Cool Winter Festivals in Korea

If you’re spending the winter holidays in Korea, you’re in luck. The most wonderful time of the year is full of twinkling Christmas lights, exciting Korean festivals, and many parties. Don’t rule winter out in South Korea because it’s cold. There’s actually so many cool winter festivals in Korea that are unique and definitely worth checking out.

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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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

What To Pack For Winter in Korea

I highly recommend packing as light as possible so when you inevitably buy all 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 cold to colder. Korea in December brings average high temperatures of 3°C (37°F) and average low temperatures of -7°C (19°F). It’s the second coldest month behind January.

January Weather in Korea

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

February Weather in Korea

Winter weather in South Korea starts to come to a close around February. Korea in February brings temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to -7°C (19°F). 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

Winter is Strawberry Season in Korea

I shit you not, Korean strawberries taste like candy. This fruit is very sweet, high quality, and cost competitive. So what is the secret behind these berries that can get as big as your palm and get you addicted harder than crack? The taste is most important. They’re grown in special cultivation beds with pollen-carrying bees helping pollination. So you best believe you’re going to get a sturdy, ripe red strawberry with a mouth full of juice every time.

Legit, Korean strawberries are so good, my Pomeranian Honey goes nuts for them. And because she’s the most spoiled, goodest girl, of course she got a lot during strawberry season. During this time you’ll find all sorts of strawberry buffets in Seoul. My favorite being the Barbie Salon de Ddalki at the JW Marriott in Dongdaemun.

I suggest you definitely go strawberry picking and head on out to an afternoon tea strawberry buffet when in Korea and get a chance to taste this delicious fruit.

Recommended Afternoon Tea Strawberry Buffets in Seoul

Barbie Salon de Ddalki x Givenchy
Grand Hyatt Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea
Sheraton Grand Walkerhill Seoul Strawberry Buffet
Park Hyatt Seoul Strawberry Afternoon Tea Set

Recommended Korean Strawberry Picking Tours

Christmas Markets in Seoul

No festival season isn’t complete without a Christmas market in Korea. If you’re spending your winter holiday in Korea, then you definitely have to stop by. A Seoul festival isn’t complete without a little Christmas cheer. They’ll definitely bring you holiday cheer and even make the Grinch smile. For a full guide on everything you need to know about Christmas in Seoul, click here.

Marche de Noel Christmas Market

When: December 2, 2023

The Marche de Noel will be held from 10:00am to 4:30pm for one day only. It is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Seoul Located at Seorae Maeul Park, it features mulled wine, cheese, foie gras, smoked salmon, and more. Come see Santa Claus and participate in carol singing. Since it is a small market, it gets packed very quickly.

The European Christmas Market

When: December 9, 2023 – December 10, 2023

Hosted by the Belarus, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, Slovenia, Spain, and Hungary embassies, you’ll know this is a good one. The European Christmas Market in Seoul is located in the Seongbukcheon Fountain Square out of Hansung University Subway Station. Here you’ll find European Christmas cuisine, ornaments, carol singing, and performances.

December Festivals in Korea

Bosingak Bell Ringing New Year’s Eve Festival
Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival
Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival
Garden Of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations
Haeundae Beach Lighting Festival
Pocheon Herb Island Light Festival
Lotte World Tower New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival
Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival
Seoul Lantern Festival
Seoul Winter Festa
Winter Strawberry Picking Festivals

Petite France Little Prince Lighting Festival

When: December 1, 2023 – February 29, 2024

South Korea winter activities always have twinkling lights with razzle dazzle. When I lived in Korea, I noticed many are familiar and truly love the story of the Little Prince. You can book a tour to see the lights at Petite France here.

Garden of The Morning Calm Lighting Festival

When: December 1, 2023 – March 17, 2024

Gapyeong is located about two and a half hours from Seoul. The Garden of the Morning Calm Lighting Festival is an excellent day trip from Seoul. I’ve been before and it is absolutely worth every penny to see the bougie and extra lights display this garden puts on.

Seoul Winter Festa 2023

When: December 15, 2023 – January 21, 2024

The Seoul Lantern Festival is part of the larger Seoul Winter Festa 2023. These light displays will show at the newly opened Gwanghwamun Square and Songhyeon Green Plaza. There’s also the impressive Dongdaemun Design Plaza where you can see digital light displays. You’ll find seven locations across the city to light up the winter nights. This is one of the most anticipated Seoul Korea festivals and a favorite.

