Holiday year-end parties in Korea are not something that everyone looks forward to, as they often involve binge drinking and not much variety.

An online survey of more than 1,000 employees conducted in December last year found that about 70 percent said they are tired of the traditional binge drinking culture. And only 8.6 percent said they looked forward to such drinking.

This year doesn’t have to follow the same old routine ― endless rounds of drinks and visits to karaoke joints or other drinking places.

With some fun and easy ideas, anyone can plan an enjoyable and creative holiday party that participants will look forward to.

“Now we see many people want to have a memorable experience at the end of the year. Although party culture is not popular in Korea, many people are beginning to plan ahead for special parties and gatherings for the holiday,” said Lee Ji-eun, a party planner at party consulting agency Rafien.

“A party doesn’t have to be about drinking. It can be a really nice opportunity where you can get to know more people and build a network,” Lee said.

Here are some creative ways to plan a holiday party from Lee, who has nine years of experience in party planning.

Theme parties for friends and co-workers

A clever and unusual theme will make the party more fun and memorable. Lee recommends interesting party concepts that have been tried and received good response from guests.

The red carpet is usually considered for celebrities or famous figures, but it can be incorporated into a party theme, which is sure to offer a memorable experience to participants. 

It’s perfect for a company celebration of their achievements and awarding their employees.

“A liquor company once held a red-carpet themed party a few years ago. The party reminded them of glamorous movie awards where celebrities pose on the red carpet and receive awards in the end,” said Lee.

Hotel banquet halls, restaurants or spacious clubs are suitable for the red carpet party.

Board games are a good icebreaker in social gatherings where not everyone is acquainted.

“This type of party creates a comfortable environment where everyone can mingle at the end of the rounds of games,” said Lee. “It’s a good concept for a company party that is attended by employees’ spouses and dates.”

The Retro party is gaining huge popularity nowadays with the comeback of retro culture reinvented by movies and TV dramas.

The multiplex movie theater chain CGV Gangnam holds a “CGV Gangnam Gogo Retro Party” every Saturday from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. until Dec. 8. The party heats up while playing music from ’80s and ’90s with DJ performances by famous DJs including Kimgmck, Conan, Heo-Dong and Bjorn. It takes place in the lobby of the movie theater, located on the fourth floor of CGV Gangnam. On the sixth floor, a game arcade is set up so that guests can try different games that used to be popular such as the dancing game “Pump It Up.” Visitors can use fun accessories such as wigs, sunglasses and funny costumes for a photo session on the eighth floor.

Tickets to the retro party is sold at the website of CGV (www.cgv.co.kr).

Romantic dates

For couples, Lee recommends a restaurant that offers some privacy.

“Some actually think of renting the whole place, but choosing a restaurant which guarantees some privacy for your dinner will be a great alternative,” said Lee.

The Shilla Seoul transforms its French restaurant Continental, located on the 23rd floor of the hotel, into a “Midnight Lounge” from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m.

Well known as a site for marriage proposals, the restaurant offers a breathtaking night view over Namsan and Seoul.

The lounge will feature the concept of a glittering Champs-Elysees in Paris, operating different sections which will serve some French winter specialties such as hot wine and French pastries.

The hotel offers a promotional package that includes a one night’s stay in an executive deluxe room, two tickets to the lounge and breakfast for two until Dec. 31.

Family time

A family party doesn’t have to be luxurious. A comfortable place with good food will guarantee the best time for families. An outdoor camping site or pension is recommended for a family outing for the holiday season.

The Sheraton Grande Walkerhill has a camping promotional event, which offers a unique camping experience at its River Park surrounded by Achasan and the Han River. Camping is suitable for both families and small social gatherings. Guests will be provided with camping equipment as well as a top-quality barbecue. The camping zone is only open on weekends (Friday to Sunday) from December to March next year. There will be three different grilled dishes offered with a wide choice of quality meat and side dishes. Ingredients include lobster, beef tenderloin, black pork, king prawn and a variety of vegetables and seasonal fruits. The set menus start at 80,000 won for course A, 100,000 won for course B and 170,000 won for course S. For more information, call (02) 455-5000.

For singles

Being single doesn’t mean you have to spend the holiday season alone. There are fun matchmaking parties and events planned till the end of the year, including the Imperial Palace Seoul’s famous matchmaking party at Zoey Bar on Dec. 22.

Following on from huge popularity last year, the hotel presents an upgraded version of the matching making party. The party helps participants find their partners through fun games, including an “OX” quiz and dance game, which will be conducted by a professional host. The hotel presents gifts to those who found their partners through games and offers time to enjoy the night by hosting professional dance performances and DJ performances.

Admission is 30,000 won, including tax and service charges. Two complimentary classes of cocktails will be served at the bar.

By Lee Woo-young (wylee@heraldcorp.com)