is it good to visit seoul in december

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Visiting Seoul in December: Your Comprehensive Guide to Special Events

December in Seoul isn’t the gray and somber picture that some might imagine. Quite the contrary, the city undergoes a captivating metamorphosis into a winter wonderland, adorned with festive decorations, and enveloping visitors in an enchanting and truly magical ambiance. Within the pages of this all-encompassing guide, we’ll navigate through the realm of weather conditions, offer insights into the ideal attire, and present an array of thrilling activities that await you during your December escapade in Seoul.

Weather in December:

December marks the beginning of winter in Seoul, bringing with it cool temperatures and the occasional dusting of snow. The average high temperature during the day ranges from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while the nights can get quite chilly, often dropping to -6°C to -1°C (21°F to 30°F). While snowfall is not guaranteed, it’s not uncommon to see the city adorned with a light blanket of snow, creating picturesque scenes.

What to Wear:

To stay comfortable and warm during your December visit to Seoul, dressing in layers is key. Here’s a breakdown of what to include in your winter wardrobe:

• Insulated Outerwear: A warm, waterproof coat or jacket is essential to shield yourself from the cold wind. Opt for something insulated to retain body heat effectively.
• Thermal Layers: Wear thermal tops and leggings as your base layer to trap warmth close to your body.
• Sweaters and Cardigans: Thick sweaters or cardigans provide additional insulation and are versatile enough to be worn indoors and outdoors.
• Pants and Jeans: Opt for thick pants or jeans to keep your legs warm. You can layer thermal leggings underneath for extra protection.
• Accessories: Don’t forget a cozy scarf, gloves, and a beanie or earmuffs to protect your extremities from the cold.
• Footwear: Invest in waterproof and insulated boots to keep your feet dry and warm. Woolen socks can add an extra layer of warmth.
• Heat Packs: Disposable heat packs are a lifesaver during chilly days. Keep a few in your pockets for instant warmth.

Exploring Seoul’s December Delights:

Seoul doesn’t hit the brakes when December rolls around; if anything, it shifts into a higher gear, offering an array of events and experiences that highlight the city’s distinctive culture and festive energy. Here’s a collection of must-see and must-do activities that deserve a spot in your December itinerary:

Experience the Enchanting Holiday Lights:

Period: December to January

December brings the festive cheer of Christmas to every corner of the globe, and Seoul is no exception. If you happen to be in the city during this joyful month, you’re in for a visual treat of dazzling holiday light displays. These vibrant and captivating decorations can be spotted all over the city, adding a touch of magic to the streets. Don’t miss out on the enchanting scenes at iconic places like Lotte World Tower, Coex Mall, and the Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch in Myeongdong – they’re known for going all out with their Christmas installations.

If you’re up for a fun adventure to discover even more spots adorned with these fantastic holiday displays, check out my ultimate guide below. I’ve put together a list of must-visit places where you can soak in the festive vibes and witness some truly stunning light shows.

Seoul Light DDP: A Radiant Winter Spectacle

Duration: Mid-December to January 1st

Seoul Light DDP is an expansive multimedia light extravaganza held twice a year at Dongdaemun Design Plaza. The first installment, perfect for immersing in the autumn ambiance, typically illuminates the plaza in October. However, the pièce de résistance, the grand spectacle of Seoul Light DDP, takes center stage in December, infusing the winter season with warmth and wonder. It’s worth noting that the precise dates can fluctuate from year to year, so it’s wise to stay updated by visiting the official website or checking local event listings for the latest updates. For those eager to learn more about this captivating event and gather tips for enjoying the dazzling light displays, don’t miss my detailed blog post in the link below.

Glide Across the Ice:

Period: December to February

Image Source: @nowsee

When it comes to embracing the winter spirit in Korea, ice skating is a must-try activity, and December presents the perfect opportunity! Seoul boasts some fantastic ice rinks that will elevate your enjoyment to new heights. Here are the top ice-skating venues in the city:

• Seoul City Hall Ice Rink | 서울시청 아이스링크
• Lotte World Ice Rink | 롯데월드 아이스링크
• Grand Hyatt Seoul Ice Rink | 그랜드하얏트 서울 아이스링크
• Olympic Park Ice Skating Rink | 올림픽공원 아이스 스케이트 링크
• Mokdong Ice Rink | 목동 아이스링크

Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a novice, these rinks offer a splendid opportunity to glide and twirl on the ice, creating cherished memories in the heart of Seoul’s winter wonderland.

Embrace the Thrills of Snow Sledding:

Period: late December to late January

Image Source: @ijun6329

One of the most cherished and enjoyable activities during the snowy season is sliding down hilly slopes on sleds. And guess what? Seoul in December offers just that kind of excitement! If you’re looking for some snow-filled fun, here are the prime spots for sledding in the city:

• Ttukseom Han River Park Snow Slope | 뚝섬 한강공원 눈썰매장
• Children’s Grand Park | 서울어린이대공원
• Yangjaecheon Ice Sledding Rink | 양재천 얼음썰매장
• Dorimcheon Children’s Ice Sledding Rink | 도림천 얼음 썰매장

It’s important to keep in mind that the availability of this activity greatly depends on the amount of snowfall, which can be quite unpredictable in Seoul each year. In case of substantial snowfall, the window for sledding fun can extend all the way until mid-February!

Capture the Allure of Snow-Covered Landscapes:

Period: mid-December to late January

Image Source: @oso_hyun

When the city receives the gift of heavy snowfall, seizing the opportunity to capture the enchanting winter scenery is an experience not to be overlooked. Even within Seoul’s bustling streets, when the urban landscape is cloaked in a pristine layer of white, the image etches itself into your memory, ensuring a lasting impression. Here’s a curated selection of locations in Seoul that beckon for your visit, inviting you to photograph or simply bask in the beauty of the snow-draped surroundings:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace | 경복궁
• Bukchon Hanok Village | 북촌한옥마을
• Eunpyeong Hanok Village | 은평한옥마을
• Namsan Baekbeom Square Park | 백범광장공원
• Jeongdong Observatory | 정동전망대 

Venturing Beyond Seoul: Exploring Korea in December

December not only signals the onset of the chilly season in Korea, but from mid-December onwards, it also heralds the official arrival of a season filled with snowy and icy delights. During this time, numerous renowned winter destinations throughout the country fling open their doors, beckoning hordes of visitors with their famed snowy slopes and breathtaking vistas of pristine white landscapes. Here are some enticing activities that you might want to consider arranging a trip for in December:

Skiing & Snowboarding:

The ski season in Korea traditionally kicks off around mid-December, as ski resorts across the nation are blanketed in thick layers of snow, drawing scores of enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders. Since Seoul doesn’t boast any ski resorts of its own, planning a day trip or an extended excursion to ski outside the city is a splendid idea. Check out my comprehensive guide to ski resorts in Korea for all the essential details!

Winter Wonderland Escapes:

Apart from the thrill of skiing and snowboarding, exploring exceptional winter destinations is another experience you won’t want to miss. And don’t fret; I’ve assembled a selection of these gems scattered throughout the country just for you in the button provided below. Each of these locales promises to provide you with the quintessential winter snapshots of Korea’s enchanting wonderlands, adding a touch of glamour to your journey.

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of this guide. Armed with this treasure trove of knowledge, your upcoming escapade to Seoul in the spirited month of December is primed for thrills and discoveries. Wishing you safe travels and an exhilarating exploration!

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Visiting Korea in December | Weather, What to Wear + Best Festivals 2024

The incredible autumn colour of Korea in November is all but finished, but there’s still a lot to look forward to in Korea in December. This is the first month of winter in Korea, and while it might be colder than you ever thought possible, the country is alive with festive cheer and sparkling lights.

It’s winter in Korea in December, but there’s a ton to see and do.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• what the December weather in Korea is like
• the Seoul weather in December and other major cities and tourist hotspots, including Busan, Jeju, Pyeongchang and Gangwondo
• the best winter festivals to attend in Korea in December
• what to wear and the best things to pack for a successful trip to South Korea in December

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

In this guide

• 1 Visiting Korea in December
• 2.1 Korea in December | Travel Essentials
• 3.1 Korea in December | Seoul Weather
• 3.2 Korea Weather in December | Busan
• 3.3 Korea Weather in December | Pyeongchang (Gangwon-do)
• 3.4 Korea Weather in December | Jeju Island
• 4 Korea in December | Public Holidays 2023
• 5 Limited Edition Winter Tours in Korea
• 6.1 Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival | 아침고요수목원 오색별빛정원전
• 6.2 Haeundae Light Festival | 해운대 빛축제
• 6.3 K-Link Festival | 서울윈터페스타
• 6.4 Seoul Winta Festival | 서울윈터페스타
• 6.5 Seoul Lantern Festival | 서울빛초롱축제
• 6.6 Seoullight at DDP | 서울라이트
• 6.7 Hangang River Festival Winter | 한강페스티벌 겨울
• 6.8 Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival | 포천 산정호수 썰매축제
• 6.9 Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival | 칠갑산얼음분수축제
• 6.10 Boseong Tea Plantation Light Festival | 보성차밭 빛축제
• 7.1 Achasan Sunrise Festival | 아차산 해맞이
• 7.2 Seongsan Sunrise Festival | 제주성산일출축제
• 7.3 Ganjeolgot Sunrise Festival | 울산 간절곶 해맞이축제
• 7.4 Homigot Sunrise Festival | 호미곶 한민족 해맞이축전
• 7.5 Jeongdongjin Sunrise Festival | 정동진 해맞이 축제 모래시계회전식
• 7.6 Yeosu Hyangiram Sunrise Festival | 여수향일암일출제
• 8.1 Tips for What to Wear in Korea in December
• 9.1 Bring from Home
• 9.2 Buy in Korea
• 9.3 Korea in December: Essential Info and FAQs

Visiting Korea in December

There’s a major uptick in travel to South Korea in December, with school vacations starting around the world, SE Asian visitors hoping to see snow, and the holiday season upon us. If you’ve planned your trip to Korea in the month of December, prepare for arctic weather, crowded streets and busy festivals.

Many travelers to Korea in December hope to see snow © Jeon U-seok, Korea Tourism Organization

This is a challenging time to book good value accommodation in popular neighbourhoods like Myeongdong and Hongdae. It’s best to reserve your hotels as early as possible, particularly if you’re traveling to Korea in the last 2 weeks of December.

Hotels and resorts are jam-packed with international tourists, as well as Korean couples and families enjoying Christmas staycations.

Christmas is a very busy time of year in Myeongdong. Book hotels EARLY!

In Korea in December, it gets progressively colder, with sub-zero temperatures and snowfall around the country. If you’re coming from a hot country like Singapore or the beaches of Thailand, you’ll feel the chill even more. You’ll definitely need extra-warm winter gear to cope with the December weather in Korea.

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.

Korea in December | 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

Korea in December | Weather

December is the first month of winter in Korea, and while it may feel incredibly frigid, it’s actually the warmest month of the season. During daylight hours, average high temperatures reach just 4°C | 40°F.

It’s very cold in Korea in December. Bundle up!

The average lows are -3°C | 26°F, but it can feel significantly worse than the temperature would suggest. If it’s windy or there’s an absence of sunshine, it can feel impossibly cold.

December in Korea also has the shortest days of the year, with approximately 9.5 hours of daylight available. There’s a lot of cloud cover in December and a chance of rain, mixed rain and snow, and snowfall across the country.

It snows across Korea in December © Jeong hyo-won, Korea Tourism Organization

READ NEXT: From Myeongdong to Hongdae: The 7 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul, with Hotel Recommendations

Korea in December | Seoul Weather

The sun sets before 6 PM, Siberian winds are blowing, and it reaches a maximum high of 4°C | 40°F during daylight hours. You’ll need to be prepared with real winter gear to survive the frosty December weather in Seoul.

Even the trees wear sweaters in Seoul in December!

There’s a mix of rain and snow in Seoul in December, with most of the snowfall concentrated near the end of the month. If you’ve got your heart set on seeing snow in Korea, there’s a decent chance your dream will come true.

Snow in Seoul tends to melt almost as soon as it hits the ground though, so if you see the white, fluffy stuff floating through the sky, get outside as soon as you can.

Snowfall in Seoul tends to melt quickly, but on rare occasions, it sticks around.

* Personal note: I grew up in Canada – land of 6 month winters and – 30°C temps, yet I barely survived my first winter in Korea. Although the thermometer readings look relatively gentle, Korean winter is a beast I’d never experienced before. It’s REALLY cold. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

READ NEXT: 49 Super-Fun Indoor Attractions and Activities in Seoul to Escape the Bitter Cold

Korea Weather in December | Busan

Busan is located on the southeastern coast of Korea, so it’s a bit warmer than Seoul in December, with temperatures ranging from 4°C | 39°F to 8°C | 47°F. There’s approximately 10 hours of daylight in Busan in December.

Snow is unlikely in Busan in December, but you should still wear warm clothes © Doit Company, No Sihyeon, Korea Tourism Organization

It’s impossible to have a white Christmas in Busan though, because there’s literally zero chance of snowfall!

