Early winter in Seoul: Want to share the night-time emotions painted with the body at the 46th Seoul Dance Festival?
Introduction
On an early winter night in Daehangno, Seoul, step into the Arko Arts Theater and, instead of the cold air, you’ll feel the breath of the stage slowly wrap around your body. The 46th Seoul Dance Festival blends with the city lights, bringing together different languages of the body in one place to create a quiet yet deeply resonant moment.
Early winter in Seoul: Want to share the night
Table of Contents
- Guide
- Program Information
- Visit (Planned) Impressions
- Recommended Accommodation
- Restaurants & Cafes
- Nearby Attractions
- Getting There
- Closing
- Photo Snapshots
- Videos
- Related News
Guide
- Event : 46th Seoul Dance Festival
- Period : 2025-11-21 ~ 2025-12-07
- Performance Time : 20:00 (varies by program)
- Venue : Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater (7 Daehak-ro 8-gil, Dongsoong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul)
- Organizer : Korea Dance Association
- Host : Seoul Dance Festival Organizing Committee
- Inquiries : 02-744-8066 (Korea Dance Association)
- Admission : Varies by program
- Festival Type : Dance performing arts festival
- 18:30 Arrive in the Daehangno area and loosen up with a light meal and tea time at a nearby cafe or restaurant.
- 19:00 Arrive at the Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater, pick up your ticket, and take your time looking around the lobby exhibitions and posters.
- 19:40 Enter the auditorium, go through the program book, and organize information about the day’s works and choreographers in advance.
- 20:00 Watch the opening performance “Mu.Nyeom.Mu.Sang” series, or the competition/tribute performance or other main program of the day.
- 22:00 After the performance, take a short walk along the streets of Daehangno to share your impressions, then wind down at a nearby cafe.
- Another day Set aside separate time for side events such as citizen participation workshops and forums, and experience the expansion from audience member to active participant.
Some programs have age restrictions, so please check in advance.
The 46th Seoul Dance Festival takes “Building Relationships” as its theme, aiming for an organic web of relationships where individuals are respected as unique beings beyond differing tendencies and tastes. Going beyond fusion to emphasize the value of “connection,” the festival brings to the stage the era of omnivores who seek new artistic languages and expansions through interaction, while maintaining their own individuality and independence.
Focusing on the relationships between individuals and communities in social and artistic contexts, this festival creates a space full of diverse experiences and choices, presenting the possibilities of creation that sidestep fixed ideas. Through programs where masters, emerging artists, and citizens come together, the audience can go beyond merely “watching” dance to delicately sensing how relationships and emotions are expressed through the body.
Program Information
Held on November 21 at the Arko Arts Theater, the opening performance brings master dancers such as Jin Yoo-rim, Chae Hyang-soon, Kim Kyung-ran, and Han Soon-seo together on one stage. Through the profound movements of maestros who have led the Korean dance world for many years, you can experience the compressed direction and emotional tone of the festival.
This program features choreographers such as Lee Ru-da, Kim Bora, Jung Bo-kyung, Kim Ji-young, and Kim Young-mi, who are gaining attention for their original choreographic worlds. On this stage, where star choreographers of different colors present powerfully distinctive works, you can focus intently on the bodily language and experimental sensibilities of the new generation.
This tribute performance, held on November 26 at the Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater, celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of Song Bum, “pioneer of Korean stage dance.” With participation from Jo Yong-jin & Park Hye-ji, Lee Jung-yoon, Jang Yoon-na, Cho Jae-hyuk & Kim Mi-ae, the National Dance Company of Korea, and others, it highlights the important footsteps in our dance history through the sensibility of today.
This is a citizen-participation workshop where even non-dance majors can express their hearts through their bodies. Together with a professional choreographer, you’ll learn simple movements and take a step beyond being an audience member to become an active dancing participant in the festival.
This is a non-verbal dance contest-style program that communicates solely through the body without words. Using the motif of “Four Little Swans” in a contemporary reinterpretation, various teams present their own take on the swan, engaging vibrantly with the audience through short yet striking performances.
An academic forum is prepared to reflect on the present and future of the performing arts and the dance ecosystem. Practitioners, policymakers, and critics come together in one place to engage in in-depth discussions, expanding on the festival theme of building relationships from a broader perspective.
