south korea winter tour

Living and traveling in Korea

A Guide To Winter In Korea: Snow and Ice and Everything Nice

Though the winter in Korea can be cold, maybe even frigid at times, there can also be some beautiful wintery white landscapes, light festivals, and iced over canyons and waterfalls that create beautiful experiences. Make sure you know what to pack for winter, and you’ll be able to stay warm while enjoying this magical season.

From street food to warm your insides and heat packs to warm your outsides, zip up, get out, and there is plenty to enjoy about winter in Korea.

Winter is one of the top travel seasons in Korea. What to expect:

When is winter in Korea?

December weather in korea, january weather in korea, february weather in korea, what to pack for winter in korea, public holidays in the winter, bears town ski resort (베어스타운리조트 스키장), jisan forest ski resort (지산 포레스트 리조트 스키장), elysian gangchon ski resort (엘리시안 강촌 스키장), daemyung resort vivaldi park (비발디 파크 스키월드), oak valley (오크밸리 스키장), alpensia (알펜시아리조트 스키장), yongpyong ski resort (용평리조트 스키장), high1 resort (하이원 리조트), pheonix pyeongchang ski resort (휘닉스 평창), taebaek mountain snow festival (태백산 눈축제), jirisan namwon baraebong snowflake festival (지리산 남원 바래봉 눈축제), yeongdong dried persimmon festival (영동곶감축제), hwacheon sancheoneo ice festival (얼음나라 화천 산천어축제).

• Pyeongchong Trout Festival (평창송어축제)

Inje Ice Fishing Festival (인제빙어축제)

Garden of the morning calm lighting festival (아침고요수목원 오색별빛정원지), boseong green tea plantation light festival (보성차밭 빛축제), haeundae light festival (해운대 빛축제), pinocchio and little prince lighting festival (피노키오 과 어린왕자 별빛축제), strawberry picking, go ice skating, visit an icy wonderland, warm up and exfoliate at a korean bath house, seek out the holiday light installations, visit an amusement park, visit an art museum, take a dip in the hot springs, see a performance… inside, where to see snow in korea.

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

Good question, winter in Korea falls from December to February with the coldest months being January and February.

Is it your first time visiting Korea? Check out this Epic Travel Guide To Seoul For the First Time Visitor to get prepared.

What’s the weather like in the winter in Korea?

In the winter, the weather can be pretty frigid and harsh at times. Traveling in Korea in the winter isn’t the easiest, but it can truly be beautiful if you’re prepared. While many locals will tell you the way to get through it is to do some form of hibernating, I say just be prepared and you’ll be alright. Preparation in this case means clothing like Uniqlo’s Heattech , long padding coats, and hot packs.

Let’s break it down by month to know what to expect when you visit Korea in the winter.

December in Korea marks the onset of winter, and the weather becomes notably cold, with temperatures ranging from -7°C to 3°C (19°F to 37°F). The clear, crisp air lends a pristine quality to the scenery, and you can look forward to enchanting snowy landscapes, mostly outside of Seoul, and the possibility of engaging in winter sports. Despite the cold, December can offer a magical atmosphere with occasional snowfalls, creating a picturesque setting for festive celebrations and winter activities.

January in Korea ushers in the heart of winter, and temperatures drop considerably, ranging from -10°C to 1°C (14°F to 34°F). This is the coldest time of the year, and the landscape is often covered in a pristine layer of snow. Crisp, wintry air fills the atmosphere, and while it may be quite chilly, there’s a unique charm in the winter wonderland that Korea becomes during this month. Despite the cold, January in Korea has its own enchanting beauty, and it’s a time when you can relish the cozy ambiance of winter.

February in Korea signifies the tail end of winter, and the weather can be quite chilly, with temperatures typically ranging from -8°C to 3°C (18°F to 37°F). It’s a month when the final traces of winter’s grip are still visible, with occasional snowfall and a tranquil, snow-covered landscape that imparts a serene beauty to the country. February can be pretty frigid, but there are some great reasons to visit during this less-popular month of the year.

What to wear? What to wear? What should I wear in the winter in Korea? Because winter is so cold, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared especially if you’re coming from a country that is much warmer. You will want to prepare clothing that works well for layered outfits so you can remove and add depending on the situation.

Once you hit December, it’s definitely cold and you’ll want thick sweaters and good coats. We’re wearing long padding coats down to our ankles and boots and keeping hot packs in our pockets for extra warmth. There is a whole guide for what to pack when you visit Korea to check out. 

• Long Padding Coats : I used to think long padding was a bit silly because I never needed it in Ohio, but when the Siberian winds are blowing, you want to block it everywhere. Go for long padding whenever possible.
• Sweatshirts & Sweaters
• Uniqlo Heattech. If you want to wear pretty floral dresses, consider wearing Uniqlo Heattech beneath. These are my go-to in the winter, but I definitely wear them into the spring as well when I’m starting to get my lighter clothes out but need to stay warm.
• Jeans/Pants with longjogns or Heattech beneath.
• Thick Socks
• Scarves, Hats, and Gloves

It’s important to be aware of public holidays in Korea , as many businesses and attractions may be closed or have different hours.

Here are the major public holidays to be aware of during the winter in Korea:

• December 25th – Christmas Day
• January 1st – New Year’s Day
• Korean Lunar New Year (Seollal) – The date varies based on the Lunar Calendar but usually falls in January or February. This is a 3-day holiday.

While you will find that most things are open on these days, it’s good to know that during the holidays, you’ll find even more people out and about as the locals are also not working.

While Korea’s do celebrate the New Year on January 1st, you should note that traditionally they celebrate with the first sunrise of the year, not with a New Year’s Eve kiss!

What to do for New Year’s Eve in Korea

And, while Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, there are holiday light installations all around Seoul to get into the festive spirit. Not the large festive European markets, but there also Christmas events, markets to enjoy. Learn more about what to do for Christmas in Seoul .

On Lunar New Year, there are still a variety of things open but often the morning of the actual Lunar New Year is when things might be closed.

Go Skiing In Korea

Korea offers a wealth of skiing opportunities thanks to its mountainous terrain. If you’re wondering where to go skiing in Korea, get ready to learn about the best slopes, ski resorts, and mountains for an unforgettable winter experience. While it doesn’t  snow in Seoul  all that often, it definitely snows outside of Seoul a LOT! Get ready to hit the slopes.

Check out this complete guide to the best ski resorts in Korea for these and more opportunities to hit the slopes in South Korea

Bears Town has eleven slopes and eight cable lifts and is the closest to Seoul. This resort is perfect for the beginning to intermediate skier/snowboarder or the snow bunnies among us. This is a great spot to go for a day trip at the beginning of the season to get your ski or board legs under you.

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Bears Town  
• Opening Hours:  9:00am ~ 5:00pm & 6:30pm ~ 4:00am
• Tours: Book a daytrip from Seoul to Bears Town on kkday .
• Address:  27 Geumgang-ro 2536beon-gil, Naechon-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 포천시 내촌면 금강로2536번길 27 (내촌면))

Situated just 40 minutes from Seoul (if you’re around the Gangnam area), this resort makes for an easy daytrip from the city to hit the powder. There are five lifts and eight runs in this small ski area. This resort is great for the beginner or the skier or boarder looking to get an easy day at the beginning of the season. While the slopes are pretty easy and straight forward, the park does also feature a terrain park.

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Hotel Bene  on Booking.com   or    on Agoda.com
• Opening Hours:  7:00am ~ 2:00am
• Tour:  Book a daytrip package with Klook  which includes transportation/gear. There are also numerous ski packages for daytrips and even night skiing on kkday .
• Address:  267 Jisan-ro, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 이천시 마장면 지산로 267 (마장면))

Set in the mountains near Chuncheon, the Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort is just an hour outside of Seoul and is even accessible via the Seoul subway system so it could easily be considered more of a near Seoul resort. The park has ten slopes and six lifts. This resort is conveniently located for an easy daytrip outside of Seoul spent in the powder and since it’s in Chuncheon there are plenty of other things to do too like visiting Nami Island , famous for being in the TV drama  Winter Sonata.

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Elysian Gangchon Resort  on Booking.com   or   on Agoda.com
• Opening Hours:  9:00am ~ 5:30pm & 7:00pm ~ 3:00am
• Tour:  Book a daytrip package with Klook   which includes transportation/gear/apparel + lift ticket. There are also great option for skiing daytrips on kkday .
• Address:  688 Bukhangangbyeon-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (강원도 춘천시 남산면 북한강변길 688 (남산면))

Officially named Daemyung Resort Vivaldi Park, this resort of generally referred to simply as Vivaldi Park and is one of the most popular ski resorts in Korea. The park features twelve slopes and ten lifts including Asia’s first 8-seater express chairlift and 8-seater gondola. Stay in a ski in ski out condo on the slopes and you’ll love the trip out to these gorgeous mountains in Gangwon-do.

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Vivaldi Park – The Park Hotel  on Booking.com  or Sono Felice Vivaldi Park  on Agoda.com
• Opening Hours:  8:30am ~ 5:00pm & 6:30pm ~ 5:00am
• Tours: Book a   weekend package with Klook   which includes transportation/gear/apparel/lift ticket + accommodation. You can also find great daytrips and weekend trips to Vivaldi Park on kkday .
• Address:  262 Hanchigol-gil, Seo-myeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 홍천군 서면 한치골길 262 (서면))

Oak Valley is a small resort area with three chairlifts. The area is great for families and has a great runs for learning to ski or board.

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Hansol Oak Valley Resort
• Opening Hours:  8:30am ~ 5:00pm & 6:30pm ~ 4:00am
• Tour:  Book a daytrip package with Klook    which includes transportation/gear/apparel + lift ticket. You can also find ski packages for Oak Valley on kkday .
• Address:  58 Oak Valley 2-gil, Jijeong-myeon, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do (강원도 원주시 지정면 오크밸리2길 58 (지정면))

Alpensia is a resort that offers something for everyone all throughout the year. The ski resort has six slopes and they are perfect for everyone from the beginner to the advanced skier.

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Intercontinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort  on Booking.com or  on Agoda.com
• Opening Hours:  8:30am ~ 12:30pm, 12:30pm ~ 4:30pm & 6:30 ~ 10:30pm
• Tour: Book a   2D1N Package with Klook   which includes transportation/gear/apparel + lift ticket. Or, book a daytrip to Alpensia on kkday .
• Address:  325 Solbong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 평창군 대관령면 솔봉로 325 (대관령면))

Yongpyong is known as the Alps of Korea and is the largest ski resort in Korea but the best thing about it is that it gets the HIGHEST amount of snowfall each year. Ski and boarding loving Koreans flock to these slopes at the center of the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range every year and there are very good reasons as to why. The slopes here average 250 centimeters of snowfall per year!

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Yongpyong Resort  on Booking.com or  on Agoda.com
• Opening Hours:  8:30am ~ 4:30pm & 6:30pm ~ 12:30am
• Tour:  Book a   2D1N Package with Klook   which includes transportation/gear/apparel + lift ticket. Or book a 4D3N Ski Adventure on kkday .
• Address:  715 Olympic-ro, Daegwanryeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 평창군 대관령면 올림픽로 715 (대관령면))

The High1 Resort, named so as to reflect the concept of being “first and foremost”, has eighteen slopes across three mountain peaks. It’s not the easiest resort to access but that means the people that do get there are avid skiers and boarders. That shouldn’t dissuade beginners though as this resort has a 4.2 kilometer long beginning slope and it’s family friendly.

• Where To Stay Nearby:  High1 Castle Resort
• Opening Hours:  8:30am ~ 4:00pm & 6:00pm ~ 10:00pm
• Tour: Book a 1N2D or 2N3D ski package on kkday .
• Address:  424 High1-gil, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 정선군 고한읍 하이원길 424 (고한읍))

Phoenix is often reputed for having some of the most high-quality snow around and was the location for the free style ski and snowboarding competition during the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics. The resort offers nine lifts and ten runs to visitors as well as a terrain park and halfpipe. 

• Where To Stay Nearby:  Pheonix Pyeongchang Ski Resort  on Booking.com  or  on Agoda.com
• Opening Hours:  8:30am ~ 4:30pm & 6:30pm ~ 4:00am
• Tour:  Book a 3D2N trip with Klook .
• Address:  174 Taegi-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 평창군 봉평면 태기로 174)

The best winter festivals in Korea

Large snow sculptures   look over the crowds of tourists to this venue and welcome visitors as they enter the popular winter wonderland in Taebaek. After viewing the sculptures the pure natural beauty of the mountain takes over and if the snowy mountains aren’t enough and you want just a bit more to do, there’s also  a beautiful temple   and train museum in the vicinity.

• Address:  4834-31 Taebaeksan-ro, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do (강원도 태백시 태백산로 4834-31)

Fifty days of snow sledding and snowman making, kite flying, snow ball fights and more events on the spectacularly beautiful picturesque snow covered Baraebong Peak in  Namwon are calling all those people looking for fun in the snow this winter.

• Address:  442-4 Yongsan-ri, Unbong-eub, Namwon-si, Jeollabuk-do (전북 남원시 운봉읍 용산리 442-4)

The ‘Holy Land of Fruit’ offers a cold but fruity winter festival. This local produce festival gives visitors a good ‘ole down on the farm feel celebrating the persimmons famous in the region as well as pyogo mushrooms, walnuts and chestnuts. Expect to chow down on some good eats made from the produce and take in some cultural performances. Other activities include peeling persimmons and jam making as well as a foot bath in persimmon leaves.

• Address:  122 Yeongdonghwangan-ro, Yeongdong-eub, Yeongdong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do (충북 영동군 영동읍 영동황간로 122)

This mountain trout festival takes place in the first place in Korea that freezes over every winter. Wouldn’t you be ecstatic if you lived in a place known for freezing? Of course ice fishing, ice sledding and sliding and catching fish with bare hands in a pool of frigid water is on the agenda for anyone attending this event. Take that fish and grill it up on nearby grills in tents and enjoy your catch. Dress warmly, but this is so worth the trip. I went my first year in Korea and loved it.

• Join a Tour: Head out to the Hwacheon Trout Festival with Klook for easy access to all of the fun.
• Address:  137 Sancheoneo-gil, Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon-do (강원 화천군 화천읍 산천어길 137)

Pyeongchang Trout Festival (평창송어축제)

Head to a fish festival where you can dive into some freezing cold water and catch fish with your bare hands. Okay, you don’t really dive, but you can get into a large pool of cold water and try to catch those fish before your fingers become too numb. If that’s not appealing, I don’t know what is!

• Join a Tour: Head out to the Pyeonchang Trout Festival with Klook to make it an easy adventure.
• Address:  1289-80 Hajinbu-ri, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do (강원 평창군 진부면 하진부리 1289-80)

After Hwacheon, the second ice fishing festival I attended was in Inje. Find a hole, catch some bingeo and eat it up. The great thing about the fish festivals is that after getting cold on the ice, you can find some warm tents to eat in.

• Address: 555-2 Beon-ji, Bupyeong-ri, Inje-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 인제군 부평리 555-2번지

Garden of the Morning Calm puts on a fantastic light show. Visit to see the park transformed into a light-filled garden. It’s a great way to celebrate the holidays in Korea. The lighting festival usually takes place from December to March so plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful array.

• Address:  432 Sumogwon-ro, Sang-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 가평군 상면 숨오권로 432)
• Did you know strawberries are a winter fruit in Korea? This is a great  tour on Klook that includes strawberry picking and jam making as well as a trip to Garden of the Morning Calm. 
• Another great option if you want to celebrate winter a bit more. Klook has a winter tour that visits the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival or Eobi Ice Valley as well as the Garden of the Morning Calm Lighting Festival.

Boseong Green Tea Fields also light up. Did you know the green tea fields look beautiful in the winter too, but even more so with the Boseong Green Tea Light Festival. Visit to see some of Korea’s gorgeous green tea fields and celebrate winter.

• Address:  763-65 Nokcha-ro, Boseong-eup, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do (전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 763-65) (<– This is the address for the Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation (대한다원), the biggest and dare I say most beautiful green tea plantation in the area.)

While you may not be heading down to Busan for the beaches, in the winter snow on sand and light festivals are still just as beautiful.

• Address: 47 Dalmaji-gil 62 beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan (부산시 해운대구 62번길 달마지길 47)

Busan Polar Bear Swimming Festival (북극곰 수영대회)

So while it’s not really swimming season, you might find reason to dive into the chilly winter waves at the Polar Bear Swimming Festival. Also in Haeundae, it’ll be cold, but fun.

Petite France (쁘띠프랑스) hosts this festival each winter from December to March and in this little village area with cotton candy colored buildings, it’s pretty magical in the winter.

• Address:  1063 Hoban‐ro, Cheongpyeong‐myeon, Gapyeong‐gun, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 가평군 청평면 호반로 1063)
• Petite France & Nami Island with Klook:  Klook offers a great option with just Petite France and Nami Island. But you have the option to add Garden of the Morning Calm and/or Gangchon Rail Bike to the tour as well if you want it to make a fabulous day out in the area.  Check out tour details here .
• Petite France, Nami Island, Garden Of The Morning Calm with Get Your Guide:  Stop into three of the must see places in Gapyeong in ONE day. Get Your Guide is a great tour service with smooth tours that will get you out and back easily.  Check out the tour to Gapyeong here.

Things to do in the winter in Korea

You might be surprised how much there is to do in Korea from the toasty strawberry picking to the nippy sledding, there are plenty of options!

Strawberry season in Korea is from winter into spring so when you’re cold and want to warm up and sink your teeth into juicy fruit, look for the strawberry farms. Not only are you in for delicious fun, but the strawberry greenhouses are nice and toasty so you can warm up in the winter.

There are some pretty popular rinks in Seoul but also around Korea you can find great ice rinks both indoor and outdoor. In Seoul, you can find indoor rinks at Lotte World and Onemount Snow Park and you can find an outdoor ice rink that gets set up on Seoul Plaza in front of Seoul City Hall .

In the past few years, visiting places in Korea that are incredibly icy has become very popular. From frozen over waterfalls to lakes where you can ride in duck-shaped sleds, there are some really fun and super icy places to visit. Just make sure you are dressed for the endeavor because these places will be very cold and stepping on ice will make you even colder.

• Sanjeong Lake: Located in Pocheon, Sanjeong Lake became very popular last winter as photos of people in a duck sled on an icy lake started popping up online. Join a tour to Sanjeong Lake on Klook , or on kkday .
• Hantan Ice Canyon: See a wall of ice in this canyon and walk along bridges out over the ice to where it’s thick enough to hold you. Klook offers a tour to visit the icy canyon and then head to above mentioned Sanjeong Lake to ride on the popular duck sleds.
• Alps Village Ice Festival: While not quite the Alps, it is still very beautiful and you can experience everything from an Ice Fountain to icy AND snowy activities that make winter fun. Join a tour out to the Alps… in Korea with Klook .
• Cheongyang Ice Festival & Eobi Ice Valley: If you didn’t know how fun and exciting ice can be, then head out to the Cheongyang Ice Festival. There is just beautiful white covered scenery when you get out of Seoul. Join a tour too this area with Klook .

There are plenty of ways to warm up in Korea and take care of yourself too and one of those is the Korean jjimjilbang (찜질방). I love a good visit to a Korean bath house . Whether you go to a small local one, or a popular one like Spa Land Centum City in Busan , you’ll find a good experience. Even just getting a facial in Seoul is worth it for some rejuvenation.

Yes, I say seek out because the holidays may not be celebrated with huge Christmas markets like Europe, but there are all some beautiful installations and decor to be found if you know where to look. Check out this full list of the best places to see Christmas lights in Seoul to know where to go.

Some of the popular places to see Christmas lights in Seoul include:

• The Hyundai Seoul (더현대 서울)
• Lotte World Tower (롯데월드타워) and Amusement Park (롯데월드 어드벤처)
• Lotte Department Store (롯데백화점 본점)
• Shinsegae Department Store (신세계백화점 본점)
• Times Square Shopping Mall (타임스퀘어)

Even in the winter the amusement parks can be incredibly fun. On top of that, they’re usually decorated up for the winter and holidays. Oh, and you should know that they can be warm too. Half of Lotte World is indoors and they have an indoor skating rink as well so it’s loads of fun in the winter. Don’t miss the holiday-inspired events at the amusement parks in Seoul.

• Address:  240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울 송파구 올림픽로 240)
• Admission:  Adults: W62,000; Youth: W54,000; Child: W47,000; Baby: W15,000; After 4:00pm: Adults: W50,000; Youth: W43,000; Child: W36,000; Baby: W15,000
• How to get discounted tickets for Lotte World:  Don’t buy tickets at the door if you can help it! You will absolutely get better deals online. Get the   Lotte World 1 day Pass on Klook.  
• Address:  199 Everland-ro, Pogok-eub, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기 용인시 처인구 포곡읍 에버랜드로 199)
• Book Tickets:  Get your  tickets online with Klook  to take advantage of the online discount.

Okay, so not all of the fun to be had has to be outdoors. If it’s especially frigid and cold, there are a ton of amazing art museums in Seoul . Click that link to learn more about the many many amazing artistic spaces you can visit and they are family-friendly and can often have amazing experiences to participate in.

Japan isn’t the only place where you can find some amazing hot springs to warm up in. There are some great hot springs in Korea and if you want to warm up with a dip, here’s where to go:

• Address: 23 Geumganggongwon-ro 20beon-gil, Dongnae-gu, Busan (부산시 동내구 20번길 금강공원로 23)
• Address: 1459 Oncheon-daero, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do (충청남도 아산시 온천대로 1459)
• Address:  77 Oncheonjungang-ro, Changnyeong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do (경상남도 창녕군 부곡면 온천중앙로 77)

There are some fantastic performances to see in Seoul and even if you can’t speak Korean, not to worry, because they are non-verbal and fun. The most popular shows for foreigners and tourists to see are:

• PAINTERS : This non-verbal show is so fun to watch and if you have kids they will love it. The performers dance, create artistic wonders and tell a story along the way. It’s really fantastic.
• NANTA : One of the most popular shows, you’ll see acrobatics, percussion with kitchen utensils, and fun.
• Gugak Show : If you want something more traditional, check out the Gugak Performance put on every Saturday at the National Gugak Center.

I’ve been asking again and again, “ does it snow in Seoul? ” and I know that the reason is that people come from all over hoping for that winter wonderland. While it does snow in Seoul from time to time, it doesn’t often stick for very long so there are better places to go if your goal is to see snow.

Aside from the places mentioned above for snow festivals like Taebaek, here are a few more places where snow abounds and the white snowy landscape is magical.

Wondae-ri Birch Forest (인제 원대리 자작나무 숲)

The Wondae-ri Birch Forest is beautiful year round, but in the winter the white bark of the trees with the white snow underfoot is especially gorgeous. It is truly a winter wonderland. It’s not the easiest place to get to, but so worth the trip to this unique forest in Korea.

• Address: 763-4, Wondae-ri, Inje-eup, Inje-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 인제군 인제읍 원대리 763-4)
• Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 9:00am ~ 5:00pm
• Tour: Join a tour to the Wondae-ri Birch Forest and Maebawi Ice Wall with Klook to really enjoy this winter in Korea.

Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm (대관령 양떼목장)

Try spotting the white fluffy sheep that blend in with their snow-covered surroundings. This vast farm is usually covered in tons of snow. Considering it’s located in Pyeongchang where the Winter Olympics was hosted, you can just imagine how much snow falls there. It’s a must-see.

• Address: 483-32 Daegwallyeongmaru-gil, Daegwalnyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 평창군 대관령면 대관령마루길 483-32)

Nami Island (남이섬)

Nami Island is promoted as a place to visit in Korea year round and and with a layer of snow, it is definitely beautiful. Nami Island is also really easy to get to from Seoul because it’s so popular. Whether you want to get there on your own or join a tour, there are plenty of options.

• Address:  198 Bangha-ri Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (강원도 춘천시 남산면 방하리 198)

There is much to enjoy about winter in Korea despite the cold. You just have to be prepared for the low temperatures and you can enjoy white puffy snow covered lands, light festivals, and more.

Did you like this post? Pin IT!

You May Also Like

A Guide To Tipping In Korea: Do you? Or Don’t You?

The Langogo AI Translator: A Review Of The Real-Time Translation Device

Everything you need to know about K-ETA

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign me up for the weekly updates newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🌸Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

TOP 18 Winter Places to Visit in & out Seoul, Korea 2023-2024

Winter holiday in korea where are the best places to go in seoul or nearby during winter have fun at the snow sledding hills (yes, even for adults), ice-skating right in seoul city or skiing at one of the fabulous ski resorts near seoul for the non-skiers, look for a korea 's ski resort with gondola rides . enjoy the thrill of riding through beautiful snowy landscape and ski slopes to the mountain top, covered with fresh puffy snow and taking in the awesome winter views right in front of you.  .

For nature lovers , enjoy quiet moments at the base of Seoul's National Parks , taking in the beauty of the freezing rivers, snow covered tall trees and walking paths. For the more adventurous, a winter hike with the proper winter hiking gears to Seoul 's mountain peaks will be a memorable experience.  

Other fabulous winter festivals held around the country include the popular  ice fishing festivals, snow festivals, lighting festivals and strawberry picking (& jam making) festivals ..

Here are KoreaToDo's TOP Winter Places and Activities in Seoul and around:

Within seoul, 1. seoul plaza ice skating rink 서울광장 스케이트장.

Highlights:  City Center / Main Ice Rink, Children Ice Rink & Curling Rink

Period:  22 Dec 2023 - 11 Feb 2024

Hours:  10:00 - 21:30 (Sun-Thu) / 

10:00 - 23:00 (Fri, Sat, Public Holidays)

Fees:  1,000 won (1 hr, including helmet & skate rental fees)

Getting There:  City Hall Station (Line 1/2), Exit 5, 1 min walk

Address:  110, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 중구 세종대로 110 (태평로1가)

▶ Official Website

Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink (Seoul)

2. Olympic Park - Ice Skating Rink

Highlights:  Large Skating Rink / Other attractions to explore at Olympic Park

Period:  ⏳ (ref: 30 Dec 2019 - 2 Feb 2020)

Hours:  9:00-19:50

Fees (incl. skates & helmet rental) :  50 mins: 3,000 won / Day-pass: 10,000 won / Gloves: 1,000 won

Getting There:  Mongchontoseong Station (line 8, exit 1)

👉 Details on Olympic  Park & how to get there.

Olympic Park - Ice Skating Rink (Seoul)

3. bukhansan national park.

Highlights:  Winter snow / Frozen rivers / Snow covered trees, paths or peaks.

Period: Dec 2023 - Mar 2024 / Hiking at night is prohibited (from sunset to 2 hrs before sunrise)

Getting There:  Winter walking experience at the base: Bus from Gireum Station (17 mins) / For Baegundae Peak: Dobongsan Station & a short walk to the park

👉 Details on Bukhansan National Park and how to get there.

Bukhansan National Park (Seoul)

4. Seoul Land - Winter Festival Luna Happy Holidays (Accessible on Seoul Metro)

Highlights:  Impressive illumination, snow fun land (120m long snow shedding slope, snow playground, ice & smelt fishing), music performances & more

Period:  1 Dec 2023 - 3 Mar 2024

Getting There:  Seoul Grand Park Station (Line 4), Exit 2. 15 mins walk or take the Elephant Train (1,500 won/Adult, 1000 won/Child) to Seoul Land

Address:   181, Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 과천시 광명로 181 (막계동)

👉 Details on Seoul Land  and how to get there.

Seoul Land 

Outside Seoul

5. strawberry picking at yangpyeong (accessible on seoul metro).

Highlights:  Strawberry picking at one of the many Yangpyeong's strawberry farms. Enjoy nature beauty of Dumulmeori and Semiwon Garden. Cycle to Bukhangang Railroad Bridge

Period:  Nov 2023 - May 2024

Hours:   vary according to strawberry farms

Fees:  from 10,000 won

Getting There:  On Seoul subway (70 mins from Seoul Station), followed by 28 mins walk (7mins by taxi) from Yangsu Station. Normally visited as part of the walking/cycling course to other famous attractions at Yangpyeong

👉 Details on Yangpyeong Strawberry Farms and how to get there.

Yangpyeong Strawberry Picking

6. Everland Theme Park - Christmas & Winter Festival

Highlights:  

Magic Garden: Light show, fireworks & parades.

X-mas Fantasy:  Christmas Parade, Santa Village, Christmas Market

Snow Buster Sledding Rink : Family, Racing & Express Courses

Fees:  per Everland admission fees

Period:  8 Dec 2023 ~

Getting There:  35 mins by bus from Gangnam Station.

👉 For details on Everland Them e Park and how to get there.

Everland Theme Park

7. High1 Ski Resort

Highlights: Abundance of fresh puffy snow / 18 Ski slopes / 3 Gondolas (for non-skiers too) - Operates the most number of gondolas in Korea / On-site accommodations

Period: 8 Dec 2023 - 29 Feb 2024

Getting There:  around 3 hrs by bus. Direct shuttle bus available from Incheon Airport and various bus lines with pick up locations in Seoul City (e.g. Seoul Station, Myeongdong Station, Dongdaemun Gate, Sinchon Station)

▶ Official Webs ite

👉 Details on High 1 Ski Resort and how to get there.

High 1 Ski Resort

8. Yongpyong Ski Resort

Highlights:  Venue for 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games / 28 Ski slopes / Longest Gondola Course (7.8km) in Asia - for s kiers & non-s kiers / Water park / On-site accommodations

Period:  24 Nov 2023 - Mar 2024

Getting There:  

2 hrs by KTX train followed by free shuttle bus to resort OR

3 hrs on direct shuttle bus from Incheon/Gimpo Airport OR

3 hrs on various bus lines with pick up locations in Seoul City (e.g. Myeongdong Station, Seoul Station, Dongdaemun Gate, Sinchon Station)

▶ Official Website ​

👉 Details on Yongpyong Ski Resort and how to get there.

Yongpyong Ski Resort

9. The Garden of Morning Calm - Lighting Festival

Highlights:  One of the biggest festivals of lights in Korea, covering nearly 330,000 m2 with lights.

Period:  1 Dec 2023 - 17 Mar 2024

Hours: 17:00 to 21:00 (till 23:00 on Saturdays)

Fees: per The Garden of Morning Calm entrance fees

Getting There:  1-1.5 hrs from Seoul on Seoul Subway or ITX Train followed by Taxi/City bus/Gapyeong City Tour Bus to The Garden of Morning Calm

👉 Details on The Garden of Morning Calm and how to get there.

The Garden of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm

10. petite france - pinocchio & little prince starlight festival .

Highlights:  The festival lights up the entire France village beautifully, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere

Period:  1 Dec 2023 - 29 Feb 2024

Hours: sunset to 20:00 (Ticketing ends at 19:00)

Fees: per Petite France entrance fees

Getting There:  1-1.5 hrs from Seoul on Seoul Subway/ITX Train followed by Taxi/Gapyeong City Tour Bus to Petite France

▶ Official We b site

👉 Details on Petite France and how to get there.

Petite France

11. Winter Wonder Nami Island

Highlights:  Snow covered island in nature

Period:  29 Dec 2023 - 4 Feb 2024

Hours: 7:30-21:40

Fees: per Nami Island entrance fees

Getting There:  1.5-2hrs from Seoul on Seoul Subway/ITX Train followed by Taxi/Gapyeong City Tour Bus to the wharf and ferry/zipline to Nami Island

👉 Details on Nami Island and how to get there.

Nami Island

12-16. Gangwon Winter Festivals

▸ Pyeongchang Trout Festival : 29 Dec - 28 Jan 2024

▸ Hwacheon Sancheono Ice Festival : 6-28 Jan 2024

▸ Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival : 26 Jan - 4 Feb 2024

▸ Daegwallyeong Snow Festival : 27 Jan - 11 Feb 2024  

▸ Inje Ice Fishing Festival : 19 Jan 2024 (Cancelled)

Gangwon Winter Festivals

17. daegwallyeong sheep farm.