TIP  |  Short on time? Explore the best attractions in Busan with this jampacked tour to the Busan Skywalk, Gamcheon Culture Village, Songdo Cable Car, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and more. Lunch and transport included. Check availability of this day tour to all the Busan hotspots here.

Korea Weather in December | Pyeongchang (Gangwon-do)

For the most chance of seeing snow in Korea in December, get thee to Gangwon-do Province, which lies east of Seoul. There’s a reason why most ski resorts in Korea are concentrated in this region.

Average snowfall in Pyeongchang in December is around 25-cm, with the most snowfall occurring in the last week of the month.

Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch in Pyeongchang is wonderful in winter © Kim Eundo, Korea Tourism Organization

Pyeongchang in December has average temperatures ranging from -9°C | 15°F to 0°C | 33°F. Bundle up and be sure to have a warm hat and gloves if you plan to visit this area of Korea. While there is quite a bit of sunshine in this region, it’s on another level of cold.

The Garden of Morning Calm is one of December’s best festivals in Korea.

WINTER HIGHLIGHTS TOUR  |  Seeing the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival, snow sledding, picking sweet strawberries, and marveling at a wall of ice are 4 of Korea’s best winter activities, and you can do them ALL on this convenient one-day tour. Check full details here.

Korea Weather in December | Jeju Island

Jeju in December has very similar weather to Busan, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C | 42°F and 11°C | 52°F. As in the rest of South Korea in December, the days are short, it’s relatively dry, and there’s quite a bit of cloud cover.

The odds of snow at the peak of Hallasan are high © kangbch, Pixabay

You won’t see much snow on Jeju Island’s cities or beaches, but head up the slopes of Hallasan Mountain, and you’ll increase your odds greatly. Keep in mind though, that Jeju is known for having fairly fickle weather, so you should be prepared for just about anything!

GETTING AROUND JEJU ISLAND   |  Public transit on Jeju Island is not as efficient as in Seoul. Distances are long, and it’s a lot slower, so most visitors either  take day tours,  hire a taxi, rent a car, or  book a private car charter.

To rent a car as a traveller to Korea, you MUST have: a book type international driver’s permit (obtained in your home country), your passport, and your driver’s license from home.  Check full details and availability of rental cars on Jeju Island here (reserve as early as possible for the best selection and prices).

Korea in December | Public Holidays 2023

In Korea in December, there are 2 observances and 1 public holiday. Christmas Eve and New Years Eve are both observances that happen to fall on a Sunday, and Christmas in Korea lands on a Monday in 2023.

The Christmas tree at Starfield Library changes every year.

GOOD TO KNOW   |  While Christmas is a national holiday in Korea, it’s not celebrated in quite the same way as in the western world. If you’re worried about stores and restaurants being closed, don’t be. Almost everything will be open and running as normal.

Limited Edition Winter Tours in Korea

Sure, December 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.

Hit the slopes in Korea in December ⓒ Lee Beomsu, Korea Tourism Organization

• 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

Cook what you catch at ice fishing festivals around Korea in December.

READ NEXT: 33 Incredible Places to Visit in South Korea in Winter

Korea in December | Best Festivals and Events

After a relatively quiet November, the festival schedule is back in full force in Korea in December. Major holidays like Christmas and New Years Eve herald some of the biggest events and festivals of the year. So equip yourself with hot packs, a long padding jacket and get out there!

Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Korea in the first week of April.

Visiting Korea at another time of the year? Learn about weather and festivals for other months in Korea, in the following detailed guides.

• Korea in January: The Coldest Month of the Year
• Korea in February: The Final Month of Winter
• Korea in March: First Signs of Spring
• Korea in April: Chasing Cherry Blossoms
• Korea in May: In Full Bloom
• Korea in June: The Best Month of Summer
• Korea in July: The Peak of Summer
• Korea in August: Summer Vacation for EVERYONE!
• Korea in September: Autumn Relief
• Korea in October: Full on Fall Foliage
• Korea in November: Autumn to Winter Transition

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons in Korea © Heo Heung-mu, Korea Tourism Organization

Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival | 아침고요수목원 오색별빛정원전

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

Address: 1632-1, Seogok-ri, Panbu-myeon, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do | 강원 원주시 판부면 용수골길 326

There are a ton of lighting festivals for the holiday season, but the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival is probably the best. It has an awe-inspiring display of glimmering lights and festive cheer.

The Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival is sure to brighten a cold, winter night.

You’ll be totally wowed by the sight of tens of thousands of twinkling bulbs brightening the night sky, as far as the eye can see. I loved it so much, I’ve gone twice!

Read my full guide to visiting the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival for all the details.

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

The Haeundae Light Festival is back this December in Korea. Enjoy the festive streets of Busan with LED light displays, free concerts, street performances and more brightly lit Christmas trees in one place than you can possibly imagine.

The Haeundae Light Festival is Busan’s annual winter event ⓒ 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.

LOTTE WORLD BUSAN  |  The newly opened Lotte World Adventure in Busan will hold its very first winter festival this year. Perfect for the whole family to enjoy together with holiday parades, a talking tree, caroling and all the fun amusement park rides you could want. Skip the holiday line-ups with advance tickets. Check full details here.

K-Link Festival | 서울윈터페스타

Festival Dates: December 10th, 2023

Address: Jamsil Arena, 25 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Fulfill all your K-pop dreams at the K-Link Festivals, watching performers like Boa, aespa, and SHINee live on stage. Grab tickets here.

If you can’t make it to the concert in person, don’t worry! It’ll be streamed live through SBS Medianet’s YouTube channel, THE K-POP.

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 December in Korea. It is large scale, taking place at 7 main attractions in Seoul during the peak of winter.

There are some huge events planned that will light up the city during the festive season, including a 12m-diametre midnight sun, several light festivals. Keep your eyes peeled for more details.

READ NEXT: The 26 Best Festivals and Events to Celebrate Christmas in Seoul

Seoul Lantern Festival | 서울빛초롱축제

Address: 172 , Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 종로구 세종대로 172 5호선 광화문역

Taking place in the second half of December in South Korea, the Seoul Lantern Festival is one of the biggest and most popular festivals to attend in the city, around the holiday season.

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

Gorgeous large-scale paper lanterns and colourful LED sculptures bring Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggyecheon Stream wonderfully to life every winter. Nearly 3 million visitors attend the Seoul Lantern Festival, so prepare for crowds. This is a free event. Learn more here.

Seoullight at DDP | 서울라이트

Festival Dates: December 21st – 31st, 2023

Address: 281, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 중구 을지로 281 (을지로7가)

Seoul Light is a large-scale media light event that takes place multiple times a year at at Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

This December in Korea, they’ve added showing, and the event runs from 18:00 – 22:00, every the half hour. There’s also a special NYE Countdown and event scheduled for December 31st at 23:55. Check the full schedule here.

I’ve personally seen Seoul Light on a few different occasions, and been in total awe at the scale. It’s worth checking out.

READ NEXT: 50,000 Square Metres of Total Winter Fun at Vivaldi Park Snowy Land Sledding Park

Hangang River Festival Winter | 한강페스티벌 겨울

Festival Dates: December 22nd – 31st, 2023

Address: Various Han River Parks in Seoul

Head to the Hangang River Festival for its winter instalment, which takes place in the last week of December in Korea. Expect a Christmas Market, light sculptures, cute photo zones, special holiday performances, and an exciting Snow Sledding area.

Festive lights in Seoul in December.

Sanjeong 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 

With super-cute ducky sleds, penguin bicycles, and enough snow to build a massive snowman, this is one of the best festivals to check out if your priority is to experience a snowy landscape.

The Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival starts in December.

Be sure to gear up with parka, snow pants, warm gloves, hats, and boots to fully enjoy your time in Pocheon, without feeling too cold.

Before you go, check out my full guide to visiting the Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival.

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: start delayed to January 1st, 2024 – February 18th, 2024

Address: 223-35, Cheonjangho-gil, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 청양군 정산면 천장호길 223-35

Head to Chilgapsan Mountain for a frozen wonderland, full of spectacular ice sculptures, and tons of winter fun. You can try activities like snow sledding, ice fishing, roasting chestnuts, and much more.

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival starts in December.

I went to this festival a few years back, and easily spent the entire day there, re-creating all my daughter’s Elsa dreams.

CHEONGYANG ICE FOUNTAIN FESTIVAL TOUR  |  It’s easy to spend an entire day and night at the Alps Village Ice Fountain Festival! And this day tour from Seoul allows plenty of time to explore ALL the fun this festival has to offer. Check full details here.

Boseong Tea Plantation Light Festival | 보성차밭 빛축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2023 / 2024, but usually for the month of December

Address: 775, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 775

Located in Jeollanam-do Province, the Boseong Green Tea Plantation is wonderful to see in every season, but during December in Korea, the entire plantation gets a festive facelift with twinkling lights adorning its symmetrical bushes.

Green tea fields covered in Christmas lights? Sign me up!

If you plan to go, dress extra warm. There are few indoor areas to warm up at Boseong, and I can’t remember the last time I felt so cold. Hot packs and warm boots are a must!

Korea in December | Sunrise Festivals

Festival Dates: December 31st, 2023 – January 1st, 2024

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

There are sunrise festivals all over Korea in December.

Welcoming the new year by watching the first sunrise of a new year is one of the most popular things to do on the last day of December in Korea. Join the locals who believe that wishes made while witnessing the first sunrise of the year, are most powerful!

I’ll rundown a few of the most popular sunrise festivals in Korea here, but there are a ton more.

READ NEXT: 21 Awesome Things to do in Seoul at Night

Achasan Sunrise Festival | 아차산 해맞이

Address: 127, Walkerhill-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 광진구 워커힐로 127 (광장동)

The Achasan Sunrise Festival is a good one to visit if you don’t want to travel too far out of Seoul. It’s easy to access using public transportation, and it takes just 15 minutes to hike up to the viewing spot.

Wishes made on the first sunrise of the year are more powerful. Photo by Michael Kim/3-legged-crow@Flickr (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Be warned though – this is one of the more popular places to visit for New Year’s Eve in Korea , due to its proximity to Seoul. Pre-pandemic, 40,000 visitors regularly attended this event at the end of December in South Korea. I expect that numbers will rival that, now that all social distancing measures have disappeared.

KOREAN FOLK PERFORMANCES AT THE GUGAK CENTRE  |  Seeing a performance at the National Gugak Centre in Seoul is a must-do activity for any culture enthusiasts interested in Korean traditional folk arts. Be sure to visit the excellent free museum nearby to try out some traditional instruments yourself! Check availability and reserve tickets for a traditional performance at the National Gugak Centre.

Seongsan Sunrise Festival | 제주성산일출축제

Address: 284-12, Ilchul-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 성산읍 일출로 284-12 (성산읍)

I can’t quite think of a better place to see the first sunrise of the year in Korea than Seongsan Ilchubong (Sunrise Peak) on Jeju Island. This is one of Jeju’s gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage sites, renowned for a gorgeous sunrise that peaks over an ancient volcanic tuff cone.

Seongsan Ilchubong is UNESCO World Heritage © Kim Jongo, Korea Tourism Organization

This festival was held online last December in Korea, but live events appear to be on the agenda again this year. Check for updates on their website (Korean only).

Ganjeolgot Sunrise Festival | 울산 간절곶 해맞이축제

Address: 39-2, Ganjeolgot 1-gil, Ulju-gun, Ulsan | 울산광역시 울주군 서생면 간절곶1길 39-2 (서생면)

Ganjeolgot Cape in Ulsan is the first place to see the sunrise in Korea, because it sticks out into the ocean. This festival includes special performances, fireworks displays, traditional bowls of tteokguk, and much more. Join a tour here.

A traditional bowl of tteokguk will warm you to your toes © Jeon Han, Korea.net ( CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 )

GYEONGJU UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES  |  See stunning Gyeongju UNESCO world heritage sites like Seokguram and Bulguksa Temple on an easy and convenient day trip from Busan. Check availability and full tour details here.

Homigot Sunrise Festival | 호미곶 한민족 해맞이축전

Address: 136, Haemaji-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do | 경상북도 포항시 남구 호미곶면 해맞이로 136

If you’ve ever wondered where the striking images of a sunrise peeking over hand sculptures in the ocean are from – it’s Homigot Village in Pohang.

A simply stunning sunrise © Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

At the Homigot Sunrise Festival, enjoy cultural performances, a fireworks show, sunrise concert and other inspirational events like kite-flying and launching hope balloons filled with wishes for the new year.

Be sure to sample some free tteokguk – which is a traditional New Year’s Day dish for Koreans.

READ NEXT: 5 Easy Ways to get from Incheon Airport to Myeongdong

Jeongdongjin Sunrise Festival | 정동진 해맞이 축제 모래시계회전식

Address: Jeongdongjin2-ri, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 강릉시 강동면 정동진2리

Jeongdongjin is mostly known for that crazy cruise ship on a cliff (Sun Cruise Resort), but on New Year’s Eve, the bigger draw is Sandglass Park.

