As the year winds down in a somber tone, events that illuminate the season offer a glimmer of hope. Echoing Hannah Arendt’s words, “Even in the darkest of times we have the right to expect some illumination,” Seoul is once again hosting its signature winter light festival.
On Dec. 19 at 7 p.m., the Seoul Light DDP 2024 Winter kicked off at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), featuring a dazzling light show organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Design Foundation.
Since its inception in 2019, the Seoul Light DDP event was held once a year until 2021. Starting in 2022, it expanded to twice a year, with both autumn and winter editions. The festival has become a popular attraction, drawing over 500,000 visitors annually since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Last winter alone, more than 630,000 people attended.
The highlight of the event is the light show projected onto the DDP’s massive curved façade, measuring 29 meters high and 222 meters wide. Using 26 high-powered projectors, the visuals are accompanied by music from 50 speakers, creating an immersive experience. According to event organizers, unlike other media façades in Seoul, such as those at Gwanghwamun, Lotte World Tower, or Shinsegae Department Store, the DDP’s light show leverages its unique curved architecture for a distinctive display.
This year’s theme, Cheers!, features five sub-themes, each brought to life by renowned artists, graphic designers, and creators. Works include:
- To Your Daily Life by Tikitakabooboo
- To Your Dreams by Kim Sun-woo
- To Your Changes by Joguman Studio
- To Your Smiles by Je Baak
- To Your Relationships by Jean Jullien
The artwork features vibrant colors and approachable characters, captivating audiences. Despite the freezing temperatures, spectators eagerly captured the opening show on their phones, snapping videos and selfies against the vivid backdrop.
The festival runs through Dec. 31, with six light shows daily from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 30-minute intervals. Admission is free, and a special countdown event will mark the arrival of the New Year on the final night.