Highlights:  Sheep farm transforms into a winter wonderland, often referred as the Alps of Korea

Period: Dec 2023 - Feb 2024

Hours: 9:00-17:00

Fees:  per Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm entrance fees

Getting There:  3 hrs from Seoul on intercity bus followed by local bus/taxi to Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm

👉 Details on Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm and how to get there.

Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm

18. Wondaeri Birch Forest

Highlights:  Over 700,000 tall white bark birch trees raising towards the blue sky in the snow-covered landscape

Period:  1 Nov 2023 - 1 Mar 2024

Hours: 9:00-17:00 (last entry time 14:00)

Fees:  Free

Getting There:  1.5 hrs from Seoul on intercity bus followed by city bus or 15 mins taxi ride to Wondaeri Birch Forest

👉 Details on Wondaeri Birch Forest and how to get there.

Wondaeri Birch Forest

Tips: Mobile battery may drain fairly fast in cold weather. If you do not want to miss out any photo opportunity, do bring along a power bank and charge your mobile phone whenever the battery is running low. Transport and meal times are probably the best times to give your phone the 'extra' boost and be ready for your next destination/place of attraction. 😉

❄ WINTER COLLECTION ❄ Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

1. Vivaldi Park Ski World (@ Daemyung Resort)

From Seoul: 45 mins by bus

Highlights:  Most visited ski resort in Korea / Up to 20,0000 visitors daily / 12 Slopes / Total slope length of 6,784m / 9 Lifts / 1 Gondola / Ocean World (with outdoor hot spring & jjimjilbang)

Vivaldi Park Snowy Land One Day Self Guided Tour

10 Dec - 5 Mar 2024

transfers✦Snowy Land✦gondola✦ski

Nami Island & Vivaldi Park Ski World Day Tour

20 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

gondola✦Snowy Land✦ski

2D1N Vivaldi Park Resort Ski Trip

18 Dec - 5 Mar 2024

transfers✚hotel✚ski✚lift pass✚& gear rental

Vivaldi Park Ski Resort One Day Ski Learning Tour

2 Dec - 5 Mar 2024

shuttle bus✦ski✦snowbard✦lesson

Vivaldi Snowyland, Strawberry Picking, Nami Island & Morning Calm Day Tour

1 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

incl. jam making & lighting festival

Vivaldi Park - Shuttle Bus/Private Transport (1-7 pax)

3 Dec - 5 Mar 2024

transfers only

Vivaldi Park Snowyland, Strawberry Picking & Alpaca World Day Tour

1 Dec - 1 Mar 2024

incl. jam making

Vivaldi Park Snowyland & Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival Day Tour

8-26 Jan 2024

ice fishing & grilled fish experience

2. Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort

From Seoul:   1 hr by train/bus

Highlights:  The only ski resort in Korea reachable by subway or ITX train / Lower difficulty level of slopes than other ski resorts / 10 Slopes / 5 Lifts / Sledding Slope

Elysian Gangchon Winter Ski Day Tour

transfers✦sightseeing✦sled✦lesson

Elysian Ski, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day (Light Festival) Tour

1 Dec - 4 Mar 2024

sightseeing✦sled✦ski✦snowboard

Elysian Ski Resort, Nami Island & Alpaca World & Morning Calm Day Tour

4 Dec - 4 Mar 2024

Elysian Ski Resort (Ski, Snowboard & Snow Hill) Day Tour

5 Dec - 1 Mar 2024

clothing✦ski✦snowboard✦lesson

Nami Island & Nami Island & Elysian Gangchon Winter Ski Day Tour

sightseeing✦sled✦lesson

2D1N Elysian Tour (Ski/Snowboard, Clothing, Gear, Lesson & Snow Hill)

5 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

1 night stay @Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort

Elysian Ski Resort (Lounge, Lesson, Ski Pass) Day Tour

3 Dec - 3 Mar 2024

transfers✦lounge✦1.5hrs lesson✦lift

Elysian Ski Resort, Nami Island & Alpaca World Day Tour

Elysian, Jisan, Alpensia or Yongpyeong Private Ski Day Tour

10 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

group of 2, 3, 4 or more pax

3. High1 Ski Resort

From Seoul:   3 hrs by bus

Highlights:  The highest attitude and world-class ski resort that operates the most number of gondolas in Korea / Known for its beautifully clean, natural and puffy snow / 18 Slopes / Total slope length of 21km / 7 Lifts / 3 Gondolas / Casino

Private Car Charter: Yongpyong, O2, High1, Phoenix, Alpensia & Welli Hilli

25 Nov - 29 Feb 2024

₩330,000/car

1- 6/7-9 persons per car

4. Host Venues of PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games

From Seoul:   2.5 hrs by bus

Ski Resorts:  Phoenix Park Ski Resort, Yongpyong Ski Resort & Alpensia Ski Resort

Pyeongchang Phoenix Park & Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm Tour

1 Dec - 28 Feb 2024

transfers✦snow village✦ski✦lesson

2D1N Yongpyong Ski Resort Trip

17 Dec - 15 Mar 2024

transfers✚1 night stay✚ski rental✚lift

Yongpyong One Day Ski Day Tour

1 Dec - 10 Mar 2024

transfers✚gear✚lesson (min. 2 pax)

3D2N Phoenix Park Adventure with Round Trip Transfer

2 nights accommodation✚transfer (min. 2 pax)

5. Other Ski Resorts from Seoul

Ski Resorts:  Eden Valley / Oak Valley / Jisan /Bears Town / Welli Hilli / Konjiam

Oak Valley Resort - Round Trip Transfers

18 Dec - 22 Feb 2024

Jisan Ski Resort Ski Package Day Tour

transfers✚ski gear✚30mins lesson

Jisan Ski Resort & Everland Day Tour

transfers✦sled✦ski✦snowboard

1N2D Gangwon-do Welli Hilli Park Ski Resort Tour (optional private ski lesson)

transfer, accommodation & strawberry farm

Oak Valley Winter Ski & Stonecreek Ice Valley Cafe Day Tour

2 Jan - 28 Feb 2024

transfers✦sled✦ski✦snowboard✦lesson

Jisan Forest Resort Ski & Snowboard Day Tour

11 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

Welli Hilli Ski Resort Day Tour

transfers✦ski equipment✦lesson

Konjiam Ski Resort Tour

24 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

sled✦ski✦lift✦lesson

Oak Valley Resort Ski Day Trip (with/without Lesson)

transfers✦ski✦snowboard✦lift ticket✦lesson

Jisan Forest Winter Ski Day Tour

transfers✦sled✦ski✦lift✦lesson

Welli Hilli Ski Resort 10 hrs Private Day Tour (1-5/6-9 Pax)

3 Dec - 28 Feb 2024

₩375,000/car

optional lesson, gear & lift pass

Private Car Charter - Jisan Forest, Yangji Pine, Konjiam & Bears Town

₩203,000/car

1-6/9 persons per car

6. Ice / Snow Festivals

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival Day Tour

7 - 28 Jan 2024

1 of the '7 Wonders of Winter' by CNN

Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival Day Tour

23 Dec - 25 Feb 2024

enjoy the Alps Village in Winter

Baegungyegok Valley Snow Festival & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

2 Jan - 3 Feb 2024

incl. strawberry jam making

Eobi Ice Valley, Nami Island & Alpaca World Day Tour

18 Dec - 4 Mar 2024

ice wall formed by frozen waterfall

Strawberry Picking, Eobi Ice Valley, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Tour

22 Dec - 4 Mar 2024

incl. Morning Calm Lighting Festival

Strawberry Picking, Gamaksan, Choligol & Eunpyeong Hanok Village Day Tour

19 Dec - 30 Mar 2024

magnificent view from Gamaksan Bridge

Wondaeri Birch Forest & Inje Maebawi Icewall Day Tour

22 Dec - 16 Feb 2024

a hidden winter treasure!

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Korea's biggest festival of lights

Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

26 Dec - 22 Feb 2024

optional winter activities (e.g. snow sledding)

Eobi Ice Valley, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Eobi Ice Valley, Strawberry Picking, Sledding & Morning Calm Lighting Tour

15 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

Gapyeong winter highlights

Strawberry Picking, Eobi Ice Valley, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

26 Dec - 7 Mar 2024

pick & taste Korea's sweet strawberries

Stone Creek Ice Wall, Oak Valley Sledding & Wonju Market Day Tour

22 Dec - 29 Feb 2024

tour departs at 10/10.30am

Incheon Ice Fishing, Sledding, Dongmak Beach Seagull Feeding & Cafe Day Tour

22 Dec - 23 Feb 2024

stand on ice & catch the freshest fish

Pyeongchang Trout Festival & Ice Fishing Winter Day Tour

2-29 Jan 2024

transfers✦admission+equipment

Cheongyang Alps Village Ice Fountain Festival Day Tour

23 Dec - 30 Jan 2024

pickup: 10-10.30am. Incl. night lightings

Eobi Ice Valley, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

Strawberry Picking, Eobi Ice Valley & Nami Island Day Tour

Gamaksan, Choligol, Eunpyeong Hanok Village & Jingwansa Day Tour

25 Dec - 26 Feb 2024

Frozen Journey at Hantan Ice Canyon Day Tour

4 Jan - 10 Feb 2024

walk on the river floating bridge

7. Other Winter Activities from Seoul

Mt. Seorak & Naksansa Temple Tour

explore Korea’s natural beauty

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Yeoju Outlet Day Tour

Everland Day Tour (Admission, Tour Guide & Round Trip Transfer)

Eng./Mandarin speaking guide

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

light festival (winter only)

Nami, Petite France, Italian V., Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Tour

visit them all!

Legoland Korea & Nami Island Day Tour

World's 2nd largest Legoland!

Strawberry Picking, Sledding & Morning Calm [Starlight Festival] Day Tour

10 Dec - 12 Mar 2024

tour departs at 10.30/11am

​Nami Island, Strawberry Picking & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

1 Dec - 31 Mar 2024

Jeonju Hanok Village & Mount Daedunsan Winter Day Tour

1 Dec - 24 Feb 2024

Seoraksan National Park, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

spectacular landscapes of Korea

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Gwangmyeong Cave Tour

Shuttle Bus Transfers between Seoul & Everland

Myeongdong/Sinchon Station

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

enjoy the best of Gangwon!

Nami Island, Petite France, Petite France & The Morning Calm Day Tour

Nami Island, Alpaca World & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour

longest cable car in Korea!

Legoland Korea & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour

longest 3.61km cable car ride!

Pocheon Art Valley, Herb Island Lighting Festival & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

23 Nov - 17 Mar 2024

400g of strawberries

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

11 Dec - 29 Mar 2024

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Dumulmeori Day Tour

Everland 1 Day Pass (instant QR Code for entry incl. on voucher upon booking)

17 May - 16 Jun 2024

a large amusement park & zoo!

Nami Island, Petite France & Italian Village Day Tour

Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Alpaca World, Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Legoland Korea & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

largest Legoland in Asia!

The Garden of Morning Calm [Starlight Festival] & Alpaca World Day Tour

1 Dec - 12 Mar 2024

​Nami Island, The Garden of Morning Calm & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

1 Dec - 17 Mar 2024

Alpaca World, Nami Island, Strawberry Picking & Morning Calm Day Tour

12 Dec - 29 Mar 2024

♔  KoreaToDo recommends  KLOOK , Asia leading in-destination service provider .

Other KoreaToDo 'Best of Collections' that you may like:

Top Seasonal, Music & Cultural Festivals to visit in & from Seoul

Top Hidden Attractions & Secret Places to Explore in Seoul

Top Favourite Scenic Hiking/Walking Trails

Top Favourite Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Popular & Unique Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

Winter in Korea: Our 5-Day Itinerary, Experience, Costs & Tips

Growing up in the tropics, we always dreamt of having a snowy winter adventure. Achievement unlocked when we finally experienced winter in Korea before the pandemic. Allow us to revisit our trip and share our 5-day Korea winter itinerary with tips and cost breakdown. We hope this will help you plan your own trip to Korea during the winter season, which lasts from December to February. Happy trip planning!

Things to prepare before your winter trip to Korea

1. Korean tourist visa – Before anything else, you should already have your South Korea tourist visa. We do not advise that you buy your flight tickets or book your hotels before applying for a Korean visa. Please refer to our Korean visa guide (Manila Embassy) , Korean visa guide (Cebu Consulate) , and Korean visa for self-employed Filipinos  for your Korean tourist visa application.

2. Passport – This is pretty self-explanatory. Make sure that it has at least six months validity. Otherwise, you need to renew it. Read our DFA passport renewal guide .

3. Flight tickets – Book your flight tickets once you already have your Korean tourist visa. Search for flights and compare prices on Agoda or Klook .

4. Hotel booking – You can reserve your accommodation but you don’t have to pay yet. You can find some hotels on Klook or Agoda , which allow free cancellation of up to 48 hours.

5. T-Money Card – Prepare your T-Money Card before arriving in Korea. This special Korea tourist card can be used to pay for your transport such as trains and buses. You can also use it to buy something at convenience stores or partner shops.

6. Q-CODE – Make sure that you have already applied for your Q-CODE before arriving in South Korea.  You will need to present the generated QR code upon arrival at the airport. Get your Q-CODE here .

7. eTravel QR Code – Before your departure from the Philippines, register your eTravel QR Code . You should already prepare it at least 72 hours or 3 days before your trip, and when you return to the Philippines.

8. Travel insurance – While this is not required, we advise that you still get a travel insurance since you’ll never know what will happen. Better safe than sorry! You may check out AXA’s Smart Traveller insurance .

9. Winter clothes – Need we say more? It’s freezing cold during winter in Korea so layer up. You can buy winter clothes from Uniqlo, Terranova, Lazada, Shopee , or from your local ukay-ukay shops.

Our planned 5-day Korea winter itinerary

Day 0: arrival in busan.

10pm – Touchdown at Gimhae International Airport in Busan 11pm – Late check-in at our Busan accommodation

Day 1: Busan

9am – Breakfast 10am – Explore Busan

Day 2: Seoul

9am – Breakfast 11am – KTX train (Busan to Seoul) 2pm  – Check-in at our Seoul accommodation 3pm – Explore Seoul

Day 3: Gangwon Province

Nami island.

• Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort

Day 4: Seoul

Culture and heritage:

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Bukchon hanok village.

• Namsangol Hanok Village
• Changdeokgung Palace

Deoksugung Palace

• Gyeonghuigung Palace
• Heunginjimun
• Seoul Tower

Day 5: Incheon City

9am – Breakfast 11am – Checkout from our Seoul accommodation 12nn – Arrival in Incheon 1pm – Explore Incheon 8pm – Check-in at Incheon International Airport

Our actual experience during winter in Korea

Upon arrival at Busan’s Gimhae International Airport, we immediately bought our T-money card from 7-Eleven. We then used our T-money card to ride the subway going to our Busan accommodation.

BUY T-MONEY CARD

• Get your T-money card as soon as you arrive in Korea. You can get one from 7-Eleven or subway stations. If you are arriving in Seoul, it’s better to buy your T-money card from Klook  in advance. You can then pick up the actual card from the Klook kiosks located at the airport.
• Save a copy of the Busan subway map and familiarize yourself with the subway lines. Alternatively, you can also download NAVER Map so you can access the subway and bus schedules real-time.

Day 1: Busan day trip

Gamcheon culture village.

Gamcheon Culture Village is one of Busan’s top attractions featuring colorful houses, creative murals, artisan shops, and local cafes. Although we got lost on our way there, we still had a good time exploring the nooks and crannies of this vibrant neighborhood.

How to get there: Ride the train Line 1 to Jagalchi Station. Exit 1 and take the bus Seogu 2 or Seogu 2-2 going to Gamcheon Culture Village.

BOOK ONE-DAY BUSAN TOUR

Jagalchi Fish Market

Do you know that Jagalchi Fish Market is South Korea’s largest seafood market? We didn’t regret adding this to our itinerary because we got to immerse in Busan’s local food scene.

How to get there: Ride the subway Line 1 to Jagalchi Station. Take any exit and walk to the Jagalchi Market.

TOUR JAGALCHI FISH MARKET

Beomeosa Temple

Beomeosa Temple is a sacred Buddhist temple on the slopes of Geumjeongsan, a famous mountain in Busan. We thought we can easily reach the temple but to our surprise, it’s quite far from the center of Busan. We almost missed the last bus but it was quite a surreal experience here at night.

How to get there: From Busan Station, take the subway to Beomeosa Station, Exit 5. Then, walk along Cheongnyongyejeon-ro and ride Bus 90 going to Beomeosa Temple.

EXPLORE BUSAN AT NIGHT

We only had a day to explore Busan and we felt that it was not enough. We’ll surely be back to discover more of Busan’s gems.

Day 2: Seoul at night

After checking out from our Busan accommodation at 9.30am, we went straight to Busan Station so we can ride the KTX bound for Seoul.

• Check out this Seoul subway guide to familiarize yourself with the subway lines.
• The KTX train seats get fully booked easily, especially on weekends, so book your KTX ticket at least a day before. Learn from us — we had to endure a three-hour train ride to Seoul standing at the back of the train because we were only chance passengers.
• To avoid such inconvenience, we highly suggest that you buy Klook’s Korea Rail Pass ahead. You can get unlimited train rides to over 600 stations operated by KORAIL including the KTX train.

GET UNLI KOREA RAIL PASS

Hello Seoul!

We finally arrived in Seoul in one piece after standing like a zombie for three gruelling hours. Amy, our Korean friend fetched us from the Seoul Station and helped us locate our Seoul accommodation.

We’re so lucky to have picked a Seoul apartment with a super friendly host. His name is BK and he welcomed us with coffee and even played his traditional Korean flute. Unfortunately, his apartment is now unlisted. We would have loved to recommend it to everyone visiting Seoul.

63 Building

After dinner, we visited 63 Building , one of South Korea’s tallest skyscrapers overlooking the Han River. It has exactly 63 levels with 60 floors and 3 basements. We went to its observatory on the 60th floor to see a panoramic 360-degree view of Seoul at night. There’s also a gallery where we admired different pieces of artwork.

We then proceeded to stroll along the Han River, one of the most romantic and relaxing spots in Seoul which is usually featured in K-dramas. We capped off our first day in Seoul and thanked Amy for touring us around the city at night.

EXPERIENCE HAN RIVER CRUISE

Day 3: Winter holiday in Gangwon Province

What’s winter in Korea without actually seeing snow? We headed to Gangwon Province, specifically Nami Island and Elysian Ski Resort, to see, touch, and feel real snow.

Nami Island   became so popular because of the iconic Winter Sonata K-drama in 2002 starring Bae Yong-joon as Kang Joon-sang and Choi Ji-woo as Jeong Yoo-jin. Many fans flock to Nami Island to recreate the scenes that were shot here. Even if you’re not a K-drama fan, you’ll still enjoy the island even during winter in Korea with its jaw-dropping natural scenery which changes with the season. You can even rent a bicycle and cycle around the island.

How to get there: From Yongsan Station, take the ITX Cheongchun Line to Gapyeong. From Gapyeong Station, ride the bus to Nami Island ferry terminal where you can ride the ferry to Nami Island.

Elysian Ski Resort

Skiing is one of the top things to do in Korea during winter. We would have wanted to check this off our bucket list at Elysian Ski Resort but our bodies didn’t cooperate. We still had fun sightseeing and playing with the snow though.

How to get there: From Nami Island, ride the Metro Rail to Baekyang-ri Station. Then, hop on the free shuttle to Elysian Ski Resort right outside the station.

Day 4: Seoul city tour

It was already our fourth day and we wanted to enjoy whatever winter activities that could still fit our remaining time. We initially wanted to do ice skating but all the sites we went to were closed or not operating. When we asked for recommendations from our host, he immediately suggested some local experiences and even went the extra mile to accompany us and tour us around. Wow, we were so lucky indeed!

See some highlights of our experience:

Noryangjin Fish Market

Our host invited us for a lunch at Noryangjin Fish Market , one of South Korea’s oldest and largest seafood markets where you can eat an actual live octopus. Our host haggled for some fresh catch and had them cooked in a restaurant. The octopus, though, wasn’t cooked — we ate it raw with its chopped tentacles still moving. It was quite a bizarre yet cool experience. It wasn’t as scary as we imagined. Surprisingly, it was delicious!

Yongsan Station

We didn’t expect that Yongsan Station is an attraction in itself with its many shops and electronics market located here. Again, thanks to BK for letting us see what tourists like us won’t normally notice.

From Yongsan Station, we went to City Hall Station and started our walking tour to some of Seoul’s top attractions. We were surprised that we can actually follow a trail that will lead us to these spots on foot.

We’ve created a map if you want to follow our footsteps:

City Hall (Seoul Plaza)

After exiting City Hall Station, we saw the Seoul Plaza located in front of Seoul City Hall. During winter in Korea, the plaza is supposed to turn into an ice skating rink. Unfortunately, it was temporarily closed when we went there.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

We walked along Cheonggyecheon Stream , which features art and light installations, turning this public space even more magical at night.

We reached Insa-dong and bought some Korean souvenirs such as bags, socks, and Korean street food items like Dragon’s beard candy.

From Insa-dong, we took the shortcut going to Bukchon Hanok Village , a Korean traditional village that’ll make you feel like you are still living in the Joseon Dynasty. BK brought us to this quaint cafe with a rooftop that overlooks the hanok village and its surroundings. 

Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae)

Cheong Wa Dae also known as the Blue House is the official residence of the South Korean president. We cannot go beyond the police line as there were security measures due to ongoing demonstrations at the time.

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace was the royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Today, it is one of Seoul’s top tourist attractions drawing many tourists from around the world. This is also a perfect spot to rent a hanbok and relive old Korea.

BK already left us here so we can explore on our own. We’re very grateful for the company and for making us explore Seoul like a local.

If the Blue House is the current residence of South Korea’s leader, Deoksugung Palace was the residence of the members of the royal family during the Joseon Dynasty. We only managed to explore it at night but it’s still magnificent.

Gangnam is one of Korea’s richest districts dotted with luxury shops, restaurants, and nightlife spots. It was no longer part of our DIY walking tour but we got curious because of Psy’s popular “Oppa Gangnam Style” song.  We were too exhausted to have fun in Gangnam so we called it a day after strolling around the area for a bit.

Day 5: Souvenir shopping

We allotted our last day to shop for Korean pasalubong (souvenirs) at Myeong-dong and Insa-dong . For skincare and beauty products, Myeong-dong is the best place. For trinkets and more items, we bought them at Insa-dong.

Due to time constraints, we were no longer able to explore Incheon City and other top Korea attractions like N Seoul Tower , COEX mall and Lotte World . We’ll surely be back to explore these parts of Korea.

Korea trip cost breakdown (per person)

Transportation = ₩111,900 (₱4,800)

• T-Money Card = ₩2,500
• T-Money Card Load = ₩30,000
• KTX to Seoul = ₩50,800
• Train to Gapyeon = ₩5,800
• Ferry to Nami = ₩8,000
• Train back to Seoul = ₩6,800
• Arex to Incheon Airport = ₩8,000

Locker (Busan Station & Seoul Station) = ₩2,500 (₱100)

Entrance fees = ₩4,000 (₱170)

• Gyeongbokgung Palace = ₩3,000
• Deoksugung Palace = ₩1,000

Food = ₩95,850 (₱4,000)

Shopping = ₩41,500 (₱1,800)

Accommodation = ₱5,617.5

• Busan = ₱1,712.5 per person
• Seoul = ₱3,905 per person

Flights = ₱6,751.30

• Manila to Busan (Cebu Pacific) = ₱3,149.50
• Seoul to Cebu (Cebu Pacific) = ₱3,601.8

Philippine travel tax = ₱1,620

Total cost = ₱24,859

In 5 days, we basically spent a total of about ₱25k each. That’s relatively affordable considering it’s already all-in. Feel free to tweak our Korea winter itinerary based on your interests and budget. We managed to save and squeeze in as many spots because of our local friends. We could not thank them enough for making our first trip to Korea a truly memorable one.

감사합니다 Amy and BK for your kindness, hospitality, and friendship. Till we meet again!

After winter, you may want to experience spring in Korea, too! You may refer to our 5-day Korea spring itinerary to help you plan your trip. Before you go, why not learn some basic Korean words and phrases as well?

Winter in Korea | 33 Incredible Places to Visit in Korea during Winter [UPDATED FOR 2023 / 2024]

Winter in Korea is TOUGH. Gale force Siberian winds, freezing temperatures and super dry, sometimes polluted air make it tempting to sit inside, binge-watch Netflix and drink coffee all day long. At least that’s what I want to do most winter days in Seoul.

Winter in Korea is especially stunning at Gyeongbokgung Palace.

You definitely shouldn’t hibernate till the cherry blossoms bloom though, (no matter how tempting it is). There’s plenty of snowy weather activities and interesting places to visit in Korea during winter.

So, throw on your long padding coat, equip yourself with hot packs, and venture forth bravely into the frostiest of Korea’s seasons.

Gear up and explore Korea’s wonderful winter landscapes.

In this complete guide to Korea in winter, you’ll discover:

• the climate and weather in Korea in December, January, and February
• perfect activities to take advantage of in Korea in winter
• the best festivals to attend across the country during winter in South Korea
• the best foods to eat to fortify your body for the difficult climate
• what to pack and wear to survive a Korean winter

*Any purchases made through  affiliate links  here help run this site.  Support my blog here . 

In this guide

• 1 What to Expect during Winter in Korea
• 2.1 Winter Weather in Korea | December
• 2.2 Winter Weather in Korea | January
• 2.3 Winter Weather in Korea | February
• 2.4 How cold is Korea in winter REALLY?
• 3.1 Does it snow in Seoul?
• 3.2 Where to see snow in Korea
• 4.1 Winter in Korea | Travel Essentials
• 5 Winter in Korea | What to Wear
• 6.1 Shinsegae Magical Winter Fantasy | 신세계 크리스마스
• 6.2 The Garden of Morning Calm | 아침고요수목원 오색별빛정원전
• 6.3 Haeundae Light Festival | 해운대 빛축제
• 6.4 Seoul Lantern Festival | 서울빛초롱축제
• 6.5 Seoul Winta Festival | 서울윈터페스타
• 6.6 Herb Island Light Festival | 허브아일랜드 불빛동화축제
• 6.7 Pinocchio & Little Prince Lighting Festival of Petite France | 피노키오 & 어린왕자 별빛축제
• 6.8 Boseong Green Tea Plantation Light Festival | 보성차밭 빛축제
• 6.9 Department Stores
• 6.10 Miracle Winter at Lotte World Adventure | 롯데월드
• 6.11 Snowman World at Everland | 에버랜드
• 7 Limited Edition Winter Tours in Korea
• 8.1 36th Busan Polar Bear Swimming Festival | 북극곰 수영대회
• 8.2 Pyeongchang Trout Festival | 평창송어축제
• 8.3 Sanjeongho Lake Sledding Festival | 포천 산정호수 썰매축제
• 8.4 Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival | 칠갑산얼음분수축제
• 8.5 Edelweiss Swiss Village | 에델바이스 테마파크
• 8.6 Sangso-dong Forest Park | 상소동 산림욕장
• 8.7 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival | 얼음나라 화천산천어축제
• 8.8 Inje Ice Fishing Festival | 인제빙어축제
• 8.9 Daegwallyeong Snow Festival | 대관령 눈꽃축제
• 8.10 Taebaeksan Snow Festival | 태백산 눈축제
• 9.1 Skiing and Snowboarding
• 9.2 Snow Sledding
• 9.3 Ice climbing
• 9.4 Ice Skating
• 10.1 Get a Korean facial
• 10.2 Visit a Jjimjilbang or Mogyoktang
• 10.3 Relax in a Korean Oncheon
• 11.1 Go strawberry picking
• 11.2 Spend the day at the Aquarium
• 11.3 See an indoor performance
• 11.4 Head to the top of Korea’s Tallest Building
• 12.1 Yeosu Hyangiram Sunrise Festival | 여수향일암일출제
• 12.2 Homigot Sunrise Festival | 호미곶 한민족 해맞이축전
• 13.1 2023 KUMFA holiday gift drive
• 13.2 Feed the homeless
• 13.3 Korea’s Cardboard Halmonis (Grannies)
• 14.1 Dolsot Bibimbap | 돌솥 비빔밥
• 14.2 Tteokguk | 떡국
• 14.3 Kimchi Jjigae | 김치 찌개
• 14.4 Hotteok | 호떡
• 14.5 Roasted Chestnuts | 군밤 (Gun Bam)
• 14.6 Winter in South Korea: Essential Info and FAQs

What to Expect during Winter in Korea

In the Koreas winter months of December, January, and February, the colourful vistas and cobalt skies of autumn transform into snowy landscapes, barren trees, and freezing temperatures. Ski resorts open across the country, festivals light up the night sky, and juicy strawberries are in season.

Winter in Korea lasts for 3 months © Lee Hong-sang, Korea Tourism Organization

From mid-December onwards, it gets REALLY cold, at exactly the same time that masses of visitors descend upon Korea for Christmas vacations. If you’re planning to travel at this time, it’s important to book hotels and other accommodation in Seoul as early as possible.

Unique activities like riding the Tornado sled at Snowy Land sledding park,   ice fishing at one of Gangwon-do’s snow festivals, or taking in the gorgeous sparkling lights at the Garden of Morning Calm, only take place during winter in Korea, so be sure to check those out.

Gangwon-do has a number of ice and snow festivals during winter in Korea.

READ NEXT: The 7 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul + Hotel Recommendations (from a 12 Year Expat)

When is winter in Korea?

Winter in South Korea lasts for approximately 3 months, spanning the months of December, January, and February. Typically, cold weather starts in late November and begins to taper off by the end of February.

Skiing and snowboarding are popular winter sports in Korea ⓒ Korea Tourism Organization

All of Korea experiences the chill of winter, but Gangwon-do Province in the NE corner is typically the coldest part of the country. That’s where you’ll find the most snowfall, the best ski resorts , and the typical wintry scenes you’re dreaming of.

Not surprisingly, as you head further south on the Peninsula, winter in Korea gets shorter and ever so slightly warmer.

Count on snow at the top of Hallasan on Jeju Island © kangbch (Pixabay)

Winter Weather in Korea | December

December is the first and warmest month of winter in Korea, with average temperatures ranging from -3°C | 26°F to 4°C | 40°F.

The Lantern Festival is one of December’s biggest events © Live Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

The first few weeks of the week can feel reasonably comfortable during daylight hours, but you’ll need to reach for warm winter clothing the moment the sun goes down. The nights feel significantly colder than the thermometer reading would suggest.

The first snow of Korean winter usually happens this month, but doesn’t tend to stick around long – particularly in Seoul.

READ NEXT: Visiting Korea in December: Weather, What to Wear + Best Festivals

Winter Weather in Korea | January

January is the coldest month of winter in Korea, with average temperatures ranging from 1.5°C | 35°F to -6°C | 21°F. Nightfall comes to Korea early in January, with the latest sunset occurring around 6:00PM.

That time I was snowed in unexpectedly in Gangwon-do – yeah, that’s my stranded car in the distance.

If you’re planning a winter wonderland trip, hoping to see blankets of snow – this is the month to do it! Historically, January is the month with the most snowfall in Korea, with 7 snowfall days over the course of the month, accumulating about 11-cm of snow.

READ NEXT: Visiting Korea in January: Weather, What to Wear + Best Festivals

Winter Weather in Korea | February

February is the last month of Korean winter. It gets ever so slightly warmer with temperatures falling in the -3°C | 26°F to 5°C | 41°F range. There isn’t as much snowfall in February, but still enough for a quality day of skiing at resorts like Yongpyong and Alpensia.

Yongpyong and Alpensia Ski Resorts typically stay open into early March.

The days get a bit longer in February, with the sun setting around 6:30PM. The balmy temperatures and pretty flowers of Korea’s spring season are finally within sight.

READ NEXT: Visiting Korea in February: Weather, What to Wear + Best Festivals

How cold is Korea in winter REALLY?

In Seoul, average winter temperatures range from a low of -7°C | 19°F in January to a high of 5°C | 41°F in February. It’s colder in Gangwon-do, and warmer near Busan. And while those temperatures might not seem TOO cold from a strict degrees point of view, I must warn you that it feels a heck of a lot colder.

