How European Christmas treats became winter staples in Korea

Every December, Seoul embraces the seasonal festivities with widely advertised Christmas-themed specials. Through the years, Christmas in Korea has evolved from a small religious affair to an extravagant celebration of the end of the year with family and friends. Christmas became popularized in Korea as different forms of Christianity spread in the 18th and 19th centuries, and emerged as a secular celebration in the 20th century. The celebration was first designated a national holiday in 1945 under the U.S. military government. As the holiday’s spirit of joy, love and hope resonated, get-togethers, gift-giving and festive celebrations became more widespread, especially among younger Koreans. These are now part of the local Christmas culture, but draw heavily from European and North American traditions. As the air turns crisp and city streets glow with lights, many Koreans find themselves thinking of Europe’s Christmas markets. Scenes that once required flights no longer feel so far away, with snow-dusted public squares, warm mulled wine and sweet treats found in spots all over SeoulWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times