If you’re planning on traveling during winter in Korea, there’s plenty of incredibly fun activities to do. While you may think Korean winters are boring, think again. Every season brings a plethora of fun winter festivals in Korea. In this blog post, you will find what to eat in Korea, what to pack for Korea in winter, and where to go during winter in Seoul.

A Korean winter will be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced if you did not grow up in a cold and humid climate. If you grew up in the Midwest, Seoul in winter is very similar to Chicago… albeit less windy and cold.

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Get Travel Insurance 

A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance. Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency. I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance which you can book here. With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:

  1. Trip Cancelation – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
  2. Emergency Medical – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
  3. Medical Evacuation – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
  4. Trip Interuption – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
  5. Trip Delay – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses.

If this plan isn’t for you then you can check out the different travel insurance plans World Nomads offers here.

How To Get Around 

The best way to get around Korea is by purchasing a T-Money card at any convenience store and loading it with money. You can also purchase the mobile version via Klook and get a 5,000 won top off coupon to use with your purchase.

I also recommend getting the Discover Seoul Pass so you can visit the major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discounted price. It comes in increments of 24/48/72 hours. 

How To Stay Connected 

Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer wifi for free and you can connect to various free spots around the city. However, if you don’t want to be reliant on that, you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How cold is winter in South Korea? Is winter in Korea cold?

Winter in Korea usually lasts from late November to the end of February and starts warming up again in March. Since cold winds from Siberia sweep in during this time, the weather becomes very chilly and dry. Temperatures will range from -6°C to 3°C (21°F to 37°F) during the day but can drop below -10°C (14°F).

2. What is winter like in South Korea?

The winter in Korea temperature can feel pretty cold if you’re not used to living or dealing with a cold climate. Winter is typically the most polluted time in South Korea. A lot of factories work overtime in Korea which contributes to the very high air pollution. I highly recommend getting an air purifying mask and Toppin Air Purifier to help you during this time. I also recommend a heating pad for your bed to stay warm so you don’t run the ondol (Korean floor heater) all the time.

3. What is the coldest month in Korea?

How cold is Korea in winter? The coldest month in Korea typically January where temperatures fall between -6°C to 3°C (21°F to 37°F) but can drop below -10°C (14°F). I recommend wearing a long padded jacket and scarves because it kind of hurts to breathe.

4. Is Korea colder than Japan?

South Korea is typically a bit warmer than Japan. Japan’s northernmost prefecture, Hokkaido gets a lot of snow and subzero temperatures. Winter in Japan and Korea are typically milder depending on where you go in the country. While the southern provinces, Busan and Jeju enjoy warmer weather, it is typically pretty cold in Seoul. This also is the same for Japan with Okinawa enjoying the warmest winter temperatures.

5. Does Seoul get snow?

Can I see snow in Seoul in winter? This is one of the most FAQ I get in my DMs especially for travelers that are coming in the winter months. Sadly, it snows very rarely in Seoul. There will be light flurries so if you want to see snow in Korea then I highly suggest hiking up a mountain or two.

6. When is winter in Korea?

The Korea winter season typically falls during the months of November, December, January, and February.

7. Does it snow in Korea?

Does South Korea get snow? It honestly depends on what part of the country you’re in. The best places to see snow in Korea are Bhukansan Mountain. In addition, Gangwon Province usually gets snow because it gets pretty darn cold in Korea.

8. How do you say winter in Korean?

Winter in Korean is 겨울 (gyo-eul).

What To Pack For Winter in Korea

I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way when you buy all of your favorite Korean products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite travel suitcase brand is Béis. I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage. Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account.

