by Jihoon, age 7, asks Santa Harabeoji do you have reindeer to pull your sleigh?, about the Han River, and Korea’s Christmas holiday
Dear Santa Harabeoji,
My name is Jihoon and I am 7 years old. I live in Seoul, South Korea, where my family goes to see the huge Christmas tree lighting near Myeongdong, and the streets get so crowded I have to hold my mom’s hand extra tight.
First, do you have reindeer to pull your sleigh?
Second, a geography question: what river runs through Seoul?
Third, a school question about my country: why is Christmas an official public holiday in South Korea?
I left you rice cakes and cinnamon punch.
Love, Jihoon, age 7, Seoul, South Korea, Seoul, South Korea
From the Desk of Santa Harabeoji
Dear Jihoon, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Do you have reindeer to pull your sleigh?
Reindeer, most certainly, flying steadily over the Han River on the way into Seoul each Christmas Eve.
What river runs through Seoul?
The Han River flows right through the middle of Seoul, its bridges lit up in colorful lights, and the whole skyline reflected on the water makes for one of the most dazzling city views on my entire Asian route.
Why is Christmas an official public holiday in South Korea?
Christianity has a significant and long-established presence in South Korea, dating back to missionary work in earlier centuries, and Christmas has been recognized as an official public holiday there since the mid-twentieth century, even though the country is religiously diverse.
Merry Christmas, Jihoon.
Ho ho ho, Santa Harabeoji