This massive sandglass is turned over at midnight on NYE © Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

This sandglass is so huge that it takes from the first day of January to the last day of December in Korea for the sand to trickle completely through it. Weighing a whopping 40-tons, it’s turned over precisely at midnight on New Year’s Eve (December 31st).

Yeosu Hyangiram Sunrise Festival | 여수향일암일출제

Festival Dates: Festival Dates: December 31st, 2023 – January 1st, 2024

Address: 70-4, Hyangiram-ro, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 여수시 돌산읍 향일암로 70-4

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.

Watching the sunrise from Hyangiram Hermitage is a wonderful way to bring in the new year.

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.

Korea in December | What to Wear

Well, I’m not going to sugarcoat it. The Korea weather in December is crazy cold, with temperatures slightly milder at the beginning of the month.

I don’t think that a hanbok is appropriate clothing for Korea in December © Yang Sung-young, Korea Tourism Organization

You might be able to get away with layers of clothing and a thinner jacket if you’re someone that’s usually hot for the first few weeks. However, by the end of the month, I don’t know many people who aren’t freezing cold from the gale-force winds and icy temperatures.

Most Koreans wear “long padding,” jackets and heattech inner wear to deal with the December weather in Korea.

Long padding jackets, “kimo” leggings, and warm boots for December in Korea.

It’ll feel a lot colder once the sun goes down. Hats, scarves, and mittens are recommended to avoid turning into an icicle. Fortunately, it’s easy and affordable to pick up what you need on the fly. This type of gear is literally everywhere.

There’s a good chance it’ll snow at least once in Seoul before the end of December. If the snow sticks around, it’s useful to wear some type of waterproof winter boots, with good tread. The streets can get pretty slippery.

Shoes with good grip are necessary for slippery surfaces.

I wear waterproof sneakers around Seoul, almost year-round. It’s enough for me. If I plan to be outside for a long period of time, or if the snowfall sticks around, I wear waterproof Uggs to keep my toes toasty.

*Personal note: it’s been unseasonably warm so far this year. I’m writing this on November 23rd and it’s still reaching highs of 15°C. If you tolerate cooler climates well, it’s warm enough to be out in a hoodie, jeans, and light jacket during daylight hours. No promises for December in Korea though. The weather changes fast here.

It’ll definitely snow in Seoul before the end of December © Lee Jae-kuk, Korea Tourism Organization

Tips for What to Wear in Korea in December

Come prepared for Korea in December with warm scarves, gloves, and hats © Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

Visiting Korea in December | Packing List

Here’s a rough guideline of items to pack for the Korea weather in December.

Bring from Home

• travel documents: passport, itineraries, hotel reservations, plane tickets, travel visas, insurance
• adaptor / plug
• long sleeved shirts, sweaters, hoodies, cardigans
• warm pants, leggings, thick tights
• winter skirts or dresses
• deodorant, feminine hygiene items
• comfortable running shoes for lots of walking ( water resistant shoes are good at this time of year)
• warm winter boots if you plan to be outside a lot
• winter gear like a down jacket, scarf, mittens, gloves, and hat, snowpants if you plan to ski or snowboard
• any special medications you might need

Buy in Korea

• umbrella if it rains
• hot packs (at the convenience store or DAISO)
• gloves, scarves, and winter hats are cheap and easy to buy everywhere
• HEATTECH inner layers for warmth (Uniqlo)
• disposable air pollution / medical masks
• batteries / charging cables (super cheap at Daiso)
• skincare products like sunscreen (high quality and cheap in Korea!)
• eyeglasses and contact lenses can be purchased just by walking into a store (a free eye test will be provided)
• birth control can be purchased over the counter, without a prescription (but all brands may not be available)

Ready to plan the perfect magical holiday for Korea in December?

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The seasons of Seoul: the best times to visit

Feb 11, 2024 • 3 min read

Seoul has something to offer visitors every month of the year © Nghia Khanh / Shutterstock

With a temperate continental climate, Seoul is known for its biting winters and blistering summers.

In between are the long-awaited but all-too-fleeting pockets of perfectly enjoyable weather, perhaps the best moments to visit. Even so, every season in South Korea ’s capital offers something worth traveling for  – with excitement in the calendar all year long – which might make for a difficult decision when it comes to planning your trip.

Customarily, summer brings the most international visitors to Seoul, further congesting an already packed city. Yet in recent years, spring and fall – with fetching foliage and ideal weather – have caught on as in-demand times to visit, too. 

As you make your own plans, here’s our guide to the best times to visit Seoul.

March to May and September to November are the best times for outdoor attractions

Unquestionably the most agreeable seasons in Seoul, spring and fall are also the best times to soak up the city’s great outdoors, from the natural wonders of its national and city parks to the back-alley treasures of its traditional villages, temples, markets and street-food stalls . A prized spot, the Han River is where visitors can paddle around on swan boats or have a chimaek picnic of fried chicken and beer ( chimaek is a slang portmanteau that combines “chicken” with the Korean word for beer, maekju ).

Every March, the Seoul Marathon  welcomes some 35,000 runners, from expert to amateur. Unlike some other races, anyone who signs up ahead of time is qualified to participate. April arguably presents Seoul’s loveliest face, when spring bursts forth in a palette of pinks and whites and the cherry blossom trees bloom in cotton-candy swirls. Two favorite viewing spots are Yeouido Park and Namsan Park , where spectators stroll down petal-lined paths and picnic beneath flowering canopies.

Fall heralds the arrival of favorite annual traditions. South Korea’s fall harvest holiday, Chuseok, generally takes place in September: get into the harvest spirit by observing the ceremonial ritual of Sajik Daeje, a 50-minute procession that winds its way through the city near Gyeongbokgung station, paying homage to the ancient gods of earth and grain.

The crisp, dry weather continues through November and the temperature drops considerably, making this month a less expensive time to visit than September and October. The most notable happening this month might be the Seoul Lantern Festival, which sets Cheong-gye-cheon ablaze with paper lanterns and LED sculptures.

June to August are best for indoor activities

While June can be pleasant, July and August bring unbearable heat and humidity, along with heavy rains that can last all day. Luckily, Seoul has plenty of things to do for keeping dry and cool inside. Go museum or gallery hopping , experience South Korea’s quirky cafe culture or get lost in Asia’s largest underground shopping mall,  COEX , where after you’re through browsing you can enjoy an aquarium, library, movie theater and casino. 

Save money and avoid the crowds from December to February

Despite its cold climate, with dry winds that wreak havoc on the skin and throat, Seoul is wondrous in the winter. The diminished crowds make the city feel smaller and more intimate, drawing into stark relief the sights, sounds and scents of everyday life. Think snow-dusted palaces, shopkeepers sweeping the flakes from their front stoops and roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes perfuming the air. You can also stretch your budget further, as the cold winter months are the most affordable time to visit.

If you enjoy winter sports, venture out for a day of skiing, snowboarding or ice fishing. Seollal, the Korean New Year based on the lunar calendar, typically falls between late January and mid-February. In the lead-up to the holiday, be on the lookout for special celebrations and traditional performances at folk villages and palaces.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated February 2024

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Seoul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alex Barlow | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Seoul

The best times to visit Seoul are from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is mild (average daily high temperatures stay below the mid-70s) and travel expenses are low. If you're a powder hound, you'll want to visit between December and February, when average daytime temperatures stay around the freezing mark and snow can be frequent. It's best to avoid the summer months, also known as monsoon season. During these months, Seoul is uncomfortably humid and full of tourists. What's more, hotel room costs are at fever pitch.

Weather in Seoul

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Seoul

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Things to do in Seoul in December

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Looking for a different month?

December is a good time to visit Seoul . The weather is usually really cold with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 22—36°F (-6—2°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Seoul during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Bukchon Hanok Village for a winter hanbok experience, try traditional Korean winter street food at Gwangjang Market, go ice skating at Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink, and more!

Seoul has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Seoul. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Seoul in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Seoul in December

Top experiences in december, visit the bukchon hanok village for a winter hanbok experience, try traditional korean winter street food at gwangjang market, go ice skating at seoul plaza ice skating rink, take a day trip to nami island, explore the christmas markets in myeongdong and hongdae, holidays in seoul in december.

• Christmas Eve ( December 24 )
• Christmas Day ( December 25 )
• New Year's Eve ( December 31 )

Other notable holidays

• New Year's Day ( January 1 )
• Seollal Holiday ( January 29 )
• Seollal ( January 29 — 30 )
• Independence Movement Day ( March 1 )
• Arbor Day ( April 5 )
• Labor Day ( May 1 )
• Children's Day ( May 5 )
• Buddha’s Birthday ( May 5 )
• Parents' Day ( May 8 )
• Teacher's Day ( May 15 )
• Memorial Day ( June 6 )
• Constitution Day ( July 17 )
• Weather in Seoul in December

Temperatures on an average day in Seoul in December

The average temperature in Seoul in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 36°F (2°C) to a low of 22°F (-6°C). Some would describe it as really cold with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Seoul , August, has days with highs of 84°F (29°C) and lows of 71°F (22°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 33°F (0°C) and lows of 17°F (-8°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Seoul in December based on historical data.

Visiting Seoul? See our Seoul Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in December

General weather summary, what to wear in december, best attractions for seoul in december.

Top searches in Seoul

Popular road trips from seoul, what's the weather like in seoul.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Seoul for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Seoul in January
• Weather in Seoul in February
• Weather in Seoul in March
• Weather in Seoul in April
• Weather in Seoul in May
• Weather in Seoul in June
• Weather in Seoul in July
• Weather in Seoul in August
• Weather in Seoul in September
• Weather in Seoul in October
• Weather in Seoul in November

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• Seoul to Jeju drive
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Seoul throughout the year

• Seoul in January
• Seoul in February
• Seoul in March
• Seoul in April
• Seoul in May
• Seoul in June
• Seoul in July
• Seoul in August
• Seoul in September
• Seoul in October
• Seoul in November
• Seoul in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Seoul?

Get inspired for your trip to Seoul with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Seoul

The best times to visit Seoul are during the spring (March to May) or fall (September and October). These months are generally considered the high season and for a good reason. With spring comes the delicate blush-colored blooms of the cherry blossom trees, while fall foliage makes the city glow with fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. Winter and summer have their charms but are not for the faint of heart, as temperatures plummet and soar, respectively.

No matter when you choose to visit, use this guide to help you delve into genteel temples, sprawling palaces and historical hanok houses juxtaposed with cutting-edge technology, a renowned food scene , and innovative architecture and design.

The Weather in Seoul

Each of the four seasons is distinct in Seoul. Winter can be bitterly cold, with icy blasts sweeping down from Siberia. Spring temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees F, perfect for frolicking amid the pink blossoms of the cherry trees. Summer is hot and extremely humid, driving many Koreans into the city’s thousands of air-conditioned coffee shops. Keep in mind that June through September is also typhoon season, with high rainfall and a chance of heavy storms. Fall brings a return to mild weather ranging from 50 to 80 degrees F and makes for an excellent time to explore the many hiking trails within the city limits.  

Peak Season in Seoul

Boasting the most agreeable weather, spring and fall are naturally congested times in Seoul, though school holidays in the summer make it a fierce contender for the city’s busiest season award. However, with the plethora of cafes, museums, and galleries sprinkled near all the major attractions throughout the city, a refuge from the weather is never far away, meaning a visit to Seoul is enjoyable during any season.

The Seoul sprawling metropolitan area has a population of over 26 million.   With that number of people calling the city home, it ensures there’s no real “off” season—most major attractions even remain open during Korea’s national holidays. While outdoors landmarks such as palaces and temples are open year-round, they may occasionally close due to inclement winter weather or summer typhoons.

Though winter can be slightly cheaper, prices in South Korea’s capital remain steady during most of the year except for two main spikes—the national holidays, Seollal, and Chuseok, the dates of which fluctuate annually but generally occur during February and September. During these times, the entire country mobilizes, making train tickets, flights, hotels—you name it—more expensive.

Key Festivals and Events in Seoul

Korea has a deep love of festivals that range from traditional to kooky. Observing everything from history and film to food and music, Seoul is a city that loves a party. No matter what month you visit, you’ll find an event to suit your mood. It's impossible to avoid the citywide festivities and cultural events during the Seollal (the Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) holidays.

With Christmas festivities complete and the average temperatures hovering around 25 degrees F, you’d think the crowds would be minimal in January. But this month marks the winter school holidays in South Korea, which adds domestic tourists to the city’s already buzzing population. Seoul can get even more packed and expensive when Seollal falls at the end of January, which it does every few years.

It’s chilly and dry in Seoul in February, but the streets are packed with shoppers and visitors in anticipation of the Lunar New Year, which generally falls this month. Colorful displays in shop windows, performances in city squares, and special holiday menus at restaurants make February a fun time to visit South Korea’s capital.

Events to check out:

• Seollal is Korea’s Lunar New Year celebration, with traditional performances and activities taking place at Seoul’s major royal palaces.

Don’t put your coat away yet! Though spring technically begins this month, Seoul’s northern latitude means temperatures in March linger in the 40s. In recent years, however, warm temperatures have surprised everyone, including the trees, making an early cherry blossom season a real possibility.