Travel essentials for what to pack to Korea in winter:

  • Korea travel adapter – Korea uses 220V plugs. You’re going to need a travel adapter to charge your electronics. If you forget, you can easily find some at Daiso for 5,000 won.
  • Unlocked phone – You can book a sim card here. Alternatively, if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can also use this portable wifi router.
  • Toothpaste – Korean toothpaste sucks PERIODT. Bring your own from home.
  • Important documents – Bring any important medical documents in case something happens. 
  • Passport – This should be a given, but please don’t forget it. Make a copy of your passport and hide it in your suitcase and leave one on your fridge at home.
  • Credit/Debit Cards – There are ATMs all over Korea and most places accept credit cards.
  • Medication – Don’t forget your important medicine because I guarantee it will be a nightmare for you to navigate the hospital and then go to a pharmacy to try and get it.

What To Wear For Winter in Korea

Wondering what to wear in Korea in winter? South Korea winter temperatures are super cold at night, but never fear. Below are some of my favorite staple pieces I wore during winter in South Korea. This list will help you create the perfect winter outfit in Korea. In my experience, Korea winter styles usually consist of skirts for many woman although they are paired with fleece lined tights to keep warm. For an extensive guide on what to wear in winter in Korea and what to pack for winter in Korea, click here. 

  • American Eagle Curvy Skinny Jeans – I basically live in high waisted skinny jeans all autumn. I especially love the Curvy Jeans from American Eagle. They stretch and fit in all the right places.
  • Ugg Boots – Winter boots in Korea are an absolute must!
  • Sweater Dress – If you plan on going out to dinner at night or you just like to be flirty or girly, then you should definitely have a few dresses like this in your wardrobe.
  • Long Padded Jacket – I will almost always have this staple in my Korea winter outfit. A good winter jacket in Korea is a must.
  • Sheertex Rip Resistant Tights – If you have a fur baby like I do, these are a godsend. Trust me, these are HARD to destroy and totally worth the investment.
  • Warm Scarf – The weather gets a bit chilly in Korea at night in Autumn. I always keep my long scarf in my bag for when that happens.

Winter Weather in Korea 

Winter weather in Korea honestly varies month by month. Korea in winter can be either very mild or very cold. The Korea winter months are usually from December to February.

December Weather in Korea 

South Korea in winter has temperatures ranging from … Korea in December brings average high temperatures of 37°F (3°C) and an average low temperature of 19°F (-7°C). It’s the second coldest month behind January.

January Weather in Korea

Winters in Korea typically get very cold during the first month of the year. Korea in January brings average high temperatures of 34°F (1°C). In the evenings temperatures reach an average low of 16°F (-8°C).

February Weather in Korea

Winter weather in South Korea typically starts warming up near the end of the month. Korea in February brings temperatures ranging from 39°F (4°C) to 19°F (-7°C). This is a very cloudy month, but it eventually starts to warm up at the end.

Public Holidays in Korea During Winter 

There are lots of notable public holidays in Korea during winter. Since many people have off during all these public holidays you’ll see many people traveling during this time. Seoul in December is also super fun because you’ll find all sorts of romantic Christmas lights throughout the city. It’s also a great opportunity to learn and experience Korean culture. In 2023, the Korea public holidays are: 

  • Christmas Day – December 25, 2023
  • New Year’s Day – January 1, 2024
  • Seollal (Chinese New Year) – February 10th – 12th, 2024

Where To Stay in Seoul

Need some good hotel and area recommendations? Good thinking. These are some of my favorite picks for luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodation in Seoul.

Luxury

  • JW Mariott Dongdaemun – Located in the center of Dongdaemun, this property is right next to Exit 8 and 9 of Dongdaemun Subway Station (Line 1 and 4). Their rooms have sweeping city views with floor to ceiling windows and the luxurious en suite bathrooms are finished with marble flooring.
  • Lotte Hotel World – Situated beside the world’s largest indoor amusement park, it features a fantastic fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and three dining options. It’s located right on top of the green line at Jamsil Station (Line 2).
  • Park Hyatt – This luxurious 5-star property in Gangnam comes with an indoor heated pool, a top-floor gym and spa, as well as free WiFi. It’s next to Samseong Subway Station (Line 2). The Park Hyatt Seoul features three dining options.