During the festival, stages such as the “Passion Dance Stage” and “Men’s & Women’s Dance Stage” allow you to freely feel the energy and individuality of the dancers. Bold attempts unconstrained by form and a wide variety of movements flow continuously, offering audiences an intense rhythm and a sense of liberation.
Advance reservation is standard for performances, and popular programs may sell out quickly. In particular, side events such as workshops are often run on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to check schedules and remaining seats as early as possible.
Some performances have age restrictions—for example, a minimum of 7 years old for accompanying children—so be sure to check the guidelines. If you’re visiting with kids, choose programs that are open to family audiences for a more comfortable experience.
On the day of the performance, ticket pickup is available from 1 hour before the start, and auditorium entry from about 20 minutes prior, so it’s better to arrive early. As traffic and parking around Daehangno tend to be congested, it’s recommended to arrive early by public transport and take some time to look around the area.
Checking the permitted viewing age in advance helps you plan your party composition.
Plan your movements based on ticket pickup 1 hour before and entry 20 minutes before the performance.
Visit (Planned) Impressions
Today is November 27, 2025. The 46th Seoul Dance Festival runs from November 21 to December 7, 2025, so what I’m sharing now captures the vivid feeling of the festival in full swing. As soon as I entered the festival venue, the Arko Arts Theater, I first felt the vibration in the air. Stage lights poured out a soft glow, and people seated in the auditorium quietly shared their expectations in a hushed stillness. Under the theme of “Building Relationships,” the 46th Seoul Dance Festival was showing how different languages of dance connect and interact beyond fixed ideas, revealing new possibilities.
The gestures of the choreographers and dancers on stage went beyond something you simply “watch” and came closer to something you “feel” with your whole body. In programs such as “Mu.Nyeom.Mu.Sang,” “Passion Dance Stage,” and “Men’s & Women’s Dance Stage,” diverse movements overlapped and shattered like raw material, flowing out onto the stage, and it felt as though the temperature of the air in the theater and the audience’s heartbeat gradually changed with that flow. A special award ceremony was also held to honor individuals who have dedicated themselves to the development of the performing arts and the activation of the dance ecosystem, and the moments when the media, policymakers, and the field seemed to join hands left a strong impression.
Even after the performance ended and the curtain fell, the audience couldn’t bring themselves to leave their seats for a while. In the gentle light that wrapped around our bodies, the lingering emotion remained deep in our hearts, and even the sounds of breathing and small exclamations around us felt closer than usual. Having visited the 46th Seoul Dance Festival, the thought that art is ultimately this kind of experience of reaching one another becomes even clearer. The glittering moments of dance among the countless emotions drifting in the air are likely to remain in our memories for a long time, together with the early winter nights of Seoul.
Recommended Accommodation
The Daehangno area, where the Seoul Dance Festival is held, offers convenient access to other parts of the city, making it a great base for exploring Seoul before and after performances. The accommodations below are selected for their public transport accessibility and nearby amenities, so you can comfortably carry the afterglow of an early winter night performance.
89 Donhwamun-ro 11ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Unni-dong, City Park)
A downtown hotel close to Jongno and Daehangno, ideal for relaxation with its spa facilities.
It’s within walking distance or a short ride after the performance, so it’s convenient even late at night.
Distance: 1.3 km
33 Nangye-ro 11-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (Hwanghak-dong)
A concept stay with a quiet atmosphere in the city, perfect for enjoying an exotic mood.
It’s easy to reach Hyehwa Station by subway, so you can travel leisurely after the performance.
Distance: 2.3 km
76-4 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Hyoja-dong)
An atmospheric stay close to Gyeongbokgung and Seochon, great to enjoy together with the tranquil hanok streets.
Spend the day strolling and cafe-hopping in the area, then fill your evening with a performance in Daehangno.
Distance: 2.8 km
162-7 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Seogyo-dong)
A stylish downtown hotel near Hongdae Street, suitable for travelers who enjoy nightlife.
Transfer by subway to Daehangno; enjoy Hongdae by day and performances at night as a combined itinerary.
Distance: 7.9 km
26-9 Tongil-ro 78-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul (Bulgwang-dong, Bulgwang Trevian)
Close to the foothills of Bukhansan, ideal for pairing a city performance with light walks or trekking.
Perfect for an itinerary that covers both the Bukhansan trails and Daehangno while staying in northern Seoul.