• The Seoul International Marathon has taken place since 1931, making it Asia’s oldest marathon. The race begins at Gwanghwamun Palace and finishes across the Han River at the Seoul Olympic Stadium.

April is said to be Seoul’s most beautiful month, a time when cherry blossoms float through the air giving the city a whimsical pink glow. With temperatures mainly in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, it’s the ideal time to visit, which also makes it more crowded and expensive. It’s still possible to get good deals, though, since the weather can be fickle, and no one knows exactly when the cherry blossoms will make their highly anticipated appearance.

• Yeongdeunpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival consists of performances, activities, and exhibitions that take place amidst the cherry trees.
• Held in honor of Buddha’s birthday is the Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeon Deung Hoe) , which has taken place for over 1,300 years, and consists of a vibrant parade that lights up the city center. (Buddha’s birthday is observed on different dates each year, meaning this festival is sometimes held in May.)

May is Seoul’s Goldilocks window when it’s not too hot or too cold, kids are in school, and the rainy season hasn’t yet begun. It’s also a relatively inexpensive time to visit, as there are no major holidays or festivals in the city this month.

• Jongmyo Daeje is a remembrance of Korea’s royal ancestors and includes a parade, costumes, and traditional performances.

June is a weather wildcard, where temperatures can range from the 60s to 80s. It’s also the beginning of typhoon season, meaning rain becomes more of a possibility.

• The Seoul World DJ Festival draws music lovers the world over for a weekend of continuous mixing.
• Though not as widely celebrated as Seollal and Chuseok, Dano is another of Korea’s major holidays and is observed with traditional customs and costumes at the National Folk Museum of Korea.

Let the humidity begin. July is the start of Korea’s hottest and most humid months. If you do plan to visit during the dead of summer, plan outdoor activities in the morning and evening, and schedule indoor visits during the scorching midday heat.

• Cool off by participating in the Sinchon Water Gun Festival—always a crowd-pleasing favorite since July is one of the country’s hottest months.

Korean children have school holidays in August, and you’ll likely find them splashing in one of the city’s multiple fountains and streams. Temperatures peak around 90 degrees F, and August is also one of the rainiest months in the ROK. If the weather doesn’t scare you away, then you should be able to find good deals on flights and accommodation.

• Becoming more popular every year is the Seoul Fringe Festival, bringing both local and international artists and performers to the streets of Seoul.

Chuseok generally occurs in September, making it a bustling month in Seoul. While thousands of people depart the capital to visit their hometowns, thousands more spill in to celebrate the festivities. It’s a crowded and slightly more expensive time to visit, but the fall colors and the festive atmosphere make it worth the trade-off.

• Korea possesses a thriving film industry, with many movies making their debut at the Seoul International Film Festival.
• Traditional Chuseok celebrations are held at the city’s main palaces and temples.

Tourist numbers are relatively low in October, despite it being the time when the leaves begin to show off their brilliant hues. The city’s central focal point, Namsan mountain, is the perfect place for an autumn walk and features panoramic views from N Seoul Tower at its peak.

• The Hanwha Seoul International Fireworks Festival is one of the country’s largest festivals, drawing over one million people to Han River Park to watch the dazzling displays.

Seoul temperatures start to drop in November (think somewhere between 30 to 50 degrees F). Still, this month brings with it fewer crowds, autumn feasts, and the colorful lanterns that make up one of the city’s most anticipated and beautiful festivals.

• Kimchi is omnipresent in Korea, and there’s no better way to get acquainted with the ubiquitous side dish than by making and eating it at the Seoul Kimchi Festival .
• Millions of visitors flock to see the inventive displays at the Seoul Lantern Festival , where colorful lanterns stretch nearly a mile along the human-made Cheonggyecheon Stream winding through central Seoul.

Baby, it’s cold outside. By December, temperatures drop back into the 20s and 30s, which makes a visit to one of the city’s many teahouses or steamy bathhouses a priority. Christmas is widely observed in South Korea, and shops and department stores deck their halls accordingly. Combined with the country’s tax-free shopping program, it’s a busy time of year to visit.

• Korea’s two main theme parks, Lotte World and Everland (just south of Seoul), host Christmas celebrations with decorations, parades, and performances that rival anything produced by Mickey Mouse.

Spring or fall is the best time to visit Seoul. Not only are the days comfortably warm, but the city is covered in spring cherry blossoms or fall foliage, making it one of the most beautiful times to be there.

In a city as big as Seoul, it's always bustling with people. However, the major holidays of Seollal (usually in February) and Chuseok (usually in September) are particularly busy travel times.

The summer months are intense in Seoul. Not only is the weather hot and muggy, but it's also typhoon season. Rainstorms are common throughout July and August, so be prepared to spend the day indoors.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Seoul, South Korea." Retrieved February 23, 2021.

World Population Review. "Seoul Population 2021 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)." Retrieved February 23, 2021.

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When Is the Best Season to Visit Seoul?

Korea is a country of four VERY different seasons. With weather varying from -20 – 40 degrees throughout the year, it is important to plan your visit ahead.

One of the most common questions that I receive about Korea is ‘when is the best time to visit Korea?’. This post is here to help with deciding when you should visit Korea. While the information in this post is relevant to all of South Korea, it is specifically targeted at Seoul.

This post will mainly cover the best seasons to visit Seoul, but it won’t go in-depth into the best activities in every season. I have already covered every season individually in separate posts which can be found below:

• Spring in Korea
• Summer in Korea
• Autumn in Korea
• Winter in Korea

If you already have a season/month in mind, make sure to check out those posts for a far deeper look. With that being said, let’s get straight into it.

Looking to learn some essential Korean travel phrases before visiting Korea?

Best Times To Visit Seoul

Naksan Park in spring.

The best season to visit Seoul really depends on what you want to see while you are here. Spring has cherry blossoms , and fall has stunning foliage. However, while these are generally the seasons that I recommend visiting in, some people do prefer summer and winter.

Therefore, while I will discuss some of the best times to visit Seoul below, it is worth mentioning that these aren’t the only good times to visit! No matter when you visit you can have a great time. It’s all down to preference.

With that being said, for the vast majority of people visiting in May or June will be more comfortable than July or August. The weather can reach 40 degrees on the most extreme days and rain is plentiful. With that in mind, I picked some of the months that I would recommend to anyone visiting.

Spring – Cherry Blossoms and Beauty

Witnessing the spectacular cherry blossoms can be rather difficult due to the short period that they are in full bloom. Usually, they will be spectacular for about 5 days after the first bloom. 

Unfortunately, this period is also very hard to predict. Usually, cherry blossom season begins at around March 20th and finishes in mid-April. The cherry blossom season begins in the south and gradually works up towards Seoul.

The official cherry blossom schedule is usually only released a few weeks prior. This is due to the unpredictability of the weather. You can get an idea about what the schedule usually looks like from the 2019 Cherry Blossom Forecast .

The cherry blossom season can last for about a week. However, if the weather is bad, it can be significantly shorter. Both rain and wind will damage the blossoms and sometimes the best viewing period will only last a few days.

Make the most of the cherry blossom season with these tours: Nami Island and the Garden of the Morning Calm | Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival | Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival

This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Affiliate Disclaimer .

Fall – Stunning Foliage and Nice Weather

Fall foliage at World Cup Stadium .

If you are looking for the mildest weather and the most beautiful nature, then fall is the best time to visit South Korea. 

The Korea fall foliage season begins at the end of September and continues through the whole month of October. Generally, Seoul foliage is at its peak in the second half of October. 

Not only is this season spectacular due to the stunning colours and nature, but it is also a great time to do outdoor activities. The weather isn’t too hot or too cold, and this makes it ideal for exploring Korea. 

Make the most of the fall foliage with these tours:  Korea Mountains Fall Foliage One Day Tour | Jeju Island Fall Tour | Seoul & Vicinities Fall Tour

Summer & Winter – Best Months

Summer in Korea is also beautiful! Especially at Seoul Forest .

While spring and fall tend to be most people’s preferred time to visit, summer and winter also have their appeal. 

If you want to experience the summer activities in South Korea , the best time tends to be late May and June. Summer temperatures usually peak in July, and the summer weather is far more pleasant in the earlier half of the season.

If you are interested in learning to surf in Korea or experiencing some of the stunning beaches , then May and June are the best times. This is due to the weather being nice (and sunny) but not yet being overly hot.

Snowing in Seoul, near Sungshin Women’s University .

If, on the other hand, you want to experience the Korean winter , consider visiting in December. Visiting in December means you get to experience winter without having the extreme dryness of February. 

Usually, the first snowfall is in late November/early December. This makes late December and early January a great time to experience the winter activities and attractions of Korea.

Times to Avoid Visiting Seoul

Winter in Korea can be stunning. It can also be incredibly cold and dry.

You can have an amazing time in Korea no matter when you visit. Just keep in mind that these times are often avoided by travellers due to the unpleasant weather conditions. In the case of Chuseok and Seollal, you may find that a lot of activities and locations are closed for the holiday.

Chuseok is a Korean holiday which lasts for 3 days (although it is usually joined with a weekend, making the celebration 5 days long). This holiday usually occurs at the end of September/start of October.

Dates: 2020 – September 30th to October 4th. 2021 – September 18th to September 22nd. Updated dates can be found here .

Reasons to avoid Chuseok: Chuseok is Korea’s largest national holiday and it is a time when families reconnect. While some stores and attractions will remain open, a large amount will be closed. It is a very peaceful time and the cities will be very quiet for a few days. 

However, if you have plans during Chuseok you may find them interrupted. Many national attractions will remain open, and some will offer free admission for the period of the holiday. This includes palaces and national museums among other attractions. However, many private stores and businesses will be closed. 

If you expect to travel within Korea during this event, expect to pay astronomical prices for transport. Especially if you haven’t booked months in advance.

Wondering what activities and attractions still operate throughout Chuseok? I have a full guide to Chuseok and Seollal activities .

Seollal is another holiday similar to Chuseok. The event represents the lunar new year and usually takes place in late January or early February.

Dates: 2020: January 24th – January 26th. 2021: February 12th to February 14th. Updated dates can be found here .

Reasons to avoid Seollal: Seollal is much like Chuseok in that many places will be closed. While the event isn’t as major as Chuseok, you may still find that it interrupts your plans.

During Seollal many privately owned businesses and attractions will be closed. The whole city of Seoul will also become very quiet as families visit their homes. While it can be a great time to look around in peace, make sure that the attractions you want to visit operate through the holiday.

As with Chuseok, make sure to book any domestic trips that you want to take months in advance. Transport costs will skyrocket for the Seollal period.

July and Early August

July and August bring a lot of rain to the peninsula.

Not only are July and August the peaks of summer, but they are the beginning of the monsoon season. Not only are the temperatures often unpleasant (up to 40 degrees), but it is also incredibly muggy and at times, very very wet. 

While the monsoon season continues throughout August, it is generally at its worst in the first half of the month. 

Reasons to avoid July and August: Not only are these to hottest months in the year, but the rain can also ruin plans very easily. July and August are best spent enjoying the beaches in Korea along with festivals like the Boryeong Mud Festival. 

However, for normal tourist activities such as visiting the palaces, this is a very unpleasant time. If you are visiting Busan or a coastal city, you will have a much better time in these months. Make sure to avoid visiting Seoul in late July and early August if you can help it. 

Late January and Early February

Korea in winter is beautiful. Unfortunately, it’s also very chilly!

Likewise to July and August being the peak of summer, January and February are the peak of winter. Throughout these months the weather is often -10 and sometimes as low as -20. While this might not seem low for some people, it is also extremely dry. 

This can make doing any outdoor activities unpleasant and can make a trip to Korea rather limiting.

Reasons to avoid early January and February: While the weather won’t seem cold for everyone, the dryness makes spending time outdoors quite unpleasant. If you want to experience winter in Korea, then December is your best choice.

December and early January are usually also the best times to see snow in Korea. While snow is rather unpredictable and big snowfalls only occur once or twice every winter, these months are your best bet.

Best Seasons to Visit Seoul

Wondering what season is the best to visit Seoul? You’ve come to the right place! In this section, I will go over the weather in each season as well as the activities and highlights of each of the four seasons.

In Korea, there are four very distinct seasons – each of which lasts for around three months. Although this means that Korea has many different attractions and activities every season, it can also make it very difficult to decide when to visit Korea.

I am not exaggerating when I say that Korea feels totally different from season to season. Winter, for example, can make the cities feel quite dreary. On the other hand, spring always makes the country feel very lively and exciting.

Namsan Park in Spring

Spring is a very popular time to visit Seoul as it is the cherry blossom season. Not only that, but it also has some of the mildest weather of the Seoul seasons.

Temperature: Spring in Seoul begins in March and continues until late May. March weather usually has highs between 10 and 15 degrees and lows down to 0 degrees. In April, the weather will warm up a bit with temperatures widely ranging from 15-28 degrees highs and 5-12 lows. In May, the highs are usually within the ’20s and the lows will be in the mid-teens.

The best time to visit Seoul in spring depends on what kind of climate you prefer. March can still be a bit cold for some people, and many prefer April and May.