Mid-Range

  • Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong – The guest reviews here are phenomenal and for good reason. Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong is located a 3-minute walk from Exit 1 of Euljiro3-ga Subway Station (Line 2 and 3). Free WiFi is available. Their rooms a flat-screen satellite TV and a fridge. Bathrobes and slippers are provided in the private bathroom. Plus you get free luggage storage, currency exchange, and ticket services at the front desk.
  • Nine Tree Premier Myeongdong 2 – Conveniently located a stone’s throw from Euljiro 3-Ga Subway Station (Line 2 and 3), Nine Tree Premier Hotel Myeongdong 2 houses an on-site buffet restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center. Each room has carpet flooring and has a work desk. All rooms boast city views of Myeongdong.
  • Four Points By Sheraton Josun – This property provides accommodations with a fitness center, private parking, a restaurant, and a bar. In addition, they also have free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and currency exchange for guests. The hotel has air-conditioned rooms with a desk, closet, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom with a bidet. A continental, Full English/Irish or Italian breakfast is served at the property.

Budget

  • Fun Fun Stay Guesthouse – Located in the Hongdae area, Fun Fun Stay Guesthouse provides simple accommodation with a simple breakfast served for free every morning. It provides laundry services and free Wi-Fi throughout the guesthouse.
  • Good Stay Itaewon – Featuring a shared lounge, Good Stay Itaewon offers rooms in Seoul, 3.7 km from The National Museum of Korea and 3.9 km from Namdaemun Market. The property is around 4.4 km from Myeongdong Cathedral, 5 km from I’Park Mall and 5 km from The Shilla Duty Free Shop Main Store. The accommodation provides a shared kitchen and free WiFi.
  • Modern Place – Boasting free bikes, shared lounge, garden and free WiFi, Modern Place is set in Seoul, 1.2 km from Hongik University and 3.8 km from Ewha Womans University. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, a shared kitchen and luggage storage for guests.

What To Eat During Winter in Korea

Winter is the best time to eat hot and delicious street food, especially in Myeongdong. The street food stalls always have such delicious odors coming from them.

  • Bean Paste Stew (된장찌개) – This is a staple Korean dish and oh so tasty especially in winter. Made with fermented beans, vegetables, tofu and occasionally seafood, this really hits the spot.
  • Budae Jjigae (부대찌개) – This literally means army base stew and it is ramen, spicy sausage, ham, spam, baked beans, and gochujang.
  • Bungeo-ppang (붕어빵) – This carp shaped sweet is filled with warm red bean paste and a very tasty treat.
  • Hotteok (호떡) – This is a sweet Korean pancake filled with brown sugar or red bean paste.
  • Kimchi Stew (김치찌개) – Usually old kimchi is made into this delicious soup with tofu and pork belly or tuna.
  • Lobster Tail – This is one of my favorite street foods from Myeongdong and cooked in butter and cheese. It’s so darn good!
  • Odeng (오뎅) – This can be eaten on a stick or in a soup with veggies. If you eat it on a stick, there’s usually soy sauce you can put on it.
  • Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – This is a beloved rice cake dished cooked in pepper paste and sometimes odeng and boiled eggs.

Salon de Ddalki with Barbie

This is one of my favorite things to do in Seoul and you should definitely check out this strawberry dessert buffet. You get a main course and access to their dessert buffet. Salon de Ddalki with Barbie is the perfect addition to your cheat meal.

What To Do During Winter in Korea

If you’re having a Korean winter holiday, there’s no shortage of things to do in Korea in the winter. You’ll find festivals, cafes, and even traditional events to keep you entertained while you visit Korea in winter. Korea during winter is one of my favorite times because I don’t sweat profusely. I’m someone who is almost always hot so this weather is a welcome reprieve for me.

