Among this sea of apartment windows and lights stands a single symbol of western Christmas. Sure, its early, even by American standards to have it up so soon. But the lack of others is not because it’s early but because its not a common practice. Despite the fact that somewhere around 50% of Korea is Christian, the whole tree and other decorations is a little on the rare side.

I haven’t put up a Christmas in my home in the nearly 3 years I’ve been here. I can’t even remember if we had a tree when I shared a house with Circe. It felt nice to put it up, even if I won’t actually be here on the holiday itself. But maybe that’s why I put it up; since I’ll be home for Christmas – first one since 2006 – having one here put me more in the mood.

Koreans aren’t totally consumed by the Christmas bug that America is. It’s a national holiday but nearly all the stores, restaurants, bars and nightclubs are open. It doesn’t feel much like a holiday here.

So now, my little tree, less than $20 for the tree and the lights, will stand as a single reminder of the holiday I’ll be sharing with family back home. I like it. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!