Best to cover as much exposed skin as you can during winter in Korea

I grew up in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Yes, that’s the land of 6 month winters, colossal piles of snow and temperatures as low as -40°C | -40°F. Yet I found winter in Korea with its much milder temperatures to be insanely cold.

There’s a brutal wind that blows in from Siberia, and the cold just seeps into your bones. It’s totally unexplainable and painfully shocking. You definitely need to be prepared with appropriate winter gear.

Does it snow in South Korea?

It snows all over Korea in winter, but more in certain regions. If you’ve got your heart set on experiencing snow, head northeast for the best chances of catching it. Look to late December or January for a better chance to see snow in Korea.

It definitely snows in Seoul, but it’s usually short-lived.

VIVA SNOW FESTIVAL   | Looking for something really special? This exclusive winter festival takes place just 3 times in 3 months, and includes transport, meals, accommodation, admission to attractions at Vivaldi Park, AND cultural activities. This is an intimate event capped at just 200 visitors, that’s well worth checking out.  Check full details here.

Does it snow in Seoul?

If you’re staying in Seoul, your timing will have to be absolutely perfect to catch snow. Because snowfall is actually a pretty rare occurrence in Seoul. If you’re lucky, and happen to be here when it DOES snow, get outside as fast as possible to enjoy it. Because it melts just about as fast as it appears.

Snowy scenes like this are few and far between in Seoul.

READ NEXT: The Gangchon Rail Bike is Awesome in Every Season

Where to see snow in Korea

You’re guaranteed to see snow at any of the ski resorts around Korea. And even if you don’t ski, many of them have wintry activities, like sledding to participate in.

Sledding is a popular activity for families in Korea during winter.

Another popular destination for seeing snow near Seoul, is Nami Island. They even have a snowman festival every winter in Korea, that you can check out!

It takes a long time to get to Nami Island by public transportation, so it’s worth looking into all-inclusive tours from Seoul to make it a super convenient day trip out of the city. I don’t know about you, but standing outside in the freezing cold, waiting for public transport isn’t really my idea of fun.

You can get all Winter Sonata on Nami Island © .angels. ( CC BY-ND 2.0 )

Planning a trip to Korea?

Connect with other travellers | Ask and get answers to all your travel questions | Learn about all the best things to do in Korea | Join our Korea Travel Planning + Guide Facebook Group now.

Winter in Korea | Travel Essentials

Travel Visas

Travel requirements, visas, and passport photos for a trip to South Korea

Hotels and Other Accommodation

Booking       |       Agoda       |       Klook

Wifi, SIM Cards, and Portable Wifi 

4G unlimited data SIM card  |  Portable and Pocket 4G WiFi

Airport Transfers and Luggage Delivery

AREX Incheon Airport Express Train

K Airport Limousine Bus from Incheon Airport

  Incheon Airport to Seoul Private Transfers

Gimhae Airport to Busan Private Airport Transfers

Car Rentals (International Drivers Permit required)

Luggage Delivery To / From Hotel or Airport

Money-Saving Transit and Transport Passes

Discover Seoul Pass (doubles as a T-Money Card) with FREE admission to 66 attractions + 118 discounted

Visit Busan Pass with FREE admission to 31 attractions + 77 discounted

Wowpass, Prepaid Debit Card for Cashless Payment in Korea (includes T-money Card)

Korea Rail Pass: unlimited rides via high-speed rail and travel to over 600 stations on 80 different routes (2,3,4, or 5 days)

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours

Seoul City Hop-on Hop-off Tour Bus Day   |   Seoul Night View Course

Busan City Tour Bus

Gyeongju City Tour Bus

Jeju City Tour Bus

Daegu Hop-on Hop-off Tour Bus Tour

Day Tours and Discounted Admission Tickets

Get Your Guide       |       Klook       |       Trazy      |      Viator

Winter in Korea | What to Wear

I can’t reiterate this enough. The winter months in Korea are freezing cold. If you live in a hot climate like Singapore or Thailand, you will feel like an icicle twice frozen. Guaranteed.

Gangwon-do Province usually gets the most snowfall during winter in Korea.

You need to be extra prepared with super warm clothes, thermals, thick socks, a hat and gloves. There’s a rush on Uniqlo heattech products during winter in Korea for good reason.

Winter in Korea | Lighting Festivals

If bright, sparkling bulbs are your thing, you’re in luck. Because the cold season guarantees a country illuminated with twinkling Christmas lights from top to bottom. Here’s the best places to see them during winter in Korea.

Korea is covered in sparkling lights during winter.

Shinsegae Magical Winter Fantasy | 신세계 크리스마스

Festival dates: November 9th, 2023 – January 31st, 2024

Address: Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch, 63 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul | 신세계백화점 본점

Christmas has come early to the Shinsegae Department’s Store’s main branch in Myeongdong. This stunning light display is projected onto the exterior wall of the building, and it’s something that everyone looks forward to every winter in Korea.

Do not underestimate the crowds on the sidewalk – especially on weekend evenings. The show runs in a rotating loop from 5:30 – 10:00PM.

The Garden of Morning Calm | 아침고요수목원 오색별빛정원전

Festival dates: December 1st, 2023 – March 17th, 2024

Address: 432, Sumogwon-ro, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 가평군 상면 수목원로 432

The Garden of Morning Calm is one of the best places to see a lighting festival during winter in Korea. It’s the biggest one in the whole country! Prepare to be wowed by the sight of tens of thousands of glowing lights in every possible colour covering acres and acres of land.

During winter in Korea, the Garden of Morning Calm has extended evening hours, so visitors can enjoy the spectacle after dark. The lights come on at sunset, and the Garden stays open until 9PM on weekdays, and 11PM on Saturdays.

ALPACA WORLD + THE GARDEN OF MORNING CALM LIGHTING FESTIVAL   |  Pet fluffy alpacas and see the Garden of Morning Calm’s stunning Starlight Festival on this day tour designed with plenty of time to explore.  Check full details and availability here.

Haeundae Light Festival | 해운대 빛축제

Festival dates: December 2nd, 2023 – January 31st, 2024

Address: Haeundae Beach, U-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan |해운대해수욕장, 해운대광장, 해운대시장, 온천길 일원

While Haeundae Beach in Busan is known more for sand, sun, and surf, every winter in Korea, it gets a brilliant makeover.

Lights, lights, lights! ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

This unique lighting festival adorns the road from the beach, up to Haeundae Market and Hot Spring Road in a long line of sparking lights. Special activities include a Carolling Competition, 100 Santa Ceremony, and Wishing Tree Festival.

VISIT BUSAN PASS  |  With free admission to 31 top attractions + discounted admission to 77 more, the Visit Busan Pass is an excellent way to see the city. Use it in combo with with Busan City Tour Bus for the ultimate affordable DIY trip. Check full details here.

Seoul Lantern Festival | 서울빛초롱축제

Festival dates: December 15th, 2023 – January 21st, 2024, 6 – 10PM

Address: Gwanghwamun Square | 172, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 종로구 세종대로 172

The annual Seoul Lantern Festival will light up Gwanghwamun Square, with gorgeous light installations, a market, massive Christmas tree, and fun photo zones.

The Seoul Lantern Festival takes place at Gwanghwamun Square.

This is definitely a can’t miss event if you’re visiting South Korea in winter. Best of all, it’s free! Get full details here.

Seoul Winta Festival | 서울윈터페스타

Festival Dates: December 15th, 2023 – January 31st, 2024

Address: Various locations including DDP, Sejongdaero, Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggyecheon, Seoul Square and more

This is a brand new festival that will run for the first time this winter in Seoul. Taking place at 7 main attractions across the city, this festival promises to be huge.

There are some incredible events planned that will light up the city during the festive season, including a 12m-diametre midnight sun, several light festivals. There aren’t a ton of details out about this Winta yes, so keep your eyes peeled for more details.

Herb Island Light Festival | 허브아일랜드 불빛동화축제

Festival Dates: November 1st, 2023 – March 31st, 2024

Address: 35, Cheongsin-ro 947beon-gil, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 포천시 신북면 청신로947번길 35

Celebrate winter in Korea at Herb Island in Pocheon, with a huge lighting festival. If seeing snow is high on your agenda, Pocheon is one of the regions in Korea that’s known for getting quite a bit of it. It’s very cold though, so be sure to bundle up if you plan to visit.

Pocheon has snow AND sparkling lights.

Get there independently by taking Seoul Subway Line 1 to Soyosan Station and then transferring to bus #57, bound for Sinbuk Oncheon. If you prefer your transport handled for you, book a day tour that includes stops at Pocheon Art Valley, a Strawberry Farm, and the Herb Island Lighting Festival.

Pinocchio & Little Prince Lighting Festival of Petite France | 피노키오 & 어린왕자 별빛축제

Festival dates: TBA for 2023 / 2024, but usually December to mid-March

Address: 1063, Hoban-ro, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 가평군 청평면 호반로 1063

If you want a little taste of Christmas in Europe, Petite France is definitely the place to be during winter in Korea. This year, they’re holding a Starlight Festival with Pinocchio and Da Vinci Village.

Would you believe this “European Village” is in Korea??

Highlights will include a Starlight Photo Zone, and fairy tale lights imported directly from Europe that will be strung throughout the village.

TIP  |  Traveling with a large group? It might be more affordable and convenient to book a private car to take you where you want to go, with no limitations. Check prices to reserve a chartered car for up to 10 people.

Boseong Green Tea Plantation Light Festival | 보성차밭 빛축제

Festival dates: TBA for 2024, but usually starts in late November

Address: 763-65, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 763-65

Located in the south of the country, the Boseong Green Tea Plantation is wonderful to see in every season. During winter in Korea though, the entire plantation gets a festive facelift with twinkling lights adorning its pleasing symmetrical bushes and covering the entire grounds.

Boseong Green Tea Plantation has a lighting festival during winter in Korea.

If you plan on visiting this festival, be sure to take extra warm clothing. I can tell you from personal experience, that it’s incredibly cold in Boseong. Much colder than in Seoul.

READ NEXT:  The 26 Best Lights & Festivals to See during Christmas in Seoul

Department Stores

If traveling out of the city is a distant dream for you, add the Hyundai and Lotte Department stores to your list of places to visit in Korea in winter. Every year, their Christmas displays just seem to get more and more extravagant.

There’s always a huge Christmas Tree set up outside the Hyundai Department store near Starfield Coex Mall. And you can count on some type of festive holiday installation inside the Starfield Library, if prior years are any indication.

The Starfield Library has a festive facelift for winter in Korea

Last winter, the Lotte World Tower next to Jamsil subway station had an over-the-top display with literally thousands and thousands of bulbs, a huge Christmas tree, and lights strung up over a full 2 block length… and I would expect nothing less this year.

Miracle Winter at Lotte World Adventure | 롯데월드

Festival Dates: November 25th, 2023 – February 25th, 2024

Address: 240, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 240

Lotte World Adventure is a popular theme park in the middle of Seoul. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s the perfect place to visit in Korea in winter with kids, if you need somewhere to escape the cold.

Miracle Winter at Lotte World promises to be full of sparkle.

You can enjoy a special Christmas parade and performance, white winter village, special photo zones, and a ton of thrilling rides and attractions.

Full festival details on their website (Korean only).

DISCOUNTED LOTTE WORLD PASSES   |  Foreign passport holders can get Lotte World passes at a discounted price in advance. Book a combo ticket with the  Lotte World Aquarium,  or a Magic Pass to skip long lines at the rides of your choice.  Check full details here.

Snowman World at Everland | 에버랜드

FESTIVAL DATES: TBA for winter 2024, but December 1st, 2022 – March 1st, 2023 last year

Address: 199, Everland-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 용인시 처인구 포곡읍 에버랜드로 199 (포곡읍)

Everland is one of the biggest and best theme parks in Korea. It’s full of heart stopping rides and 5 amazing themed zones. It even has one of the steepest wooden roller coasters in the world. Ride it if you dare.

Everland pulls out all the stops during winter in Korea. Photo by phploveme@Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

During Korea’s winter season, Everland really pulls out all the stops. There’s a towering Christmas tree, several special parades, a Magic Garden and brilliant fireworks to enjoy. Everland has over 40 rides and attractions to explore, so you could easily spend an entire day and night there, without seeing it all.

EVERLAND SHUTTLE BUS and DAY TRIP PACKAGES  |  It’s possible to use public transit to get to Everland by heading to Jeondae∙Everland Station, Exit 4, then walking for a few minutes to the shuttle bus station. A much better option though, especially during the cold winter in Korea, is to book either a round-trip shuttle bus to Everland, or all-inclusive package.

Limited Edition Winter Tours in Korea

Sure, winter in Korea might feel downright frosty, but there’s still plenty of fun things to do to help you forget the cold. Don’t miss these special events and activities that are only available for 2 or 3 months of the year.

The Tornado sled at Snowy Land is a total blast!

• Alpaca World + Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival (with optional sledding + strawberry picking) | December 1st, 2023 – March 12th, 2024
• Vivaldi Ski World + Nami Island | December 1st, 2023 – February 29th, 2024
• Elysian Ski Resort + Nami Island + the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival | December 1st, 2023 – February 29th, 2024
• Vivaldi Park Snowy Land Sledding Tour | December 6th, 2023 – February 29th, 2024
• Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival, Herb Island + Pocheon Art Valley | December 21st, 2023 – February 9th, 2024
• Wondae-ri Birch Forest + Maebawi Icewall Day Tour | December 22nd, 2023 – February 28th, 2024
• Eobi Ice Valley, Nami Island, Alpaca World + Garden of Morning Calm   | December 26th, 2023 – February 29th, 2024
• Cheongyang Alps Village Ice Fountain Festival + Strawberry Picking  | December 26th, 2023 – February 29th, 2024
• Pyeongchang Trout Fishing and Ice Festival Tour  | January 2nd – 29th, 2024
• Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival + Hantan Ice Canyon Walk  | January 4th – February 10th, 2024
• Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival Tour from Seoul | January 6th – 28th, 2024
• Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival + Garden of Morning Calm Starlight Festival  | January 8th – 26th, 2024
• Ice Fishing and Snowflake Tour in Gangwondo  | TBA for 2023 / 24
• Skiing, Snowboarding, and Sledding Tours across Korea  | Various dates

These gorgeous lighting festivals only take place during winter in Korea.

Best Winter Festivals in South Korea

There’s no doubt Korea loves its festivals and during winter, there’s a huge variety to choose from. Attending one of these outdoor events is undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do during winter in Korea, for residents and travellers alike.

There are so many fun festivals (like the Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival) to go to during winter in Korea,

36th Busan Polar Bear Swimming Festival | 북극곰 수영대회

Festival dates: December 15th – 16th, 2023

Address: 47, Dalmaji-gil 62beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan

If you’re just a little bit crazy, you can become one of 5,000 Busan Polar Bears, by diving into the icy cold waters off Haeundae Beach, during the 36th Polar Bear Swim.

You can become a crazy polar bear too! © Busan Metropolitan city (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Considered one of the best festivals to participate in for winter in Korea, it costs 30,000KRW, and it looks like you get some really cute souvenirs out of it.

Registration is open from November 8th – 24th, 2023. Get more details here .

Pyeongchang Trout Festival | 평창송어축제

Festival Dates: December 22nd, 2023 – January 28th, 2024

Address: 3562, Gyeonggang-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do | 강원도 평창군 진부면 경강로 3562

If you can’t make it to Hwacheon’s famous ice fishing festival, don’t stress – there are several different places to visit during South Korean winter, for ice fishing. Former winter Olympics site, Pyeongchang in Gangwon-do also has a popular trout and ice fishing festival where you can spend some time on the ice.

TIP  |  It’s cold on the ice! Stop by any convenience store, pharmacy, or Daiso and buy hot packs to keep your hands warm throughout the day.

Sanjeongho Lake Sledding Festival | 포천 산정호수 썰매축제

FESTIVAL DATES: December 30th, 2023 – February 9th, 2024

Address: 104, Sanjeongho Lake-ro 411beon-gil, Yeongbuk-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 포천시 영북면 산정호수로411번길 104 

I have to say that the Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival is probably one of my all-time favourite winter festivals in Korea. We easily spent hours and hours on top of that frozen lake, with breaks for fresh odeng and hot chocolate to warm up.

The cutest festival happening during winter in Korea.

With super-cute ducky sleds, penguin bicycles, a nearby amusement park, and enough snow to build a massive snowman, this is the perfect festival for families looking for a wonderful winter day out.

Be sure to gear up with parka, snow pants, warm gloves, hats, and boots to fully enjoy your time, without feeling too cold. Check out my full guide to visiting the Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival for all the details.

ULTIMATE WINTER DAY IN POCHEON |  Want to feel some real snowy, winter in Korea vibes? Then Pocheon is the place to go! This excellent day tour takes you to the top of frozen Sanjeong Lake AND the Herb Island Lighting Festival. Check full details here.

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival | 칠갑산얼음분수축제

Festival dates: January 1st  – February 18th, 2024

Address: 175-11, Cheonjangho-gil, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 청양군 정산면 천장호길 175-11

Every winter in Korea, Alps Village near Cheongyang holds an ice fountain festival with fantastical sculptures made out of ice. Aside from the huge ice sculptures, there’s also snow sledding, ice fishing, bobsleigh, ice sledding, a zip line, and more.

You can channel your inner Elsa at the Alps Village Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

For ideal conditions, I recommend visiting when it’s really cold out, so that all the ice and snow sculptures are completely intact. Bundle up!

ICE FOUNTAIN FESTIVAL OR EOBI ICE VALLEY |  Need to see a wall of ice? Choose between the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival or head to Eobi Ice Valley, along with Nami Island, and the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival on one of these convenient day tours. Check full details and availability here.

Edelweiss Swiss Village | 에델바이스 테마파크

Address: 226-57 Darakjae-ro, Seorak-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 가평군 설악면 이천리 304

There isn’t an actual festival at Edelweiss Swiss Village, but it’s definitely an excellent place to feel some winter in Korea vibes. Nestled in the gorgeous mountains of Gapyeong, you can hear yodelling, eat Swiss fondue, and roast marshmallows over an open fire!

This yodeling performance is a definite highlight!

The yodeling performance starts at 2, and includes cowbells, singing and more. Don’t miss it!

Sangso-dong Forest Park | 상소동 산림욕장

Address: San 1-1, Sangso-dong, Dong-gu, Daejeon | 대전 동구 상소동 산 1-1

Sangso-dong Forest Park is another place to visit in cold weather, that doesn’t have exact festival dates. Come December however, this totally FREE park in Daejeon transforms into an icy wonderland, with amazing ice towers, and snowy landscapes.

Trust me – this place is an Instagram dream come true.

An incredible wall of ice at Sangso-dong Forest Park in Daejeon.

Aside from the fantastic ice sculptures, there are unique stone pagodas throughout Sangso-dong Forest Park that are incredibly photogenic. Add a stone and make a wish!

READ NEXT:  Jangtaesan Recreational Forest in Daejeon is a Spectacular Metasequoia Dream

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival | 얼음나라 화천산천어축제

Festival dates: January 6th – 28th, 2024

Address: 137, Sancheoneo-gil, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon-do | 강원도 화천군 화천읍 산천어길 137

Each year, Hwacheon is the first place to freeze over in Korea in winter, with Hwacheon Stream becoming a thick sheet of ice perfect for fishing, skating, hockey, bobsledding and much more. If you’re brave enough, you can even try bare-handed fishing.

Ice fishing scenes like this are common during winter in Korea

The prime catch at the   Hwacheon Ice Festival is the Sancheoneo fish. Full of vitamins, amino and fatty acids, it only survives in super clean, super cold water.

HWACHEON ICE FISHING FESTIVAL  | This is probably the biggest and most popular ice fishing festival happening during winter in Korea, but it’s definitely challenging to get to using public transit. Here are a few tour options to consider:

• Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival + Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival
• Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival Day Tour

Inje Ice Fishing Festival | 인제빙어축제

Festival Dates: January 21st – 29th, 2024 (TBC)

Address: 555-2 beon-ji, Bupyeong-ri, Inje-gun, Gangwon-do | 강원도 인제군 남면 부평리 555-2번지

We checked out the Inje Ice Fishing Festival a few years back, and had a total blast. The tiny bingeoho fish is the main catch there. For a tasty treat, be sure to try it twiggim (battered and deep fried) style at one of the vendors near the ice field.

The Inje Ice Fishing Festival is a great family activity during winter in Korea

There’s a ton to do at the Inje Ice Fishing Festival, besides catching fish though – including a snow village, sledding, food street, and performances. Check their website for full details (Korean only).

WONDAE-RI BIRCH FOREST |  Inje is home to a wondrous birch forest with 70,000 white-barked trees. It’s popular with locals, but virtually unvisited by travellers because it’s so difficult to get to – but no longer. This tour takes you to its snowy landscapes easily. Check full details here.

Daegwallyeong Snow Festival | 대관령 눈꽃축제

Festival dates: TBA for 2024, but January 20th – 29th in 2023

Address: 135-5, Daegwallyeong-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do | 강원도 평창군 대관령면 대관령로 135-5 강원도 평창군 대관령면 대관령로 135-5

With rolling hills 700-m above sea level, the Daegwallyeong is known as the “Asian Alps.” The popular Daegwallyeong Snowflake Festival is in its 28th year and features a winter wonderland of snowflakes and ice.

Snow sculptures at the Daegwallyeong Snowflake Festival © Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

Check their website for more details (Korean only).

READ NEXT:  5 Unique Things to do at Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch

Taebaeksan Snow Festival | 태백산 눈축제

Festival dates: TBA for 2024, but January 27th – 31st in 2023

Address: 168, Cheonjedan-gil, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 태백시 천제단길 162 (소도동)

After 3 long years, the Taebaeksan Snow Festival takes over tiny former coal boom town Taebaek City, and its namesake mountain Taebaeksan, with non-stop winter activities.

This is the winter festival to go to in Korea for large scale snow sculptures, sledding, and hiking. Learn more on their website.

Winter in Korea | Sports and Activities

Don’t turn into a couch potato watching Pyeongchang Winter Olympics re-runs when there’s tons of sporting options you can get involved in yourself. Winter in Korea is the perfect time to try something new!

There are winter sports galore in Korea ⓒ Lee Beomsu, Korea Tourism Organization

Skiing and Snowboarding

Many people don’t realize that Korea is absolutely covered in mountains. Once snow blankets the ground in Gangwon-do Province, snowboarding and skiing become super popular activities during winter in Korea.

Skiing is one of Korea’s best winter activities © Lee Beomsu, Korea Tourism Organization

The best thing is that many of these ski resorts are super accessible from Seoul, so it’s easy to visit on a day or overnight trip.

If you don’t know how to ski, not to worry. You can sign up for lessons easily at any of the ski resorts in Korea. You can also rent equipment and any gear you need at the same time.

My daughter first learned to ski at Yongpyong Resort, and steadily progressed in skill and confidence over the years. All her instruction has been in english, all gear was rented, and she’s absolutely adored all her teachers. Check out a video of her first day of ski instruction here.

SKI RESORTS NEAR SEOUL  | If you want to ski during winter in Korea, there are a ton of convenient ski and snowboard packages to various resorts around the country. Most include transport, accommodation, lift passes, gear and clothing rental, and even lessons!

• 1 Day Ski / Snowboard Tour to Vivaldi Park Ski Resort: includes round trip transportation and optional ski/snowboard equipment rental and lessons at one of Korea’s most modern winter resorts
• Day Trip to Oak Valley Resort with Ski School: learn how to ski at the less crowded Oak Valley Resort near Seoul (available until February 18th, 2022)
• Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort Day Tour: opt for skiing, snowboarding or sledding at one of the most popular ski resorts in Korea
• 2D/1N Ski Retreat to Vivaldi Park Ski World: a totally customizable snow package including everything you need for an awesome ski holiday
• Private Ski Tour to Elysian, Jisan, Alpensia, or Yongpyong Ski Resorts:   Customized itinerary for families or groups to 4 top ski resorts in Korea

Snow Sledding

If you don’t ski or snowboard, you can still visit a ski resort or snow park for sledding. There are sledding hills located throughout Korea, but one of the most popular is Snowyland at Vivaldi Ski Park.

Never sledded in a boat? You’re in for a treat.

With several different sledding hills for ages 36 months and up, this is a great winter activity for families, friends and anyone else who wants to spend the day in the snow.

READ NEXT:  How to go Sledding at Vivaldi Park Snowy Land | Complete Guide

Ice climbing

There are a plethora of options for sledding, snowboarding and skiing in the country, but how about trying ice climbing for something new. With its mountainous terrain, Korea has climbs for all levels where you can try this challenging sport.

Korea has lots of places to ice climb in winter ⓒ Jeong In-jeong, Korea Tourism Organization

Sanirang offers beginner ice climbing courses for individuals who have never climbed before. It’s pricey, but it might start you on a lifetime of adventure, scaling heights you never thought possible.

Ice Skating

In Seoul, you can take your pick from a huge range of municipal, university, indoor, or hotel skating rinks that open during winter in Korea. Prices range from totally free to upwards of 40,000 KRW for admission (skate rentals not included).

There are ice skating rinks all over Seoul. This one is at Starfield Coex Mall.

Here’s a few popular ice rinks in the city to check out:

• Seoul Plaza Ice Rink: admission fee + skate rental for just 1000 won
• Lotte World Indoor Skating Rink: admission + skate rental for 13,000 won (discounted tix here)
• Olympic Park Ice Rink: admission + skate rental for 3,000 won

Winter in Korea | Rejuvenation

The changing of seasons in Korea is so definitive, it’s violent. And the transition from autumn’s crisp, blue skies, warm days, and gorgeous leaves to the freezing winds and negative temperatures of Korea’s insanely cold winter might be the worst of all.

Here’s what you can do to rejuvenate mind and body from the brutality of winter in Korea.

Oh winter in Korea – why you gotta be so pretty, and so brutal at the same time?

Get a Korean facial

The dry air and freezing winds of Seoul’s winter are seriously bad for the skin. There’s no better time to hop on the K-beauty bandwagon and pamper yourself with a super moisturizing facial than now. Added bonus: the heated bed you get to lie on while your skin is getting spoiled.

The Sulwhasoo Balance Spa at the flagship store in Gangnam is GORGE.

If you’re looking for customised skincare analysis, and facial treatments in Seoul that are guaranteed to work, be sure to check out the foreigner-friendly Individuel Geneve Clinic in Gangnam. I recently had a few treatments there and couldn’t be happier with the results.

FACIALS IN SEOUL  |  If you’re into skincare, you cannot leave the country without indulging in a Korean facial. Avoid language barriers and get exactly what you want by booking in advance. Choose from tailored spa packages ranging from 60 -180 minutes at Whoo Spa in Myeongdong or try a one-of-a-kind traditional experience at Yeo Yong Guk Spa.

Visit a Jjimjilbang or Mogyoktang

A weekly visit to the humble neighbourhood mogyoktang or bathhouse is on most Koreans’ agendas, for relaxation, revitalization and a skin-bruising scrub. Consisting of hot tubs, saunas and a cold plunge pool, it’s an ideal way to recharge the body and spirit in the depths of a winter in Korea.

A traditional Korean sauna you’d find at a jjimjilbang.

A visit there is not for the faint of heart though, since the entire experience is enjoyed completely in the buff. If that thought is too much for you, you can check out a jjimjilbang, which offers both the naked bath house area PLUS a clothed area with various dry saunas and entertainment areas.

If you’re looking for something really special, the newest jjimjilbang on the block is Cimer at Paradise City. Expats and Seoulites are raving about the incredible saunas and photo-friendly scenes at this modern jjimjilbang near Incheon Airport. It’s sure to heal your aching winter bones.

Soothe your aching bones in the Himalayan Salt Crystal Room at Aquafield Spa.

If you’re in Seoul, try out Aquafield Spa , and Spa Land Centum City if you’re in Busan. Both are foreigner-friendly jjimjilbangs that are worth a visit.

Relax in a Korean Oncheon

If your idea of winter in Korea relaxation is soaking in a steaming pool in the great outdoors, head to one of Korea’s oncheon or hot springs. The water in these springs is usually full of body soothing minerals, from deep below the surface of the earth.

Soaking in a mineral-rich pool sounds about right.

Some popular oncheon around the country include:

• Onyang Hot Springs | 온양온천지구: Onyang Hot Springs was founded over 1,300 year ago, and is the oldest hot spring in Korea. Its alkaline water has a temperature around  57℃, and is known to be helpful for treating many diseases, including arthritis, skin problems, liver disease, and high blood pressure. There are over 120 hotels and motels in this area, but the Onyang Hot Spring Hotel is the original.
• Hurshimchung Grand Spa in Busan is said to be the largest spa in Asia. Its waters have high levels of magnesium, which is great for smooth skin. There are also a number of different pools of varying temperatures, as well as 40! seasonal baths.
• Termeden Spa in Icheon is a 30,000 square metre German-style spa resort located about 70-km south of Seoul. It features a ton of different outdoor pools, hot springs, jjimjilbang style saunas, Korean-style bathhouse, and much more. Be sure to find the jets shooting strong sprays of water for a revitalizing underwater massage.

Termeden Spa has underwater jets for massage.

READ NEXT: Do Koreans Celebrate Christmas? 5 Strange Korean Christmas Traditions

Winter in Korea | Places to Escape the Cold

If you’re one of those people who can’t get warm, no matter what, here’s a few places to visit in winter, that are designed just for you.

Go strawberry picking

Are Korean strawberries the most delicious ones in the world? Possible, I think. And what better way to eat them, then by picking them yourself, while escaping winter in Korea in a super warm greenhouse. It also happens to be the perfect family-friendly activity.

Korea has strawberry seasons in both winter and spring.

We visited the 대가농원 farm in Namyangju, and ate a ton of delicious strawberries, but there are tons of greenhouses all over the country. It’s worth booking an all-inclusive tour that includes transport, because most of these farms are not exactly in public transit friendly locations. Here’s a few options to check out.

• Pocheon Art Valley, Strawberry Picking and Herb Island Lighting Festival 1 Day Tour
• Eobi Ice Valley + Strawberry Picking + Nami Island
• Strawberry Picking + Nami Island, Petite France, Gangchon Rail Bike, and the Garden of Morning Calm

Spend the day at the Aquarium

Don’t turn into a penguin yourself! Head into one of Seoul’s aquariums to admire them instead. There are several aquariums to choose from in Seoul, but the Lotte World Aquarium in Jamsil (discounted tix), and the Coex Mall Aquarium (discounted tix) are 2 of the most popular.

It’s warm and cozy inside Lotte World Aquarium.

I’ve personally spent a ton of time at Lotte World Aquarium, and definitely recommend it – especially if you have children. However, the Aquarium at Starfield Coex Mall is also excellent, with the added bonus of being in the same mall as the Starfield Library.

READ NEXT: 49 Wonderful Indoor Activities in Seoul (Many of them Free!)

See an indoor performance

Seeing an indoor performance is undoubtedly one of the best ways to escape the cold during winter in Korea. Whether it’s the longest running show in Korea, or a traditional gugak concert, you’re sure to enjoy your time.

See a traditional folk arts performance © National Gugak Center, Korea Tourism Organization

Here are some popular options:

• Nanta: an energetic show filled with acrobatics, comedy, and percussion using kitchen utensils! It’s non-verbal, so anyone can enjoy this show.
• The Painters: combines live action drawing with 3D visual effects, dance performances, and comedy. It’s been one of the top 5 most popular attractions in Korea for the last 5 years running.
• Saturday Gugak Performance: a traditional folk arts performance at the National Gugak Centre is a great way to learn about Korean culture, while staying warm. It’s incredibly affordable too!

Head to the top of Korea’s Tallest Building

For incredible views of Seoul as far as the eye can see, there’s no other place to go than Lotte World Tower and the Seoul Sky Observatory. This gorgeous 123 story tower is Korea’s tallest building and an iconic landmark of the city.

Lotte World Tower is Korea’s tallest building.

