Christmas in Asia – celebrating in Korea.

South Korea is considered a victory for Christians. Once a Buddhist nation, it is now mostly Christian, albeit different flavors.

South Korea recognizes Christmas as a public holiday.

Non-Christian Koreans usually go about their daily routine on December 25 but they may also engage in some holiday customs such as:

1. gift-giving,

2. sending Christmas cards,

3. setting up decorated trees in their homes.

Santa is called Santa Haraboji (Grandfather Santa) in Korean.

Local radio stations play holiday music on Christmas Day and a few days before, unlike the U.S. which starts playing Christmas music a few days BEFORE Thanksgiving.

Television stations air Christmas films and cartoon specials popular in the Western countries.

More and more stores and buildings are displaying Christmas decorations.

Christian churches in Korea hold Christmas pageants and conduct special services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

After the Christmas Eve services, church goers will go caroling to the homes of older church members.

South Korea is the only country in East Asia that recognizes Christmas as a public holiday.

How will you celebrate Christmas?

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