1. Celebrate Christmas in Korea

Christmas in Korea is a national holiday. This year it falls on Monday, December 25, 2024. It is mostly viewed as a couple’s holiday so you will see lots of couples only events. For a full guide on everything you need to know about Christmas in Korea, check out my post here.

If you do find yourself in Korea during Christmas, these are the best places to see winter illuminations in Seoul:

  • Times Square Mall
  • Myeongdong Lotte Department Store
  • Shinsegae Department Store in Myeongdong
  • Imperial Palace Seoul
  • Banyan Tree Seoul

For the ultimate guide for the best illuminations in Seoul at Christmas, check out my post here.

2. Go Ice Skating

December in Seoul brings one of my absolute favorite winter activities…Ice skating! It doesn’t quite feel like winter unless I’ve done it a few times. Pro tip…if you’re going skating at a hotel rink expect to pay 20,000 won and above. If you’re visiting a public rink, expect to pay anywhere from 5,000-7,000 won. For a full list of the best places to go ice skating in Seoul, check out my post here.

  • Grand Hyatt Seoul Ice Rink – During December, their giant pool is transformed into an ice rink. It has been used in several Korean dramas and is super romantic.
  • Olympic Park Ice Rink – You can channel your inner Olympian and go ice skating where the 1988 Olympics were held. This Seoul ice rink is really big and fun.
  • Seoul Plaza Ice Rink – Perfectly located in front of City Hall, this is one of the busiest rinks. If you want to be in close proximity to the winter illuminations in Myeongdong, then this is the rink for you.
  • Sheraton Walkerhill Ice Rink – Romantically looking over the Han River, the views are spectacular. Just note it is pricy to get in but the rink also features a fun display in the middle.
  • Yeoui Ice Park – Usually this is used as a swimming pool over the summer but in the winter is is transformed into a rink. The starting fee is 1,000 won.

3. Go Skiing

Believe it or not, I first learned to ski in South Korea. It’s much cheaper to do this sport in Korea and if you can, take advantage of all the beautiful mountains The Land of the Morning Calm has to offer. Below you’ll find some of the top tours and ski/snowboard experiences in Korea.

4. Celebrate the Western New Year

Tour companies like Global Seoulmates usually throw enormous New Year’s Bashes. Since Korea is becoming more Westernized, there are more and more ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Korea.

  • Bosingak Bell Ringing Ceremony – This ceremony started in 2006 and takes place in Jonggak. During this time, the bell is hit 33 times by 13 people including the Mayor of Seoul. It is broadcast on National Television.
  • CoEx Fireworks & Countdown at the Intercontinental Seoul – The fireworks here are known to be exquisite and the perfect start to the New Year. The InterContinental Seoul also has a great New Year’s Bash and fireworks.
  • See The Sunrise on the East Coast in Sokcho – One of the most common ways to bring in the new year is to see the sunrise.
  • Countdown at Times Square – Usually there’s a ton of people there and sometimes even special performances. BTS, Zico, and Dynamic Duo have performed in the past.
  • Lotte Tower Fireworks – A fireworks display at South Korea’s tallest building will light up Seoul’s skyline on New Year’s Eve.

5. Celebrate the Lunar New Year (Seollal 설날)

Winter in Seoul is especially fun during the Lunar New Year aka Seollal. Celebrated for three days, most Koreans spend this time with family. The Korea winter holidays really come to life during this time. In my experience, the Korean winter temperature is always especially cold on New Year’s. Don’t forget to wear the proper winter attire in Korea!

In 2024, we celebrate the Year of the Dragon. In Chinese culture, they’re seen as symbols of good luck, strength, health and also the male element Yang.

So how do you best experience Seollal celebrations? Try these ideas:

  • Rent a Hanok – I recommend doing this and visiting traditional Korean palaces like Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung. Also try visiting the Namsangol Hanok Village.
  • The Korean Folk Village – This is one of my favorite ways to experience Korean culture and history.
  • Visit a Theme Park – Big parks like Everland and Lotte World have special events during this time.