Distance: 8.1 km
689 Samyang-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul (Ui-dong)
A quiet accommodation near Bukhansan and Ui-dong, where you can stay close to nature.
If you want to rest in a secluded place, consider a course where you walk during the day and visit Daehangno for a performance in the evening.
Distance: 9.2 km
16 Uisadang-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Yeouido-dong)
A downtown hotel ideal for both business and travel, close to the Han River and the financial district.
Move mainly by subway for a city trip that combines Yeouido by day with Daehangno performances in the evening.
Distance: 9.7 km
610 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Daechi-dong)
A business hotel close to COEX and the Gangnam area, convenient for shopping and exhibitions.
Well-suited to an itinerary where you stay in Gangnam and take the subway to performances in Daehangno.
Distance: 9.7 km
Rooms can book out quickly on weekends and during peak performance times, so advance reservations are recommended.
Restaurants & Cafes
Here are some recommended restaurants around Jongno and Gwanghwamun for a light meal before or after the performance, along with cafes where you can enjoy a relaxed tea time. They are chosen with travel routes in mind, so you can easily walk or take the subway without overextending yourself around performance times.
35-4 Bukchon-ro 5ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Sogyeok-dong)
An atmospheric teahouse nestled in the alleys of Bukchon and Sogyeok-dong, perfect for enjoying a quiet cup of tea.
Stop by leisurely before the performance to calm body and mind, or visit afterwards to quietly process the lingering emotions.
Distance: 1.9 km
17 Jong-ro 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Cheongjin-dong)
A restaurant near Gwanghwamun D Tower, ideal for a neat meal in the city center.
Use it as a course where you have dinner around City Hall or Gwanghwamun before heading on to the theater in Daehangno.
Distance: 2.4 km
17 Jong-ro 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Cheongjin-dong)
A place where you can enjoy warm shabu-shabu, perfect for filling up before an early-winter performance.
If you’re visiting before the performance, consider booking or going early to allow for a relaxed meal.
Distance: 2.4 km
854 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Sinsa-dong)
A stylish dining and brunch spot ideal for a sentimental meal and wine.
If you’re spending the day in Gangnam, enjoy a leisurely brunch here before heading to an evening performance in Daehangno.
Distance: 6.6 km
22 Eonju-ro 170-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Sinsa-dong)
A dining space with distinctive menu items and interior design, perfect when you’re in the mood for a special meal.
There may be a wait during peak hours, so plan your visit with ample time considering the performance schedule and travel time.
Distance: 6.7 km
7 Sangdo-ro 34-gil, Dongjak-gu, Seoul (Sangdo-dong)
A place notable for its unique menu line-up, ideal when you want to experience a different kind of meal.
Considering the distance and performance schedule, it’s best to combine it with other plans and visit with plenty of time to spare.
Distance: 9.9 km
42 Seocho-daero 78-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul (Seocho-dong)
A great place for hearty meat-based meals, also popular as a dinner gathering venue.
A heavy meal before a performance can feel burdensome, so plan it for a more relaxed day when you can linger over your food.
Distance: 9.9 km
48 Seocho-daero 78-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul (Seocho-dong)
A place where you can enjoy charcoal-grilled meat full of smoky flavor, ideal when you need a substantial meal.
If you plan to head to a performance after a gathering here, allow plenty of time and check traffic conditions in advance.
Distance: 10.0 km
Restaurants around Gwanghwamun and Jongno can have waiting lines during rush hour; reservations or early visits are recommended.
Nearby Attractions
From Daehangno, a short journey takes you to various walking routes such as the Bukhansan Dulle-gil, the Han River, and the Yeonhui-dong forest paths. Choose a route within a comfortable distance before or after the performance to gently loosen your body and mind.
![[Seoul Dulle-gil Course 19] Bukhansan Seongbuk Course](http://tong.visitkorea.or.kr/cms/resource/71/3526271_image2_1.jpg "Early winter in Seoul: Want to share the night-time emotions painted with the body at the 46th Seoul Dance Festival?")
Pyeongchang-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
A walking route along the foot of Bukhansan where you can feel the boundary between city and nature.
Spend the day lightly loosening up as you walk the Dulle-gil, then enjoy a performance in Daehangno in the evening.