Generally, weather in spring is calm with no major standout features. The biggest weather element is yellow-dust. In spring the dust blows from eastern China over South Korea and it can make a fine-dust mask necessary at times. The good news is that usually there will also be some clear days.

If you are on a short term visit then the dust won’t have serious effects (which you can read more about here – Seoul Fine Dust ). However, it may limit visibility and will make some attractions such as Namsan Tower and Lotte Tower a bit less breathtaking. Considering that the dust makes it harder to breathe though must mean that it IS breathtaking?

While the daytime weather in Seoul in spring is very mild, it is worth noting that the nights can still be cold. Especially in March! If you plan to do activities at night , make sure to pack some warm clothes.

What to Wear in Seoul Spring

In spring you want to make sure to pack for two different types of weather. Make sure to bring T-shirts and cooler clothing for the warmer days. However, make sure to also bring a light jacket, light jersey, and other light (but warm) clothing for the colder days.

Light jackets like these are ideal – for men . For women .

Spring is often still too cold to wear open footwear, so make sure that you bring some closed footwear and have socks.

If you are visiting in spring, make sure to bring the correct fine-dust mask . My recommended dust mask is the reusable Cambridge Mask .

Popular Spring Activities

Seoul Forest right at the end of spring.

Spring brings life to Korea, and especially to Seoul. If you want to experience the many fantastic gardens that Seoul has to offer then spring is the time to visit. The cherry blossom season begins in mid-march and ends in mid-April. Seoul is usually towards the end of the season due to being located further north.

Spring is also a fantastic time to take day trips outside of Seoul. If you enjoy hiking, then you are in luck! There are many fantastic hikes within a few hours of Seoul – and even a few within the city!

There are a lot of festivals in spring and most of them are related to the cherry blossoms. Since they are the main attraction of the season, you will find no lack of tours that will take you to stunning locations around the city.

Still not sure what to do in spring? Check out these fantastic spring tours! Mt. Goryeosan Azalea Festival  (day trip from Seoul). Taean Tulip Festival (day trip from Seoul). Seoul Vicinity Tour (Nami Island, Petite France, and more!). Seoraksan National Park Tour .

Why Should You Visit Seoul in Spring?

Spring is the best season to visit Seoul if you want to experience the outdoor spaces around the city. The country will begin to bloom and the cherry blossom season begins.

Spring is the best season if you like hiking and want to experience some of the mountains around Korea.

Summer is a great time to get out of Seoul and visit Hajodae !

Summer in Seoul can be HOT. It’s a fantastic time to visit, but make sure that you pack some cool clothes and your swimsuit!

Summer in Seoul begins in June and continues throughout July and August. The peak is usually found in late July and early August before temperatures begin to drop again in September.

Temperature: Temperatures in June will begin to reach the ‘30s with lows in the high-teens. For many people, June is the ideal summer month. In July, temperatures will begin to reach the mid-‘30s with lows in the low twenties. Finally, in August, temperatures will often be in the mid-’30s with some days reaching as high as 40 degrees. Lows will be in the mid-twenties.

Throughout July is the Korean rainy season. While the temperatures are at their peak at this time, so is the rain. As such, it is vital to remember a raincoat and to take an umbrella with you when you go out.

This also means that July is very humid. If you are planning to visit in July or August make sure to bring light clothes that allow air to pass through to keep you cool.

What to Wear in Seoul Summer

If you are planning to visit Seoul in the summer then make sure to pack cool clothes! Any clothes that allow air to pass through are ideal as you will sweat lots.

Open footwear is ideal in summer as having the most ventilation possible is needed.

If you are visiting in July, then make sure to bring a jacket that can protect you from the rain. Light jackets like these are ideal – for men . For women .

If you plan to visit beaches or waterparks then make sure to also bring swimwear and any other equipment you might need for swimming.

Korea is a conservative country and wearing revealing clothing was generally something that was better avoided. However, this is gradually changing and these days clothing is becoming less conservative. With that being said, it’s something to keep in mind.

The same goes for swimwear. Many people advise against wearing just a bikini. However, when visiting Surfyy Beach and Boryeong this year bikinis were very common amongst the swimmers. As such, this is slowly becoming less of an issue and if you wear a bikini in Korea today, you will most likely be fine.

Finally, make sure to bring an insulated water bottle . These bottles are cheap and will help you keep your water cool no matter how warm it is outside.

Popular Summer Activities

The Boryeong Mud Festival is one of the summer’s many fantastic events!

With the summer hitting Seoul, it is the best time to get out and see the beaches around the city. A short two-hour bus ride will take you to some of the most pristine and fun beaches on the peninsula.

Not only this but escaping from the city means that the temperatures will be a few degrees lower.

Hajodae Beach and Sokcho are both fantastic beaches that are located close to Seoul and are very clean and fun.

Summer is also a great time to do indoor activities around the city. You will often find yourself wanting to browse stores just to get out of the heat! As such, this makes summer in Seoul a great time to explore the inside areas of the city.

From DDP to museums and art galleries, to exploring the cafe culture of Seoul. Even if you stay indoors, there is a lot to do!

Summer also has some great festivals related to keeping cool in the heat. The Boryeong Mud Festival is a very popular festival that takes place a few hours south of Seoul. The Sinchon Water Gun Festival is an event that takes place within Seoul and will help you keep cool!

Another popular Korean summer activity is to visit waterparks located near Seoul. These waterparks are essentially theme parks that are full of activities to keep you cool. Ocean World and Caribbean Bay are the two most popular (and closest to Seoul).

Still not sure what to do in summer?  Why not go ice skating to cool off ? Or try some Korean food with the Seoul Night Food Tour . If you are more adventurous, why not try the DMZ Tour with White Water Rafting (summer exclusive event)?

Why Should You Visit Seoul in Summer?

Summer in Seoul is very hot and humid, and this makes it a great time to get out of the city and to explore the nearby beaches and coastal areas.

If you want to experience the coastal areas of Korea and the many festivals, then summer is the best time to visit.

Fall colours in the Korean countryside.

Along with spring, fall is also a very popular time to visit Seoul. Fall lasts from September to November and begins quite warm before the temperature begins to drop.

Temperature: September sees highs around 30 degrees and lows around 20. October’s temperature begins to drop and 20 becomes the average high and 10 the average low. Finally, in November the highs drop to 10-15 degrees and the lows will occasionally drop below 0.

If you are visiting in fall then I would recommend October. October is a beautiful month as you can see the fall foliage in Seoul. I would put October and April as the best months to visit South Korea and Seoul.

There are a lot of different parks in Seoul and they are stunning in fall. World Cup Stadium , in particular, becomes a fantastic place to visit in fall.

What to Wear in Seoul Fall

Earlier fall (September) is still quite warm and you can easily get away with bringing the same clothes that are needed in spring.

This means a light jacket and sweater, closed in shoes and also a set of long pants (or two). But also remember that September can be quite warm, so it’s also worth bringing some summer clothes.

In the second half of fall, you will want to bring warmer clothes. Make sure to bring some thermal underclothes as well as a warm hat, and a scarf.

If you bring a few thermal underclothes then you shouldn’t need a heavy jacket in fall.

Popular Fall Activities

Fall sunset at Haneul Garden.

Similar to spring, many of the fall activities in Seoul are related to nature. Since the indoor activities are unaffected by the weather, I would recommend visiting in the season that has the outdoor activities that you want to witness.

Seoul and the area around the city have a multitude of stunning places to view fall foliage .

Fall is also one of the best times to experience Korean culture and participate in a temple stay. Not only this, but it’s also one of the best times to explore the palaces in Seoul and take Hanbok photos.

Fall in Korea is also the time of the Cheonggycheon Lantern Festival. Cheonggyecheon itself is a place that should be visited, and the festival makes it even more beautiful!

There are also a lot of fall festivals around the peninsula .

Still not sure what to do in fall?  Seoraksan Mountain Tour  – stunning fall colours. Yangpyeong Rail Bike Ride – Another way to enjoy the beautiful fall colours. Incheon Fall Foliage Tour .

Why Should You Visit Seoul in Fall?

If you love fall foliage then Seoul is a fantastic place to visit during the fall. There are many stunning gardens and parks which become even more beautiful in this season.

Visiting in fall is also a great time to visit to avoid the extreme hot and cold temperatures of winter and summer.

Gyeongbokgung Palace in winter is an entirely different place!

Finally, we come to winter. Winter in Seoul can become very cold and dry. With that being said, some unique activities make winter an attractive time to visit!

Many people visit Seoul expecting to see snow. While snow can be seen sometimes, snowfall in Seoul is quite rare and usually only happens two or three times every winter. If seeing snow is your main intention, you are better off leaving the city.

Winter in Seoul begins in December and ends in February. Typically late January and early February are the coldest months.

Temperature: In December, high temperatures average about 7 degrees. Lows will fall to the low minuses (0 to -5). In January, high temperatures will drop to 0 degrees and lows will fall even further to -10. February has very similar temperatures to January, except that the second half of the month will begin to warm again.

Something else to note is that Christmas in Korea is a couples day, rather than a family day. You will find that most stores and attractions remain open (it’s not a public holiday in Korea). If you do visit around Christmas, expect to see a lot of couples.

What to Wear in Seoul Winter

The Seoul Winter can be very cold and as such, it is important to pack warm clothes.

If you are visiting Seoul in the winter make sure to bring a heavy jacket (such as a ski jacket), as well as some heavy sweaters and warm underclothes.

You will also be wanting to bring warm gloves, socks, and warm headwear. If possible, also try and bring warm shoes that are waterproof. While this isn’t essential, it will be far more pleasant without wet feet!

An insulated water bottle is also great in winter. These bottles are cheap and will help you keep your drink warm no matter how cold it is outside.

Popular Winter Activities

Bukhansan Mountain in winter.

Winter in Seoul has a few unique activities with sledging and ice-skating activities popping up over the city. Skiing is also very popular, and a few venues can be found a few hours outside of the city.

Many visitors love to experience warming Korean cuisine in winter, and this is also one of my favourite activities. From street vendors to restaurants, there is a lot of food to eat!

Everland (a theme park near Seoul) has ice skating and sledging in winter and attracts a lot of people. If you are more interested in skiing, then Vivaldi Park has you covered.

Due to the weather, winter is also a great time to explore the inside areas of Seoul. This means museums, shopping, and even experiencing the cafe culture of Seoul !

Still not sure what to do in winter?  Jisan Ski Resort + Everland Tour Package . Nami Island + Vivaldi Ski Resort Tour Package . Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival .

Why Should You Visit Seoul in Winter?

Most people tend to avoid visiting in the Korean winter. However, there are still a few aspects that make it appealing.

If you enjoy winter sports or plan to spend most of your time inside then winter is ideal.

Winter also provides a unique view of many of the Seoul attractions. Visiting the palaces is a completely different feeling in winter. Hiking is also fantastic!

When Is the Best Season To Visit Seoul?

If you just want the quick answer, here it is: Seoul is fantastic at all times of the year. However, April and October are the best months to visit. More broadly, fall and spring are the two most popular times to visit Seoul and for good reason.

Unless you have a particular reason for wanting to visit in summer or winter, I would stick to this general advice.

If you have a favourite time to visit Seoul I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment down below!

Best Season to Visit Seoul FAQ

What Are the Warmest Months in Seoul?

The warmest months in Seoul are those in the middle of the year. Generally, May-August is quite warm, with July being the hottest month.

What Are the Coldest Months in Seoul?

The coldest months in Seoul are December – February. Out of these months, January and February are normally the coldest.

What Season Is Best to Visit Seoul?

This really depends on what you want to see and do in Seoul. However, fall and spring are the easiest seasons to recommend as they have the most moderate activities and many festivals celebrating their unique weather (such as cherry blossom and fall foliage festivals).

Does Korea Have 4 Seasons?

Yes! Korea has four very distinct seasons. Each of the seasons has very distinct patterns, and the temperature changes drastically between seasons.

Where Can I Find the Best Activities/Festivals in Each Season?

I have created lists of the best activities in each season which can be found here: Best activities spring Best activities in summer Best activities in fall Best activities in winter

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South Korea Weather in December: Travel Tips for First-Timers

December is the very first of the winter months in South Korea, and brings with it a festive cheer and spirit that should go some way in keeping you warm as the month gets progressively colder the closer to January it gets. The temperature ranges from an average high of 10°C (50°F) to an average low of -5°C (23°F).

While the first part of December is marked by limited crowds and reasonable prices, the second part of the month is likely to be far more crowded. This is partly because Korean schools give off for the holidays come mid-December thereby resulting in a rise in domestic tourism, and partly because of the festive period itself. Not only should you expect crowded streets in freezing temperatures come the end of the month, but also higher prices for accommodation and airfare during that time.

Winds coming in from Siberia result in plummeting winter temperatures. Snow can be expected towards the end of the month. Because of this we recommend you pack plenty of warm sweaters and cardigans, heavy coats, thermal inners and socks, waterproof boots, scarves, winter hats, and gloves if you're planning a trip to South Korea in December.

To get an in-depth understanding of what to expect insofar as weather conditions are concerned during December, keep reading below.