7. Go Hiking

What a fabulous and free activity it is. If you are wondering where to see snow in Seoul, going up a mountain is a great place to find it. Personally Seoul in January is fun because hiking in the mountains is a real treat. Don’t forget to wear your winter clothes for Korea! Most mountains around the country are great for hiking but Bukhansan Mountain is most popular for climbing and seeing snow. There are several trails for beginners and intermediate climbers.

8. Visit A Jimjilbang

If you need a day to pamper yourself after going around the cold, you don’t want to miss this. Fun fact. Most Korean spas have ajhummas that will scrub the heck out of all the dead skin on your body.

  • Dragon Hill Spa – This is one of the most famous and well known spas in Seoul. Located in Yongsan, you can enjoy various kinds of baths.
  • Paradise City Spa Incheon – This is a HUGE spa in Incheon that has European and Korean style spas and baths. You can even swim in their gorgeous pool.
  • Women Only Mud Spa Myeongdong – Here you’ll experience the power of Boryeong Mud renowned as one of the world’s finest muds. You’ll get a mud massage as well a sauna and bath experience.

9. Enjoy a Korean Facial Experience

If you ever wondered how the Korean stars get their glowy and glassy skin… Well, all the secrets will be put directly on your face and body in this amazing spa. Kpop Stars have been known to go there because of the wonderful service. Book your visit here and get a discount.

10. Take a Trip Outside Seoul

Winter in Seoul Korea is incomplete without experiencing other parts of the country.

Winter Festivals in Korea

Did you know there are loads of winter events in Korea to help keep you warm? Your winter holiday in Korea is gonna get a step up because I highly recommend checking out these winter festivals in Korea.

1. Incheon Ice Fishing and Sledding Festival

When: December 5, 2023 – March 2, 2024

If you don’t want to travel all the way to the west coast, go closer to Incheon. This is one of the closest Seoul winter activities. You can stand on the ice and catch the freshest fish through the holes drilled in the ice of the lake. Book your Incheon Ice Fishing and Sledding Festival tickets here.

2. Seoul Lantern Festival

When: December 19, 2023 – December 31, 2023

Seoul Korea in December is a real treat with this festival that takes place right on the Cheonggyecheon River. It’s very popular with people of all ages as stunning lanterns get displayed during the Christmas season. The Seoul Lantern Festival is free for all to attend.

3. Pyeongchang Trout Festival

When: December 22, 2023 – January 28, 2024

This festival takes place in the ever beautiful Gangwon Province. Marvel at stunning landscapes and take wonderful photos. You’ll also be provided with top-grade ice fishing equipment and learn how to catch the different fish lurking in the area. Book your tour to the Pyeongchang Trout Festival here.

4. Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

When: December 25, 2023 – February 29, 2024

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is a winter fantasy come to life. South Korea winters become magical with this festival. You’ll find massive ice fountains, ice sculptures, igloos, and more. Winter is strawberry season so you’ll also get to pick the freshest ones at a farm nearby.

5. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

When: January 6, 2024 – January 28, 2024

The 2024 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is a celebration of mountain trout. Dig your very own ice hole where you get a hook and line to catch your own fish. After you catch it, you can have it freshly cooked for you. The Festival offers many activities like ice sledding, ice foot hockey, ice sledding, and even ice skating. It’s great for friends, family and couples. Of course, this being Korea, a one of a kind experience.

Klook.com

Winter in Seoul

Doing winter in the big city can be super fun with tons of cool cafes to visit and spend an afternoon in. I highly recommend this list below.

I hope this guide will help you enjoy your winter holiday in Korea. The Land of the Morning Calm offers such incredible and fun things to do in all seasons. Winter in Korea doesn’t have to be a drag and it is what you make of it. I’ve been living here awhile and I hope my advice can help you in any way possible.

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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