Distance: 4.0 km
Yongdap-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
A street lined with plum trees where you can feel the changing seasons in the city—great for walks and casual photography.
Take public transport for a short walk here, then return to Daehangno to enjoy an evening performance.
Distance: 4.6 km
![[Seoul Dulle-gil Course 20] Bukhansan Gangbuk Course](http://tong.visitkorea.or.kr/cms/resource/67/3526267_image2_1.jpg "Early winter in Seoul: Want to share the night-time emotions painted with the body at the 46th Seoul Dance Festival?")
117 Hwagyesa-gil, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul (Suyu-dong)
A course that follows Bukhansan’s ridgeline, offering open views and the full energy of the mountains.
On a day with more time, fully enjoy the long course in nature and schedule your performance viewing for another day.
Distance: 5.7 km
Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
A shelter with small forest paths in the city, ideal for quiet walks and relaxation.
Visit during a performance-free daytime to read or stroll, then head to the evening performance with a calm mind.
Distance: 5.7 km
![[Seoul Dulle-gil Course 18] Bukhansan Jongno Course](http://tong.visitkorea.or.kr/cms/resource/43/3526243_image2_1.jpg "Early winter in Seoul: Want to share the night-time emotions painted with the body at the 46th Seoul Dance Festival?")
Bulgwang-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul
A Bukhansan Dulle-gil course close to Jongno, where you can enjoy views that connect city and mountain.
Considering the distance from Daehangno, it’s perfect as a one-day course with a morning or daytime walk followed by an evening performance.
Distance: 6.4 km
231 Yeouido Hangang Park-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Yeouido-dong)
A cruise program where you can enjoy the night view of downtown Seoul from the Han River.
If you enjoy the night-view cruise and the Daehangno performance on separate days, you can experience Seoul’s night in two distinct moods.
Distance: 8.4 km
![[Seoul Dulle-gil Course 21] Bukhansan Dobong Course](http://tong.visitkorea.or.kr/cms/resource/93/3526293_image2_1.jpg "Early winter in Seoul: Want to share the night-time emotions painted with the body at the 46th Seoul Dance Festival?")
Underground 676 Samyang-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul (Ui-dong)
A Dulle-gil course that showcases another side of Bukhansan, blending rocky ridges with forest paths.
Set aside a separate day from city performances to walk slowly and breathe in the early winter air deeply.
Distance: 9.1 km
![[Seoul Dulle-gil Course 17] Bukhansan Eunpyeong Course](http://tong.visitkorea.or.kr/cms/resource/41/3526241_image2_1.jpg "Early winter in Seoul: Want to share the night-time emotions painted with the body at the 46th Seoul Dance Festival?")
Underground 15-25 Jingwan 2-ro, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul (Jingwan-dong)
A Dulle-gil course around the northwestern side of Bukhansan that reveals different scenery across the seasons.
If you trek this Dulle-gil route one day and watch a performance in Daehangno the next, you’ll feel the memories in your body and the movements on stage naturally interweave.
Distance: 9.7 km
After walking or trekking, make sure to allow enough rest time before entering the theater so you can fully focus on the performance.
Getting There
Public Transport — The closest station is Hyehwa Station on Seoul Subway Line 4. From Hyehwa Station, take the exit toward Daehangno and walk to easily find the Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater and the Daehak-ro 8-gil area.
By Car — Set your navigation to “7 Daehak-ro 8-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Dongsoong-dong)” or the nearby “Daeseung Paid Parking Lot (around Daehak-ro 7-gil 4)” for convenience. Roads around Daehangno can be congested around performance times, so check public or nearby paid parking in advance and aim to arrive a bit early for a more relaxed experience.
Traffic around Daehangno is especially heavy on weekend evenings, so subway use is strongly recommended.
Closing
In contrast to the cold air of an early winter night, the stage of the 46th Seoul Dance Festival feels like a space where different bodies and emotions meet and share warmth. Within the diverse programs unfolding under the theme of “Building Relationships,” audiences encounter dance not as mere movement, but as a language that slowly permeates one another.
The experience of following the quiet alleys and lights of Daehangno to the theater, then being unable to leave your seat for a while even after the curtain falls, will remain long in your memory. This year’s Seoul Dance Festival will offer visitors to early winter Seoul a time to deeply carry away the night-time emotions drawn with the body.