• 1. Weather Overview
• 2. Best Places to Visit
• 3. Crowds and Costs
• 4. What to Wear

South Korea Weather in December: Overview

• Average temperature range : -5°C (23°F) – 10°C (50°F)
• Precipitation : 25 mm (1 inch) in Seoul; 30 mm (1 inch) in Busan; 70 mm (3 inches) in Jeju.
• Rainy/Snowy days : 3 in Seoul; 4 in Busan; 8 in Jeju.

December is the second coldest month of the year in South Korea, after January. You can expect freezing temperatures and plenty of snowfall throughout most part of the peninsula during the month.

The average maximum temperature – usually recorded during daytime – ranges from 3°C (37°F) in Seoul, 10°C (50°F) in Busan, and 10°C (50°F) in Jeju Island, whereas the average minimum temperature – usually recorded at nighttime – ranges from -5°C (23°F) in Seoul, 0°C (32°F) in Busan, and 4°C (39°F) in Jeju.

There are few places on the planet that capture the festive spirit in quite the same way as does South Korea, so if you don't mind the colder temperatures and some crowds, the wintery wonderland that is the Korean mainland, awaits your arrival!

Weather of South Korea's Major Cities in December

Best places to visit in south korea in december.

The capital of South Korea turns into a winter wonderland during the festive period. Seoul is decorated in beautiful Christmas lights, the City Hall offers visitors the chance to ice skate, and you can find yourself plenty of good deals if you're looking for some retail therapy.

2. Pyeongchang

Although there's plenty of sunshine in Pyeongchang during December, it remains extremely cold in this part of the country, so be sure to bundle up and wear layers if you want to be comfortable. The Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch is a must visit and if you're into skiing, Pyeongchang is home to some of the best ski resorts in the country, and the area receives the most snowfall during the end of the month.

Busan is much warmer compared to most places in South Korea during December. While your chances of catching snow are much lower in the coastal city, Busan hosts the Busan Christmas Tree Festival and the city's pristine beaches offer visitors an alternative Christmas experience that is unlike any other in the country.

December Crowds and Costs

The first part of December in South Korea brings with it limited crowds and reasonable prices no matter where you go – meaning you can visit top tourist attractions without having to wait in long lines or pay way over the average price of goods. This is a good time to get deals on airfare and accommodation before prices rise towards mid-December.

Prices will invariably rise by mid-December, though because of the approaching holidays. Schools give off for the holidays, meaning domestic tourism experiences a sharp rise during this time, up until the end of the month, and through the holiday season. The festive period, as such, can be really crowded, over-priced, and cold.

If you plan to visit South Korea during the festive period, we suggest you plan ahead insofar as airfare and accommodation are concerned as it can be a real challenge to find good value accommodation in the most sought-after locations during this time.

December Events in South Korea

Busan Christmas Tree Festival : The Busan Christmas Tree Festival is one of the city's biggest annual festivals featuring giant Christmas trees, street performances, decorative lights, concerts, and smiles all around. The days of celebrations differ year after year but usually start around mid-December and go on until the end of the month.

Seoul Lantern Festival : If you've always wanted to visit a Christmas market decorated to the brim with lanterns and outdoor lights, be sure to visit the Seoul Lantern Festival. The festival usually takes place from mid-December and continues through the first half of January. It is held in the capital's Cheonggye Plaza.

Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival : The Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival takes place in the city of Gapyeong and was the first of its kind to combine the natural surroundings of the area with outdoor LED lighting. Over 30,000 lights are put on a dazzling display in a celebration that is sure to take your breath away. The festival usually takes place over the entirety of the month of December. The Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival is, hands down, one of the best December festivals in the country.

It's also important to mention that while Christmas is a national holiday in South Korea, it's not observed in quite the same manner as it is in the western world. All businesses, including restaurants, shops, and most tourist attractions, usually remain open.

What to Wear in South Korea in December

In December, you can expect a mix of rain or snow, depending on where in South Korea you find yourself. Either way, it's important to be prepared for cold winter conditions if you want to be prepared for the harsh Siberian winds that make their way into the Korean peninsula at this time.

You'll need plenty of warm sweaters and jackets, a trusted umbrella or raincoat, a thick winter coat, thermal inners and socks, waterproof boots, warm hats, scarves, and gloves to be comfortable in Korea in December.

Even though it'll be slightly warmer in cities like Busan and Jeju as compared to Seoul and Incheon, you can say no to bringing your short-sleeved and thin clothes with you.

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Seoul Travel – 12 Things to Do on a Winter Trip to South Korea

Winter magic and Seoul travel adventures never end! When the city is snow-capped and prices – as well as crowds – are at all-time lows, it’s time to team up with Agoda and plan a winning holiday!

1. EAT, EAT, EAT AND EAT!

Whether you like to eat it with your hands, on a stick or in a bowl, Korean food is designed to warm you up from the inside out. Experts agree that any of these street food staples are stick-to-your-ribs satisfying and completely “Seoul-warming.” Judge for yourself at Tongin Market or Gwangjang Market , where the competition never ends.

Stand-outs in street food categories :

Hand-held : Chi-maek (Korean fried chicken), Tokkebi (fried corn dog), Hotteok (pancake filled with syrup), Gyeran Bbang (egg muffin) On a stick : Odeng (fish cake served with dipping broth), Dakkochi (marinated grilled chicken), Tteokgalbi meatballs (sweet and sour beef rib meatballs) In a bowl : Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), Tteok-mandu guk (rice cake dumpling soup), Tteokbokki (rice cakes in spicy sauce)

Check In to Nuri Hanok Guesthouse , Step Out to Tongin Market

Discover more markets in Seoul!

2. SKINNY DIPPING AT A JJIMJILBANG

All athletes need time to recoup, and visiting one of Seoul’s jjimjilbangs is considered a team event. With sleeping facilities, wide-screen TVs and exercise rooms, Korea’s steaming hot public baths and saunas are the perfect place to rekindle your fire. If you’re not much of a team player, go on a weekday because families fill up these hot spots every weekend.

Competing for the gold:

Dragon Hill Spa & Resort , 40-712 Hangangno 3(sam)-ga, Yongsan-gu Spa Lei , 8-22, Jamwon-dong, Seocho-gu Siloam Spa , 49 Jungnim-ro, Jungnim-dong, Jung-gu

Check In to Hotel the Designers Seoul Station , Step Out to Yongsan

Discover more guest houses and serviced apartments near Central City shopping mall

Source: @star_light_festival

3. SEE WINTER ILLUMINATION

Rather be a judge than a participant? See if you can find a perfect 10 during a trip outside of Seoul , where you can march through some of the most fascinating light shows in the nation.

Lighting Festival at The Garden of Morning Calm , Gapyeong Boseong Green Tea Plantation Light Festival , Korea Tea Culture Park near Yulpo Beach E-World Starlight Festival , Daegu Animal & Heart Village Light Festival at Ansan Starlight Village Photo Land , Ansan

Check In to Hotel Square , Step Out to Ansan

Discover more places to stay in Daegu

4. GET ON YOUR FEET

Pull up your long socks and generate your own heat during a winter walking expedition through the city. Whether you participate as a speed-walker or a chilled-out spectator, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a finish line at any of Seoul’s most popular venues.

Stand-outs in sightseeing categories :

Art and historical districts : Garosu-gil Road; Bukchon Hanok Village Markets and shopping : Samseong-dong; Insadong Ssamjigil Sightseeing : Gyeongbokgung Palace ; Cheonggyecheon Stream

Check In to Hotel Aventree Jongo , Step Out to Bukchon Hanok Village

Discover more about Gyeongbokgung Palace

Source: Kang Jenny

5. HIT THE HILLS AND ICE-SKATING RINKS

Ice-skating is both an indoor and outdoor sport in South Korea, and rinks fill up fast during winter months. Likewise, with dozens of freshly-packed, snow-covered hills to conquer, sledding is a national winter pastime as well!

Stand-outs in winter recreation categories :

Indoor skating rinks : Lotte World Indoor Ice Skating Rink Outdoor skating rinks : Seoul Plaza Skating Rink; Seoul Arts Center Sledding and winter activities : Everland Resort; Seoulland Character Park

Check In to Signiel Seoul , Step Out to Lotte World

Discover more things to do at Lotte World

6. DANCE THE COLD AWAY, GANGNAM STYLE!

If dancing were a winter sport, South Koreans would definitely receive a medal. These K-pop fanatics know how to heat up an entire stadium! Dress for success and bring your A-game if you join a competition because Gangnam Style invites some stiff competition.

Stand-outs in nightlife categories :

Younger crowds : NB2; Cocoon; Brown Gangnam : Octagon Club; Club Arena; Monkey Beach; Glad Live; Club Avenue 535 Cultural vibe : Cakeshop Seoul; Boombar; Monkey Museum

Check In to Glad Live Gangnam , Step Out to Gangnam

Discover more hotels and guest about nightlife in Seoul

7. PLOW DOWN THE SLOPES

There are a thousand reasons why winter is the perfect time to visit Seoul, but the first-class slopes you’ll find outside the city may be the best one of all! Snowboard or ski down snow-packed trails, designed for rookies and pros alike, and give yourself a medal because Olympiads competed on the exact same mountains!

Yongpyong Resort Alpensia Resort High1 Ski Resort Konjiam Resort Vivaldi Park Muju Deogyusan Resort Phoenix Snow Park

Check In to Phoenix Pyeongchang Resort , Step Out to Phoenix Snow Park

Discover more places to stay in Pyeongchang

8. SOAK UP WINTER SCENES

At the top is where you’ll find trophy views while the city is blanketed in snow. Savor Seoul’s beauty in an atmosphere that might require a winter hat but is guaranteed to generate loads of warm, fuzzy feelings.

Stand-outs in scenic view categories :

Towers : Seoullo 7017 ; Gwanghwamun Square ; Fortress Wall of Seoul; 63 Building; Lotte World Tower Natural viewpoints : Nam Mountain (Namsan) ; Bugaksan Mountain; Maebongsan Mountain; Seokchonhosu Lake; Haneul Park Bridges : Banpo Bridge; Seonyudo Park Rainbow Bridge

Check In to Kensington Hotel Yoido (Yeouido) , Step Out to Yeouido

Discover more hotels and guest houses in Banpo

Source: @thekoreandreamfr

9. ESCAPE THE CHILLS WHILE CHERISHING THE ARTS

Warm up to Seoul’s rich history and culture by indulging in the vast selection of museums that feature everything from ancient history to life in the future, and even … kimchi! Take several victory laps inside each location, not just because viewing Seoul’s exhibits will make you feel like an award-winner, but also because, baby, it’s cold outside!

Stand-outs in museum categories :

History : National Palace Museum of Korea ; National Folk Museum of Korea ; Ewha Womans University Museum Art : Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) ; Seoul Arts Center ; National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art ; ARA Modern Art Museum Weird and wacky : T.um – SK Telecom ; Kimchi Field Museum (Museum Kimchikan); ; LEEUM, Samsung Museum of Art

Check In to Somerset Palace Seoul , Step Out to Jongno

10. TAKE COVER IN A COZY BED

The sport of curling might not be on your winter games playlist, but curling UP during winter in Seoul is a serious pastime! Cozy up with the entire family in a traditional, yet luxuriously modern, Korean home, or go for the gold in a premium suite with a private onsen, sauna and even a heated toilet!

Stand-outs in accommodations categories :

For the whole team : Dormy Inn Premium Seoul Garosugil Individual participant : Hotel La Casa Garosugil Traditional : Ihwa Hanok Stay

Check In to Ihwa Hanok Stay , Step Out to Bukchon Hanok Village

11. SHOP LIKE A CHAMP

Shopping in South Korea is so popular that the country’s tourism committee made it a national event! Experience the Korea Grand Sale each January in shopping districts across Seoul and in municipalities throughout the country. Every major retailer participates by offering free gifts, discounts on products and services, cultural experiences, and best of all, warm surroundings.

Stand-outs in shopping categories :

Shopping districts : Ewha Womans University Fashion Street ; Dongdaemun Market ; Myeong-dong ; Hongdae ; Gangnam Underground Shopping Center ; Insa-dong Shopping malls : Starfield COEX Mall; Parnas Mall; Famille Station; IFC; Times Square; AK Plaza, Suwon

Check In to Hotel Skypark Dongdaemun I , Step Out to Dongdaemun Market

Discover more about shopping in Seoul!

12. BOTTOMS UP!

Sip it or shoot it like locals, but don’t leave without tasting Korea’s national drink, soju. Described as a sweet and mild spirit akin to vodka, soju is so much a part of Korean culture that some locals perform a ceremony while partaking and only drink it with specific foods. You don’t have to follow all the rules, but sampling is a must. Warm up your insides with a pub crawl to discover dozens of varieties of soju as well as Seoul’s other most famous beverage, makgeolli.