LOTTE WORLD TOWER DISCOUNTED TICKETS  |  Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in Korea, with epic views of Seoul from the top. A visit to the Seoul Sky Observatory on floors 117 – 123 is well worth your time, especially with discounted tickets. Check full details here.

Winter in Korea | Watch a sunrise

From December 31st to January 1st, thousands of people are standing on high mountains or lined up on a coast in the bitter cold waiting for the sun to rise.

Welcoming a new year this way, is one of the most popular things to do in Korea in winter, because Koreans believe that wishes made while witnessing the first sunrise of the year, are more powerful.

Watching the first sunrise of the year is a popular activity for New Years Eve

Yeosu Hyangiram Sunrise Festival | 여수향일암일출제

Hyangiram Hermitage in Yeosu  is one of my favourite places to visit during  autumn in Korea,  but it’s probably just as worthy for New Year’s Eve.

You can watch both sunset and sunrise from the stunning Hyangiram Hermitage in Yeosu.

Hyangiram actually means “hermitage facing the sun,” and its annual Sunrise Festival celebrates that fact. This is an awe-inspiring place to take in the first sunrise of a new year, as it peeks over the horizon and lights up the sea.

Homigot Sunrise Festival | 호미곶 한민족 해맞이축전

If it’s the first sunrise of the year you’re after, the place to be in Korea on NYE is Homigot Village. It’s the furthest east you can get in the ROK.

At this festival, you can witness cultural performances, a sunrise concert, kite-flying and the launching of hope balloons with wishes attached. Be sure to have a free bowl of tteokguk – a traditional New Years Day dish.

The sunrise at Homigot near Pohang is stunning.

Spending New Year’s Eve in Seoul? Learn about all the best parties, events and fireworks in this complete guide to celebrating the New Year in Seoul.

Winter in Korea | Give Back

For me, the winter holiday season is about connecting with those we love and being grateful for everything the year has brought and taught us. I’ve been incredibly blessed in my life, and it’s important to remember that not everyone is so fortunate.

2023 KUMFA holiday gift drive

Being a single mother in Korea can be incredibly difficult, not just financially, but because of outdated ideas and social stigma.

Every winter, the Korean Unwed Mothers Foundation (KUMFA) holiday gift drive allows you to sponsor a family by buying a gift for the children of unwed mothers. There’s a list of wishes on their website, and most of the requests are so humble, that I couldn’t make it through the list without shedding a tear. Ok…a lot of tears.

Detailed information about this year’s holiday gift drive has not been released yet, but in the meantime, you can  DONATE HERE.

Feed the homeless

Sadly, the homeless population in Korea continues to rise… with little social safety net in place yet to help them make it through the long, bitterly cold winter in Korea.

A lot of homeless congregate around Seoul Station

There are organizations that meet up on weekends to provide food to the homeless congregated around Seoul Station, which you can find with a quick online search. However, you might find more value doing this independently, with ALL of your money being used to buy food and support the homeless – rather than collected as “administrative fees.”

Korea’s Cardboard Halmonis (Grannies)

If you walk the streets of any Korean city, you’ll inevitably see a “cardboard granny.” These elderly women (AND men), pick up used cardboard and other recyclable materials to earn a little bit of money to survive.

Often bent in half from malnutrition and osteoporosis, these old women push huge and heavy carts up and down the streets in the bitter cold and wind of winter in Korea. Every time I see one, my heart literally feels like it’s being ripped out of my chest, but I always feel powerless and frankly a little shy to approach them with help.

Winter in Korea can be bitterly cold. Help out if you can!

One day though, I came across a halmoni who’s cardboard boxes were being blown off her cart by the wind, and stopped to help her pick them up. The total gratitude and humbleness with which she received this simple help sent me to the nearest bathroom in painful tears. I realized in that moment, that ANY help is appreciated and my shyness was not only silly, but totally selfish.

If you see a cardboard granny on the street this winter in Korea, just walk up and lend a hand. Help push her cart, give her a pair of warm gloves, a hot drink, or cash if you feel inclined to do so. Whenever I have approached a granny with money, she inevitably refuses, but persist, and she will accept, because she really truly needs it.

Best Foods to Eat during Winter in Korea

Dolsot bibimbap | 돌솥 비빔밥.

Dolsot bibimbap takes your basic mixed rice bowl, and elevates it into a winter in Korea classic. The bibimbap is served in a hot stone bowl that keeps all the ingredients toasty warm. The best part is the scorched rice stuck to the sides of that hot bowl. Yum!

Scorched, crispy rice is such a satisfying winter treat © Sous Chef (CC BY 2.0)

Tteokguk | 떡국

Come January 1st, nearly every Korean household is enjoying a bowl of hearty and satisfying tteokguk, or rice cake soup. Consisting of a beef-based broth (usually), and sliced garaetteok, it’s customary to eat this on New Year’s Day for good luck. Incidentally, you also age a year from eating it…. apparently.

Nothing like a hearty bowl of tteokguk to start a new year © Jeon Han, Korea.net (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

Kimchi Jjigae | 김치 찌개

Kimchi jjigae or Korean kimchi stew is one of my personal comfort foods. It will forever remind me of my mom’s kitchen on cold winter days, growing up in Canada. Made with ripe kimchi and pork belly, in its most classic version, this spicy, fortifying and truly delicious stew is sure to keep the sub-zero temps of winter in Korea at bay.

Spicy, satisfying kimchi jjigae © Dgram, Korea Tourism Organization

Hotteok | 호떡

Sweet, cinnamon-y, doughy pancakes pan-fried to crisp, golden perfection. There’s a reason why hotteok is one of the most popular street foods to grab during winter in Korea. This treat warms you from inside-out.

Hotteok is one of Korea’s most popular street foods © Alexbundo, Korea Tourism Organization

Contrary to popular belief, hotteok isn’t just a winter street food. You can find it year round, and it’s always delicious… though maybe just a little bit more delicious in cold weather.

Roasted Chestnuts | 군밤 (Gun Bam)

The second cold weather hits Korea, roasted chestnut vendors make their appearance. Not only are Korean chestnuts incredibly flavourful, they’re usually fully peeled for you to enjoy. No annoying shells to deal with.

Roasted chestnuts make their appearance during winter in Korea © Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

Added bonus: Standing next to the fire used to roast chestnuts on the street.

Did this article help you? Writers (and moms especially) need caffeine!

Help support my small business with a cup of coffee.

Winter in South Korea: Essential Info and FAQs

Are there any other worthwhile activities or great places to visit in Korea during winter that I missed? Share your tips below.

previous post

Related Posts

11 Classic Ways to Survive a Scorching Summer in Seoul

Herb One Lavender Festival | 3 Perfect Purple Things to do at Korea’s Largest Lavender Farm

Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul 2024 | 7 Inspiring Things to See at YeonDeungHoe

Post a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Download my free iPhone Photography Guide

A Guide to Winter in Korea: 31+ Amazing places to visit during Winter

Winter in Korea can be a magical time. The snow-capped mountains and icy cold air create a breathtaking landscape that is unlike anything else in the world. If you’re thinking of visiting Korea in the winter, or are just curious about what it’s like, then this blog post is for you! We’ll cover everything from what to pack to where to go and what to do. So read on and get ready to experience Winter in Korea!

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Support my blog here

A Guide to Winter in Korea: 31+ Amazing places to visit during Winter South Korea

Winter is one of the best times to visit South Korea. Not only is the weather stunning, but there are also a ton of great events and activities to enjoy. This guide is filled with tips and tricks on how to travel within South Korea during winter.

Winter Season in Korea

Winter in Korean language is pronounced gyoul (겨울).

Winter in South Korea lasts from December to February. The coldest months are January and February, so if you’re not a fan of the cold then you might want to visit during December or early January. However, if you don’t mind the cold then any time during winter is a great time to visit Korea. The snow-capped mountains and icy cold air create a breathtaking landscape that is unlike anything else in the world.

Planning a Trip to South Korea?

Connect with other travelers | Ask and get answers to all your travel questions | Learn about the best things to do in South Korea | Join our  Korea Travel Planning + Guide Facebook Group now .

Winter in Korea Month by Month Breakdown – Winter Months in Korea

Winter weather in south korea in december.

Korea December Travel is probably one of the most popular because families will be visiting on vacation from abroad. The weather in Korea in December is usually around freezing point. It can rain or snow during this month, so make sure to pack a coat and umbrella. Winter clothes are also a must, as it can get very cold at night. If you are looking for a snow-filled Christmas, it’s very unlikely, but there have been a few occasions when it has happened.

Winter Weather in South Korea in January

January is much colder than December. December is when it’s just starting to get cold. It doesn’t snow often in Seoul , but sometimes in January is when you will see it. Some years have had more snowstorms than others like last year. You will see the most snowfall in January and February. Winter in Korea temperatures range from -15°C to 0°C.

Winter Weather in South Korea in February

February is the coldest month in Korea, you might think it will start to warm up around this month, but it’s just the start to the end. Things don’t really warm up until March and April. It’s very cold in February and some of the coldest winds. The average temperature is -14°C but it can get as low as -20°C

When is winter in Korea?

Winter in Korea usually lasts from December to February. However, the coldest months are January and February. If you’re not a fan of the cold, then you might want to reconsider visiting outside of these months.

South Korea in Winter Travel Tips

• Save Money by Purchasing a Rail Pass
• Entrance to the Palaces is Free with a Hanbok Rental
• Prepare for a long airline flight with these compression socks – reduce swelling by wearing these socks on the plane.
• Get a sim card at the Airport – this will save you a lot of money in the long run
• Pack this Travel Adapter – Make sure you have this travel adapter on hand so that you can stay charged during your travels.
• Learn a few phrases in Korean – Download the Papago App for Android or Apple , it’s a Korean app that has much better translation services than Google Translate. You don’t want to be misunderstood.
• Subway App – You will need to download this subway app to get around Seoul and Busan .
• Grab a Sim Card and TMoney Card – You will need a sim card for data on your phone, but also, a TMoney card to use the Subways or buses within Korea.

→ Get the information on the latest pricing for safeguarding your trip or nomda life with Safety Wing travel insurance.

Why Visit Korea During Winter? Should I visit South Korea During Winter?

Winter in Korea is a magical time. The snow-capped mountains and icy cold air create a breathtaking landscape that is unlike anything else in the world. Korea also has the best weather during winter, it may be cold, but the skies are usually blue and the sun is bright. It’s a much better time to visit than during Summer in Korea.

If you’re thinking of visiting Korea in the winter, or are just curious about what it’s like, then this blog post is for you!

Korea National Parks to Visit During Winter

There are a few national parks in Korea during winter that are definitely worth visiting during winter. Seoraksan National Park is one of the most popular, as it’s home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. The views from the top of the mountain in Korea in the winter are absolutely breathtaking and definitely worth braving the cold for.

Seoraksan National Park

Address: 강원 속초시 설악산로 1085

Seoraksan National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Korea and one worth visiting in Korea during winter. It’s home to some of the best hiking trails in the country and the views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking. The park is also a great place to see wildlife, as there are many different species of animals that call Seoraksan home. The name Seorak means “Seol” for snow and “ak” for big mountain, because in the winter time Mount Seorak is always snowy. 

Hallasan National Park

Address: 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 토평동 산15-1

Jeju’s famous Hallasan National Park is another great option for those looking for places to visit during winter. The park is home to Hallasan Mountain, which is the tallest mountain in South Korea and located in Jeju Island. The views from the top of the mountain are absolutely stunning and definitely worth the hike up. It’s one of the best places to see snow in Jeju.

You can see some amazing snowy landscapes but you will definitely need to be prepared for the cold and the snow. This will be one of the only places you can see Jeju Island snow.

Bukhansan National Park

Address: 경기 고양시 덕양구 대서문길 375

Bukhansan National Park is a popular national park. It can be quite dangerous to hike during winter because it can be very slippery. However, it is less crowded during the winter months and you will still run into hikers on the trail. One thing to consider is daylight hours, the trail is only open to hiking from 2 hours before sunrise till sunset.

Best Places to Visit Korea in Winter

There are a few places that are definitely worth visiting during winter during Korea. Seoul is one of the most popular, as it’s the capital city and there is so much to see and do, but there are more things to do than just in Seoul, like Petite France, Everland, and more.

Garden of the Morning Calm

Address: 경기 가평군 상면 수목원로 432

There are a ton of light festivals in Korea, but the Garden of the Morning Calm is one of the most popular ones to visit during winter. The Garden of the Morning Calm is a beautiful garden that is only lit up during the winter months. This lighting festival at the Garden of the Morning Calm usually starts in early December and runs until the middle of March. It’s one of my favorite places to see during Christmas in Korea .

Alps Village – “Frozen” Paradise

Address:   충남 청양군 정산면 천장호길 223-35

This place is great for those who love winter sports. You can go ski, snowboarding, and more. They also have a lot of different winter activities that you can do, like ice fishing, sledding, and more. Alps Village usually opens around late November to early December.

Onemount Snow Park

Address: 경기 고양시 일산서구 한류월드로 300

This is a great place for those who want to go sledding, skiing, and snowboarding. They have a lot of different slopes for different levels, so it’s great for beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts. Onemount Snow Park usually opens around late November to early December.

Petite France

Address: 경기 가평군 청평면 호반로 1063

Petite France is a French-themed village located in the Gapyeong County. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for something unique and different. The village is home to many different attractions such as the Little Prince Museum, the Glass Chapel, and more.

Petite France is a great location to visit during the holidays, their lighting festival starts around the same time as Garden of the Morning Calm which is early December. It’s worth seeing both while heading out to that area.

Sangsodong Forest Park

Address: 대전 동구 산내로 714

This is a beautiful location that transforms during winter. They like the Alps Village transform the area into a snowy and icy paradise. It’s definitely worth visiting when it snows. They have some pretty amazing architecture and foot paths worth checking out. It’s great for kids and it’s a free park. However, this can be in the middle of nowhere and is only reachable by car.

Onyang Hot Spring

Address: 충청남도 아산시 온천1동 221-2

Onyang Hot Spring is a great place to visit during winter in Korea if you’re looking to relax and unwind. It’s one of the oldest hot springs founded about 1,300 years ago. The hot springs are said to have many different health benefits such as improving circulation, skin conditions, arthritis, and more. This is one of the oldest hot springs in South Korea. Book your stay here .

Cheoksan Hot SPrings (척산온천지구)

Address: 강원 속초시 관광로 327

Cheoksan spa world is an indoor water park that is perfect for visiting during winter. The water park has many different pools and slides to choose from as well as a spa area where you can relax in the saunas or get a massage. This is a great place to visit if you’re looking to have some fun and beat the cold weather.

Strawberry Picking

In Korea, strawberry picking is most popular during February through March. The occasion starts in December and are held in greenhouses around the countryside. It’s definitely worth checking out and you’ll have some of the sweetest strawberries I’ve ever had.

Nami Island

Address: 강원 춘천시 남산면 남이섬길 1

Nami Island is a beautiful place that’s definitely worth visiting in winter. The island is famous for its beautiful trees that line the streets. It’s a great place to walk around and take in the scenery. Nami Island is also home to many different cafes and restaurants, so you can definitely find something to eat while you’re there. If you are lucky, you will see it covered in snow. This is one of the most popular day trips from Seoul in winter. It’s a doable tour from Seoul .

Busan’s Christmas Tree Festival and Haeundae Light Festival

Address: 부산광역시 해운대구 우동

This festival is worth checking out if you’re in the Busan in Winter. The Christmas Tree Festival is held in Haeundae Beach and features a huge Christmas tree, live performances, food stalls, and more. The light festival is also held in Haeundae Beach and features a beautiful light show that is definitely worth seeing.

EXPLORE THE CULINARY DELIGHTS OF JAGALCHI FOOD MARKET | Embark on a fascinating food tour through the vibrant Jagalchi Food Market in Busan. As South Korea’s largest seafood market, you’ll navigate through the bustling aisles filled with an astonishing variety of fresh seafood. More details here.

Everland Christmas

Address: 경기 용인시 처인구 포곡읍 에버랜드로 199

Everland Theme Park is a huge amusement park located in Yongin. They have a Christmas Winter Festival that’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something fun to do. The festival features a wide variety of attractions such as an ice rink, a snow sledding area, and more. Everland is also home to many different rides and attractions, so you can definitely find something to do no matter what you’re looking for.

Camellia Hill

Address: 제주 서귀포시 안덕면 병악로 166

Camellia Hill is a must-see if you’re looking for something different. It’s located on Jeju Island and is home to over 600 different camellias. The best time to visit is during February when the camellias are in bloom. You can also take a walk through the forest of Stilts which is a beautiful forest that’s definitely worth checking out.

Wondaeri Birch Forest

Address: 강원 인제군 인제읍 원남로 760

Wondaeri Birch Forest is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something different. It’s located in Pocheon and is home to over 200,000 birch trees. The best time to visit is during the fall when the leaves are changing color. You can also take a walk through the forest and enjoy the scenery. It’s one of the best places to visit Korea during winter.

Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm

Address: 강원 평창군 대관령면 꽃밭양지길 708-9

The Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm is a great place to visit if you have kids or just interested in sheep. It’s located in Pyeongchang and is home to over 200 sheep. The best time to visit is during the winter when the sheep are all wearing their thick coats.

You can also take a walk through the farm and learn about how the sheep are taken care of. If you drive up to the top, you can see an amazing view of the oceanside.

Winter Festivals in Korea

There are many different winter festivals that take place in Korea. These festivals are great ways to experience Korean culture and see some amazing snow sculptures. if you are looking for the best place to visit in Korea during winter, these are the places to consider.

Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival (태백산 눈축제)

This is probably one of the most popular snow festivals in Korea. This festival presents large snow sculptures and ice sculptures which can be quite crowded during the winter months. There are a variety of activities you can do while you visit, like snow sledding, the starlight festival, going to the Igloo Cafe and more. Taebaek has the longest and coldest winter in Korea which makes it the perfect place for this beautiful snow festival.

Hwacheon Ice Festival (화천산천어축제)

This is one of the most popular thigns to do during winter time in South Korea. It’s a great place to try ice fishing, as there are many different ponds that you can fish in. In addition to ice fishing, you can also go snow sledding, ice skating, barehanded fishing, win a creative sleigh contest, and more. The festival usually takes place from late January – early February, so if you’re looking for something to do during the Lunar New Year, this is a great option.

Seogwipo Penguin Festival on Jeju Island

Seogwipo Penguin Festival (서귀포 펭귄 축제) is a relatively new festival that started in 2016. It’s a great place to see penguins as there are many different penguin sculptures around the city. You can also take part in a variety of activities such as making your own penguin hat, going on a penguin walk, and more. The festival usually takes place from late January – early February.

Pyeongchang Trout Festival (평창 눈꽃축제)

The Pyeongchang Winter Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals in Korea. It’s a great place to see some amazing snow sculptures and try out some traditional Korean food. You can also go snow sledding, ice skating, and more. The festival usually takes place from late January to early February, so if you’re looking for something to do during the Lunar New Year, this is a great option.

Pyeongchang was where the 2018 Winter Olympics were held. You can enjoy many winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and more.

Boseong Tea Plantation Light Festival

The Boseong Tea Plantation Light Festival (보성 찻랑 빛축제) is a great place to see some amazing lights. You can also take part in a tea ceremony, try some delicious food, and more. The festival usually takes place from late November to early December.

Ring in the New Year with the Homigot Sunrise Festival

The Homigot Sunrise Festival (홍보택축제) is one of the most popular things to do during Winter in Korea. It’s a great place to see the first sunrise of the year and enjoy some traditional Korean food. You can also take part in a variety of activities such as making your own kite, going on a hike, and more. The festival takes place sunrise on January 1st.

Ski Resorts in Korea

If you’re looking to hit the slopes while you’re in Korea, there are many different ski resorts that you can visit. Koreans love to go skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating, although skiing is probably the most popular winter sport in Korea.

Yongpyeong Resort

Yongpyeong Resort is located in Pyeongchang South Korea. It is one of the most popular ski resorts in Korea. It’s a great place to go skiing and snowboarding. They have a wide variety of slopes that are perfect for beginners and experts alike. This is where the 2018 Winter Olympics in Korea were held. You can not only go her during winter, but they also have a ton of activities all year long.

Yongpyeong Resort in Pyeongchang Korea usually opens around late November to early December.

Gangwon Province & High 1 Ski Resort

High One Resort is another popular ski resort in Korea. It’s located in Gangwon-do which is where the 2018 Winter Olympics were held. High One Resort has a wide variety of slopes and is perfect for both beginners and experts. Gangwon do winter sports are probably the most popular for this area.

High One Resort usually opens around late November to early December.

Vivaldi Park Ski World

Vivaldi Park Ski World is a great place to go skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. They have a wide variety of slopes that are perfect for both beginners and experts. It’s one of the most popular ski resorts in Korea. You can also enjoy other amenities like a bowling alley, bumper cars, and more.

Vivaldi Park Ski World usually opens around late November to early December.

Winter in Seoul – Places to visit during Winter in Seoul South Korea

If you’re looking for things to do during winter in Seoul, there are many different options. You can go ice skating at one of the many ice rinks, visit a light festival, or even just walk around and enjoy the Winter scenery. These are some of the best things to do in in Seoul in Winter.

Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul

Address: 서울 종로구 사직로 161 경복궁

Gyeongbokgung Palace is a great place to visit during Seoul in Winter. You can see the beautiful Winter scenery and walk around the palace grounds. They also have a light show that happens every night during Winter. If it happens to snow or snow the night before, this place becomes crowded especially by photographers and people dressed in h

The Gyeongbokgung Palace usually opens around late November to early December.

EXPERIENCE TRADITIONAL KOREAN CULTURE: RENT A HANBOK IN SEOUL | Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Korea by renting a hanbok , the traditional Korean attire, in Seoul. Read more details here .

Lotte World

Address: 서울 송파구 올림픽로 240

If you are looking for what to do in Seoul during winter, this is always a great choice. However, Seoul Winter can be quite harsh, thankfully most of Lotte World is indoors. They have an ice rink, snow sledding, and much more. You can even take a picture with Santa! This is where most Korean’s head to when they don’t know what to do in Seoul during winter. It’s a great place to visit and enjoy and indoor amusement park.

Ice Skating Rink at Seoul Plaza

Seoul Plaza is one of the most popular places to go ice skating in Seoul. It’s located right in front of City Hall and it’s a great place to skate with friends or family. They also have a lot of different Winter activities that you can do, like sledding, snowboarding, and more.

Seoul Land in Winter

Seoul Land is a great amusement park that is open all year round. They have a wide variety of Winter activities that you can do, like sledding, snowboarding, and more.

Explore Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul Winter

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로11길 57

Bukchon Hanok Village is a great place to visit all year round, but it’s especially beautiful during Winter. The snow-covered houses are a sight to see. You can also find many traditional Korean shops and restaurants in the area. It’s a great place to dress up in hanboks that are specially designed for winter with faux fur coats. This is one of my favorites things to do in winter in Seoul.

What to Pack for Winter in Korea – Things to bring to Korea in Winter

When packing for Winter in Korea, it’s important to pack items that will keep you warm. This includes items such as a heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and hat. It’s also a good idea to pack layers so that you can adjust your clothing depending on the temperature. If you are looking for what to wear during winter in Korea or what to wear in Seoul in December, January, or February, I got you covered.

• Winter clothes – This includes a coat, scarf, gloves, hat, and thermal underwear or heat tech clothing (a necessity to a Winter outfit in Korea).
• Winter Jacket – You will need a thick winter jacket that has down feathers. This is the most essential part of what you will need to bring or purchase in South Korea. This is a must for Korea in Winter. Winter fashion in Korea often consists of long padding jackets.
• Snow gear – If you’re planning on going anywhere that might have snow, then make
• Heat pack for winter Korea – these can also be purchased at any convenience store in South Korea
• Shoes for Winter in Korea – I would suggest just some regular sneakers with thick socks or some fluffy boots like uggs. I find that the sorel winter boots to be too heavy for all the walking and up and down the stairs for the public transportation.
• Battery Pack – This is essential because you don’t want to run out of power while going around the city. You will need it for taking photos, getting around the subway, finding restaurants, and how to get back to your hotel .

Book cheap airline tickets and accommodations with Booking.com to save money when you’re moving abroad!

Winter in Korea FAQS

Does it snow in seoul.

It sometimes snows in Seoul. This varies from year to year. One winter, we only received one snow fall and last winter, it snowed quite a bit. This varies from year to year, however, the snow doesn’t stick for very long.

Is Winter in Korea cold?

Yes, Winter in Korea can be quite cold. The average temperature is around -15°C.

What should I wear in Winter in Korea?

You should dress warmly in Winter in Korea. This includes items such as a heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and hat. It’s also a good idea to pack layers so that you can adjust your clothing depending on the temperature.

Can I still go hiking in Winter?

Yes, you can still go hiking in Winter. However, it’s important to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold weather. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast. Most parks open as sunrise and close as sunset.

What are some Winter festivals in Korea?

Some Winter festivals in Korea include the Seoul Lantern Festival, the Winter Sonata Festival, and the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival.

Is it expensive to travel to Korea in Winter?

No, it’s not expensive to travel to Korea in Winter. You can find many Winter travel deals and discounts.

What are some Winter activities in Korea?

Some Winter activities in Korea include ice skating, sledding, snowboarding, and more.

Do I need to buy a winter coat in Seoul?

No, you don’t need to buy a winter coat in Seoul. However, I do suggest you have a winter coat that has down padding.

What is the best time to visit Korea?

The best time to visit Korea is during the Spring and Fall. However, Winter can be a great time to visit as well. You’ll just need to dress warmly.

How can I stay warm in Winter?

You can stay warm in Winter by dressing warmly, wearing layers, and using hand warmers.

Liked this post on Winter in Korea? Pin it!

What are some things you would like to do in South Korea in the winter?

Why you should visit South Korea!

• Busan, South Korea
• Top 10 Korean Drugstore Skin Products
• 10 Things to Eat in Korea
• Seoul Travel Tips
• Myeongdong Street Food
• One day in Seoul
• Jeju Itinerary
• How to go to Bukchon Hanok Village
• Gamcheon Culture Village
• Things to do in Songwol Dong Fairy Tale Village
• Things to do in Paju
• Autumn in Korea
• Korean Street Food
• Where to stay in Busan
• Korean Instant Noodles
• Winter in Korea
• Summer in Korea
• Things to do in Gangneung
• Cimer Spa at Paradise City
• Teach English in South Korea
• Things to do in Hongdae
• Seoul Gardens & Parks
• Myeongdong Shopping Street
• What to do in Incheon Airport for a Layover
• Things to do in Itaewon
• Gwangjang Market
• 2 Days in Busan Itinerary
• 3 Days in Seoul Itinerary
• Things to do in Gyeongju
• Things to do in Geoje
• Visit Youngwol Y Park
• Where to stay in Seoul
• Things to do in Jeju Island
• How to get a Korean Driver’s License
• Spring in Korea

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

Similar Posts

Discovering the Best Korean Supermarkets and Grocery Stores in Korea 2024

Korea, a vibrant and culturally rich country, is not only known for its K-pop music, K-dramas, and stunning landscapes but also for its diverse and extraordinary culinary scene. From fiery…

Cebu Itinerary | Cebu and Bohol Itinerary

Whether you are visiting Cebu for the first time or wanting to expand your horizons on new places to visit, you have come to the right place to plan the…

Christmas in Korea – 15+ Amazing Light Festivals and more

Merry Christmas! Christmas in Korea is something that is very dear and true to my heart. It’s something I always remember and think of when I think of Christmas. Many…

South Korea is a popular destination due to a rise in K-Pop and K-drama fans. There are a lot of things to see and do in South Korea and with…

Eriberta Spring Resort in Tuboran

For this post, I decided to do something different. I had my dad write a post about one of our favorite places to visit in the Philippines. This is Eriberta…

10 Absolutely Necessary Seoul Travel Tips for First-Timers

Korea is a beautiful place to visit and can be somewhat intimidating if you do not know the language. In South Korea, there are lots of things to do, tons…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

• South Korea Tours
• Winter 2024/2025 Tours

Tours and Trip Packages to South Korea in Winter 2024/2025

Traveling to South Korea in Winter 2024/2025? We offer 32 tours, trips and vacation packages to South Korea in Winter 2024/2025. Our South Korea in Winter 2024/2025 tour packages and trips have 57 customer reviews. All the South Korea Winter 2024/2025 tour packages and trips are carried out by hand-picked, qualified local and international South Korea tour operators.

• South Korea Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit South Korea

32 Trips in South Korea during Winter 2024/2025

• Starts Seoul, South Korea
• Ends Seoul, South Korea

Best of South Korea

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & War sites City sightseeing , War sites , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Beach & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='16809'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Train, Bullet Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,199
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 800
• Total Price from: US$ 2,399
• Dec 13 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

South Korea Real Food Adventure

• Activities Food tours & Beach
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,435
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 343
• Total Price from: US$ 3,092
• Dec 05 10+ seats left

South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Bus tours & Explorer
• Transport Coach, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Dec 01 10+ seats left
• Dec 08 10+ seats left

• Ends Busan, South Korea

South Korea Western Adventure 3D/2N

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Coach, Train & Bus

Golden Route Of Korea

• Trip customizable
• Activities Explorer & Beach
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Jun 07 10+ seats left
• Jun 14 10+ seats left

Korean World Heritage Adventure 10D/9N

• Transport Private Vehicle & Flight

South Korea Highlights

• Activities Explorer & Honeymoon
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle, Taxi, Boat, Bullet Train & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,355
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 671
• Total Price from: US$ 2,684
• Dec 07 10+ seats left

Korea Express

• Activities City sightseeing & Beach
• Transport Train & Bullet Train
• Jun 03 10+ seats left
• Jun 10 10+ seats left

• Starts Busan, South Korea

South Korea Eastern Adventure 3D/2N

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer
• Dec 03 10+ seats left
• Dec 10 10+ seats left

Seoul Searching & Jeju - 9 days

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Explorer
• Transport Flight & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Dec 02 Only 8 seats left

Spectacular South Korea - 12 days

• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Private Vehicle & Ferry
• Dec 02 Only 10 seats left

• Transport Bus & Train
• Dec 09 10+ seats left
• Dec 23 10+ seats left

Heart of Seoul City Break - 5 days

• Transport Private Vehicle
• Dec 01 Only 8 seats left

Seoul & Silla Kingdoms - 6 days

• Dec 01 Only 10 seats left
• Dec 02 10+ seats left

Traveling to South Korea? Chat with a local travel specialist in South Korea who can help organize your trip.

South Korea Tour Reviews

• Ms Amelia Mary Anne Corrigan
• Mei Lin Millicent Yeo
• South Korea budget tours
• Eco tours in South Korea
• South Korea guided tours
• South Korea family tour packages
• South Korea luxury tours
• South Korea private tours
• South Korea small group tours
• South Korea solo trips
• South Korea tailor-made vacation packages
• South Korea tours for senior citizens
• South Korea tours for young adults
• South Korea group tours
• South Korea last minute deals
• South Korea travel deals

Popular Destinations

• Seoul Tours

Popular Activities

• Explorer tours

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025

Best price guaranteed - No booking fees

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Winter in Korea – 12 Amazing Winter Destinations in South Korea

• Post author: Tours by Aaron
• Post published: December 30, 2022
• Post category: South Korea Travel

During the midst of winter, a myth awakens in the snowy wonderland of South Korea. A beauty that’s hard to ignore in the gentle slowness of falling snow that caveats the whole country and the picturesque mountain ranges that get bathed in the warm glow of a shining white moon.  From the frozen lakes and cozy fireside camps to the bustling city streets that come alive with holiday cheer, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights and experiences to be had in South Korea.

Winter in Korea is a magical time, filled with endless possibilities for adventure and exploration. Whether you’re looking to participate in festive events, relax in a hot spring, or simply enjoy the beauty of the winter landscape, there’s something for everyone in this amazing country. So, if you’re planning a winter getaway to explore some spectacular curiosities, here are 12 amazing winter destinations in Korea that beckon travelers from all over the world.

