Today is Thanksgiving in the U.S., and it always reminds me of how much it feels like Chuseok, Korea’s major harvest holiday. Both traditions center on family gatherings, sharing food, and expressing gratitude. Even the atmosphere is similar—busy kitchens, traveling to see loved ones, and favorite comfort dishes that only taste right on this day.
Even though Seoul’s winters can be cold, the season always feels warm and magical when the city lights up at night.
One of the most beautiful winter events is the Seoul Lantern Festival, held every December along the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
Halloween in Korea is a colorful event where foreigners and young Koreans have gathered in Itaewon, Hongdae, and other nightlife districts. Cafés and stores decorate with pumpkins, and friends enjoy themed parties.
But since the Itaewon tragedy of 2022, where a large crowd crush took many young lives, Halloween also carries a moment of reflection.
The streets of Seoul are full of autumn colors. The ginkgo trees along Yangjaecheon stream have turned bright yellow, making it a perfect place for an afternoon walk.
The Performing Arts Market in Seoul (PAMS) 2025 has officially opened, running from October 14 to November 9, and bringing together global performing artists, producers, and creators. This 21st edition celebrates Korea’s performing arts in spaces like the National Theater, Daehakro, and ARKO theaters. https://pams.or.kr/eng/index.do
Through this weekend, October 8–12, 2025, Seoul is hosting the Fall K-Royal Culture Festival (궁중문화축전) at its four historic palaces, including Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. The event features royal court music, dance, traditional craft workshops, and popular nighttime tours under autumn skies.
The Gimcheon Gimbap Festival in North Gyeongsang Province turns Korea’s beloved picnic food into a cultural celebration. Inspired by the city’s name sounding like Gimbap Cheonguk (“Gimbap Heaven”), the festival debuted in 2024 with over 100,000 visitors.