Makgeolli bars : Mui Mui; Wolhyang; Chin Chin Soju bars : Vinga; Vinyl; The Timber House ; The Flower Shop that Sells Alcohol Jeontong-ju (traditional Korean alcohol) : De Chou; Mingles; Saebal Jajeongeo (Tricycle); Soobul Unlimited drinks : 401 Lounge; Makgeolli Salon ; Hanguk Galbi; Cactus; The A Lounge Craft beer : Bonny’s Pizza Pub; Magpie Brewing Co.; Craftworks Taphouse; The Springs Tap House

Check In to Glad Mapo , Step Out to Yeouido

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Experience South Korea in December: A Guide for the First-Time Travelers

South Korea is a perfect destination to visit during December, as it transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-capped mountains and frosty landscapes. It marks the beginning of the festive season in South Korea, and cities are adorned with Christmas lights and decorations, creating a positive atmosphere.

In this article, The Daebak Company will help you prepare for your holiday celebration in Korea , especially if it's going to be your first time. Why don't we go on this adventure together?

South Korea Weather in December

In South Korea, December marks the onset of winter, bringing a freezing climate and shorter days. The weather can vary across the country, but generally, you can expect cold temperatures and the possibility of both rain and snowfall.

Regardless of where you are in South Korea, December is one of the coldest months, so warm clothing is essential. Remember to pack items like heavy coats, scarves, gloves, and hats to protect against the cold and potential snowfall. If you plan on exploring the outdoors, waterproof boots would also be a good addition to your luggage.

Given the variable weather conditions, it's highly recommended that travelers review the local weather forecast before their trip. This will help you prepare adequately, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Food and Cuisine

Korean cuisine is a diverse and intricate combination of flavors, textures, and colors representing the country's past, location, and traditions. It is known for its harmonious blend of tastes, with sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy flavors often found in a single dish.

What dishes should you try on your first visit, and where do you find them? We've got you covered! 

Special Winter Dishes

Bungeoppang | Red Bean Filled Pastry

Bungeoppang , or carp bread , is a beloved winter delicacy in South Korea. This delectable snack is shaped like a fish and made from a doughy mixture packed with red bean paste.

Once filled, it is toasted until it turns a pleasingly brown color. The bread's exterior is crunchy, while the filling provides a subtly sweet taste, making it the perfect snack for chilly days. 

Hoppang | Steamed Bun

A brand name for a ready-to-eat steamed bun called jjinppang, hoppang is a popular Korean street food that is nutritious and commonly consumed during winter. It combined the onomatopoeia ho , ho (the sound of blowing on hot food), and ppang , which means bread in Korean. Although they may look the same from the outside, Hoppang can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, buldak, pumpkin, pizza flavors, and the popular red bean paste.

Hotteok | Cinnamon Sugar Pancake

Hotteok is a popular Korean food item, especially during the cold winter. It is typically a hot and fried sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, making it a popular dessert to warm up with during winter.

The dough is typically filled with sweet treats, making it a comforting, warming snack. It is often described as being chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside, providing a delightful texture contrast. 

Dak-Galbi | Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken

Dak-Galbi is a delicious dish that combines marinated chicken , assorted vegetables, rice cake, and a robust chili paste sauce seasoned with a variety of mouth-watering spices. It not only has a rich flavor but also provides warmth and comfort, making it an ideal choice for the cold season.

The dish is highly customizable with various add-ons like noodles and cheese, enhancing its versatility. It has gained a reputation as one of the most popular Korean winter foods.

Odeng | Fish Cake

Odeng is a dish best enjoyed on a cold December evening when it is skewered on a stick, soaked in broth, and consumed outside. The taste of odeng is both wholesome and hearty, and its unique texture comes from the blend of fish and grain used to make it.

Restaurant and Street Food Spots

Yuktongryeong

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ex Kiratipan (@ernie_x)

Yuktongryeong is a highly recommended destination for BBQ enthusiasts, especially those seeking an authentic Korean BBQ experience in Myeongdong. This restaurant has made a name for itself, specializing in Jeju black pork and ribeye steak offerings.

It provides the perfect gastronomic experience for those wanting to satisfy their Korean BBQ cravings. Its reputation as potentially the best Korean BBQ restaurant in the area further adds to its appeal.

Location: 37-2, Myeongdong 8na-Gil, Seoul

Operating Hours: 11:30AM-1:30AM

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melissa Chang (@melissa808)

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu is a popular dining destination well-known for its expertise in crafting Pyongyang-style kalguksu , which are hand-sliced noodles. Their dishes are also famous for their deep and rich taste, made with fresh ingredients. This place is always bustling with long lines of people waiting to be served and specializes in beef bone kalguksu and dumplings.

Location: 84 Sogyeok-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Operating Hours: 11:00AM-9:30PM 

Gwangjang Market

When in Korea, make sure to visit Gwangjang: The largest market for traditional clothing and textiles. Interestingly, it's also the oldest street food market in the country. As you stroll around, you'll find several stalls selling similar dishes. It can be overwhelming to choose from the available assortment of Korean street food, but look for bindaetteok or fried mung bean pancakes.

Location: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Operating Hours: 8:30AM-6:00PM

Coffee Shops

Coffee Nap Roasters

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 커피냅로스터스 (@coffeenap_roasters)

Coffee Nap Roasters is an excellent spot for coffee lovers as this place offers sustainable specialty coffee and an attractive interior design. This cafe is committed to supporting environmental causes and local culture, both directly and indirectly. 

It is made up of 7,000 bricks to serve as a seating area. The undulating design of the floor resembles a small hill, transforming the space into an indoor landscape that encourages visitors to stay and relax while enjoying their coffee.

Location: 453-32 Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Operating Hours: 10AM-6:30PM

Caffe Themselves

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 뎀셀브즈 Themselves (@themselves.coffee)

Caffe Themselves is a hit among the young Korean crowd. Its popularity soars even during the coldest winter months, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the local coffee culture . 

The café has a reputation for an extensive range of delightful beverages. It is recognized for serving some of the best coffee in the city, catering to a wide audience - from those who enjoy frothy concoctions to seasoned coffee enthusiasts.  

• 388 Samil-daero Jongro-Ku, Seoul 
• 403-3, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu

Operating Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM

Dorrell Coffee

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 도렐 (@dorrell_coffee)

Dorrell is an incredible coffee hangout that blends coffee culture with skateboarding. The shop's architecture, featuring concrete ramps and deck-shaped chairs, is inspired by skateboarding, and there is a range of creative and interesting coffee drinks on the menu that attract crowds. All of this has made Dorrell one of the top cafés in Seoul.  

Location: 355-10 Heungwang-ri, Hwado-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

Operating Hours: 8:00AM-9:00PM (Mon-Fri); 11:00AM-9:00PM (Sat & Sun)

Top Places to Visit

Seoul: winter activities and attractions.

The drop in temperature adds to the charm of Seoul. It offers a wide range of winter activities and attractions suitable for all travelers. You can find ice skating rinks all over the city, and the Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink is one of the most popular.

You shouldn't miss the chance to witness the stunning light displays, particularly the ones at the Seoul Christmas Festival. If you are a food lover, you can savor winter-special street foods like hotteok and bungeoppang. 

If you plan to stay until the end of the year, you will have the opportunity to witness the 2023 SEOULCon . This massive gathering of global influencers showcases the dynamic lifestyle and trends of Seoul. The event offers free access to everyone, allowing them to enjoy a myriad of activities with their idols.

Ready to see your favorite Korean artists & influencers? 👀 We invite you to 2023 SEOULCon and experience the trendy content of Seoul! Save the date! ● Venue: Dongdaemun Design Plaza ● Date: 2023-12-30 to 2024-01-01 #seoulconisdaebak #2023seoulcon #sba #webringseoultoyou pic.twitter.com/FUrGqS1nX6 — The Daebak Company (@daebakbox) November 15, 2023

Busan: Beaches and Seafood markets

Head to Busan , the country's second-largest city, for those seeking milder winter weather. You can take leisurely strolls here along beautiful beaches such as Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach , even in December. 

The seafood markets in Busan, like the Jagalchi Market , are a must-visit. You can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies. Don't forget to visit the Busan Christmas Tree Festival for a festive atmosphere.

Jeju Island: Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Rounding out our list is Jeju Island, a place of immense natural beauty. December is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities on the island. Hike up Hallasan Mountain or explore the lava tubes at Manjanggul Cave . The island's tangerine farms also offer picking experiences during this season. Plus, the Jeju Hueree Camellia Flower Festival runs throughout December (until January 2024), where you can witness thousands of camellia flowers in full bloom.

Tips for First-Time Travelers

Language basics and useful phrases.

While many Koreans in urban areas speak some English, learning a few basic Korean phrases is always helpful. Greetings like "Annyeonghaseyo" (Hello) and "Kamsahamnida" (Thank you) can go a long way. Also, learning to read Hangul , the Korean alphabet, can be very helpful, especially for reading signs and menus.

Transportation: How to get around

South Korea has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, so make sure to familiarize yourself with it. In cities like Seoul and Busan, the subway is often the fastest and most convenient travel method. Taxis are also readily available and relatively affordable. For intercity travel, consider taking a KTX train or express bus.

Safety tips

For first-time travelers to South Korea, safety is generally high. Still, as with any travel, it's important to stay aware and follow certain guidelines:

Keep Valuables Out of Sight: While crime rates are generally low in South Korea, keeping your money and valuables out of sight and reach, especially in tourist-heavy areas, is best.

Stay Safe at Night: Most parts of Seoul are safe to roam around day and night, even for solo female travelers, but vigilance is always a good practice.

Mind the Holidays: Timing your visit with consideration of significant holidays. Some places might be closed or overly crowded during these times.

Dress Appropriately: Depending on the season, pack proper clothing. Since you're planning to go during the winter, packing heavy coats, good walking shoes, thick sweaters, socks, and scarves is necessary.

• Be Respectful: Be aware of cultural norms to avoid unintentional rudeness.

Currency and payment methods

The official currency of South Korea is the Korean Won. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for smaller businesses and street vendors is also helpful. ATMs are readily available for withdrawals.

Shopping and souvenirs

South Korea offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from traditional markets like Namdaemun Market to modern shopping districts like Myeongdong. Popular souvenirs and gifts include Korean cosmetics , traditional Hanbok , and local snacks like honey butter almonds.

Etiquette tips

When traveling to South Korea, understanding basic Korean etiquette, particularly those related to public behavior, can significantly enhance your experience. Koreans place great importance on politeness and respect in public spaces. They also have norms regarding shoes, hands, and dining. Remember, these etiquette rules may vary depending on the regions you plan to visit in South Korea.

December is an ideal time to visit South Korea and experience its stunning scenery, vibrant cuisine, and rich culture during the winter season. For first-time visitors, it is crucial to have knowledge of the local language, customs, transportation, safety, and currency.  

Whether you're a foodie, nature lover, or adventurer, South Korea offers something unique. The Daebak Company can be your guide to an unforgettable Korean experience.

Is it a good time to visit South Korea in December?

Yes, it's a great time. South Korea, in December, transforms into a festive place with light displays and holiday festivals. It's the start of winter, so expect frosty temperatures but likely fewer crowds, making sightseeing more enjoyable. The weather is cold but dry, and the snow creates a charming atmosphere.

What clothes do you wear in Korea in December?

Dressing warmly is essential in December. Layering is key - start with thermal wear if you get cold quickly. Over this, wear a warm sweater or a fleece, followed by a heavy winter coat. Don't forget to pack gloves, scarves, and hats to protect against the cold. Consider packing comfortable and warm shoes, as you might encounter snow.

Will Seoul snow in December?

Yes, you can expect snow in Seoul in December. However, remember that the weather can be unpredictable, and snowfall can vary each year.

A Guide to Winter in Korea: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The Best Drink for the Winter: Yuja Tea

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A Winter Wonderland: Exploring The Weather In Seoul In December

By Trip.com

April 18, 2023

Winter is a time of enchantment, and there's no better place to experience this charm than Seoul, South Korea's bustling capital. As December rolls in, the city transforms into a frosty wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, festive celebrations, and a unique atmosphere that you'll find hard to resist.

If you're considering a trip to Seoul during this time, the weather in Seoul in December is something you'll want to understand and prepare for. In this article, we'll explore the typical conditions, what to expect, and how to make the most of your trip during this magical season.

Understanding The Weather In Seoul In December

Temperature: How Low Can It Go?

As the year comes to an end, Seoul experiences a significant drop in temperature. December sees average lows of -6°C (21°F) and average highs of 4°C (39°F), so you'll want to pack your warmest clothes.

Here's a general breakdown of December temperatures:

Early December: -3°C to 5°C

Mid-December: -6°C to 3°C

Late December: -7°C to 2°C

Precipitation: Snow or Rain?

While snowfall is a possibility in Seoul during December, it isn't as common as one might think. On average, the city experiences around 5 snowy days in December. Snow accumulations tend to be minimal, so don't expect a winter wonderland every day. That being said, when it does snow, the city becomes a picturesque sight to behold.

Rain is relatively infrequent in December, with only about 8 days of precipitation. The overall amount is typically low, averaging about 25mm for the month.

Winds: A Breeze or a Gale?

December in Seoul can be quite windy at times, with an average wind speed of around 9 km/h. This can make the already chilly temperatures feel even colder, so make sure to dress appropriately and protect yourself from the wind.