Nami Island

Nami Island is an ethereal tourist spot decorated in all colors throughout the year. But during the winter months, the island lives up to the expectations of an amazing winter destination in South Korea. Located in the middle of the Bukhangang river that freezes over in the winter, the scenic Nami Island is a romantic haven with birch and redwood trees lined avenues on either side of the road.  This half-moon-shaped island is a popular filming location, especially the iconic Metasequoia Lane made famous by the evergreen Korean drama “Winter Sonata”.

The Garden of Morning Calm

When the celebrated poet Rabindranath Tagore named Korea “The land of the morning calm”  he wouldn’t have expected that in this very land years later a mystique garden would take shape with the fondness and elegance of the people in Korea woven directly into the texture of its natural beauty . The garden of morning calm is a vast private garden located north of Seoul in Gyeonggi Province. Being home to 5,000 different kinds of plants, this vibrant showpiece is an amazing winter destination in South Korea. During the winter months of December to mid-March, the garden hosts the famous lighting festival, one of the biggest and oldest of its kind in the entire country.

For all mountain lovers, Taebeak is a breathtaking city for you to venture into the remote wilderness of the winter in Korea. The grand Mt. Taebaeksan takes the center stage in the city, offering a stunning view of the surrounding landscape for tourists to explore an amazing winter destination in South Korea. Taebaek snow festival held in January & February every year since 1995 takes over the entire city to create a rejuvenating atmosphere. The nearby Hwangjo pond and the non-stop winter activities such as the snow rafting exhibition, dog sledding, charming snow igloo cafes, and the beautiful ice statues sculpted by people from all over the world are some of the iconic experiences in Taebaek.

Sangsodong Forest Park

At the foothills of the valley where the majestic Mt. Maninsan & Mt. Sikjangsan comes to meet, an epicenter of winter activities comes to its flamboyant colors. If you wish to take a break from the monotonous everyday life to explore a rejuvenating experience then Sangsodong Forest Park is an amazing winter destination in Korea.  It is a great place to take a relaxing winter stroll with your loved one to visit the well-preserved ruins of stone pagodas in its winter charm. The amazing architecture of stone towers inside this snowy and icy paradise is a real photogenic treat.

Hwacheon-gun

Hwacheong-gun is a popular city in Gangwond-do, a three-hour drive away from Seoul. The city is an exotic tourist destination throughout the year with many attractions such as the famous Hwacheon Folklore Museum. But the ultimate showdown happens in the winter season when the Hwacheon stream becomes a thick sheet of ice. Winter in Korea is unlike anything else in the world and the celebrated Sancheoneo Ice Festival is a testimony to that fact. When the festive season comes close, the people of Korea from all over the country come together and use their traditional fishing methods to participate in the ice fishing competition. Hwacheon-gun is an amazing winter destination in Korea to experience some of the bone-chilling adventures that Korea has to offer.

Jisan Ski Resort

Winter in Korea is a heavenly abode of sporting activities. Skiing, skating, snowmobiling, or bobsleighing! A myriad of breathtaking adventures is awaiting you just outside of Seoul at Jisan ski resort. Established in 1996 the magnificent Jisan ski resort is an ideal winter destination in Korea for beginners and skilled skiers to ski down the slope on a snowboard. If you have had enough of the thrilling sports and want to catch some breath then enjoy some laid-back picturesque winter scenery.

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

In the Chungcheongnam-do province, the winter wonderland of Alps village is a spectacular sight to behold. But just across the Alps village, another stunning location gets decorated with the royal colors of winter– The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival. Celebrated annually from December to February this amazing ice fountain festival is a mesmerizing experience to witness the popular character coming alive through the artistic mastery of ice sculptures. With appetizing traditional food and kids-friendly activities, the ice fountain festival is an amazing winter destination for a spirited family vacation. Aside from the huge ice sculptures, there are several other alluring visual treats such as the frozen waterfalls and ice walls. 

Vivaldi Park Ski World

Located in Hongcheon, one and a half hours away from Seoul is a different world altogether!  Secluded in the snowy hills with a whole lot of sporting activities, Vivaldi park in winter promises to be an epic adventure and a place that’s on almost everyone’s list of amazing winter destinations in Korea.  The park is divided into two sections, Snowy land, and Ski park, where visitors can indulge in various winter adventures from ice sledding to nighttime skiing. Make use of state-of-the-art facilities such as ski lifts to reach the hilltops and choose the right slope to slide down for a lifetime’s worth of experience to cherish.

Camellia Hill

If you’re looking for paradise on earth, then take some time out to explore this enchanting fairyland located in the middle of Jeju island . Camila hill, also known as Camellia arboretum is home to a unique and uniquely winter celebration. The arboretum is where a curious thing happiness during winter, the 6000 and more Camellia trees will be bursting full of colors and the unfurling petals paint the natural canvas on full display. This elegant beauty will be blooming only in winter and along with the adjoining lily pond, the Camellia hills is an amazing winter destination in Korea.

Everland Theme Park

Located in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, the Everland theme park is the largest theme park in South Korea where the thrill of adventure is unstoppable. This five-themed park is home to one of the steepest wooden roller coasters in the world, the famous  T-Express is Korea’s first wooden roller coaster.  The excitement of feeding animals up close in the Zootopia, vibrant snow festival, and other themed zones make the Everland Theme Park a journey of surprises and discoveries. The snow festival during the winter months when the illuminating light decoration comes alive is an amazing winter destination in Korea.

Deogyusan Mountains

Deogyusan mountains is a mighty mountain range in the heart of Korea. Home to the fourth highest peak in South Korea this majestic range also has several other major peaks like Hyangjeokbong, Jungbong, and Nam Deogyusan where you will be greeted with panoramic views of powder-white snow. The enormous wealth of flora & fauna and hiking along the sweeping vistas of sparkling white snow manages to impress travel enthusiasts worldwide. In between the endless endeavors, take time to visit the well-preserved ruins of Buddhist temples and relics, it is a great place to take a winter stroll.

Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink

Seoul, the evergreen city of South Korea is always on display. Filled with areas like concerts, monuments, and restaurants, the city is an epicenter of all tourist destinations with its culture, delicacies, nature, and excellent hospitality. But what makes Seoul an amazing winter destination in Korea is its icing rinks. With the arrival of winter, the Seoul plaza transforms into an outdoor skating rink. Enjoy a great night in the plaza to end a wonderful winter expedition through the fairylands of South Korea to safe keep some unforgettable memories for a lifetime.

You Might Also Like

Nightlife in Seoul – Best Attractions to Explore After Dark

15 Must-Try South Korean Dishes

The Best Attractions in Incheon

This post has one comment.

Pingback: 15 Must-Try South Korean Dishes – Korea Tours by Aaron

Comments are closed.

Deals of the Week   Make a Splash!   Up to 50% OFF

Winter 2025 Tours & Vacation Packages South Korea

21 south korea vacation packages in december, january and february.

• In-depth Cultural

Best of South Korea

Excellent tour! Robert Lee our tour CEO was amazing!! Very friendly and professional. He made our tour group feel welcome, comfortable and safe! It was obvious that he enjoyed his job which made our whole adventure that much more enjoyable!! Rob is the best!! Daebak!!

SOUTH KOREA AT A GLANCE TOUR

• Food & Culinary
• Sightseeing

South Korea Real Food Adventure

• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Spectacular South Korea - 12 days

Essential South Korea

South Korea in Classic: From Seoul to Jeju Island (Private Tailored)

The tour was planned out very well and the tour guides were very nice, knowledgeable, and made sure to take care of us.

South Korea One Life Adventures - 13 Day Tour

Julian is full of fun and really helpful. Loved every single day of your.

KOREA PAST AND PRESENT TOUR

Seoul Searching & Jeju - 9 days

Great way to see and experience South Korea for the first time. Our group of 4 were all very pleased with the level of knowledge and promptness of the tour guides in each location. The tour appears to resemble a well organized event, as we had no problems whatsoever.

South Korea Highlights

Die Tour war toll, ich habe selten in 8 Tagen so viel erlebt. Unser Tourguide Pam war so zuvorkommend, hilfreich und nett und sie kannte sich sehr gut aus! Intrepid legt wohl wirklich viel Wert auf gute Guides. Ich würde allerdings unbedingt ein paar zusätzliche Tage in Seoul empfehlen, in der Stadt gibt es zu viel zu sehen, um es in den zwei Tagen zu erleben.

South Korea One Life Adventures - 10 Day Tour

I really enjoyed the tour and felt I learnt so much.

Tailor-Made Best Korea Tour, Daily Departure & Private Guide

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Korea Jeju Vacation with Daily Departure & Private Guide

South Korea DISCOVERY TOUR

It was great. Guide took us to number and variety of local Korean restaurants. They took us to many historical places and many temples and National parks. We felt that we were truly immersed in Korean History and came away with a much better understanding of that history.

9 Days Japan Kansai & South Korea Highlights Tour (private guide & driver）

• €85 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about South Korea Tours in Winter

Michael, our tour guide, was patient, friendly, and flexible with different age travelers and physical abilities by adjusting the activities for them. The Best of Korea tour's itinerary was very full. I think many of us enjoyed the itinerary and the experiences we had. I, particularly, enjoyed the various transportation methods which added to the experience. The War Memorial Hall of Korea museum is a big museum and had very important history. Most of us needed more time. I think this activity could of come at the beginning of the tour for us to have better knowledge of Korean history. On the tour's last day, after the museum, most of us thought there was going to be a group dinner. The tours I have been in the past had end of the tour dinner to say good bye and show our appreciation to the tour guide. It's nice to have a closure after spending a week together. We were disappointed that the day just ended after returning to the hotel. After the DMZ visit, we had a very nice lunch at a well known restaurant. This time could of have been a good opportunity to say good bye but I think due to limited time, food came out late, we didn't linger.

When it comes to travel, we all know there’s so many different options, tho we were so lucky to come across Odynovo, it was the BEST choice as we were planning a Japan & South Korea Tour Lynn, Senior advisor at Odynovo was always super helpful and profesional providing the best itinerary options for our needs, giving different alternatives and giving details on each one so we could make the best out of our trip, she really delivered personalised service to fit our preferences as customers Everything worked perfectly from day 1 an until last day, from airport pick up, to hotels & tours, with very helpful drivers and also tour guides, everything was on time and wonderful As for the tour guides, in Tokyo we had Lyn who was great, super knowledgeable about the tours topics and also very helpful overall, even taking great pictures And for Seoul, we also had an amazing tour guide: Jones, who was the BEST !, he was very patient explaining all, super flexible if we had a request and super helpful, he truly was AMAZING ! He would always make sure we were ok and enjoying the tour ! So in summary, we had an unforgettable trip to both Tokyo & Seoul and if we travel in the future, I will definitely use Odynovo again ! Thank you !

Our Guide Julian was amazing! Very attentive and always giving us advice and recommendations on where to go and what to eat. I also loved the variety of stays ranging from hostels, to Temple stay and relaxing hotels. It might not be everyone's cup of tea but I really enjoyed that we took public transportation most of the time since it gave us a chance to really experience the local culture and see the real parts of SK.

• December 2025 (21)
• January 2026 (7)
• February 2026 (3)

More Departures

• Spring 2024 tours (19)
• Summer 2024 tours (70)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 tours (72)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 tours (39)
• Spring 2025 tours (42)
• Summer 2025 tours (38)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 tours (40)

Discover TourRadar

• See All Tour Operators in Asia
• See All Tour Operators in South Korea
• Mexico Tours
• Switzerland Tours
• Southern Israel tours
• Vic Falls to Kenya (22 destinations)
• 16 Days Best of Uganda and Rwanda
• Exclusive Adventures with Ciconia
• Last Minute Solo Travel Deals - Up to 75% Off

35 Things to do in Korea in WINTER – for an unforgettable trip

I had the chance to visit South Korea about two years ago and, during my stay, I fell in love with this country and its culture. South Korea is a unique destination and it’s becoming increasingly popular.

Even though most tourists prefer to visit it during spring or summer, when the temperatures are mild and the trees are green, I’m here to tell you that visiting South Korea during winter is pretty incredible too.

You’ll discover unique sceneries and most importantly, you’ll be able to admire the country’s beauty without worrying about it being packed with tourists. If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation, a trip to South Korea during winter time is a must!

The crowds are gone, the prices are lower and you’ll have the chance to enjoy some unique experiences such as interesting winter festivals, experiencing a Korean jjimjilbang and many others!

In this blog post, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about planning a winter vacation to South Korea, including important tips & tricks!

1. South Korea in Winter Travel Tips

Just in case you never visited South Korea in winter before, these travel tips will help you plan an unforgettable holiday!

• Be ready for a long flight – If you’re traveling to South Korea from Europe or the United States, the flight is going to be quite long. Make sure that you have everything you need with you. I always take my portable charger and earplugs with me!
• Get a SIM card – Once you arrive at the airport, get a South Korean SIM card with internet. It’s important to have internet access all around the country.
• Buy some Body Warmers – Whether you’re planning to go skiing or just explore big cities, these body warmers will save your life! I never heard about them until recently but they’re pretty awesome. You simply stick them under your clothes and it feels like you’re having mini-radiators stuck to you. Face the low temperatures like a pro!
• Get a Rail Pass – If you decide to travel by train, get a rail pass and save lots of money! This pass includes over 80 routes!
• Learn a few phrases in Korean – even though most locals know English, it’s always a good idea to learn a few Korean words. Also, make sure to install Google Translate on your phone, just in case.

2. Should you visit South Korea in winter?

With incredible ski resorts, exciting winter activities, rich culture and friendly people, South Korea is the perfect destination to visit during winter. As long as you bring warm clothes, you’ll have a blast exploring this country.

It has diverse scenery, with beautiful nature but also big cities to explore. During winter, all the tourist attractions in the country are less crowded and the hotel prices are much lower. Winter in South Korea is a dream!

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

3. Weather and temperatures in winter – what to expect

Due to the Siberian winds, the weather in South Korea during winter is cold. From late November until March it’s freezing in the northern part of the country and the centre of it. The weather along the Southern Coast is milder but the nights are still very cold.

Keep in mind that due to the Siberian winds it’s always colder along the west coast compared to the east coast. When it comes to temperatures, in the southern part of the country they rarely drop under 0 degrees Celsius. However, in other parts of the country you can often expect negative temperatures and snow.

4. Things to do in South Korea in winter

To make things easier, I decided to group the things you can do in South Korea during winter by location and activity into the following categories:

• Winter activities in Seoul
• Winter activities in Busan

Best winter festivals in South Korea

• Best theme parks in South Korea

Best ski resorts in South Korea

Best winter hikes in south korea.

• Other winter activities

Grab a cup of hot coffee or your drink of choice and brace yourself because this post is going to be quite long. I wanted to include everything that South Korea has to offer in this post so here are the best things to do in winter in the country. Enjoy!

Best winter activities in Seoul

Seoul is a big city, a place where old temples and historical sites live in harmony with modern skyscrapers. If you’re planning to visit Seoul in winter, I’ve selected the best activities especially for you. Below are the best things to do in Seoul in winter!

1. Explore Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul

This traditional Korean Village is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Seoul. Wandering between the well-preserved Korean houses when they’re covered in thick snow is a unique experience.

The narrow streets will be mostly empty – the perfect backdrop for beautiful photos! You can even book a photographer for a photoshoot in this unique village! You’ll have some awesome photos as souvenirs in one of the most unique places in Seoul!

• Location – click here for the exact location
• Opening hours – 24/7
• Entrance fee – free

2. Visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul

During summer, all Seoul’s palaces are packed with tourists. However, during winter, you’ll have the chance to explore the main royal palace of Joseon dynasty almost by yourself.

Built in 1395, this is the largest of the five palaces in Seoul. Explore the Throne Hall, the Royal Banquet Hall and all the other historical sites and learn more about the Korean culture!

• Opening hours – Wednesday to Monday – 9 am to 6 pm, Tuesdays closed
• Entrance fee – 3,000 won for adults; 1,500 won for children

3. Hit the ice-skating rinks in Seoul

If you’re looking for a bit of adrenaline for your winter vacation in Seoul, hit one of the many ice-skating rinks in the city. Even if you haven’t tried ice-skating before, I’m sure you’ll have a lot of fun. You can find an indoor rink at Lotte World or you can head to the outdoor Seoul Plaza Skating Rink .

4. Admire Seoul from N Seoul Tower

You can’t visit Seoul without stopping at the famous N Seoul Tower . With a height of 237 meters, the tower welcomes around 12 million people each year. You can choose to admire Seoul from the base of the tower or you can head to the Observatory for a 360 degrees view. Either way, I recommend visiting the tower at sunset, when the sky turns orange and the city lights come to life.

• Opening hours- 24/7 for the observation decks, for the Observatory click here
• Entrance fee – free for observation decks; 11,000 won for the Observatory – you can book it online

5. Visit Nami Island and Petite France

Located in the city of Chuncheon, Nami Island is one of the most popular day trips from Seoul. It’s also the shooting scene for the famous “Winter Sonata” (if you haven’t seen it yet, make sure you do). While at Nami Island, head to the Central Korean Pine Tree Lane and take some photos!

Just 20 minutes away by car from Nami Island is the beautiful French-themed cultural village called Petite France. The beautiful houses are the perfect backdrop for photos! To get to Nami Island and Petite France from Seoul you can book a guided tour . If you wish to visit by yourself, please find below the entrance fees.

• Location – Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
• Opening hours – Nami Island – 7.30 am to 9.45 pm; Petite France – 9 am to 6 pm
• Entrance fee – Nami Island – 13,000 won; Petite France – 10,000 won

6. Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival

During the winter, the Garden of Morning Calm also known as the Morning Calm Arboretum transforms into a light show. From December until March, the garden is covered in thousands of colorful lights, creating an impressive spectacle of light! To get to the Garden of Morning Calm you can take the bus from Cheongpyeong Station or Cheongpyeong Terminal or you can book a guided tour .

• Opening hours – 8.30 am to 7 pm
• Entrance fee – 9,500 won

7. Have fun at Ganchon Rail Park

Built on a discontinued train track, Ganchon Rail Park is one of the best things to do in South Korea in winter. Explore the Korean countryside and admire the Bukhangang River.

You can visit this attraction as a day trip from Seoul and while you’re in the area, you can also visit Nami Island and Petite France. If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path things to do in South Korea, this activity is for you!

• Opening hours – 9 am to 5.30 pm
• Entrance fee – two-seater 30,000 won, four-seater 40,000 won

8. Have fun in Hongdae, Seoul

Hongdae is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Seoul. It’s famous for its restaurants, nightlife and karaoke places called Noraebangs . While in Hongdae, enjoy the live k-pop performances, play video games and try the delicious street food! If you’d like to find out more about this unique place, read my Hongdae travel guide . It includes all the must-see places in the area!

• Entrance fee – Free

9. Visit the infamous DMZ

Visiting North Korea might not be on your bucket list, but what if you could get to the border with North Korea and catch a glimpse of a local village? You can experience all this with a visit to DMZ . Find out more about the history of North and South Korea while visiting the Dora Observatory and the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel.

10. Visit the Seoul Christmas Market

What would you think about visiting a European Christmas Market in the heart of Seoul? You can taste all the Christmas treats, shop for souvenirs and drink a cup of delicious hot wine. The European Christmas Market takes place each year in Seoul by the Seongbuk Global Village Center.

• Opening hours – varies each year
• Entrance fee – 1,000 won

Top things to do in Busan in winter

I had the chance to spend a few days in Busan during my visit to South Korea and I fell in love with this city. It’s less crowded than Seoul but it has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions. Here are the best things to do in Busan in winter.

11. Explore Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan

One of the top tourist attractions in Busan , the Gamcheon Village is a colorful place where you’ll find cute local shops, cozy cafes, countless works of art and a sea of colorful houses.

If you’re in Busan, make sure to add Gamcheon to your itinerary! You can read more about this colorful place in my Gamcheon travel guide . While in Busan, make sure to stop at the Busan Fish Market too and grab something to eat! The seafood there is simply delicious!

12. Visit the Busan Sea Life Aquarium

If you want to escape the cold, head to the Busan Sea Life Aquarium . Admire different species of fish and learn more about the marine life. The aquarium is home to about 250 species of fish. Visiting the Aquarium is definitely one of the best things to do in Busan in winter!

• Opening hours – Monday to Thursday – 10 am to 8 pm; Friday to Sunday – 9 am to 9 pm
• Entrance fee – 29,000 won at entrance, or 15,000 won online (prices are subject to changes)

13. Attend the Busan Christmas Tree Festival

Every year, the Busan Christmas Tree Festival takes place on the streets of Gwangbok-ro in Jung-gu district, Busan. The festival starts at the beginning of December and ends at the beginning of January. At the festival, you can admire the colorful lights, the giant Christmas tree and listen to live concerts. Sounds like a lot of fun!

• Location – Gwangbok-ro, Jung-gu
• When? – December to January

There are plenty of winter festivals to choose from when traveling to South Korea. Each of them is unique and offers many incredible experiences. Below are the best winter festivals in the country!

14. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

One of the best winter destinations in Korea is Gangwon-do, the place where each year the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival takes place. Locals and tourists alike gather to try ice fishing.

Some participants even jump in the freezing water to try barehanded fishing. Apart from fishing, you can enjoy other activities like curling, sledding and others. You can read more about this festival here .

• Location – Gangwon-do
• When? – 9th January – 31th January (check the updated dates here )
• Entrance fee – around 10,000 won

15. Admire giant snow sculptures at Taebaeksan Snow Festival

Visit one of Korea’s most popular winter festivals – Taebaeksan Snow Festival . Apart from the giant sculptures of ice, you can go snow rafting and snow sledding!

In 2021, the festival will be held between the end of January and the start of February. If you’re visiting South Korea during this time, it would be a shame not to stop here. It’s one of the top winter activities in South Korea!

• Location –  Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do
• When? – TBA, usually the festival takes place in January

16. Watch the Seogwipo Penguin Festival on Jeju Island

Located in the southernmost point of Jeju Island, Seogwipo is one of the warmest destinations in South Korea. However, even if the temperatures rarely drop below 0 degrees celsius, it takes a lot of courage to swim in the freezing water. During the Seogwipo Penguin Festival, apart from other activities, the bravest people take a dip into the icy water.

• Location –  Jeju Island, Jungmun Saekdal Beach
• When? – 30th of December – 1st of January

17. Attend the Pyeongchang Trout Festival

This unique winter activity in South Korea takes place each year in the city of Jinbu-myeon. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities starting with sledding and ending with trout fishing. You can choose between fishing through a hole drilled into the ice or fishing with your bare hands. After you catch a few trouts, you can cook them at one of the nearby restaurants.

• Location –  Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do
• When? – TBA (it usually starts at the end of January and ends at the beginning of February)
• Entrance fee – Depends on the activity

18. Attend the Homigot Sunrise Festival

Located at the easternmost point of South Korea, Homigot village is home to the Sunrise Festival along with other destinations on the Eastern coast of the peninsula. People gather here the admire the first sunrise in the new year (the morning of the 1st of January). The festival includes concerts, performances and other entertaining events.

• Location –  Homigot-myeon, Homigot Sunrise Square
• When? – 1st of January

19. Stop at the Boseong Tea Plantation Light Festival

During spring, summer and autumn this is a thriving tea plantation, welcoming thousands of tourists. However, during winter, the Boseong Tea Plantation transforms into a spectacle of light.

Thousands of colorful lights are hanging on the tea plants, waiting to be photographed and admired by visitors. The entrance is free for everyone!

• Location –   Click here for the exact location
• When? – TBA (beginning of December until the end of January)

Best theme parks to visit in South Korea in winter

Do you want to spend some quality time with your family? Or maybe you’re just looking for a bit of adrenaline. These are the best theme parks to visit in South Korea during winter. Let’s have some fun!

20. Plan a day of fun at Lotte World

One of the best things to do in Seoul during winter is planning to spend an entire day at Lotte World , one of the most popular theme parks in the country. With an ice-skating rink, awesome rides and live performances, Lotte World should be on your itinerary! I recommend booking your tickets online , in advance. Are you ready for some fun and a bit of adrenaline?

• Opening hours – click here
• Entrance fee – 59,000 won

21. Onemount Snow Park

Located one hour away from Seoul, Onemount Snow Park is the perfect place to spend quality time with your family. With an ice-skating rink and other winter activities such as husky sledding and ice shows, this park is one of the best things you can do in South Korea in winter.

To get to this snow park, take the subway line 3 to Juyeop Station and then take exit 2. From there, walk 15 minutes and you’ll get to Onemount. Another option would be to book a tour .

• Opening hours – 9 am to 7 pm
• Entrance fee – 30,000 won

22. Enjoy a day of fun at Everland

An awesome winter activity you can enjoy in South Korea is a trip to the Everland theme park . Apart from fun roller coasters and other attractions, here you can hop on a snow tube and go down a hill covered in snow.

You can go by yourself or you can choose a tube for two people. Either way, it’s going to be a lot of fun, especially for kids! Everland is the perfect destination for families looking for fun activities to do together! You can visit Everland as a day trip from Seoul. I recommend booking your tickets online for a hassle-free experience. Shuttle bus tickets can also be booked online.

• Opening hours – 10 am to 9 pm
• Entrance fee – 56,000 won at the gate or discounted online

23. Visit the unique Jeju Love Land Museum

If you’re looking for quirky attractions to visit in South Korea during winter, the Love Land Museum is definitely one of them. This park is filled with huge statues depicting sex scenes. It might be a fun place to visit with your loved one. You can take some quirky photos and warm yourselves up during the harsh winter.

• Opening hours – 9 am to midnight
• Entrance fee – 12,000 won

Are you a professional skier? South Korea has you covered! Are you an amateur skier? In South Korea, you’ll find plenty of slopes suitable for beginners. A dream for any skier and snowboarder, these ski resorts should be on your itinerary!

24. Go skiing at Vivaldi Park Ski World

Do you like skiing or snowboarding? Then you have to stop for a few days at the incredible Vivaldi Park Ski World. With slopes for all difficulty levels and state-of-the-art facilities, Vivaldi Park is a dream for any professional or amateur skier. You can get here by shuttle bus from Seoul in just one and a half hours. What do you say, would you go skiing here?

25. Book a few days at Yongpyong Ski Resort

One of the places to visit in South Korea during winter is Yongpyong Ski Resort, the biggest ski resort in the country. With 28 incredible slopes, 14 ski lifts and lots of winter activities, this ski resort should be on your itinerary! If skiing is not your cup of tea, you can enjoy a wide variety of indoor activities such as relaxing in a sauna, swimming, bowling and many more.

26. Spend a few days at High1 Resort

High1 is the resort located at the highest altitude in South Korea (1345 meters). Here you’ll find awesome slopes and puffy snow combined with incredible views. The resort is located about 4 hours away from Seoul and it’s the perfect destination for snowboarders and skiers looking for awesome slopes.

There are many winter hikes to choose from in South Korea. With many national parks and breathtaking mountains, South Korea is a paradise for those passionate about sports. Below you can find some of the best hikes for your winter holiday.

27. Hike Hallasan Mountain, Jeju Island

Are you ready for a challenge? What about hiking the tallest mountain in South Korea – Hallasan Mountain, located on the incredible Jeju Island. Once you get to the top you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the crater lake.

This hike is not very difficult but the winter conditions make it a bit more challenging. It should take around 8 hours to climb the mountain and get back to the base. If I convinced you to hike Hallasan Mountain, read this guide for all the information you need.

28. Hike Jirisan

This is the second-highest mountain in South Korea and quite a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. It attracts around 280,000 hikers each year.

There are many trails to choose from and on the way to the top you’ll come across beautiful temples and stunning views. Jirisan Mountain is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities. You can read more about this hike here .

29. Hike Taebaeksan

If hiking is your cup of tea, you have to hike Taebaeksan in winter. Known for the stunning views, this hike will definitely be a challenge during winter time but everything’s going to be worth it. You can read everything you need to know about this hike in this article . Don’t forget to put on many layers and you’ll have an unforgettable experience!

30. Explore Deogyusan National Park

Whether you’re into hiking, winter sports or breathtaking sceneries, you can find all this at Deogyusan National Park. With beautiful temples and incredible ski slopes, this national park has something for everyone. Plan at least two days to explore this incredible place and enjoy an unforgettable winter holiday in South Korea.

Other winter activities in South Korea

Here are a few more other activities to convince you to spend the winter in South Korea.

31. Explore Jeonju Village

Located in central South Korea, the beautiful town of Jeonju is home to the largest Hanok Village in the country. It’s a must-see if you want to experience the authentic Korean culture and learn more about it.

Apart from the Hanok Village, you can visit the Jeondong Catholic Church, hike to Omodae Viewpoint and eat Bibimbap . Bibimbap is a national dish, from Jeonju that consists of rice with bean sprouts, beef, eggs and more toppings.

32. Relax at a traditional Korean Spa

One of the best winter activities in South Korea is a relaxing experience at a traditional spa, called jjimjilbang . After exploring the outdoors, head to the spa and enjoy saunas and steam rooms.

You can find these spas everywhere in South Korea as they’re quite popular among the locals. People gather here with friends and family to relax and catch up.

33. Book a hanok stay

Are you looking for authentic Korean experiences? Look no further – it’s time to spend one night in a hanok. Hanok are traditional buildings where you can experience the Korean way of life. After exploring the beautiful sights around the country, sleep on a comfy futon and warm yourself up with the floor heating system called ondol .

34. Fill your belly with strawberries

Both Europeans and Americans are used to pick their strawberries in spring but things are different in South Korea. Koreans pick their strawberries in winter, when they are the ripest.

Visit a local farm and enjoy these delicious fruits!

35. Drink tea in a Korean traditional Tea House

Head to one of the few Korean tea houses left and experience the art of drinking tea. There’s nothing better than a cup of hot tea after facing the cold winds of winter. To check out the best tea houses in Seoul, click here .

5. Transport in South Korea during winter

I know that many tourists who visit South Korea plan their trip only around big cities such as Seoul or Busan . For things to do in Busan, make sure to check out these 15 incredible activities . For the perfect Seoul itinerary, read this guide .

However, it would be a shame not to explore more of this country. Go skiing, enjoy some winter festivals or go to a theme park! There’s so much to do in South Korea in winter!

I’ve researched everything there is to know about all the transport options in the country. Here’s everything you need to know about transport in South Korea.

Travel by train

The most comfortable mode of transport is the train. South Korea has great railway connections, making each destination easily accessible. If you plan to travel by train often, I recommend getting a Rail Pass to save money.

Trains in South Korea are very comfortable, modern and fast. Usually, there are no delays.

Travel by bus

Another option is the bus. There are two types of buses in South Korea – Express buses and Intercity buses. Express buses run on expressways and usually they only stop at the destination and a few rest stops along the way. Intercity buses stop in smaller cities along the way.

Either way, traveling by bus is a good option since the roads in South Korea are well-developed and the bus terminals are usually located near the city centre.

Renting a car is always a good idea when traveling to a foreign country. You’ll have the freedom to travel at your own pace and you’ll visit a lot more places.

For the best rates, I recommend renting your car well in advance of your trip. You can book on RentalCars or any other car rental service. Keep in mind that in South Korea, you’ll have to drive on the right-hand side of the road (similar to the USA and Europe).

Important! – you will need an international driver’s permit from your home country. Make sure to apply for one before arriving in South Korea.

6. Final thoughts

South Korea is the perfect winter destination and it has a wide variety of activities for every type of tourist. Enjoy the unique winter festivals, go hiking, book a few nights at a ski resort or explore Seoul and Busan.

Whatever you choose, I’m sure that your winter vacation in South Korea will be unforgettable. For more information about South Korea (prices, accommodation and more) check out out my travel guide .

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below. May the travel bug bite you!

Disclaimer: This post was created in collaboration with the Korean Tourism Organization . As always, all opinions are my own and they reflect my true, unbiased experience. 

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

Thank you so much Aurelia We are a family of 4 adults who are well traveled and have struggled to decide on where to go this December.. we live in Perth Australia and it’s now looking like South Korea is our chosen destination!! LOVED reading your blog .. Regards Anna

Amazing blog!! I have saved so many things. Thank you so much!

