11 Best Places to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in South Korea

Updated: 5 days ago

South Korea offers a dazzling array of New Year’s Eve celebrations, from historic traditions to high-tech drone shows and fireworks displays. Whether you’re ringing in the New Year in vibrant Seoul, basking on the coastal beaches of Busan, or marveling at the stunning landscapes of Jeju, there’s something for everyone. Even if your New Year’s resolution is to “stop eating five packets of ramen a night,” these celebrations will give you a delicious distraction.

If you’re a foreigner or expat, navigating these events can sometimes be challenging due to language barriers, transportation issues, or lack of information. That’s where Wonderful, Korea’s trusted English-speaking virtual assistant service, comes in to help. Wonderful has supported foreigners in Korea for nearly a decade by solving language barriers, assisting with complex bookings, and making everyday challenges easier. From securing event tickets and arranging transportation to recommending the best local experiences, Wonderful ensures you enjoy a seamless and stress-free New Year’s celebration.

Here are the 11 best places in Korea to welcome 2025 and how to make the most of each experience.

1. Shinsegae Department Store in Myeongdong

📍 63 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Located in the heart of Seoul, Myeongdong transforms into a vibrant hub of light and color on New Year’s Eve. The Shinsegae Department Store – known as the “Korean Times Square” – lights up with a media facade so dazzling it might make you question whether you’re in Seoul or the set of a sci-fi movie. Pair that with street food so good you’ll forget every diet plan you’ve ever made, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable countdown.

2. Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony

📍 Bosingak and Sejong-daero area,* Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul*

For a more traditional way to welcome the New Year, head to the Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony in central Seoul. Here, the ancient Bosingak Bell rings 33 times at midnight—a tradition so old, it feels like something ancient emperors would approve—though thankfully, you don’t need a royal decree to join in. The vibe is electric, with speeches, cultural performances, and a crowd so hyped you’ll be yelling "Happy New Year!" in three different languages by the time the bell finishes chiming.

This year’s event will also feature 15,000 LED wrist lights distributed to citizens and tourists. These lights will synchronize with performances, creating a vibrant and immersive atmosphere that’s sure to leave everyone glowing—literally!

3. Inspire Resort, Incheon

📍 127 Gonghangmunhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon

For a sleek and modern celebration, Inspire Resort in Incheon delivers a modern New Year’s Eve experience with their “Endless Midnight Countdown.” Starting at 9:30 PM, the resort hosts live DJ performances, an immersive LED countdown show, and a glamorous after-party at the Aurora Bar. The sleek and upscale setting, paired with music, lights, and dancing, makes it an ideal spot for those who want to celebrate in style.

If you’re unsure about how to book tickets or arrange transportation to this upscale event, Wonderful can assist with securing reservations and planning your itinerary, ensuring you arrive stress-free and ready to enjoy the festivities.

4. Gwangalli Beach, Busan

📍 219 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan

Gwangalli Beach in Busan offers one of Korea’s most visually stunning celebrations. The highlight of the night is a state-of-the-art drone show featuring 2,025 drones, lighting up the sky in colorful patterns over the iconic Gwangan Bridge. The sound of waves and the glowing bridge create a magical atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. Crowds line the beach to watch the countdown unfold, enjoying local street food and live performances that make the evening even more memorable.

5. Haeundae Beach, Busan

📍 U-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan

Haeundae Beach offers a classic yet lively New Year’s Eve with fireworks and a drone light show. Before midnight, enjoy live performances, light displays, and the sound of the waves as anticipation builds.

If you’d like to pair the beach celebration with dining or accommodations nearby, Wonderful can suggest local hot spots and assist with reservations to make the most of your evening.

6. Jangseungpo Port, Geoje

📍 138 Jangseung-ro, Geoje-si, Gyeongnam

Looking for a more serene and local experience? Geoje’s Jangseungpo Port hosts a New Year’s festival with traditional torch-lighting ceremonies, cultural performances, and a spectacular fireworks display. The smaller crowd and coastal scenery provide a serene setting, making it perfect for those who want a peaceful yet beautiful New Year’s experience.

Planning a trip to Geoje from another city can be tricky, but Wonderful can assist with ferry schedules, hotel bookings, and itinerary recommendations for a seamless experience.

7. Sejong Light Festival

📍 623-1, Boram-dong, Sejong-si

In Sejong City, the Light Festival is a community-focused celebration featuring fireworks and a dazzling drone light show over the Geumgang River. This relaxed and festive atmosphere allows you to enjoy the countdown in a smaller, less crowded setting.

8. Jeju Shinhwa World

📍 217 Nokchabunjae-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju

For a high-energy New Year’s Eve celebration, Jeju Shinhwa World hosts an exciting concert featuring top artists like Jaurim, Lee Mu-jin, Don Mills, Sleepy, Deepflow, Wooside and more. The night concludes with a stunning fireworks show at midnight, making it the ultimate party destination on Jeju Island.

Note that only guests who reserve rooms at Jeju Shinhwa World through the official website for December 31 can watch the performances for free. Additionally, these guests will enjoy access to Zone A, a premium area located close to the stage, for the best concert experience.

9. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Seoul

📍 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Seoul’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) offers a unique, futuristic New Year’s Eve experience. As midnight approaches, the iconic building comes alive with a stunning media facade show, live music performances, and fireworks that light up the surrounding area.

If you’re unsure how to navigate the crowds or want recommendations for nearby late-night dining, Wonderful can provide expert tips and local insights.

10. Seongsan Sunrise Festival, Jeju

📍 1 Seongsan-ri, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju

For a serene and spiritual start to the year, head to Jeju’s Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) to watch the first sunrise of 2025. This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts performances, traditional events, and a countdown ceremony leading up to the magical moment when the sun rises over the sea. This year’s festival will also feature a ceremonial gold rope cutting to symbolize new beginnings, followed by a unique opportunity for 900 climbers to ascend Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak). Participation requires advanced applications, ensuring only the most dedicated early birds can take part. At 8 a.m., the Seongsan-ri Village Council will add to the celebration by distributing rice cake soup to attendees, offering a hearty and warm start to the New Year.

Wonderful can help pre-register for the sunrise hike—spaces are limited, so act early—and plan nearby activities to make the most of your visit to this iconic site.

11. Lotte World Tower, Jamsil

📍 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

The Lotte World Tower hosts one of Korea’s most dazzling New Year’s celebrations. At midnight, a massive LED light show covers the tower, followed by an awe-inspiring fireworks display that lights up the city skyline.

Celebrate the New Year with Ease

From historic bell-ringing ceremonies to futuristic drone shows and stunning sunrises, South Korea offers unforgettable ways to celebrate the New Year. With Wonderful’s support—whether you need help with directions, tickets, or event details—you can focus on creating lasting memories as you welcome 2025.

Wonderful is the best on-demand English-speaking virtual assistant service in South Korea. Serving the expat community for nearly 10 years we've maintained the highest customer ratings on both Google and Facebook.

Don't let language barriers or unfamiliar surroundings hold you back from getting the most out of your time in South Korea. Let Wonderful help you save time and make things easier.

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