of each country is the most important. Food culture represents a country’s history, tradition, and art. Please enjoy the world’s foods and have a great time. Happy New Year!" she said, according to Naeway Broadcasting. Her words set the tone for a festival dedicated not only to holiday cheer but also to the deeper bonds forged through cultural exchange.
The market’s layout was carefully designed to evoke the feeling of a European village square at Christmastime. According to YTN, whimsical ornaments, twinkling trees, and rows of festively decorated stalls created an atmosphere that whisked visitors away from the heart of Seoul to the cobbled streets of Prague, Vienna, or Krakow. The event’s organizers also made use of a newly developed recreational space in front of the district office, providing a cozy rest area for visitors to linger and soak up the ambiance.
Food, naturally, was at the heart of the celebration. Each booth offered a selection of traditional treats and drinks, many of which are rarely found outside their home countries. German glühwein, a spiced mulled wine perfect for warding off the cold, and Austrian rumtopf, a warming fruit-and-rum concoction, were popular choices among adults. Meanwhile, children and adults alike flocked to sample sausages like currywurst and kupaty, hearty Polish bigos, and smoky kabanos. Sweet tooths were spoiled for choice with Slovak trdelník, Italian panettone, Czech honey cakes, and Hungarian lángos, while Finnish xylitol gum and Slovak handicrafts offered unique gifts and souvenirs.
The Polish booth drew particular attention, thanks in part to a live interview on YTN. Kim Chang-soo, representing the Polish delegation, explained, "In Poland, we have a dumpling called 'pierogi' every Christmas. The filling can be potato and mushroom, or potato and cheese, and there are many varieties. Here, you can enjoy authentic European dishes from various countries." His words echoed the market’s broader mission: to offer a genuine taste of European holiday culture for Seoul’s residents, many of whom might never have experienced these traditions firsthand.
Beyond the culinary delights, the market’s program was packed with entertainment. Each hour brought a new musical performance, from traditional European folk music to jazz bands, filling the plaza with festive sounds. Performers dressed as Santa Claus posed for photos with children, and the air buzzed with laughter and conversation in a medley of languages. According to YTN, the market’s romantic and cheerful atmosphere was a welcome respite from the winter chill, drawing large crowds throughout its two-day run.
But the European Christmas Market is about more than just spectacle. Organizers have long emphasized its role as a platform for cultural exchange, where locals and expatriates can mingle, learn from one another, and celebrate together. As Naeway Broadcasting noted, the event has become a fixture of Seoul’s December calendar, renowned as a "global festival where you can experience the traditions and diverse Christmas cultures of Europe, the birthplace of Christmas."
This year, the market’s expanded footprint and improved amenities were designed with inclusivity and comfort in mind. The new rest area in front of the district office provided a welcome retreat for families and elderly visitors, while wider walkways made it easier for everyone to navigate the bustling stalls. Organizers also highlighted the charitable aspect of the event: a portion of the proceeds from each booth will be donated to support low-income multicultural families in Seoul, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to community and goodwill.
As the festival drew to a close on December 7, the mood remained buoyant. YTN’s live coverage captured the excitement of attendees, many of whom expressed their delight at being able to sample foods and customs from across the continent without ever leaving Seoul. The event’s popularity is a testament to the city’s growing appetite for multicultural experiences and its openness to global traditions.
For those who missed this year’s festivities, organizers promise that the European Christmas Market will return next December, bigger and better than ever. Until then, the memories of glühwein, pierogi, and jazz echoing through the chilly air will linger—a reminder that, even in the depths of winter, a little bit of Europe can bring warmth and joy to the heart of Seoul.