This was the best info. Thankyou so much

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Cart US$ 0 -->

Passing along the path line, you can see the huge wind turbine. The height of wind turbine is 80m.  This is one of the famous wind farm in Korea.

Spend a romantic moment in this vast snow field.

Korea trekking tour

Trekking course

This is the best trekking course in Korea during winter.

A lot of Korean hikers visit here every year.

Duration            03:55:30

Distance             7.5mile

Highest Point    3826feet

Total Ascent       1512feet

Difficulty             Family

Everyone knows that Ramen, the instant noodles with soup is the favorite food of Koreans. South Koreans consumed the most ramen per person in the world.

They like to eat it with rice, soju (Korean alcohol) or put it into the Budae jjigae (Army stew), even eat it during the trip.

Nowadays, many Foreigners like to know more Korean culture, so why don’t you try a cup noodles on the top of mountain in a cold day!

Eat the cup noodle on top of mountain

WHAT TO WEAR & PREPARE

• Warm waterproof Pants
• Warm waterproof Jacket
• Scarf or winter face mask if necessary
• Waterproof shoes with heavier lugs on the soles
• Thick socks or hiking socks
• Lightweight backpack

• English speaking driver guide
• Private transport includes hotel pick up & drop off at Seoul
• Car parking fee, toll fee
• Meals, drinks
• Gratuities (optional)
• 08:00 Hotel Pick Up
• 11:00 Arrival to the starting point
• Arrival to the top of mountain
• 15:30 Depart for Seoul
• 19:00 Drop off at hotel

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “Winter Trekking Tour” Cancel reply

Your Rating Rate… Perfect Good Average Not that bad Very Poor

Your Review

• All payment will not be refunded for any cancellation or adjustment related to personal reasons, circumstance of tourist attractions, traffic or weather past 24 hours before the tour start.
• Tour can be automatically canceled and get no refund if you are late for more than 1 hour without any notices.
• The itinerary can be adjusted and the facilities and attractions can be suspended depending on the circumstances of the tourist attractions, such as weather or traffic without any prior notices.
• If you arrive late for the designated tour time or appear at the wrong place, the lost time is not supplemented to the total tour time.
• Please note that there may be traffic jam during weekends, holidays or travel high seasons. In these cases, there will be no additional charge.
• Itinerary can be changed upon driver/guide agreement to the guest’s proposal, in this case additional car parking fees will be added.
• If you request to extend your tour time (Not related to traffic), we will charge additional cost.
• OnedayKorea will not be responsible for any injury, illness, damage, loss accident, or expense including their consequential loss or economic loss which are caused from whatever sports or activities.

Related products

2D1N Ski Tour at Yongpyong Ski Resort

Join 2D1N Ski Tour at Yongpyong Ski Resort, this is the most famous Ski Resort in Korea.

Private day trip to Bears Town Ski Resort & Pocheon Herb Island

Private day trip to Bears Town Ski Resort & Pocheon Herb Island, the best way to enjoy white winter and nature places outside Seoul!

PyeongChang Gondola Snow Tour

Enjoy a Korea Snow Tour with riding a Gondola in Ski Resort (Pyeongchang). Also shopping at Yeoju premium outlet.

Goblin: The Lonely and Great God Tour (Winter only)

OnedayKorea offer Goblin: The Lonely and Great God Tour, visit the shooting places and enjoy the romantic scenery during this winter!

OnedayKorea

• Tour Recommendation
• Travel Insight
• How it Works
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Seoul Travel Guide

A 10-Day South Korea Winter Itinerary

Home » Asia

Spring in South Korea may be the most popular season, but the winter is another world altogether. As the temperatures dip in the winter and the cherries are no longer blooming, the country becomes isolated from tourists. Thanks to its proximity to Siberia, the winter in South Korea is cold, bitter, and even harsh at times. But, even in these trying conditions, the charm and allure of South Korea will dazzle you.

10-Day South Korea Winter Itinerary

The serene grounds of the Gyeongbokgung Palace, without its usual crowds, in winter

Best done between December and March, this 10-day itinerary is ideal for those looking to get a taste of South Korea’s winter without feeling too rushed.

Days 1, 2, 3, 4 – Seoul

Seoul is the heartbeat of South Korea. On one hand, it is a high-tech metropolis with huge skyscrapers, world-class transport, and urban architecture. On the other, it is a historical city with sprawling palaces, Buddhist temples, and traditional markets.

As the mercury dips, imagine yourself enjoying steaming hot street food, taking part in a tea ceremony, hiking up snowy mountains, or sailing to islands that are covered in thick snow. In the evenings, the entire city is lit up with a million lights, bringing in the holiday cheer. Frankly, you can spend your entire trip in Seoul and you’d still not run out of things to do. But, here are a few offbeat experiences we recommend to make the best of Seoul in 4 days.

1. Grub on winter eats at Gwangjang market – Of all the markets Seoul is blessed with, nothing beats Gwangjang when it comes to traditional Korean food . Under a thinly insulated roof, a range of shops run by caring ajummas put up a feast. Try the hotteok (sweet Korean pancake), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and mayak gimbap (rice rolls). Don’t forget to be covered in enough layers since the market is relatively open.

2. Embrace Buddhism – The Jogyesa temple is more than a century old and has become the centerpiece of Korean Buddhism over the years. In the winter months, visit in the evening to see the fully illuminated temple, a sight to behold.

The Jogyesa temple in the centre of Seoul in its illuminated glory at night

3. Partake in a tea ceremony – The ancient Korean tea tradition is kept alive in a handful of teahouses in the city. Our pick is the Dawon tea house nestled inside the Kyungin fine art museum.

4. Watch street performers in Hongdae – While Myeongdong is the paradise for shoppers, Hongdae is where you’ll find the youth. In the winter, with a hot coffee or some soup to give you company, watch groups belt out fantastic performances to K-pop songs on the streets.

5. Spend a day at Nami Island – Made famous by the TV show, “Winter Sonata,” Nami Island is the perfect romantic getaway. Snow blankets the entire island from the barks of trees to the lake, making for a beautiful setting to spend your day in.

Walking in Nami Island in the winter is almost like a scene from a romantic flick

Days 5, 6, 7 – Pyeongchang

One of the best-kept secrets of South Korea, Pyeongchang is the complete winter dream. Originally a small fishing community and one of the country’s poorest regions, Pyeongchang boasts of some of the world’s top ski resorts today. The region received a huge facelift in 2018, as hosts of the 2018 Winter Olympics. A new high-speed railway line was also launched as part of the games, cutting the journey from Seoul down to just 2 hours.

When the snow begins to fall, Pyeongchang turns into a winter wonderland

In spite of the boost the Olympics gave, Pyeongchang has still not seen a huge influx of tourists, making it a relatively calm place to enjoy a quiet Korean winter. Our recommendations for things to do:

1. Ski, Ski, Ski – Whether you’re an amateur or an expert, the Yongpyong Ski Resort has just the right options. Even at 2 AM in the night, the resort has ski courses running. So, arm yourself with a bottle of Korean Soju and enjoy skiing in the dark with the Milky way for the company. This can also be done as a day-trip if you wish to stay elsewhere.

2. Live in a cabin – Retire into this cabin in Jeong Seon, far from the madding crowd. Hosted by a local family, the cabin has the classic Korean ondol heating system and all facilities to cook your meals. Make a trip out to the nearby town centre to experience a fascinating skywalk as well as a railbike ride.

A cabin in the Korean alps, away from the hustle and bustle

3. Temple stay at Woljeongsa – Spend 2 days at the temple as part of the traditional temple stay program, a short insight into the teachings of Korean Buddhism. Get a complete digital detox while learning nuances of the Korean culture.

4. Go Ice Fishing – Every winter, the town of Jinbu-myeon in Pyeongchang hosts the annual Trout festival wherein locals partake in ice fishing to catch trout and devour it as a community. A lot of folk programs also take place alongside the festival to add flavour to the occasion.

Days 8, 9, 10 – Jeonju

After soaking in the deep winter in the Korean Alps, make your way to the country’s South Western town of Jeonju. The erstwhile capital of the Joseon dynasty that ruled over Korea over a 400-year old period, Jeonju is where traditional Korea remains well preserved. In 2012, Jeonju was also declared the UNESCO City of Gastronomy, a nod to its high-quality food scene. While a lot of people visit Jeonju on a day trip, we recommend spending 2-3 days here as there’s plenty to experience, especially in winter.

1. Drink as the Koreans do – Jeonju is one of the few places in the country that hosts makgeolli towns (bar strips serving Korean rice wine) to this day. Similar to the concept of Spanish tapas, walk into an establishment like Yetchon makgeolli and just order a kettle of wine to be treated to 15+ delicious sides.

2. Warm up in a Korean spa – The Red Ginseng Spa, located in Jinan outside of Jeonju, is one of the finest Korean spas. This wacky and unique spa is based on the principle of Yin and Yang and is nothing like an ordinary spa. (Think communal message, mind-blowing views, and ancient techniques).

3. Eat one of the world’s BEST meals – Bibimbap is a Korean dish that is much loved around the world. But, in Jeonju, the birthplace of the dish, you’ll encounter the authentic version of bibimbap and truly understand why this dish is often considered among the world’s finest.

What Lonely Planet rates among the top 10 eating experiences on the planet, a bibimbap in Jeonju

4. Live in a traditional Hanok – Jeonju is home to the largest collection of hanoks, i.e traditional Korean houses with a large courtyard and minimalistic living style. At the Jeonju Hanok Village , many families have opened up homestays giving tourists a chance to live in a floor-heated Hanok and just how the Koreans have for centuries.

Other Destination Ideas in South Korea for the Winter

If you’ve more time on your hands, here are some suggestions for winter destinations that you may consider adding to your itinerary

1. Seoraksan National Park – In the far eastern side further from Pyeongchang, this biosphere reserve is spectacular in all seasons including winter. With astounding views to meet you at the top of the hike, this is among the best hikes in the country.

2. Gyeongju – The historical city plays home to the 8th century Bulguksa temple among other ruins. The Silla dynasty ruled from here and have left behind many fascinating architectural gifts for travellers to witness, including their unique garden tombs.

Everywhere you turn, beautiful and historic Korean temples will stare at you

Important Facts For Preparation for Travel to South Korea in the Winter

1. While spending a winter in South Korea is worth every bit of the effort, it is critical to be well prepared to deal with the conditions. Unlike a lot of other cold places, what makes South Korea harder in the winter are the gusting winds from Northern Siberia.

2. Ensure every accommodation you book has a heating system. Most Korean homestays/ hotels follow a floor-heating system called ondol. Double check if this facility is available before booking, especially in Pyeongchang.

3. Dress up in multiple layers – Although the temperature can get incredibly low on the outside, most cafes/ hotels/ subways maintain a very warm temperature. As you’ll be moving in and out of buildings/ subways, it is important to be able to remove a layer or two when required.

4. While the holiday season of Christmas and New Year is not particularly big in South Korea, it is best to avoid trips to destinations like Nami Island on a weekend or a major holiday as a lot of local tourists tend to travel at this time.

5. While South Korea has brilliant train connectivity, a road trip is not a bad idea. But, unless you have extensive experience driving in the snow, we recommend sticking to public transport. In regions like Pyeongchang local buses operate even in the deep winters.

6. Korean subways are a haven for shoppers. So, if you’re from a warm country and do not have a lot of winter clothes to take with you, get it on your first day in Seoul at bargain prices. The quality is top-notch, as well.

With some basic preparation, traveling in South Korea during the winters can be a charming affair. It will win you over before you blink your eye.

Consider spending the next winter holidays in South Korea, you’ll be thoroughly surprised!

Pin this winter itinerary for South Korea for later:

Join my email list and get exclusive updates & news straight to your inbox. 

I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Share this story, choose your platform, about the author: rachel jones.

I would love enjoying street food in Seoul, Rachel. Especially as the temp drops and you get to enjoy toasty fare in chilly climates. What a fun place to visit. My wife spent a week in South Korea back when she taught English in Japan. Loved it.

We are planning to go in January. I just wanted to check the budget for this itinerary.

This article is very helpful! I spent last year’s spring in korea and this year my family and I are planning to spend our christmas break there until the new year and I was really worried if this trip would work out well. But thanks to your recommendations and tips, I think I am about ready for winter in korea!

Like the Article? Leave a Reply Cancel reply

KoreaTravel Trip Report: DIY 9-Day Korea Winter Itinerary

South Korea has so many attractions and unique experiences to offer. During winter season, the country comes to life with interesting winter festivals and exciting snowy attractions. Beautiful landscapes, scrumptious food and an endless array of cool activities – what’s not to love?

If you’re planning to visit Korea in winter, bookmark our D.I.Y. 9-day Korea winter itinerary and you’ll be all set for a fun-filled family vacation – sans all the pre-planning homework. It’s very easy to D.I.Y. and it gives you the flexibility to make the most out of your vacation – just the way you like it. Ready? Let’s go!

Trip Summary

Travel Dates: 11 – 19 Dec 2019 Days Spent: 9 Days 8 Nights Weather: Seoul 6°C / -4°C (Winter Season) Airline: Thai Airways No. of Travellers: 2 adults and 1 child Hotels Stayed: Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences (6 nights) and Daemyung Resort Vivaldi Park (2 nights)

Accommodation in Korea

Which is the best area to stay in Seoul? This is the question that most people will ask. For shopaholics and foodies, Myeongdong is the best! For the fashionistas, consider Hongdae. For families, Jamsil is a good option. In my opinion, as long as the accommodation is within walking distance to subway and located in a central location, it should be fine.

I chose Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences because it’s relatively new and very near to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (partly because I’m an Accor Plus member). The airport limousine bus stop is just a min walk away – truly a huge time saver! I also love that the room is equipped with washer and kitchenette.

We also spent 3D2N at Vivaldi Park Ski World , the most visited ski resort in Korea. The biggest advantage of this resort is that it’s near to Seoul (only 1.5 hours) and free round-trip transportation is provided for foreigners in winter season. Besides skiing and snowboarding, it has LOTS of exciting indoor activities, a huge water park as well as a snow sled park named Snowy Land .

Did these accommodations meet my expectations? Actually, they surpassed them!

9-Day Korea Winter Itinerary

Day 1: sin – bkk – icn.

I booked the Thai Airways to Seoul with a short 3-hour transit in Bangkok because I wanted a day flight. I can’t sleep on a plane and I also dislike arriving in early morning. Moreover, it’s $600+ cheaper as compared to Singapore Airlines and Korean Air. Hence, I thought this was the best choice for us.

There are various private airport transfers on Klook. We booked the private transfer from S.A Tour as they were the cheapest ($83 per car for 3-5 person). I’d highly recommend them. The driver can speak Mandarin and is very helpful. The car is clean and spacious. Moreover, he sent me the pick-up details one day before my trip. Very awesome service!

Before we got onto his car, we also collected our Discover Seoul Pass from the airport redemption counter. I’d highly recommend getting this pass before exploring the city. It’s a special tourism pass that allows entry to many amazing attractions in Seoul, and it comes with 3 options: 24-hour, 48-hour and 72-hour. The card also functions as a transit card (Tmoney).

As of this writing, the pass offers 42 Free Pass Attractions (including Gyeongbokgung Palace, COEX Aquarium, N Seoul Tower Observatory, Lotte World Adventure, Eland Cruise etc.), 35 Discount Attractions (including Lotte World Tower, Seoul Land Theme Park) and 28 Discount Experiences. It also includes a free one-way AREX Incheon Airport Express.

Day 2: Lotte World Adventure, COEX Aquarium, Eland Cruise

We bought the 48-hour Discover Seoul Pass (from now on, I will call it DSP). Before using it, we mapped out our public transport routes and arrange our itinerary in advance to fully maximize the free admission perks within the 48-hour timeframe.

Our first destination was Lotte World Adventure. It consists of a huge indoor theme park ‘Adventure’ and an outdoor amusement park ‘Magic Island’. We went on a weekday, but to our dismay, it was still super crowded. Most of the attractions had queue time of 30 mins, with some stretching up to an hour. We only managed to try 5-6 rides before leaving for our next destination.

• Getting to Lotte World Adventure: Jamsil Station Gate 4 Line 2 or 8, Enter via South Gate for DSP holder

Next, we headed to COEX Aquarium. Truth be told, we had originally wanted to visit Lotte Aquarium. But since it wasn’t covered in DSP, we changed our plan to COEX Aquarium. Overall, it has a nice lay-out with many thematic areas. As compared to Lotte World, this place was much less crowded. The free hanbok experience was a bonus to many tourists.

• Getting to COEX Aquarium: BongEunSa Station Line 9 Gate 7, walk 3 mins towards COEX Mall

After spending 2 hours at the aquarium, we had to leave for Eland Cruise. There are different cruises every day. i.e. Story Cruise during the day, Music Cruise at night, Lunch / Dinner Buffet Cruise, etc. DSP holders can redeem free entrance to Story Cruise, Music Cruise and Moonlight Cruise.

We went for the Music Cruise from 7:30pm to 8:40pm. Snacks and drinks can be purchased on the cruise. As the cruise sailed along the beautiful Han River, there was also live music performance. It was a simple cruise, but we enjoyed the good music and amazing night view. Best way to wind down our first day in Seoul! If you prefer buffet cruise, you can also book for it on Klook .

• Getting to Eland Cruise: Yeouinaru Station Line 5 Exit 3 (10 mins walk to Han River Park)

Day 3: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Running Man, N Seoul Tower

Gyeongbokgung is the most famous and most visited palace in Korea. Honestly, I’m not a historical buff. Thus, I don’t find this place as interesting as I thought it would be – except for their royal guard changing ceremony. Many tourists seemed to enjoy walking around the palace in Hanbok (entrance is free if you’re dressed in Korean traditional costume).

• Getting to Gyeongbokgung Palace: Gyeongbokgung Station Line 3 Exit 5

We proceeded to Running Man Thematic Experience Center which is inside the SM Duty Free Building. The center is quite small but it’s enough to delight Edison who is an avid fan of Running Man. There are 6 different zones with various missions. Visitors have 60 mins to complete all the missions and earn as many R-Points as possible. Overall, it was quite fun! Guess who can complete the missions in time?

None of us, haha!

• Getting to Running Man Theme Park: Jonggak Station Line 1 Exit 3, Turn left at the first corner and walk 3 mins to SM Duty Free Building

Next, it was time for N Seoul Tower! Also known as Namsan Tower, this is the place to see the most beautiful view of Seoul as well as a romantic pilgrimage for couples who wish to declare their eternal love. You can see love locks of all shapes and sizes here. We took the lift and went up to the observatory – the 360 degrees panoramic views of Seoul were indeed breathtaking!

• Getting to N Seoul Tower : Chungmuro Station Line 3, 4 Exit 2 in-front of Daehan Cinema. Take Bus #2 1,100 Won (15mins ride)

Day 4: Nami Island, Petite France, Gangchon Rail Bike

Day 4 was a relaxing one as we went on a day tour to Nami Island, Petite France and Gangchon Rail Bike. I’d highly recommend this tour on Klook . The timing was perfect, we had enough time for all the places without rushing. Breakfast and lunch were included, price was very reasonable with 3 pick-up locations.

Our first destination was Petite France. Made famous by K-drama “You Who Came From The Stars”, this is one of the most visited tourist spots in Korea. As soon as I arrived, I was attracted by its brightly coloured buildings that stood out against the monotone mountain.

Petite France consists of 16 French-style buildings and 23 stops. Much to my surprise, it’s actually quite small. From one end to the other, it took only 20 mins. Can you believe it? Nonetheless, you’d spend more time taking pictures as there are many picturesque spots here. Petite France also has its own guesthouse here.

Next, we went to Nami Island. We had been here in summer and we were glad to visit again in winter. It was a totally different feel! There was snow on the tree branches, grounds and rivers, as well as cozy wood fire around the island. When you’re here, don’t miss out on Nami Island’s tasty sweet treat called ‘Snowman Hotteok’ (Korean sweet pancake). They are extremely popular, especially during the winter months.

Our last destination was Gangchon Rail Bike and we enjoyed this the most. This is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can pedal along old railroad tracks while taking in the lovely Bukhangang River scenery. We rode a 4-seater bike on a 90-min course route, passing by 4 tunnels, each decorated in their own unique way.

I have to say, I’m SO glad we went on this tour because it was so much fun and well-organized.

Day 5: Everland

This was our second visit to Everland. We still enjoyed the theme park reasonably well, especially in winter where the Four Seasons Garden was glittering with Christmas lights; Winter Playground as well as Snow Buster were opened.

Snow Buster is a snow-covered sledding hill that is usually opened from mid-Dec every year. In winter 2019/2020, it was opened on 14 Dec 2019. This attraction was so popular that we had to queue for 40mins just for one slide down. Haiz. As the park was mostly outdoor, the weather was very cold. Thankfully, heaters were scattered around the entire park to keep visitors warm. Thumbs up!

We purchased discounted admission tickets to Everland and round-trip transfer between Seoul – Everland from Klook.

Day 6 – 8: Vivaldi Park Ski World

There’s so much to explore in Seoul but the highlight of any winter vacation is always SNOW. Hence, we made our way to Vivaldi Park Ski World – a ski resort located in Gangwon-do. This resort is extremely popular due to its close proximity to Seoul. Read our full review of Vivaldi Park Ski World and Snowy Land .

Day 9: ICN – BKK – SIN

It was time to pack-up for our flight back home. This refreshing yet fun winter vacation was a perfect wrap for our 2019. It was a totally different experience from our first trip in summer 2016, and I was glad we made this choice.

Cost Breakdown

Flight Tickets (Thai Airways): $1800 Tours and transport: $1000 Meals, activities and misc. expenses: $1500 Accommodation: $1600 Total: $5900 (exclude shopping expenses)

Phew! Thanks for sticking with me on this super long post! For more information on what you can do in Korea with your family, please visit Korea Tourism Organization’s official website and Facebook Page . Happy planning!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Japan Korea
• Egypt Jordan
• Egypt Jordan Israel
• Southeast Asia
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• Australia New Zealand
• Philippines
• Liechtenstein
• Israel Jordan
• Israel Egypt
• Thailand Cambodia
• Thailand Vietnam
• Thailand Laos
• Thailand Cambodia Vietnam
• Thailand Laos Vietnam
• Thailand Laos Cambodia
• Thailand Laos Cambodia Vietnam
• Thailand Singapore
• Vietnam Laos Cambodia
• Vietnam Cambodia
• Vietnam Laos
• South Africa
• Turkmenistan
• Central Asia
• North America
• South America
• Cook Islands
• French Polynesia
• Luxury Travel
• Culture & History Travel
• UNESCO Travel
• Family & Children Travel
• Couple Travel
• Senior Travel
• Student Travel
• Company Travel
• Spring Travel
• Summer Travel
• Autumn Travel
• Winter Travel
• Festival Travel
• Honeymoon Travel
• TESTIMONIALS
• TRAVEL BLOGS
• Why Choose Us
• Payment Guide
• Be Our Travel Partner
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Tailor-made Tour Specialists
• Our Tour Guides
• Our Vehicles
• Our Drivers
• Our Private Tours
• Group Tours
• Private Tour Guide, Car & Driver (T)
• Private Driver Guide & Car (P)
• Private Car & Driver (D)
• Private Tour Guide & Local Transport (G)
• Seat in Coach Tours (S)
• Free and Easy Tour (F)
• Tours by Multi Travel Modes (S,T,P,D,G,F)
• Travel Insurance
• Korea Tour Packages
• Winter Tours

Tour Code: MK115007-5

Tour Duration: 8 Days 7 Nights.

Tour Themes: Kids-friendly, Winter, Senior, Classic, Cultural Experience, Culture History, Food, Summer, Spring, Autumn, Onsen

Tour Route: Seoul - Jeonju - Seoul - Chuncheon - Hongcheon-gun - Gapyeong - Hongcheon-gun

8 Days Korea Family & Kids-friendly Tours Seoul Jeonju Chuncheon Hongcheon-gun Gapyeong

Seoul Arrival

N Seoul Tower

Gwangjang Market

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Jeonju Hanok Village

Jinan Red Ginseng Spa

Imjingak Resort

Imjingak Pavilion Freedom Bridge

The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel

Noryangjin Fish Market

Namdaemun Market

Nami Island

Tour Code: XJ109177

Tour Duration: 9 Days 8 Nights.

Tour Themes: Kids-friendly, Honeymoon, Winter, Senior, Classic, UNESCO, Summer, Spring, Autumn, Couple

Tour Route: Shimizu - Mt.Fuji - Shimizu - Kobe - Kyoto - Kobe - Hiroshima - Jeju - Busan - Hakodate - Aomori - Hirosaki - Aomori - Yokohama

9 Days Japan|Korea Family & Kids-friendly Tours Shimizu Mt.Fuji Kobe Kyoto Hiroshima Jeju Busan Hakodate Aomori Hirosaki Yokohama

Lake Tanuki

Shiraito Falls

Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine

Meriken Park

Sorakuen Garden

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Nijo Castle

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Itsukushima Shrine

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Mt.Hallasan National Park

Seongsan Sunrise Peak (Seongsan Ilchulbong)

Manjang Cave

Gamcheon Culture Village

Beomeosa Temple

Oryukdo Skywalk

Tour Code: YK108434-2

Tour Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights.

Tour Themes: Winter, Classic, UNESCO, Culture History, Couple, Landscape

Tour Route: Seoul - Chuncheon - Gapyeong - Seoul - Suwon - Yongin - Seoul

5 Days Korea UNESCO Tours Seoul Chuncheon Gapyeong Suwon Yongin

Seoul Free Day

The Cheongwadae(Blue House)

Petite France

Korean Folk Village

Suwon Hwaseung Fortress

Seoul Departure

Tour Code: EK102205-5

Tour Duration: 12 Days 11 Nights.

Tour Themes: Winter, Classic, UNESCO, Cultural Experience, Culture History, Summer, Spring, Autumn, Landscape

Tour Route: Seoul - Suwon - Yongin - Seoul - Sokcho - Seoul - Jeju - Busan - Gyeongju - Daegu - Andong - Daegu - Seoul

12 Days Korea UNESCO Tours Seoul Suwon Yongin Sokcho Jeju Busan Gyeongju Daegu Andong

Korean Ginseng Center

Mt. Seorak National Park

Gwongeumseong Fortress

Sinheungsa Temple

Hyeopjae Beach

Hallim Park

O'sulloc Green tea field

Tour Code: EK107423-2

Tour Duration: 3 Days 2 Nights.

Tour Themes: Winter, Classic, UNESCO, Culture History, Summer, Spring, Autumn, Landscape

Tour Route: Seoul - Suwon - Seoul - Jeju

3 Days Korea UNESCO Tours Seoul Suwon Jeju

Changdeokgung Palace

Bukchon Hanok Village

Jongmyo Shrine

Woljeongri Beach

Seongeup Folk Village

Woman Diver Show

Tour Code: YK106714-3

Tour Themes: Winter, Senior, Classic, UNESCO, Culture History, Landscape

Tour Route: Seoul - Jeju - Busan - Gyeongju - Seoul

9 Days Korea Senior Tours Seoul Jeju Busan Gyeongju

Tour Code: EK100663

Tour Duration: 7 Days 6 Nights.

Tour Themes: Company, Winter, Classic, UNESCO, Cultural Experience, Culture History, Summer, Spring, Autumn

Tour Route: Seoul - Yongin - Suwon - Seoul - Sokcho - Seoul - Daejeon - Seoul

7 Days Korea UNESCO Tours Seoul Yongin Suwon Sokcho Daejeon

National Folk Museum of Korea(Korean folklore Museum)

Sinsadong Garosu-gil Road

Daejeon National Cemetery

Hanbat Arboretum

Tour Code: YK99787-3

Tour Themes: Kids-friendly, Winter, Classic, UNESCO, Cultural Experience, Culture History

Tour Route: Seoul - Yongin - Seoul - Busan - Jeju - Seoul

9 Days Korea Family & Kids-friendly Tours Seoul Yongin Busan Jeju

Everland Theme Park

Songdo Sky Walk

Yongdusan Park

Busan Free Day

Tour Code: DK65527

Tour Themes: Winter, Classic, Food, Landscape

Tour Route: Seoul

3 Days Korea Winter Tours Seoul

Tour Code: DK64146

Tour Themes: Winter, Classic, UNESCO, Landscape

Tour Route: Jeju

5 Days Korea UNESCO Tours Jeju

Jeju Arrival

Jeju Free Day

Mysterious Road

Dragon head rock (Yongduam Rock)

Jeju Stone Park

Jeju Folk Village

Cheonjeyeon Waterfall

Jungmun Daepo Coast Jusangjeolli Cliff

Teddy Bear Museum

Jeju Departure

Free Inquiry

Tailor-make your dream tour package (Not All Fields Required.)

     -->

     (IMs are important for our effective communication.) -->

No extra fee!Replied in 0.5-23.5 hrs!

Not all fields required.But the more you fill in, the better itinerary can meet your needs as closely as possible.

• Countries visited: 115
• Currently in : Singapore 🇸🇬
• Partner with us
• SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS COMMUNITY

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here . Never leave without travel insurance .

Winter in Korea – where to go, festivals, ski resorts

While winter in Korea can be freezing cold with bitterly chilling winds and negative temperatures on the thermometer, much like winter in some parts of Canada , it is also a magical place with loads to do and a sense of romance in the air. 

I have been living in Seoul on and off since 2009 and have experienced a dozen winters in the capital and traveled to various other cities during winter. I have experienced one of the coldest days in Seoul in recorded history. In this article, I will describe what winter in Korea is really like and explain what to expect if you’re visiting during this time. 

There are also some tips and tricks I will share to make sure you plan your trip right and insider suggestions on what to do, where to go, festivals to explore and the best seasonal Korean winter foods to try. If you’re concerned about your well-being, you can read my in-depth article on Safety in South Korea before you go. 

Winter weather in Korea 

Autumn and Spring last about 1 second in Korea. Okay, they’re not that fast, but these two seasons are extremely short and also really beautiful. After the gorgeous Fall Foliage (called 단풍 or danpung) which lasts around 3 weeks between October and November, the icy winds begin to blow and it gets really cold really quick. 

From late November to mid March you can expect winter in Seoul and up north in Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces to be, on average, anywhere between 0 and 10°C. You may recall the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics which was in Gangwon and went as low as -18°C! 

It can even drop way below zero in Seoul. One New Year’s my friends and I didn’t want to leave the bar as it was nearing -20 outside!

As you go further south the temperature gets a bit warmer, so South Gyeongsang Province (Busan), South Jeolla Province (Mokpo) and Jeju will all be roughly 6°C warmer. Yet, if you are by the ocean, the wind chill factor is an additional caution to be aware of and the breeze coming off the ocean can make it feel much colder than it is (both north like in Gangneung and in the south). 

Where to go during winter in Korea

Where to visit during winter in Korea will largely depend on what you’re after. 

Seoul can be a great city to visit all year round and many of the best things to do in Seoul are great no matter what the season as public transport is always on point, indoor temperatures are consistently warm and there’s something about Seoul in the winter that is magical, much like an NYC Christmas film. 

All the best tourist sites are open and I have personally seen throngs of tourists dressed up in Hanbok and walking around Gyeongbokgung in sub zero weather. 

If it gets too cold or the wind is howling, there are plenty of Instagram-worthy coffee shops to dry your feet at while watching the snow fall, and dozens of department stores to get your fix of retail therapy. Explore all the areas of the capital in our guide on where to stay in Seoul . 

If you love the cold and all the winter sports, you can go north east into Gangwon province or anywhere in Gyeonggi Province which surrounds Seoul. 

Here you can find ski slopes and snow, and even if there is a lack of powder, they have machines to create more. Remember this fact about South Korea : 70% of the country is mountainous, so there are plenty of slopes to ride down and even hikes to go on in the dead of winter. There’s even surfing throughout the country as the swell is much higher in winter with some amazing waves.

