A Christmas to Remember: My South Korean Celebration

 By Farin Khatoon

Christmas has always been a time of joy, warmth, and togetherness. But when you're living far from home, in a foreign country, the holiday takes on a different meaning. For me, celebrating Christmas in South Korea was not only about embracing the festive spirit but also creating beautiful memories with new friends in a place that had become my second home.

South Korea, known for its vibrant traditions, celebrates Christmas in its own unique way. While it’s not as family-centered as Chuseok, Christmas still holds a special charm. The streets transform into dazzling spectacles of light and color, and the air buzzes with excitement as people exchange gifts and share the festive cheer.

That year, being far from my family in India, I found myself missing the familiar warmth of home. But I decided not to let the distance dampen my spirits. Instead, I reached out to my Korean friends, who eagerly invited me to spend the day with them. It was an opportunity to experience Christmas through their eyes, blending my own traditions with theirs.

We started the day by strolling through the heart of the city, where every corner seemed to tell a festive story. The streets were lined with twinkling lights, and the aroma of sweet treats filled the air. As we passed by beautifully decorated cafes, we couldn’t resist stepping into one that served steaming cups of hot chocolate and traditional Korean holiday desserts. The laughter and warmth shared at that small table reminded me that Christmas is truly about the connections we make, no matter where we are.

In the evening, we visited a local church to experience a Korean Christmas service. The carols sung in Korean, though different from the ones I grew up with, carried the same universal message of hope and joy. It was a beautiful moment of cultural exchange, one that reminded me how diverse yet interconnected our celebrations can be.

The night ended with a simple dinner at a cozy restaurant, where we exchanged small gifts and stories. My friends shared their Christmas traditions, and I shared mine. Together, we created a blend of cultures that felt just as magical as the holiday itself.

That Christmas, I learned something profound: home is not just a place; it’s a feeling. It’s the people who make you feel seen, heard, and valued, even when you’re miles away from where you grew up. And for that one day, amid the festive streets of South Korea, I felt at home.

Looking back, I realize that those moments of laughter and shared experiences shaped my journey as much as any milestone. Living abroad teaches you to adapt, to embrace the unfamiliar, and to find joy in the little things. And that Christmas, spent with friends in South Korea, became a chapter in my life that I’ll always treasure.