By Yoo Na-hyunPosted : December 19, 2025, 14:24Updated : December 19, 2025, 14:25
Lanterns and other installations are on display along the Cheonggye Stream in central Seoul on Dec. 12, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
SEOUL, December 19 (AJP) - Seoul's annual lantern festival has arrived at the perfect time, illuminating the city for the holy, jolly holiday season.
Now in its 17th year, the festival runs until the first week of the coming year, featuring around 500 lanterns, along with illuminating displays and other festive decorations.
Lanterns and other installations are on display along the Cheonggye Stream in central Seoul on Dec. 12, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Visitors can explore various installations along the Cheonggye Stream, stretching from Gwanghwamun in central Seoul to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and parts of northern Seoul, under four different themes, showcasing the city's past, present and future.
Lanterns and other installations are on display along the Cheonggye Stream in central Seoul on Dec. 12, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Lanterns and other installations are on display along the Cheonggye Stream in central Seoul on Dec. 12, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Lanterns and other installations are on display along the Cheonggye Stream in central Seoul on Dec. 12, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Among the highlights is a 73-meter-long installation featuring Magikarp, a piscine Pokémon with reddish-orange scales.
A 15-meter-high, moon-themed installation can also be seen from bridges above the stream, accompanied by numerous structures and decorations inspired by animated characters.
Lanterns and other installations are on display along the Cheonggye Stream in central Seoul on Dec. 12, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Lanterns and other installations are on display along the Cheonggye Stream in central Seoul on Dec. 12, 2025. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
The nighttime festival, which kicked off on Dec. 12, runs until Jan. 4, transforming the capital into a magical winter wonderland with glittering lights and seasonal glows.