For those who can’t stand the icy weather, heading south is a better option. Jeju is always a popular winter escape for most Seoulites. While you may not be able to pop into the ocean (unless you’re a die-hard surfer), you can still walk along the beaches, hike up Hallasan or relax in a sauna at one of the luxury hotels. 

Things to do in Korea in Winter

While you can explore the entire country when the weather is cold, Korea in winter does have some standout places to visit and activities to participate in. Following is a list of our top picks of tourist places, secret locations and wintery activities to do during winter in Korea. 

Explore Seoul

Forget New York , Seoul is really the city that never sleeps. 

It is constantly on, wired, fun and always filled with inventive things to do, from pop up stores to exhibitions to cultural activities. Winter in Seoul is no different and due to the accessibility of transportation you’ll never be stuck out in the cold for too long. 

Subway seats are heated, malls are decked out in festive lights, steam from pojangmacha (tented eateries) wafts through the air and people walk the streets as though it were any day in summer (maybe with a little more clothing). 

On warmer days you can dress up in Hanbok and explore all the palaces. The palaces also make for some amazing photo opportunities on snow days. 

Explore all of the hippest cafes in gentrified Seongsu which will all be heated and cosy; Shop till you drop at in any of the malls including the largest underground shopping mall Starfield COEX. 

Explore all the best food markets like indoor Gwangjang, Noryangjin Fish Market or Garak Wholesale Food Market. Take a cooking class, watch a show, visit a museum or explore UNESCO sites. 

You can practically do all the things on our Guide to Seoul , so check it out and don’t forget to fill out the form and select the time of year to get a personalised guide! 

If you want more of a guided trip around Seoul, here’s a great Seoul guided tour for 2+ people where you can chat to the guide to create a perfect customised itinerary.  Here’s more of an historic tour of the capital and here are discounted rates to theme parks and museums. 

Go ice skating or sledding in and around Seoul

There are makeshift ice rinks and permanent ones to play around in Seoul as well as other parts of the country. They get quite packed on any day of the week, but weekends should be avoided as you may have to wait in a long queue in unpleasant weather. 

Lotte Department Store has a permanent indoor ice rink right at the entrance to Lotte World. So you can make a complete day in the Jamsil area by going to Lotte World , skating in the department store and then going up Lotte World Tower to Seoul Sky viewing platform, the tallest building in Korea and then the Aquarium . 

Other places in the capital which are easily accessible include Seoul Plaza (similar to The Rink At Rockefeller Center), Olympic Park, Sangam MBC Skating Rink, Mokdong Ice Rink (Indoor), or Korea University Ice Skating Rink. 

Even some hotels create ice rinks for the winter including Grand Hyatt and Banyan Tree Club & Spa. Onemount Snow Park is a bit further west if you’re on your way to Gimpo or Incheon and has so much more than just a rink with sledding hills, sled dogs and a Santa Village. 

There are also sledding hills for a whole lot of fun near the capital like Seoulland , Everland , Ttukseom Hangang Park and the Korean Children’s Center Snow Sledding Field (어린이회관 눈썰매장), and facilities in other cities such as Daegu, Busan or Jeonju. 

Feel festive at a department store

Yes we’ve mentioned shopping before and we’ll say it again, malls in Korea are far beyond places to go shopping. Winter is really the best time to visit the department stores as they’re decked out in festive ornaments from giant Christmas trees and fairy lights to winter wonderland pop up exhibitions and massive winter sales. 

The best malls and department stores to visit include Starfield COEX , especially the Instagrammable library, Starfield Hanam , strolling along Dongdaemun and Myeongdong, Lotte World Tower & Mall. When in doubt look for a mall under the following names and you’re sure to have a great time and find some amazing deals – Shinsegae, Lotte, Hyundai, and AK. 

Pro tip: Korea Festa is held annually between 1-15 November where the entire country goes on sale (online too). Yet if you can’t make those dates, there are specials on for the entire season. Korea is very fashion forward and loves to get rid of last season’s items, so you can always find something at a discounted rate. 

Take a hike

Hiking is one of the most popular pastimes for Koreans and with so many mountains and hills to choose from, it’s easy to see why. 

Unless there’s torrential rain or a snowstorm (or a government warning not to go out), there will always be someone on the mountains of South Korea, especially in the larger cities and more popular areas. 

Hiking in Korea in winter is safe, yet you will need to have the right equipment and be quite careful as there may be black ice which is inescapably slippery. 

Unless you’re scaling one of the larger mountains, you won’t need crampons, a good pair of hiking shoes will suffice. Do bring loads of water and snacks and several layers with you as the temperature will drop the higher you go. 

A mountain in Korean is called “san”, so this word will appear in all mountain names, for example, Bukhansan translates to “North of the Han River Mountain”. Top mountains in Seoul include Bukhansan (836m), Gwanaksan (632m), Inwangsan (338m) and Bugaksan (342m).

If you’re an avid hiker and came to Korea in winter to scale mountains, venture out of Seoul and try your feet at the following mountains. And remember to check the Facebook group “ Hiking in Korea ” or one of the many hiking groups in Korea on Meetups : 

• Hallasan in Jeju.
• Taebaeksan, especially Seoraksan, in Gangwon-do. You can actually book a guided tour of Korea’s most beautiful mountain here . 
• Songnisan bordering Gyeongsangbuk-do and Chungcheongbuk-do, which has the largest Buddha statue in the world called Cheongdongmireukbul, and is located in one of Korea’s largest temples, Beopjusa .
• Seonjaryeong Ridge in Pyeongchang, Gangneung, Gangwon-do
• Jirisan in Gyeongsangnam-do
• Naejangsan in Jeollabuk-do

Get a guided tour of Bukhansan with a Korean spa experience here . They take the route up to Samo Rock which takes around 2.5 hours, so you will need to be fairly fit. It ends with lunch and a Korean traditional sauna.

Visit Jeju & see the camellias bloom

Jeju is the perfect place to escape the harsh temperatures of the north. While it can get cold on the island, especially after the sun goes down or high up around Hallasan, it usually lingers around 10°C in the day which is much better than the sub-zero winds of the north. I have personally lived in Jeju in the winter and can confirm that it is wonderful. 

Did you know that some flowers only bloom in winter? Apart from Jeju’s many attractions it’s most well known winter activity is to visit the camellias. 

There’s a very special place in Seogwipo City in Jeju called Camellia Hill (카멜리아힐) or Camellia arboretum, where 6,000 Camellia Trees are in total bloom in an area of over 20-hectares. 

If you missed the cherry blossoms in Spring (in Korea or Japan ), this is your second chance at viewing a gorgeous natural floral sight. The camellias bloom in December and there is a walkway where you can bathe in the beautiful colors. Visit their site for more information like opening times and entrance fees. It’s very close to the Figure Museum for all your kidulting needs and Hello Kitty Island if you love the cutesy cat from Sanrio Japan .

Take a guided tour to all of Jeju’s best sites including UNESCO areas, the South route of Hallasan, a visit to the Jusangjeolli cliff and Cheonjiyeon falls, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Manjanggul Cave, Woljeongri Beach and so much more (includes hotel pick up and entry fees!). Book your tour online here . 

Wondae-ri Birch Forest

While the trees at the Wondae-ri Birch Forest are beautiful all year around, they are especially stunning during winter, making it one of the top winter activities in Korea for locals and tourists. 

While it may seem natural, it actually took the government 20 years and 690,000 trees to create this amazing space. After a fire, the government replanted the trees in an act of conservation and now attracts over 200,000 visitors a year.

There are 7 trails leading to the birch tree forest and ranging in difficulty and timing. All trails are fairly easy and are between 1-3 kms which means it will take around 40mins to 2 hrs of total walking time. 

Wondae-ri Birch Forest is in Inje County in Gangwon Province which is around a 2hr bus ride from Seoul. To get there, take the intercity bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울 종합버스터미널) to Inje Intercity Bus Terminal (인제 시외버스터미널) which is roughly 1.5 hrs and costs around 13,000 won. You can then choose to either take a taxi to Wondae-ri Birch Forest (roughly 20,000 won, 15 mins – show the driver this: “원대리” and say “Wondae-ri kayo”) or take the Inje City bus (around 2,500 won, 40 mins) and get off at Wondae-ri (원대리) bus stop. It’s about a 10 min walk from the bus stop. You will need to register at the counter, where you can go to the toilet and pick up a free map of the area. We highly recommend a taxi both ways, but definitely going back so you can make the bus back to Seoul in time and without worry. Buses are also limited and you could be waiting in the cold for a very long time if you choose the bus.  Park opening times are 9:00-18:00 (3 May-31 Oct) with last entry at 15:00. And then 9:00-17:00 (16 Dec-18 Mar) with last entry at 14:00.

Go ice fishing

If you decide to visit Wondae-ri Birch Forest, why not try your hand at ice fishing, another Korean winter activity in Inje County. 

The Inje Icefish Festival is held annually in January at Soyangho Lake. The coldwater fish swim up to the ice in winter where you can try catching them just underneath the hard surface. 

The most popular place to go ice fishing is probably Hwacheon-gun, also in Gangwon-do. The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is a super fun and bustling festival where you can brave the elements, put on a t-shirt and jump into the icy waters for barehanded fishing. It’s also very close to the DMZ , so you could possibly combine your trip with a tour while you’re so far north.

Pop over to Pyeongchang

Pyeongchang is known as the city of nature and sports. It’s where the 1999 Asian Winter Games , the 2018 Winter Paralympics and the 2018 Winter Olympic Games were held and it’s just around 2 hours on the KTX from Seoul. 

The beautiful Odaesan National Park with the calm Woljeongsa Temple and Sangwonsa Temple is great for peace, quiet and nature. Some call it the Korean Alps. 

Alpensia Ski Resort is one of the top in the country as it was a large focus of the 2018 Winter Olympics. It also has one of the top Instagrammable spots in winter in Korea, Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch (대관령 양떼목장), a privately owned 195sqm ranch with a 40 min walking loop. 

The solo wooden shack with the massive snow-covered hill has become a photo favorite, just look at the images on their website to see. You can also feed some of the 200 sheep. 

Ari Hills Resort Skywalk Observatory is another spot for photo opportunities at 583m above sea level and hanging over the cliffs in Jeongseon (it’s also called the Byeongbangchi or Jeongseon Skywalk).

For culture you can visit the Jeonggangwon Traditional Korean Food Culture Experience Center where you can learn how to make traditional Korean foods in Hanok, from pastes like gochujang (chili paste) and doenjang (soy bean paste) to authentic dishes like songpyeon (half-moon rice cake) and injeolmi (Korean traditional rice cake). 

The Pyeongchang Trout Festival is yet another activity during winter in Korea that you may want to try. After catching your trout, you can take it to one of the nearby eateries where they will prepare a dish for you. There is more to fishing at the festivities from folk games like spinning tops to snow rafting.

The best way to get to Pyeongchang is to take the KTX either from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station. It’s about a 1.5 hr journey depending where you catch the train from and costs around 30,000 won one way. The city is quite large and while there is public transportation, it’s advisable to hire a car so that you can get around quicker to the more far flung places. Try Lotte Renta Car (together with Hertz) and always remember to carry cash on hand for toll gates (there are many) and don’t use the HiPass lane unless your car comes with a HiPass card (ask before you leave). Don’t rent a car from Seoul, rather catch the KTX and then hire one at Pyeongchang Station. You might even choose to stay the night in Gangneung for some winter beach scenery. 

Garden of the Morning Calm

Gapyeong in northern Gyeonggi Province borders Gangwon Province and is therefore surrounded by extremely beautiful nature. The most popular spot to visit is the gorgeous Garden of Morning Calm , which was founded by professor Sang-kyung Han and opened in 1996. 

The title “Land of Morning Calm” originated from a poem by Indian wordsmith Rabindranath Tagore who believed the country to be “The Lamp of the East”. The curves and asymmetric lines of the garden make it very interesting to look at and walk around. As Korea has four very distinct seasons, the garden exemplifies each of them through nature.  

There are 5,000 kinds of plants to explore and the Sukgeun Garden, which is shaped like the Korean peninsula, is heavenly. This is why Garden of the Morning Calm attracts upwards of 600,000 visitors per year. The Lighting Festival during the Korean winter season is a reason to visit alone. 

To get there take the Gyeongchun Line or ITX to Cheongpyeong Station and then walk around 1km or take a taxi or the local bus. The complete trip one way from Seoul is around 2.5 hours. 

Pro tip: Many bloggers say that popular Nami Island and Petit France are quite close by, but they’re actually quite far if you’re using public transport (roughly 1.5-2 hours by bus). If you have a car on the other hand, the trip will only be roughly 30mins to either depending on traffic, so it would make a great combination to see all three sites at once. 

You can book a tour to Garden of Morning Calm, combined with a choice of Nami Island, Petit France and other sites in the area here .

Pick strawberries in Namyangju

A fun winter Korean activity for the entire family that isn’t too much of a trek from Seoul is to pick strawberries in Namyangju City in northeast Gyeonggi Province. 

Namyangju is well known for its organic strawberry farms where there are many and just about all of them allow guests to spend the day picking strawberries for a minor fee. 

The reason why this is such a great thing to do in winter in Korea is the fact that all the strawberries grow in greenhouses, so you are basically indoors away from the wind. It’s actually really warm inside the little greenhouses. 

The experience starts from around 10-12,000 won for kids and adults, but prices will vary depending which farm you visit (up to about 20-30,000 won). You usually walk away with a 500g plastic container of strawberries, but you also get to eat as much of the delicious fruit directly after picking it. There are also paid options to make jam to take home. 

Pro tip : Due to the organic nature of the strawberries, there are bees buzzing around in order to spread the pollen. There are usually no complications, but if you or your kids are either scared of bees or are allergic, you may want to reconsider the experience or visit a farm that doesn’t use such methods. 

Two options you can try are YaeDang Farm or Daega Farm . Get your hotel concierge to help with a booking as you will need to speak Korean. Reservations are mandatory and strawberry picking season only starts in January. Namyangju is easily reached by bus with about a 1.5 hr journey from Seoul (1 hr by car) and is near Paldang dam (where the Han River splits into north and south). 

Visit Nami Island & explore Chuncheon

Nami Island has become one of the busiest tourist destinations in the country due to being featured in several Korean dramas, most noticeably 2002’s Winter Sonata . The main draw of the location is its extreme natural beauty with tree lined walkways and gorgeous forests. It’s probably the most Instagrammed place in the country, and due to its proximity to Seoul, is a fun day trip to see a more rustic part of the country without long travel times. 

It’s still extremely popular in Hallyu circles around the world, especially in the Philippines as the first Filipino-Korean romantic comedy series, “ My Korean Jagiya ”, was also shot here. 

As it’s in Chuncheon, which is right outside of Seoul, Nami Island makes a quick day getaway from the capital. You can actually go at any time of the year but winter really brings out its magic with the rows of snow-covered birch trees in pretty little lanes. 

Other than getting photo-happy in Nami Island, you can make a day of it in and around Chuncheon, the capital of Gangwon Province. In the summer it’s known for kayaking along the river, but there are plenty of things to keep you busy during the winter too. 

Make visits to Parisian theme park Petite France , ride along the tracks on the Gimyujeong Rail Bike , stroll around Jade Garden Natural Arboretum , hike up to small temple Cheongpyeongsa, visit the cafe at KT&G Sangsangmadang Art Center & hotel (the same company that has a famous building in Hongdae) and be sure to eat the famed dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) at Chuncheon Myeongdong Dakgalbi Street (yes there’s a small Myeongdong in Chuncheon too).

This may all sound very daunting for someone planning a trip, which sites do you choose, how do you get there, should you hire a car or take a bus. If this is your situation we highly recommend taking a tour which will cut out planning stress. You can choose to go to one or all of the following Nami Island, Petit France, Garden of Morning Calm, the Rail Bike and even Alpaca World! The tour has pickup from Myeongdong or Hongdae and lasts the entire. Book this very highly rated tour here !

Go to the southeast coast, to Busan & Gyeongju

Going down south during winter in Korea is a really clever thing to do if you really dislike the cold as it will be at least 10°C. If you can’t make the flight to Jeju and don’t want to ferry to the thousand islands around the peninsula, visiting the southeast coast is a great option. 

Start your winter journey in Busan, the second-most populous city in the nation. While Busan is mostly known for its popular beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli, as a tourist and expat hotspot, it also thrives during the winter. 

Many of the most popular tourist attractions are indoors and therefore perfect for the cold. You have the Busan Sea Life Aquarium , the giant Spa Land right inside Shinsegae Department Store, Jagalchi Fish Market which is great to explore at any time of the year and you can even stroll along the desolate beaches on warmer days or to Haedong Yonggungsa a Buddhist temple on the coast. 

If you’re looking for winter specific activities in Busan, give ice skating a go at Shinsegae Department Store, view the Busan Christmas Tree Festival along the streets of Gwangbok-ro in Jung-gu district, or take the plunge at the Haeundae Polar Swim Festival in January.

Moving north you can visit Gyeongju, the city that is often referred to as “the museum without walls” due to its vast beauty and historic sites. 

There are multiple UNESCO sites in Gyeongju to explore and each has a charm of its own. Within the vast Bulguksa Temple lies Seokguram grotto , a stone temple made of granite with the impressive Bonjon Bodhisattva Statue.

You can explore an ancient traditional yangban (traditional ruling class of Korea) village from the Joseon dynasty at Yangdong Folk Village, the giant mounds of earth at the Daereungwon Tomb Complex (also called Tumuli Park), night stroll at Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, or see the snow covered Bomun Pavilion. 

Another option is to forest bathe among the pine trees most impressively captured by photographer Bae Bien-U . Gyeongju is extremely different from Busan and more for nature lovers, poets and dreamers. 

See more about transportation and walking courses of the city on its website . We’d highly recommend hiring a bicycle if the weather is pleasant enough, rental shops are all over the place including one next to Gyeongju National Museum and will be about ₩3,000 an hour or ₩15,000 for the day. 

You can access the southern coast easily from Seoul via the KTX or ITX (we always use Railninja , just note that you may not get the exact time you want if trains are too busy).

Confused on where to start and how to plan? You’re in luck as there’s a perfect combined Busan and Gyeongju guided tour that is customized just for you. It can go up to 9 hours and is customized to your wants and needs where you get to create an itinerary of your choice or just follow a suggested one. It’s in either English or Chinese. Book your awesome full day tour here . You can also do separate tours of Busan and Gyeongju if you’d like a bit more time in each area. Here’s a hanbok tour of Gyeongju for a fully immersive cultural exploration and a full day Busan tour here .

Go skiing in Korea

Wondering if you can ski in Korea during winter? Of course you can! 

The mountainous country has some really stunning alpine resorts where you can ride the powder as soon as the temperature starts dropping. 

While skiing and snowboarding in Korea doesn’t have the sparse natural splendor of the Swiss Alps and other European countries it does have a few great options. 

If there is a lack of snowfall in a particular year, there are snow machines, so you will always have powder on the slopes although it may be a very thin layer. 

Most resorts have top-tier hotels, eating halls and other activities to partake in from waterparks and festive light displays to sledding and sheep farms! If you can, it’s best to stay over for at least one night. You can also look for hotel and ski packages by visiting their websites included below on our list. 

Rental gear is easily available and fairly affordable at all resorts, but a tip for those who’d like to purchase their own gear, you can head over to Nonhyeon-ro in Seoul’s Gangnam where all the best snowboard and ski stores are clumped together. 

The section with all the shops is between exit 3/4 Hakdong Station and exits 2/3 Onsu Station. There are also a few more if you continue walking toward Yeoksam Station. 

Be cautious of skiing and snowboarding in Korea as spatial distancing is very different in the country. You may need to dodge people who have decided to sit in the middle of the slopes and chat for no apparent reason without moving to the sides. So please be cautious, I only speak from experience. 

And remember to always have travel insurance in case something should happen, like a broken collarbone or jaw (true story). We trust Safetywing or WorldNomads with providing extensive travel insurance while on the go.

Here are a few of the best ski resorts near Seoul in either Gyeonggi or Gangwon Province.

• High1 Ski Resort (하이원리조트 스키장). Very popular with locals and large, about 3 hours from Seoul in Jeongsan (20 slopes spread over 3 peaks). Check out High1 Condominium here or the High1 Palace Hotel here . 
• Vivaldi Ski World (비발디 파크 스키월드). Another local favorite and only an hour from Seoul in Hongcheon (12 slopes). Check out the Vivaldi hotel here .
• Welli Hilli Park Ski Resort (웰리힐리파크). On the way to Pyeongchang, but a little closer for convenience at 1.5 hrs (18 slopes). Check out Welli Hilli Park Ski Resort hotel here .
• Jisan Forest Ski Resort (지산 포레스트 리조트 스키장). Easily accessible from Seoul in about 2 hours by bus in Icheon, not Incheon! (7 main slopes). There is no hotel per se here, but you can find the condominium here . 
• Oak Valley Ski Resort (오크밸리 리조트). This one is in Wonju in Gangwon-do, about 2 hrs from Seoul and is usually a bit less crowded than the rest (7 slopes). Check out the Oak Valley Ski Resort here .
• Bears Town Ski Resort (베어스타운리조트 스키장). Less than 1 hr from Seoul in Pocheon (11 slopes). Check out the Bears Town Resort here .
• Elysian Gangchon Resort (엘리시안 강촌 스키장). 90 minutes from Seoul and has (10 slopes). Check out the Elysian Gangchon Resort here .
• Konjiam Resort . A very quick 40 Minutes South of Seoul with 9 ski slopes from intermediate to advanced. Check out Konjiam Resort here .

Best ski resorts in Pyeongchang

• Alpensia Ski Resort (알펜시아리조트 스키장). Location of the Pyeongchang Olympics (6 slopes). See our section on Pyeongchang above for more info. There are a few resorts to stay at near the slopes. Two of the most popular are the Intercontinental for luxe, the Holiday Inn Suites for upper tier or the Holiday Inn close by.
• Yongpyong Resort (용평리조트 스키장). First and largest ski resort in Korea and another location for the Pyeongchang Olympics (28 slopes). We found an online package deal here . 
• Phoenix Park (휘닉스 평창). Also in Pyeongchang and chosen as the venue for freestyle skiing and snowboarding in the Olympics (21 slopes). Check out the Phoenix Pyeongchang Resort here .

Korean winter festivals & theme parks

Lotte World is a great place to visit in winter

We have mentioned a few winter festivals in Korea throughout the article, but thought it might be nice to add a few more of the top ones to explore. Decide which seems fun for you and then go and explore! 

• Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival (태백산 눈축제). Snow sculpture festival where you can have a cup of coffee inside an igloo, do some ice sledding or go on a snow hike. The festival runs for 10 days in the beginning of January. 
• Seoul Land (서울랜드) festivals. The Winterlight Festival is an LED light festival running throughout winter at night where the entire space is transformed into a huge light concert hall with classical music, lighting, 3D mapping shows and fireworks. They also have a yearly Christmas Party running from late November to early December and a Snow Part in January. Get discounted tickets to Seoul Land here . 
• annual Christmas Party (롯데월드) festivals. Lotte World has annual events in winter like “Make A Miracle Winter Festival” where visitors can see Christmas decorations, go to Santa’s Village and see the Happy Christmas Parade. It’s also the most easily accessible theme park as it’s right in the Gangnam District of Songpa-gu. Pop over to the Lotte World Tower & Mall for a complete day of wintery fun. 
• Boseong Green Tea Plantation Light Festival (보성차밭빛축제). If you’re going down south near Yeosu, you may be interested in visiting Boseong where the tea plantations are located. Between November and January they have a festival of lights and is where the entire Korea Festival of Lights begins. There are also fireworks and cultural performances.
• Seoul Lantern Festival (서울빛초롱축제). If you can’t make it that far south, just mozy on over to the Cheongyecheon, the stream that runs through central Seoul, to see the amazing annual Seoul Lantern Festival. It started in 2009 and has been going every year, usually between October and January and is really amazing and super convenient with displays of all kinds running from Jongno all the way to Dongdaemun. 
• Daegwallyeong Snow Festival (대관령 눈꽃축제). Probably the biggest snow festival near Seoul, this festival in Pyeongchang is similar to the Taebaek Snow Festival and has lights, sculptures, sledding, horse riding and a whole lot of great street food. The festival runs for 10 days in mid January. 

Christmas in Korea  

A little known fact about South Korea is that Christianity is the country’s most popular religion with 20% being Protestant and 8% Catholics. Buddhism comes a close second with 15.5%, but 57% of South Koreans do not abide by any religion. So, other than the Christian population who will visit the various Churches, most of the country takes the day off as it is a public holiday. 

While the majority of the country does not adhere to any particular religion, Christmas is seen as a couples day where dating couples and families will spend the day relaxing or traveling. But just because most Koreans don’t celebrate the birthday of Jesus it doesn’t mean there aren’t any festivities. You will see the usual Santa’s all over the place, festive lights, carols and most importantly, massive sales!

The atmosphere is one of celebration and romance as the fairy lights and festive carols are ubiquitous throughout the season. Christmas day in Korea is calm, peaceful and free with couples exploring the cities away from the watching eyes of their parents. 

New Year in Korea 

Western New Year in Korea (Dec 31) is quite a party just like anywhere else in the world, but it’s more of a western thing so it’s not too big of a deal. You can watch celebrities hit the Bosingak Bell in Jongno (Jonggak Station line 1) for the countdown or party in university towns like Hongdae. 

There are fireworks all over Seoul from Lotte World Tower (that last 555 seconds to represent the 555 m that make the skyscraper) and COEX Mall and an epic light show at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). 

If you’re more of a nature person, you can travel to the east coast to watch the first sun of the year come up in places like Ganjeolgot Cape Park in Ulju-gun, Ulsan, Homigot Sunrise Square (호미곶 해맞이광장) in Pohang City, Gyeongsangbuk-do or Gyeongpo Beach Sunrise Festival in coffee town Gangneung, Gangwon-do. 

If you’re younger, the atmosphere is electric and all-night benders will have you partying till sunrise. For those not too much into the party scene, the typical New Year hope wafts through the air of the country, but most people will go to sleep at a normal time and treat it like any other day of the year. 

While public transportation usually closes at around 12, it is usually extended for about 2 hours in New Years Day, so you can ride the subway until 2am  in Seoul. It’s always best to make sure before you go though, especially if you need to transfer. Otherwise, taxis are always available, but you may need to wait quite a long time as it is extremely busy throughout the night. Prices may also jolt up. 

Seollal (설날) in Korea

Chuseok (in September or October) and Seollal (in January or February) are the two most important holidays in Korea. In other parts of the world it’s known as Chinese or Lunar New Year where most of Asia goes on holiday and celebrates the coming of the new year. 

If you are visiting Korea during this period, know that travel will be quite difficult and most stores will be closed during the period. Seoul usually becomes a ghost town as everyone goes to their hometowns, but there are festivities such as eating tteokguk (rice cake soup) and playing yutnori (a traditional board game) around major sites like Gyeongbokgung in Seoul.

Seollal is also important in Korea as the entire country becomes one year older together. Age in Korea is a bit different in Korea than in other countries as you are born 1 year old, not 0 and Seollal marks the one year older mark for everyone. A bowl of tteokguk solidifies this one year age difference. This shows the country’s importance on unity and insignificance on individualism, as all grow older and wiser together.

Charye is celebrated, which is a highly structured ritual of ancestor reverence, with loads of food for guests and ancestors. Charye is dying down with newer generations preferring to relax during this time, but it is generally a time for family and thanksgiving to those who came before.

While most of the country is closed down during Seollal, recreational and cultural facilities like amusement parks, national parks, and major palaces stay open to the public. They usually have cultural celebrations too like traditional games for families.

Korean winter food

You may be asking, “Why is there a section on Korean winter food, I know exactly which Korean foods I want to try!” 

Well, Koreans are very particular about food and during seasonal changes restaurants will also change their menus as there is an unwritten rule that you “should” or “shouldn’t” eat certain foods at particular times of the year. 

You won’t be able to find the chewy iced noodle dish naengmyeon (냉면) or the delicious soy bean soup kongguksu (콩국수), for example. Shaved ice dessert patbingsu (팥빙수) is also taken off most cafe menus. So what food is left in Korea during the winter? Loads!  

Street food is the best place to start on your wintery culinary journey. Why? Because there’s nothing like standing in a pojangmacha (street street stall) with steam all over the place as the snow falls down. 

Koreans love their roasted sweet potatoes (고구마), which you just eat straight from the coals. Hotteok (호떡) is a delicious sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts and cinnamon. Hoppang (호빵) is hotteok’s bready counterpart which is a steamed ball of dough filled either sweet or savory.

Ddeokbbeokki (떡뻑기), stir-fried rice cakes, is a go-to street food at any time of the year, but it’s spicy and sweet flavor will surely heat you up. It usually comes alongside eomuk tang/odeng tang (fish cake soup), which you drink out of a paper cup, boiled eggs and scallions. 

You can also find delicious egg bread (계란빵) at certain food markets, which is sweet bread filled with an egg in the middle. Fish Bread (붕어빵) gets its name from its shape and not its taste (it’s filled with sweet red bean paste) and hodo kwaja (호두과자 – walnut shaped pastry) are other great on-the-go warm snacks.  

Beyond street food there are some winners for Korean winter food at sit-down establishments. Start with a hearty soup, stew or broth which you will have many many choices. If the meal ends with tang (탕) or jjigae (찌개) you know that it’s going to come in watery and boiling hot. 

Start your winter Korean food journey with kimchi jjigae (김치찌개) a classic stew made with kimchi, dubu jjigae (두부찌개) similar but with tofu (soon or 순 means soft so soondubu jjigae is the softer kind).

Galbi-tang (갈비탕) is a beef short rib stew, seolleongtang (설렁탕) is ox bone soup and similar to ox bone hangover soup called ppyeo-haejangguk (뼈해장국) where haejang-guk (해장국) means anytype of hangover soup and will cure your thumping headaches. If you’re craving chicken try some jjim dalk (찜닭), a ganjang (soy sauce) based steam chicken dish. 

There is plenty more to eat, so take our complete guide of food in Korea with you to get a better sense of the amazing dishes the country has to offer along with some cultural faux pas and history. 

If you’re not sure where to begin you can take a food tour combined with a cooking class here . There are also vegetarian tours and nightlife foodie tours to get you started on your Seoul culinary journey. There’s a private street food tour and a Bukchon Hanok Village walking tour with food tasting. 

What to pack for winter in Korea

All Koreans (and local expats) know that you survive winter in Korea by using layers. Layers and layers. This is for two reasons. 

The first is to keep you warm outside obviously. The more layers you have on, the warmer you will be. The second reason is that when you walk inside you will be blasted with the most aggressive heating system you’ve ever experienced. 

I have personally ridden in buses when it’s negative outside but I’m sweating like it’s a sauna in the bus. Then you walk back outside and it’s freezing again. Wearing layers allows you to be comfortable when you change from the outside to inside and back out again. 

UNIQLO sells an awesome product called Heattech which is thin and retains heat quite well. Korean brand Top 10 has similar items that are a bit cheaper. So if you do find that you haven’t packed enough layers, you can easily purchase more just about anywhere in the country. 

Pro tip: Local fits are Asian and therefore smaller. I wear an L in the west but am an XL in Korea, so make sure you know your size in cm before you go shopping. I am a 105 t-shirt for example. 

Apart from thermal or insulated innerwear, you will also need a parker with a hood if you’re exploring the outdoors and pretty sturdy shoes, preferably waterproof ones for snow like these boots from North Face or more slip on/off friendly ones from North Face so that the snow doesn’t become water that sinks into your socks. 

Black ice is a real issue and people go unexpectedly sliding all over the place, so shoes with grip are preferred. You may have to take off your shoes in certain places, so ones with a zip that slip on and off easily will also help a lot. Thick socks are also a plus. 

If it’s blowing at all, you’ll need something to cover your appendages, lest you want to feel like an icicle. Gloves always come in handy, as does a scarf and beanie. 

