New Year Countdown Events in Korea
6 Ways to Welcome 2026 Across Seoul and Beyond
As the end of 2025 approaches, there are more ways than ever to welcome the
New Year.
While spending a quiet evening at home can be meaningful, going out with
family or friends to a countdown event is also a popular option in Korea.
From traditional ceremonies in the heart of Seoul to large-scale media art
shows, concerts, and seaside countdowns, New Year’s Eve events now offer a
wide range of atmospheres and experiences.
Below is a curated list of
six major New Year countdown events in Korea, with clear information on what makes each one unique.
Bosingak Bell Ringing Ceremony (2026)
Overview
The Bosingak Bell Ringing Ceremony is Korea’s most symbolic New Year’s Eve
event.
Held at midnight on December 31, the bell is struck
33 times, marking the
official start of the New Year.
Rather than fireworks or concerts, this event focuses on tradition, history, and national symbolism. It is broadcast nationwide and remains a meaningful way to welcome the New Year across generations.
Location
Bosingak Pavilion, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Official Information
<a href="https://culture.seoul.go.kr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seoul Culture Portal – Bosingak Ceremony</a>
DDP Seoul Light Countdown
Overview
The DDP Seoul Light Countdown takes place at Dongdaemun Design Plaza, one of
Seoul’s most iconic modern landmarks.
This event centers on
large-scale media art,
using light, projection mapping, and architecture to create a futuristic New
Year atmosphere.
It is visually striking yet relatively calm, making it suitable for families and visitors interested in photography and design-focused events.
Location
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Seoul
Official Information
<a href="https://ddp.or.kr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DDP Official Website</a>
Seoul Light Gwanghwamun (2025)
Overview
Seoul Light Gwanghwamun transforms the historic Gwanghwamun area into a
massive light-based art space.
Rather than focusing solely on midnight countdowns, this event runs across the
year-end period, allowing visitors to enjoy the installations at a relaxed
pace.
The combination of history, architecture, and modern light art makes this one of Seoul’s most atmospheric winter events.
Location
Gwanghwamun Square and surrounding area, Seoul
Official Information
<a href="https://culture.seoul.go.kr/seoullight" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seoul Light Gwanghwamun Guide</a>
Myeongdong Square Countdown Show
Overview
The Myeongdong Square Countdown Show is a city-style New Year event held in
one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts.
Large digital screens and media displays create a festive countdown atmosphere
surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes.
It is ideal for visitors who want to experience the New Year countdown briefly while enjoying shopping and dining nearby.
Location
Myeongdong Square, Jung-gu, Seoul
Official Information
Sinchon Countdown Concert (2026)
Jung-gu Cultural EventsOverview
The Sinchon Countdown Concert focuses on live performances and stage events
leading up to midnight.
Located in a university district, it attracts a lively crowd and offers a
concert-style New Year celebration rather than a traditional ceremony.
Due to high crowd density, families with young children may want to plan their viewing spots in advance.
Location
Sinchon area, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Official Information
<a href="https://www.seodaemun.go.kr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seodaemun-gu Festival Information</a>
Samcheok Beach Countdown (2026)
Overview
Samcheok Beach Countdown offers a coastal alternative to city-based events.
Held along the East Sea, this event allows visitors to welcome the New Year
with open sea views and winter beach scenery.
The natural setting creates a calmer, more spacious experience compared to metropolitan countdowns, though warm clothing is essential due to winter temperatures.
Location
Samcheok Beach, Gangwon Province
Official Information
<a href="https://www.samcheok.go.kr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Samcheok City Tourism Website</a>
Choosing the Right Countdown Event
Each New Year countdown event offers a different atmosphere:
-
Tradition & symbolism: Bosingak Bell Ringing Ceremony
-
Media art & visuals: DDP Seoul Light, Seoul Light Gwanghwamun
-
Urban excitement: Myeongdong Square Countdown
-
Live performances: Sinchon Countdown Concert
-
Nature & scenery: Samcheok Beach Countdown
Final schedules and access details may change each year, so checking official announcements before visiting is strongly recommended.
