할로윈 (Halloween)

In South Korea, Halloween is not a public holiday, but 31 October has become a major costume night, especially in Seoul. The build-up usually starts in early October, when Daiso, convenience stores, bakeries, and cafés put out orange-and-black decorations, masks, fake blood, candy packs, and limited seasonal desserts. Theme parks such as Everland and Lotte World also run Halloween programs, so many people first meet the holiday through photo zones, parades, and special tickets before they ever go clubbing. By late afternoon on 31 October, makeup appointments are busy, costume shops are crowded, and social media fills with plans for Hongdae and other nightlife areas.

In Seoul, the most visible street celebration happens after dark in entertainment districts, especially around Hongik University Station and the lanes behind it. Groups arrive in elaborate costumes, from horror makeup and zombies to anime characters and film villains, and spend as much time taking photos outside bars, convenience stores, and subway exits as they do inside venues. Bars and clubs often hold one-night Halloween events, and restaurants near the main streets stay full with people eating before or between parties. Common things to say include “해피 할로윈!” and questions about someone’s outfit, such as “무슨 코스튬이에요?” Because 31 October can fall on a weekday, the biggest costume crowds sometimes appear on the nearest weekend nights.

The pack has 36 words spread across these domains.