Note on shopping in Korea during winter. There are always sales on in Korea, especially in the “Event Hall” in most department stores. So if you did forget anything, it’s amazingly easy to pop into a store and get whatever you need. But it is advisable to at least bring a thick jacket on arrival so that you can at least make it to the shops. 

More tips on winter in Korea

Here are a few more additional tips to keep you warm during your winter in Korea. 

Hot packs . Hot packs are super cool little bundles of joy that you can buy just about anywhere. As soon as you land in Incheon, you can go directly to any convenience store in the airport and purchase a few of them or buy them on Amazon here . They are about the size of a hand, all you do is crush them and they miraculously heat up and stay heated for between 6-12 hours! They’re around $1 each. 

Beware the indoor heat . As mentioned before, everything is heated in Korea in winter, from the subway seats to the buses to the shopping malls. Over and above the standard heating, Korea has an ancient system called ondol where steam passes through pipes under the floor so that the floor is heated! Most hotels, restaurants and even some Templestays have ondol, so ask your concierge about it so that you know how to work the heating system when you arrive. 

Keep hydrated . Winter in Korea is extremely dry. The weather in general is much cleaner than in the summer, but you will experience a dryness like never before. Always keep some lozenges with you, which you can buy at any pharmacy or convenience store (ask for mok candy (목 캔디) which translates to throat candy). 

A pharmacy or drug store is called a yakguk (약국) and they are literally everywhere, sometimes 4 per block. They also have elixirs or all kinds and the awesome Vita-500 (vita obek) for an instant shot of vitamin C or warm ginseng drinks called hongsam (홍삼). 

And always carry water with you, especially on public transportation where the temperature changes drastically and may make you cough uncontrollably. Indoors heating will also make you sweat more than you think so you’ll need water to keep hydrated. 

Black ice . If you skipped the section above, you may have missed my recommendation to wear waterproof shoes with a nice grip. I suggest you venture back up to read that. Snow and water quickly become ice and if you aren’t well equipped you’ll meet this hidden foe in the worst way possible, with a slip and thud! The waterproof shoes also save your toes from absorbing melted snow. I speak from experience when I say that snow melting through your shoes and into your socks is no fun. 

Visiting a jjimjilbang . Jjimjilbang are Korean-style saunas, much like Japanese onsen. They are all over the country and you can find them in any city. Visiting a jjimjilbang is a uniquely Korean experience and a part of the culture. They are visited any time of the year, but winter is especially great as you get to warm yourself up in the blistering hot waters, the perfect escape from the cold. They are super cheap, roughly $10 for the day and you can even sleep there overnight as many are open 24/7 and have public sleeping rooms.

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
• I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
• Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
• Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
• Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

You may also like

Where to stay in seoul and best hotels, the most delicious korean food, safety in south korea, everything you need to know about traveling onboard..., complete seoul itinerary – 2, 4 & 7..., amazing south korean festivals you cannot miss, alpine luxury villages – andermatt or st. moritz, all the best day trips from seoul, 50+ insider south korea travel tips from a..., 30+ facts on south korea.

A Guide to Winter in Korea: Survival Tips

I occasionally get questions about winter in Korea, so I thought I’d publish this guide in full! Here are some tips on staying warm and places to visit if you plan on visiting during the colder months.

I should warn you, I’m not a very wintry person. If I was allowed to, I’d eat my weight in food in November and then sleep like a bear from December – March. I haven’t been super far north of Seoul because it’s a mission and a half to get most places in Gangwon-do (where the Olympics were) from where I lived in Jeolla, but I do know enough to give you some tips on surviving the weather and where to go.

Quick Korea Guide

• Getting in: Chances are you’re flying into Incheon International Airport. Don’t spend a ton of money on getting a taxi into Seoul. Just use the subway which is super nice and easy to use. They even have arrows on the ground! If you do need a private transfer, just book ahead .
• Stay in Touch: Korea has the best thing ever – eSIMs! No need to worry about losing your physical SIM card anymore. Just buy here and you’ll be emailed a QR code which will set you up!
• Where to Book Activities: I always like checking Klook or Trazy for the best deals on anything related to tours and experiences in Korea.
• Getting Around: In Seoul and Busan, you’ll always be able to use the subway, walk, and/or grab a taxi. Uber/Lyft/etc don’t work in Korea; download Kakao T instead. Even the Korean countryside has some sort of bus or taxi system AND for nearly all ski resorts, etc have shuttles and different transportation options.

Check my South Korea travel tips post for more

Tips for Winter in Korea

The sections are broken up into the following, so if you want to skip to one, you can just click on the links.:

What’s the Weather Really Like

• What Should I Pack + Wear?
• Places to Visit in Korea During Winter
• Skiing in Korea

What to Eat to Stay Warm

Any extra korea winter travel tips.

The winter season lasts through late November – early March. The regions vary in how cold they can get. Closer to the northern border can be miserably freezing and down south in Jeju can be a lot milder. Seoul is almost always around 10F colder compared to Suncheon , where I lived and which is about 4 hours by car.

Gangwondo , where the Pyeongchang Olympics were held, is the most northern province, so it’s also the coldest. Temperatures can dip as low as 0F (-18C).

So, TL;DR it gets pretty damn cold! If you’re familiar with the U.S. Northeast, I’d say the weather is fairly similar. It’s that kind of damp cold that can seep into your bones if you don’t have the right outerwear.

What to Pack and Wear

I walked or took public transportation almost every day in Korea, so I was outside for at least 30 minutes at a time. I run really hot, but I’m also an absolute wuss when it comes to being cold, so this is what I wear or layer on:

• Tops: A Heattech tank or long sleeve top , a light T-shirt, a sweater, and a winter jacket with insulation. The jacket in these pics was from E-mart, but the zipper fell apart after the winter was over, so I gave it away. If you’re in Korea, I got one similar to this style from the Men’s section of UNIQLO but if you’re traveling from abroad, you can easily buy a cuter style before coming. The key is to find something built against the damp cold. I’ve since gotten a long wool coat from Nordstrom and a Patagonia jacket. I do still have the UNIQLO coat, and it’s been a few years, so know the quality holds up!
• Bottoms: Leggings or Heattech leggings – some people I know will wear two!
• Socks: Warm socks depending on the day. Get merino wool socks if you can. UNIQLO also has Heattech socks but I haven’t tried them myself.
• Shoes: So, this really depends on where you go and how much you plan on being in the snow. If it’s a lot, invest in some solid, waterproof snowshoes. I personally have Merell winter boots that have yet to let me down but I bought them after living in Korea. Otherwise, you don’t need such heavy duty boots (I had Sorel boots that I wore exactly twice and gave away before moving). I frequently wore shoes you could slip in and out of for school, so I had the classic Uggs (well, ugg-like boots), slip-on moccasin type shoes, and regular black sneakers. Roads and sidewalks were always pretty clear where I lived, so I didn’t worry about slippery paths or walking through snow too much.
• Extra: Some sort of knit scarf. I had a slew of them but by far my favorite is my alpaca knit scarf bought somewhere in the Atacama Desert! Wool, cashmere, and alpaca are by far the best and coziest materials.
• NOTE: I hardly ever wore gloves or hats mostly because I lost them too often, but if you get cold then I’d get ear warmers as well.

** If you’re wondering why there’s so much UNIQLO in here, it’s because it’s the one place I could reliably go to for decent quality clothing that fit me! It usually goes up to XL and is a solid XL (unlike H&M which varied greatly). If you’re plus size coming to Korea, you absolutely want to get what you need beforehand because it’s a wasteland for any over a size S or M. **

Places to Visit in Korea During the Winter

If you’re looking to get your snowy fix, then there are  plenty  of places to visit in Korea in winter.

I’d plan my itinerary around  Seoul , Gyeonggi-do,  and  Gangwon-do for your best chances of snow, though I will say I’ve seen some beautiful snowfalls in Jeollabuk-do as well.

If you’re hoping to  avoid freezing temperatures, then I’d head to  Jeju , Jeollanam-do, Busan ,  and  Gyeongsangnam-do  where it’s cold but not quite so terrible.

Things to Do in Korea in Winter

If you plan on what you want to do during the winter, it’ll help you decide on which specific cities or towns you’ll want to stay in. Here are some of the different activities:

Go ice skating

Of course ice skating! There are plenty of places to go in Seoul and some of the bigger cities in Korea. I imagine the rinks can get pretty crowded at peak times, so just be aware when you’re planning to go then. Some popular places in Seoul are:

• Lotte World (which is indoors)
• Seoul Plaza
• Onemount Snow Park

Hiking is popular in all seasons (though maybe not in the dead of summer), and it’s pretty popular in the winter as well! I hiked Jogyesan over Christmas weekend one year, and I still would like to go back to Daedunsan to see the bridges in the snow.

Koreans do love hiking and don’t let a little thing like freezing weather stop them. In fact, it’s a big thing to go hiking for sunrise on January 1st.

Spend the day at a jjimjilbang (찜질방)

One way to warm up from a chilly day (and find somewhere cheap to sleep that night) is at a jjimjilbang! Basically, they’re public baths separated by gender, and they’re amazing. There are jjimjilbangs almost everywhere and at least one even in the smallest of towns.

Just make sure you shower before you hop into one of the baths!

If you’re staying in Seoul, I loved Siloam Sauna near Seoul Station. The beds are even sectioned off, so you get your own private space! I’ve also heard good things about Dragon Hill Spa, and you can get tickets here.

Go ice fishing

I have never in my life felt any inkling to go ice fishing anywhere, but it’s an option if that’s your thing. The popular areas for it are up in Gangwon-do, near Hwacheon and Sokcho . If you want, you can book tickets here for the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival.

Visit Chuncheon & Other Fairytale Inspired Places

Chuncheon is right outside of Seoul and often a great day or weekend getaway for anyone living in the city . You can explore Nami Island, go to Petite France, wander around the Garden of the Morning Calm, and check out the very cool Cheongyang ice fountain.

Other fairytale-inspired places include Meta Provence down in Damyang, Edelweiss Swiss , Namhae’s German Village , and another Provence village in Paju.

Visit the various temples and palaces

I’ve visited Korean temples in all sorts of weather at this point, and they’re by far the most beautiful in the snow. The fall foliage and the cherry blossoms are a close second, but there’s something about how white snow contrasts with the temple colors that make them stand out.

As a bonus, since it’s so cold out when it snows, you might wind up with the whole place to yourself!

Go to the different winter festivals

Korea  loves its festivals. Think of anything and there’s probably a festival for it! Below are a few of the popular winter ones:

• Taebaksan Winter Festival
• Pyeongchang Trout Festival
• Jaraseom Singsing Festival
• Hwacheon Sancheono Ice Festival
• Inje Icefish Festival

Watch the Sunrise

Like I said above, a big thing to do is to hike or visit one of the coasts to catch the sunrise. There are different places to do this everywhere, so it just depends on where you’re at.

If you’re not much of a sunrise person, then the sunsets are just as beautiful! One year when I went with Elissa and her sister to Busan and we ended our day trip watching the sunset from Haeundae.

Enjoy the Winter Holidays in Korea

Besides, the regular New Year, there are two other big holidays that happen in the winter: Christmas and Lunar New Year !

Christmas is quite a bit different in Korea than what you might be used to. It’s actually quite the couples’ holiday! That doesn’t mean Korea doesn’t get into the festive spirit. You’ll definitely see plenty of holiday decor, especially in the cafes, and even Seoul has its own Christmas markets through the month of December. My friend Hallie, has a good Christmas in Seoul guide if you’re looking to get in the spirit!

Seollal (설날)

Just like Chuseok around September or October, Seollal is one of the two most important holidays in Korean culture. You might also know it as the Chinese or Lunar New Year. It usually falls sometime in January or February, and funnily enough, I was always in another country for it since I could stack my winter vacation time with the days we got off for Seollal! This year the main day is on January 25th.

If you’re in town, though, just be prepared that many places may be closed on the actual day. On the flip side, though, the palaces are open and free, and you’ll probably see Seoul at its emptiest since most Koreans go home and winter isn’t really high season for travel!

If you really want to get in the Seollal spirit, look into eating some tteokguk and playing some yutnori! I love tteokguk; am not so great at playing yutnori haha.

Skiing in Korea: Where to Go

The must-do thing this season? Go skiing in Korea ! As I always tell people, this country is mostly mountainous, which means there are a lot of incredible ski resorts around the country.

The nice thing is that Korean ski slopes seem to be quite safe compared to some of the stories I’ve heard about the more advanced slopes in Europe or Japan.

You can also easily rent your gear at the resort for pretty cheap, and they’ll most likely have your size! I was a little worried I wouldn’t be able to fit at a US Size 14-16, but the guy handed me the right pair just looking at me.

Here are a few I found near Seoul in either Gyeonggi-do or Gangwon-do.

Alpensia Ski Resort (알펜시아리조트 스키장)

Alpensia was one of the main locations for the Pyeongchang Olympics in Taebaksan. Its name is a mix of Alpen (German for “the Alps”) and Asia, and there are 6 different slopes to choose from.

• Alpensia Shuttle Bus from Seoul
• Alpensia Private Lesson
• 2D1N Alpensia Ski Resort Tour from Seoul

Bears Town Ski Resort (베어스타운리조트 스키장)

Bears Town is less than an hour away from Seoul in Pocheon . It has 11 slopes from beginner to advanced.

• 1 Day Trip from Seoul

Elysian Ganchon Resort (엘리시안 강촌 스키장)

Elysian is about 90 minutes from Seoul and has 10 slopes, 8 of which are for beginners and intermediate skiers.

• Elysian and Nami Island Day Tour
• 2D1N Trip from Seoul (includes a Nami Island option)

High 1 Ski Resort (하이원리조트 스키장)

High1 is the only ski resort I’ve been to, and a friend said she thought it was the second best ski resort in the country. It’s a little around 2-3 hours from Seoul in Jeongsan  and has 20 slopes spread over 3 peaks. I also do know foreigners here get a 40% discount and a free helmet with ski rentals! There’s also a Quiznos in the main cafeteria at the bottom.

• Shuttle Bus from Seoul
• 2D1N Trip from Seoul
• 3D2N Trip from Seoul

Jisan Forest Ski Resort (지산 포레스트 리조트 스키장)

Jisan is about 2 hours away from Seoul in Icheon  and has 7 main slopes for beginner and intermediate skiers.

• Night Time Skiing & Everland Combo

Oak Valley Ski Resort (오크밸리 스키장)

Oak Valley is around 2 hours from Seoul in Wonju and has 9 slopes.

Vivaldi Ski World (비발디 파크 스키월드)

Vivaldi is only an hour away from Seoul in Hongcheon with 12 slopes. Some tours I’ve seen also combine skiing here with trips to Nami Island.

• Private Shuttle to Vivaldi
• SnowyLand Day Trip to Vivaldi

Yongpyong Resort (용평리조트 스키장)

Not only was Yongpyong another one of the locations for the Pyeongchang Olympics, it’s the first and largest ski resort in Korea. It’s also the best, according to the same friend who said High1 was second best. Around 3-4 hours from Seoul in Hoenggye ,  it has 28 slopes.

One of the best parts of winter in Korea is eating all the warm stews and soups. While you’re out, look for jjigae (찌개), – tang (탕), or -guk (국) in the name.

Main Dishes

• Bbyeodagwitang (뼈다귀탕) – This is my absolute favorite stew, but I don’t really see it in many places. If you visit Namwon, there’s a whole street of Bbyeodagwitang restaurants, but the best is 25시 .
• Kalbitang (갈비탕) – Kalbitang is a classic soup, and it’s perfect if you don’t like spicy food.
• Kimchijiggae (김치찌개) – Kimchi-jiggae is another classic, though it can be a bit spicy if you’re not prepared.
• Dubujiggae (두부찌개) – If you’re vegetarian, look for “Dubu” products in general. I will say most restaurants probably won’t be 100% vegetarian, but you can always find out which ones are on Happy Cow.
• Pajeon (파전) – Pajeon is delicious no matter what time of year it is, but it’s a warm dish, so I thought I’d add it here too just because it’s so good.

Street Food

• Ddeokbbeokki (떡뻑기) – Again, ddeokbbeokki is delicious no matter what time of year, but it  is a spicy dish, so you may appreciate it more in December than in the middle of July.
• Egg Bread (계란빵) – I don’t see too many food stalls with egg bread, but it has to be one of my favorite street foods in the winter! It’s pretty much just an egg cracked open and cooked in a slightly sweet bread.
• Hotteok (호떡) – Hotteok is a sweet pancake type thing that I only really see come out in the colder months. There’s a really delicious version in Gamcheon Village in Busan that puts different seeds like sunflower seeds in theirs.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes (고구마) – Korean sweet potatoes are definitely my favorite type of potato. You don’t need anything on them, and they’re delicious.
• Fish Bread (붕어빵) – Fish bread. It’s not my favorite because I don’t like red bean. However, I recently discovered many food stalls in Suncheon that use cream (슈크림), and holy cow, is it addicting. There’s also a place near the Jeonju Hanok Village that makes them with speculoos.

Hot packs are lifesavers.

They’re in every convenience store and usually last 12 hours or more. I’ve gotten smaller ones that only last 6 hours, but they still get the job done. You basically shake them and they heat up. I stuff them in my coat pockets for my hands or, sometimes, in my bra when I’m sitting down.

Again if you’re coming from abroad and don’t want to be wasteful, you can get rechargeable hot packs nowadays. My friends had them in NYC and they work just as well.

A note on ondol heating

Ondol heating means floor heating. Most apartments have it, and if you go to traditional restaurants with floor seating, you’ll probably experience it there as well. Just something to be aware of in case you get to your hotel and don’t find a regular heater there!

And there you have it! If you’re coming here during the winter months, I hope these tips help you stay warm and enjoy your trip. Let me know if I’ve forgotten anything.

For more Korean travel, read these posts next:

• Korea Trip Planner: All the Logistics
• 80 Things to Do in Korea: The Ultimate Bucket List
• The Best Apps for Korea Travel: Which Ones I Use and the Ones I Don’t
• Where to Stay in Seoul: Best Neighborhoods
• Seoul Travel Guide
• 23 of the Most Brewtiful Cafes in Seoul & Nearby
• One Day in Seoul: 5 Layover Itinerary Ideas
• The Five Grand Palaces of Seoul: A Very Extra + Comprehensive Guide
• A Very Efficient Korea Itinerary for 7 Days
• The Only 1 Month Korea Itinerary You Need
• How to Spend 2 Weeks in Korea: 4 Itinerary Ideas
• Damyang Travel Guide
• Boseong Green Tea Fields
• What to Do in Suncheon
• Namwon, Korea: A Local-ish Guide
• Where to Stay in Jeju: The ULTIMATE Guide
• 30 Incredible Things to Do in Jeju + My Secret Spots!
• Udo Island: A Little Travel Guide

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

want to support?

I’m always grateful when friends and readereach out wanting to support There She Goes Again . Truthfully, I’m just happy my posts are helping people travel! If you’d like to support the blog, here are some companies and brands I’m affiliated with. Simply click the links, and I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!

• Booking (Hotels)
• Sixt (Car Rental)
• Klook (Tours)
• Viator (Tours)
• Get Your Guide (Tours)
• Trazy (Korea Tours)
• Tiqets (Entrance Tickets)

BLOGGING / SOCIAL MEDIA

• WPX Hosting (Advanced)
• Bluehost (Beginners)
• Lezé the Label (Clothing)
• Printfresh (Pajamas, etc)
• Promptly Journals
• Encircled (Clothing)
• Girlfriend Collective (Athleisure)
• Birkenstock (Sandals)
• Bookshop (For Local)
• Amazon Books

Thank you for your wonderful blog. We are planning a sisters only trip in December 2023. Much help is needed as its our first trip to South Korea.

Oh, that’s so exciting! Have the BEST time and stay warm!!

1. 보일러 (On house) 2.창문 단열용 뽁뽁이(On Window) 3. 내복 (underwear) 4.털모자 (On your head) 5.귀덥개( On your ear) 6. 롱패딩 (outerwear) 7.뜨거운 생강차(hot tea)

If you prepare all seven, you can spend winter in Korea without worry.

OMG, you have quite a blog here on Korea!!! :) Got a lot of good information, Thank you for all the hints. I am still exploring your blog, trying to find if there are any tips for a visit during Feb-March. Thank you!

Aw thank you! This’ll be your best post for Feb to March. It’s still quite cold! If you’re in March maybe the end of the first week and the second week, you’ll get to start seeing the early spring flowers like the sansuyu and plum blossoms though!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• 1800-123-5555
• Travel Agent? Join Us

Get Travel Triangle in your pocket.

Get your app via sms

Honeymoon Packages

• Family Packages
• Holiday Packages
• Holiday Deals
• Luxury Holidays
• Destination Guides
• Holiday Themes
• Plan My Holiday

Indian Destinations

• Uttarakhand

International Destinations

• Switzerland

• Sikkim - Gangtok - Darjeeling
• South Africa

Seasonal Packages

Water Activities

• Inclusions / Exclusions

₹ 130,000/- ₹ 141,304/-

• International
• South korea
• South Korea Winter Tour

South Korea Winter Tour Package Rated 3 /5 (based on 1 reviews) South Korea Winter Tour Package

South Korea Winter Tour Package 7 Days & 6 Nights

The beautiful view of Korea

City Tour In Korea

The mesmerizing view of Korea

A serene and calm In Korea

Enjoy the breathtaking views of Korea

Hotel included in package:

• Jeju-do (4D)

Starting from:

₹130,000/- ₹141,304/-

Per Person on twin sharing

Price For The Month

TravelTriangle has served 3000 + travelers for South korea

The capital of the country in Seoul, which is a huge city with a population of over ten million people residing there. In South Korea, we see mountains, coastal plains, and valleys. The country has a wide variety of plant species. However, due to the increase in population in the country, the forests have lessened to a great extent. The same applies to the animals in this region. Birds that are seen here are mostly the ones who have migrated. Majority of the population in South Korea is Korean with a small population being Chinese residents from old times. With our South Korea winter tour package, you get to explore the historical and natural beautify of every nook and corner of South Korea.

South Korea has numerous tourist attractions that are of huge historical importance. The beauty of the landscapes to is quite fulfilling. When we talk about grand palaces, this one comes to our mind first. Built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty- the Changdeokgung Palace. It is the second oldest palace in South Korea which showcases royal in abundance. The minute architectural details are worth noteworthy and call for appreciation. The design of this palace simply stands out. The palace also has a secret garden which is least artificial.This South Korea winter holiday package will take you to places like these to make your trip all the more alluring.

A temple that serves as a symbol of Korean Buddhism is the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple. It was initially named Taegosa. In the year 1954, it was renamed to Jogyesa, during the Buddhist Purification Movement, which was brought into force in order to remove any influence of the Japanese on Korean occupation. Tourists visit this temple mainly for its calmness and serenity. It is like a run-away from the mundane urban life. The location of the temple is also quite convenient for visitors to reach, adding a touch of serenity in this South Korea winter vacation package.

Are you someone who is fond of antiques? Do you want to take back souvenirs to your home country? In that case, visit the Insadong Antique Market which stands right at the heart of the capital of South Korea. Here, you find items which reflect the traditional Korean culture. Starting from boutique shops to local restaurants, you find everything in this market. If you are tired after a long walk in the market, visit the tea house for a break and some relaxation. South Korea winter travel package provides you with ample time to relax as well.

Situated on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, South Korea is an amazing tourist place showcasing its green, hilly countryside, Korean Buddhism temples, coastal fishing villages, sub-tropical islands and high-tech cities. Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has a population of over ten million people. It is a huge metropolis where you can experience its pop culture meets and street markets. It is a high-tech city known for modern skyscrapers and high-tech subways.

Island of Jeju, in the Korea Strait, provides a serene environment. It includes beach resorts and volcanic landscape. Hiking, surfing, scuba diving, or just chilling around the beach and enjoying the shops and food, well that’s what looks like a perfect holiday and makes South Korea winter trip package ideal vacation.

While Seoul provides you information and details about the history of the country like artifacts, temples, palaces, Jeju, on the other hand, is an island that offers enchanting beauty. A vacation in Jeju gives you all the calmness that you might have been seeking. Diving women is a famous attraction for tourists. In the past when the men were busy on their fishing boats, the women took up the responsibility to haul rocks and make dinner. Today, women are famous around the world for their diving techniques without any breathing equipment. There are a lot more attractions to look forward to.

Book South Korea winter tour package and enjoy a splendid vacation.

• Get a traditional insight of South Korea at Changdeokgung Palace
• Marvel at the beauty of Nami Island
• Witness the exotic plant species at the Garden of Morning Calm
• Capture stunning views from the Sanbang Mountain Cruise

Seoul: Arrival and Leisure Day

Other Benefits (On Arrival)

Get ready for an exciting tour ahead on the first day of South Korea winter tour package

The trips begin with your arrival at the Seoul Airport where you are greeted by our representatives and are transferred to a hotel. Spend the night at the hotel and buckle up your shoes as your real trip shall be beginning at any moment now.

Seoul: Sightseeing

• Local sightseeing

Take a closer picture of the capital city along with its surroundings.

The plan is to spend the day by closely looking at the different attractions in Seoul. Visit the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple which is one of the most famous temples in South Korea. Your next stop is the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Learn about the history of Koreans from the beautiful artifacts in the palace. After visiting these places, it is time for a meal break. Feast on the tantalizing authentic Korean cuisine, after which head to the Changdeokgung Palace. Your next stop is the Insadong Antique Alley. End your day by paying a visit to the Namdaemun Market, the largest traditional market in Korea. Pick up a few items from here that would serve as a souvenir. Get back to the hotel after a day of sightseeing.

Seoul: Full-day Tour to Nami Island and Petite France

• Island Tours

Wander till you drop on the third day of South Korea winter tour package

Korean pop culture has become the talk of the town. Starting from television dramas to music, South Korea isn’t lagging behind. Explore this area of the country. Visit the famous filming sites and get to know more about the country’s entertainment industry. One of the most famous filming locations in the Nami Island which calls for a visit. Next, head to Petite France where you get to know more about French culture. Capture the moments in the countryside to reminisce later. Your next destination is the Garden of the Morning Calm which is home to numerous plans and flowers. The day ends with a shopping tour. You are dropped off at your hotel. Rest for the night.

Jeju Islands: Arrival and Leisure

• Leisure Day

Arrive at Jeju and wait for more beauty to unveil itself

It is time to check out from the hotel that offers the most extravagant and lavish services and transfer to Jeju, a place that offers beauty and calmness. Check in to the hotel. Relax for the night and be ready for the island to unveil in front of your eyes the next day.

Jeju Island: Sightseeing

Not just historically rich, beauty shouts from every nook and corner.

Visit Hyeopjae Beach, one of the most popular destinations among tourists mainly because of its fine sand quality. Proceed to Hallim Park which again has some gardens and flowers to offer. Without further ado, head to Suweolbong and experience the jaw-dropping beauty that can be seen from the top. All the islands and the mountains. Soothe your taste buds by having a lunch buffet at a nearby eatery which serves local cuisine. Visit all the nearby islands and the Teddy Bear Museum which has put up the beautiful art of Seoul. Visit the Cheonjeyeon Waterfall which is 22 meters high and offers a stunning view. The bus hall drops you near your hotel from your pickup point.

Jeju Island: Another day of Sightseeing

• Sightseeing Tour

Horses, women divers and trekking-coming your way

Horses in Jeju Island are very popular, enjoy a horse ride after being picked up from the hotel. The Mongolian horses provide a much more royal experience than normal horses. Have your lunch and choose a vegetarian meal for the day. Catch a glimpse of the women divers who are an inspiration to man as they dive almost 20 m deep into the sea without any breathing equipment. If time permits, there are many more museums to visit which tell you more about their culture and traditions like the Jeju Haenyeo Museum. Enjoy trekking at the Manjang cave which is an easy trek, demanding some amount of physical fitness. The view while you climb is indeed worthwhile. Reach your hotel and get some sleep.

Tim to return back to your home country with plenty of memories.

Check out of the property after breakfast. Meet your driver who will escort you to the airport after which you journey back to your home country.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Jeju oriental hotel & casino

Jejuorientalhotel 47 Tapdong-ro, Jeju, Jeju Island 63166, South Korea

Grand hilton seoul

353, Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03650, South Korea

• Accommodation
• Airport Transfers
• Sightseeing
• Medical Insurance
• Personal expenses
• Additional sightseeing
• Additional cost of using vehicle

Your Preferences

Where do you want to go?

FAQs for South korea

What are the main airports in south korea.

The main airports in South Korea are Busan, Jeju, Seoul, and Incheon International Airport. In this package, however, we shall cover only the Seoul Airport and the Jeju Airport. Bus and cab facilities are available in all the airports in South Korea.

Is it safe to trek in the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak in Jeju?

The peak is a heritage site, popular among tourists. The view from the top is mesmerizing. The trek is easy but some amount of physical fitness is expected. The trek time is 60 minutes according to our package. Soar high with the world getting smaller underneath and enjoy every bit of the experience. It will take up a lot of your energy so make sure you get some rest the day before the trek and have your meals responsibly.

What are the things that need to be carried for the trip?

Since this is winter our, carry woolen garments to keep yourselves warm. Carry comfortable shoes as the sightseeing shall take a toll on your feet. Don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses. Although we provide you guides who understand English well, do carry a guidebook with you for convenience and extra details about the places you visit.

What are the main religions in South Korea?

The religions that people mostly follow in South Korea are Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. Majority of the population follows Buddhism. Few follow Christianity and some follow Islam. However, there are people to do not follow any particular religion in the country.

What is the acceptable currency in South Korea?

The currency accepted in South Korea is the Korean Won. It comes in either coins or in bills. Although in the past, all the bills were of the same size, today the size increases with an increase in the denomination. Visitors can exchange their currency in banks and refrain from seeking help from people sitting in the stalls under umbrellas claiming to solve your currency exchange issues.

650+ Verified Agents

Traveltriangle Verified

Stringent Quality Control

How It Works

Personalise this package.

Make changes as per your travel plan & submit the request.

Get Multiple Quotes

Connect with top 3 agents, compare quotes & customize further.

Book The Best Deal

Pay in easy installments & get ready to enjoy your holiday.

South korea Packages By City

Category Pages

• Couple Tour Packages
• Family Tour Packages
• India Tour Packages
• International Tour Packages

International Honeymoon Packages

Domestic Honeymoon Packages

• Kerala Honeymoon Packages
• Himachal Honeymoon Packages
• Uttarakhand Honeymoon Packages
• Goa Honeymoon Packages
• Andaman Honeymoon Packages
• Sikkim Honeymoon Packages
• Europe Honeymoon Packages
• Thailand Honeymoon Packages
• Maldives Honeymoon Packages
• Mauritius Honeymoon Packages
• Bali Honeymoon Packages
• Dubai Honeymoon Packages

Duration wise Packages

• 2 Days Honeymoon Packages
• 3 Days Honeymoon Packages
• 4 Days Honeymoon Packages
• 5 Days Honeymoon Packages
• 7 Days Honeymoon Packages
• 10 Days Honeymoon Packages

Theme based Packages

• Luxury Tour Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Cruise Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Beach Tour Packages
• Wildlife Tour Packages

Tour Packages

• Seoul Packages
• Jeju-do Packages
• Seoul Honeymoon
• Jeju-do Honeymoon
• We are hiring!
• Testimonial
• Travelogues
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Corporate Office:

Holiday Triangle Travel Private Limited

Address: Plot No - 52 , 3rd Floor,

Batra House , Sector 32,

Gurugram - 122001 ,Haryana

Landline: 1800 123 5555

Connect with us on :

All rights reserved © 2024

• Tour Packages
• Free & Easy

FOR HASSLE-FREE TRAVELLING

• Travel Voucher
• Terms & Conditions

USEFUL LINKS

• Singapore Embassy
• Flight Information
• Weather Information
• World Clock
• Currency Exchange
• Nam Ho Daily Update
• Abacus Link Via Smart Phone

NAM HO TRAVEL INFO

• Nam Ho Group
• Testimonials
• Data Protection Policy
• Fraud Alert
• (65)6221 8433
• (65)8686 2888

• Free & Easy/Private Tour
• About Us -->