Seoul Lantern Festival

When: December 15, 2023 – January 21, 2024

The Seoul Lantern Festival 2023 is back for its 15th year! Every year the theme changes and gorgeous lights are displayed among the Cheonggychon River. This is one of my favorite winter festivals in Seoul. It started back in 2009 and was one of the highlights of my South Korea winter holiday. This year, it will be expanded to include Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggye Square, and Seoul Sqaure. Come grab a bite to eat while you’re at it. Seoul festivals

Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival

When: December 21, 2023 – February 9, 2024

The Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival in Korea is such a cool one! Have you ever dreamed about going on a rubber duck sled? If you haven’t then the answer should be, “Why the hell not?” And then just go for it. lIt is located in the valley between Myeongseong Mountain and Mangbong Mountain. The lake attracts many visitors every year and is a popular local sledding location. South Korean festivals can be super quirky, but a really fun experience.

Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival

When: December 22, 2023 – January 28, 2024

The Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival takes place right in the heart of where the 2018 Winter Olympics were held. Similar to the Hwacheon Ice Festival, you can catch your own trout and have them bad boys cooked right in front of you.

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

When: December 23, 2023 – February 28, 2024

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival should be high on your list of winter festival ideas. This festival features ice and snow sculptures and igloos. It is located in the Alps Village in Chungcheongnam-do. Winter Korean festivals are all about celebrating the seasons. Even winter is considered beautiful.

Pocheon Herb Island Light Festival

When: All Year Round

This is one of the most popular festivals in Korea for giving you that Santa’s Village feel. The Pocheon Herb Island Light Festival features a strikingly beautiful botanical garden boasting approximately 82 acres of land featured with Mediterranean herbs. The entire garden gets a makeover during Christmas and the winter season. The entire venue is decorated with twinkling lights, turning into the most romantic place on earth!

SBS Music Awards (Gayo Daejeon)

When: December 25, 2023

Music festivals in Korea are always a good choice. If you’re a Kpop fan you don’t want to miss out on the SBS Music Awards in Daejon. It’s Korea best year end event. This year’s lineup will feature Stray Kids, ATEEZ, ITZY, Tomorrow x Together and more.

Eobi Ice Valley

The Eobi Ice Valley is a fantastic winter destination in South Korea. The area is famous for its enchanting ice walls that make the perfect photo backdrop. Most people go to take pictures of the magical frozen waterfall. They also visit other popular nearby winter destinations, such as Nami Island, Gangchon Rail Bike, Alpaca World, and more! Trazy does an assortment if different tours so pick the one that tickles your fancy.

New Year’s Eve in Seoul

Global Seoulmates New Year’s Eve Party

When: December 31, 2023

Let me tell you, my friends… This is the creme de la creme of New Year’s Eve parties in Seoul. For the 2020 New Year I honestly had the most fun out of everyone… So much so, I stayed out all night, ate morning kabobs while squatting on the corner, and barfed before I went on the train Korean style. That was the last time I got that wastey pants so don’t worry, I promise I’m way too old for this shit. Just don’t be ratchet like me and actually remember the majority of your New Year’s festivities. The new year in Seoul is unique anything you’ve ever experienced.

This party featured dancing acts, acrobats, and amazing DJs. And my favorite part? A shit ton of friends and I booked a VIP booth which had us going on the balcony of the floating islands and watching the New Year’s fireworks over the Han River. There’s nothing quite like this party so I recommend booking your tickets to the Global Seoulmates New Year’s Bash here.

Bosingak Bell Ringing New Year’s Eve Festival 2024

When: December 31, 2023

At the stroke of midnight, people will crowd around the gigantic bell in the Buddhist shrine and watch as the mayor of Seoul rings the bell for the New Year. You’ll see hundreds of balloons fly into the sky and people cheering.

Lotte World Tower New Year’s Eve Fireworks

When: December 31, 2024

The world’s sixth tallest building puts on a show like no other. For the New Year’s festivities the entire tower is lit up with colorful lights and fireworks shooting off in all directions. They shoot off 555 seconds worth fireworks to commemorate the 555 meter skyscraper. This winter Seoul festival starts at 8:30 pm with performances and activities before the main event at midnight.

Ganjeolgot Sunrise Festival

When: January 1, 2024

If you’re not in to drinking, then I suggest participating in the Korean cultural event of watching the first sunrise on the East Coast overlooking the East Sea. It’s located near Ulsan and the viewing spot will take you near rocky slopes with a fantastic view of the morning sunrise on the cape. Clap your hands and make a wish for the upcoming new year. You can book a tour to see the New Year’s Sunrise here.

Sokcho Beach New Year Sunrise

When: January 1, 2024

Sokcho is also a very popular spot to go watch the first sunrise of the western new year in South Korea. This is probably one of the most popular with locals. You can book your Gangwondo Sokcho Beach New Year Sunrise Tour from Seoul here.

January Festivals in Korea

Daegwallyeong Snowflake Festival
Ganjeolgot Sunrise Festival
Homigot New Year Sunrise Festival
Gyeongpo & Jeongdongjin Sunrise Festival
Jeju Seongsan New Year Sunrise Festival
Haeundae Beach Lighting Festival
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival
Inje Ice Fishing Festival
Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival
Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival

Golden Disc Awards

When: January 6, 2024

This year, the Golden Disk Awards will be held in Jakarta, Indonesia. The 2024 music lineup will feature SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, NewJeans, ZEROBASEONE, ENHYPEN, STAYC and more. This is a great chance to celebrate the achievements in Kpop and get up close to your favorite stars.

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

When: January 6, 2024 – January 23, 2024

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival takes place riverside in Gangwon-do. It has a stamp of approval from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism as one of the best Korean winter festivals. Over 1.5 million people attend this South Korean festival every year. There’s lots to do like ice fishing and cooking the fish you catch. In addition there will be lots of fun winter activities like snow sculpture viewing, ice castle exploring, and stunning winter illuminations.

Inje Ice Fishing Festival

When: January 20, 2024 – January 29, 2024

The Inje Ice Fishing Festival has been running for more than twenty years. This festival has ice and snow-based activities and sports for all ages. You can also learn to sled and ski, or just goof off and go down various snow slides or build a snowman. The Inje Festival is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural exhibitions and winter activities in Korea.

Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival

When: January 25, 2024 – January 29, 2024

The winter holidays in Korea don’t stop at Christmas. The school year finishes in January and students are off until the beginning of March… Which means there’s plenty of time to check out the winter festivals of Korea. The Taebaksan Mountain Snow Festival is held every January. It includes Taebaeksan National Park, Hwangji Pond, and 365 Safetown. You’ll see large snow sculptures around town and you can participate in a lot of fun winter activities.

February Festivals in Korea

Uljin Snow Crab Festival

Uljin Snow Crab Festival

When: February 23, 2024 – February 26, 2024

If you love seafood, you definitely don’t want to miss out on this Korean winter festival. Here you’ll celebrate Uljin’s famous local specialty, snow crabs. It is the biggest local festival in the region with a goal to promote the excellency of Uljin snow crabs.

Seollal

When: February 9, 2024 – February 11, 2024

2024 is the year of the Dragon. The dragon is the ultimate symbol of power, fortune and prosperity in Chinese culture. During this time most of Seoul shuts down, but there’s definitely things to do. Koreans usually go back to their hometowns and pay respects to their ancestors and welcome the new year. Others take trips abroad with their families during this time. If you find yourself visiting during the Lunar New Year, rest assured there’s still tons of things to do. Also, don’t forget to visit a winter festival of South Korea. Many are still going on at this time.

Visit A Korean Theme Park

Many of the theme parks like Lotte World and Everland are open. They give special discounts to their foreign guests and offer a lot of cultural activities to partake in.

Visit A Grand Palace

In addition, the grand palaces such as Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changyeonggung, and Deoksugung will also have traditional Korean activities to participate in. The changing of the guard would make a wonderful backdrop too. I highly recommend renting a hanbok while you’re there. For a full guide on how to rent a hanbok in Seoul, click here.

Valentine’s Day in Korea

Did you know in South Korea only women give gifts on Valentine’s Day. During this time, women usually give chocolate to each other, their lovers, or men they admire. Don’t worry! This is usually reciprocated on White Day which is on March 14th. Women get something white back whether it be flowers, marshmallows, jewelry, or accessories. For a full guide on what to expect during Valentine’s Day in South Korea, click here.

With all these South Korea festivals in winter you’re definitely bound to have the most fun! Which festival would you check out first?

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December 15, 2023 | 0 comments