Here’s a quick summary of the weather conditions in Seoul in December:

If you are considering other times of the year to visit Seoul, here is an article with an overview of the weather in Seoul - what to expect during each season and some tips for staying comfortable - no matter the time of year.

Essentials Packing List For Weather In Seoul In December

Though the weather in Seoul in December can be quite cold, this does not deter locals and tourists alike from enjoying the country's winter wonderland.

Here’s a list of essentials that we recommend packing to stay comfortable during your trip.

● Thermal base layers: Opt for moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics to keep you dry and warm.

● Insulating mid-layers: Fleece, down, or synthetic insulation will provide much-needed warmth in Seoul's December weather.

● Windproof and waterproof outer layers: A quality coat or jacket will protect you from wind, snow, and potential rain.

● Warm bottoms: Insulated pants or leggings are essential for staying warm in the cold temperatures.

● Wool or thermal socks: Keep your feet warm and dry with thick, moisture-wicking socks.

● Waterproof, insulated boots: Proper footwear is crucial for navigating Seoul's snowy and icy streets.

● Hat, gloves, and scarf: Protect your extremities from the cold with warm accessories.

● Hand warmers: These portable heat packs can make a significant difference in your comfort on chilly days.

● Compact umbrella: Be prepared for the occasional rain or snow shower with a small umbrella.

● Skincare essentials: Cold weather can be harsh on your skin, so pack lip balm, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

Embracing Seoul's Winter Charm: Top Activities and Attractions

Seoul in December is a winter wonderland that is not to be missed. Whether you're looking for cultural festivals, winter sports, or relaxing hot springs, there's so much to see and do in Seoul .

Step back in time at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Immerse yourself in Korean history as you explore the stunning grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace . Don't miss the captivating changing of the guard ceremony, where you'll witness a colorful display of traditional costumes and performances.

Glide Through Seoul Plaza

Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at the outdoor rink in the heart of Seoul. Surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations, you'll feel like you've stepped into a winter fairy tale.

Soar High Above The City At Namsan Tower

Take a cable car ride up Namsan Mountain and marvel at the panoramic views of Seoul from the observation deck of N Seoul Tower . Warm up inside the tower with a hot drink as you gaze at the city lights below.

Discover Korea's Artistic Side In Insadong

Meander down the quaint streets of Insadong , a cultural haven where you'll find traditional Korean art, crafts, and tea houses. Sip on a cup of warm omija tea as you browse unique souvenirs and admire the local artwork.

Shop And Snack Your Way Through Myeongdong

Bundle up and wander through the bustling streets of Myeongdong, where you'll find fantastic winter sales and mouthwatering street food. From sizzling hotteok (sweet pancakes) to steaming cups of odeng (fish cake soup), you'll stay warm and satisfied as you shop.

Reach New Heights At Lotte World Tower

Ascend to the observation deck of Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in South Korea, for breathtaking views of Seoul's skyline. Afterwards, explore the indoor theme park and shopping mall to stay warm and entertained.

Stroll Through History In Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander among the traditional Korean houses, called hanok, in the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village . Snap photos of the charming snow-covered rooftops and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.

Admire Cutting-edge Design At Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Visit the architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid, Dongdaemun Design Plaza , which hosts art exhibitions, fashion shows, and various events throughout the year. Step inside this futuristic building to escape the cold and enjoy a dose of culture.

Be Dazzled By Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain

Witness the mesmerizing water and light show at Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain. As the colorful jets of water dance to the rhythm of music, you'll be captivated by this unique display that brightens the winter nights.

Experience Gangnam's Chic Side On Garosu-gil

Explore the tree-lined streets of Garosu-gil in Gangnam, where you'll find an array of chic boutiques, cozy cafes, and contemporary art galleries. Warm up with a cup of coffee or a sweet treat as you browse the latest fashion trends.

With these exciting activities and attractions, you'll have an unforgettable experience while embracing the weather in Seoul in December. So, get ready to create magical memories in this winter wonderland!

You can check out our Seoul travel guide for more ideas.

FAQs: Weather In Seoul In December

Is it safe to visit seoul in december, what are some popular activities in seoul during december, how much daylight can i expect in seoul in december, will i need an umbrella in seoul in december, how do locals deal with the cold weather in seoul in december, weather in seoul in december conclusion.

The weather in Seoul in December might be cold, but don't let that deter you from exploring this vibrant and culturally rich city. With proper clothing and a sense of adventure, you can fully immerse yourself in the winter festivities and unique experiences that Seoul has to offer.

So bundle up and set out to create unforgettable memories in this enchanting winter wonderland. Have a magical trip!

Weather In Seoul In December

• 1. Understanding The Weather In Seoul In December
• 2. Essentials Packing List For Weather In Seoul In December
• 3. Embracing Seoul's Winter Charm: Top Activities and Attractions
• 4. Weather In Seoul In December Conclusion

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Asia , City Guides , South Korea · March 8, 2020

Best Time to Visit Seoul: Complete Seasonal Guide

If you are thinking of planning a trip to Seoul, it is essential first to understand the weather, season, and climate of the city. If you wish to make your vacation hassle-free and want to make the most of it, then knowing the best time to visit Seoul is essential.

The capital city of  South Korea , Seoul, has four seasons. Each of the four seasons offers something unique and special to travelers visiting Seoul. Choosing what season or time you should plan a visit to Seoul totally depends on what you want to see and do in the city. Hence, in this post, I have tried to explain everything about Seoul by seasons. If you are ready to make the most of your Seoul itinerary , then this weather guide will undoubtedly help you to make that happen.

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Seoul: Season -by-Season

Deciding when to go to Seoul is probably one of the very first things travelers wonder about. In this step-by-step seasonal guide, you’ll get all the insights you need to help you make your decision.

Seoul in Spring

The season of spring in Seoul begins in mid-March, and it continues until the month of June. Spring is often considered as the shoulder season to visit Seoul. Spring in Seoul becomes pleasant, and the temperature remains quite enjoyable. In the month of April,  Seoul cherry blossoms  begin, and during this time, the beauty of the city blooms up, and it gets covered in a sheet of gorgeous pink flowers. The temperature can go as low as 1°C, while the highest temperature is 23°C.

The weather in Seoul during the months of spring remains mild, so you may want to pack some warmer outerwear for the colder days. However, it is also advisable to keep a waterproof jacket for the days when the weather will be unpleasant. Keep a proper pair of waterproof hiking shoes, if you will be going o n a hiking expedition, especially in the month of March. Mount Inwangsan (just on the outskirts of the city) offers great hiking and picture-perfect views.

If you’re traveling further afield, spring is also a great season to visit a few other beautiful places in South Korea .

Seoul in Summer

Summer in Seoul commences in the month of July, and it lasts until August. Seoul in summer, witnesses a massive footfall of tourists, and hence, is also considered as the busiest tourist season in Seoul.

But, when it comes to weather, the months of summer becomes unpleasant and unfavorable. Summer in Seoul is sweltering and humid, so be sure to check out these tips for visiting Seoul during summer . Also, the season witnesses massive rainfall.

Because of being a peak season, the prices of flight tickets and  hotels in Seoul   remain higher during these months. If you can tolerate the harsh weather conditions, then you can visit Seoul during this time. In summers, the temperature of Seoul ranges between 18°C and 32°C .

Consider packing light clothes to remain comfortable throughout your visit to Seoul in summer. Lightweight travel pants and tees are the perfect options to wear during these months. Also, keep an umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket to deal with the downpours that sometimes happen in the summer season.

Seoul in Autumn

The month of September marks the onset of autumn in Seoul, and it ends in November. Autumn is another best time to visit Seoul as the temperature in th is season remains warm to mild. However, it is one of the driest times of the year in the city.

As a result, Seoul in autumn receives much attention from tourists. The best thing about this season is the fall colors under a stunning backdrop. The temperature of Seoul during autumn goes as high as 26°C, whi le d ipping as low as 2°C in late autumn.

If you are planning to visit Seoul in autumn, then it is best to pack some warm clothes. Make sure to pack some warm base layers for cooler days. Also, bring a comfortable fleece jacket and something a bit warmer to wear for the outer layer. A raincoat or jacket is also a must for those rainy days.

Autumn is probably one of the best seasons for hiking and there are tons of cool day trip options from Seoul . If you are indulging in a Bukhansan hike , make sure to pack sturdy hiking shoes.

Seoul in Winter

The season of winter in Seoul begins in the month of December and lasts until mid-March. I guess there is no need to tell what this season is all about. The weather remains cold and chilly. It is not an unfavorable time to visit; however, if you are not a fan of cooler temperatures, then it is better to avoid this season to explore Seoul.

Since Seoul in winter doesn’t receive a high footfall of tourists, the prices of accommodations and flight tickets are relatively lower during these months. But, what I love about visiting Seoul in this season is Seoul’s palaces and shrines that are covered with a sheet of snow and offer exquisite views to relish. Since winter in Seoul is quite cold, the temperature of the city during this time ranges from -5°C to 4°C.

I guess there is no need to tell what to pack for winters in Seoul. But, seeing that the season of winter witnesses a considerable snowfall, it’s good to pack some warm clothes. A warm hardshell jacket would be suitable for outerwear. Also, make sure to pack a pair or two of warm gloves, a hat, and a scarf. To protect your feet from getting frozen in the chilly snowy conditions, bring a pair of waterproof boots or shoes along.

While the old  travel pun , ‘if you enjoy spicy foods, go to Chile’ may ring true, Korea is renowned for its flamingly hot dishes. Wintertime is just the season to sample dishes such as Spicy Pork Ribs Stew,  Jjampong , or  Buldakbokkeummyon .

When is the Best Time to Visit Seoul?

If you are native of any European nation, then let me tell you Seoul has an entirely distinctive season from your home country. Seoul is often touted as a year-round destination where you can expect hot and humid summers, cold winters, and autumn and spring seasons that somewhere fall in between these.

Now, if you are wondering what the best time to travel Seoul is, then undoubtedly, it is the month of April and October . In these two months, you can make the most of your time in Seoul. Let’s have a look at what makes April and October the best time to go to Seoul.

Why is April an Ideal Month to Visit Seoul?

April is a wonderful time to visit Seoul because of its pleasant weather. Compared to the months of summer ahead of it, April is relatively dry. Besides, it’s the cherry blossom season that makes April an ideal time to explore Seoul. This month, you can expect to see the city in the best of its best.

Now since you have got the answer of when to visit Seoul and are planning to visit the city in April, then make sure not to miss the most revered attractions of this season, which are Yeouido Park and Changdeokgung Palace.

Why is October an Ideal Month to Visit Seoul?

If you do not consider April as your month to visit Seoul, then October is the next best time to visit Seoul. The weather in the city during this month remains mild to cool. Compared to the scorching heat of summer, the temperature of Seoul in October remains in favor of tourism.

You will need warmer clothes if you’re considering October as an ideal time to explore Seoul. The reason why October is the best time to visit Seoul is the favorable temperatures, and the fall foliage erupts.

One of the most famous festivals in Seoul – Chuseok, takes place in the months of September to October. If you wish to discover this festival, you can plan your dates to visit accordingly.

Now that you know about the weather conditions of Seoul in all seasons, it makes deciding when to go to Seoul a lot easier.

Seeing that Seoul remains prone to natural calamities in a particular season, you can create your  Seoul itinerary  for any season as per your taste and preference.

If you like to enjoy snowy weather, then winter is the best time for you, or if you wish to experience the cherry blossom, then it’s spring for you. Similarly, summer and autumn can also be the best time to visit for you, if those seasons are favorable in your terms.

About the Authors: Jimmy & Tah are American and Thai Millennials who left a military and finance career to become travel inspirers & storytellers . T hey have been traveling since 2017 and work wherever they love (as long as there are Wi-Fi and coffee).  Youtube | Instagram

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Living and traveling in Korea

An Epic Travel Guide To Seoul, Korea For The First Timer

Seoul, Korea is huge and has gained a ton of attention in the past decade for not only a beautiful culture but also the Hallyu wave that has swept over the world. When you begin to plan your trip to the capital city of Korea it can seem overwhelming and you may not know where to begin.

While I’m known for promoting the off the beaten path spots in and around Seoul and promoting new hot spots to check out, I wanted to create an essential guide for the first time visitor to this busy and fun capital of Korea.

Having lived here since 2006 when I first came as an English teacher, you can be assured, this is THE guide to read before you get here. Whether or not it’s your first time to Korea though, read through it and make sure you’ve seen everything there is to see. From Seoul’s quirky cafes to the best spots to get gorgeous views. it’s all here. Make your time in Seoul, Korea the best it can be!

This is a massive travel guide with all of the information you need for any trip to Seoul, Korea. Because it’s so long, definitely feel free to skip around. Here is what you’ll find in this post:

• What To do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul
• Is It Safe To Travel In South Korea?

What To Know About Money & ATMs In Seoul

• Which Is The Best Area To Stay In Seoul?
• What Is The Best Time To Visit Korea?

General Travel Tips For Korea

• A Korean palace
• A traditional market
• Rent a Hanbok
• Find the hotspots
• Visit the Han River
• Get a good view
• Visit lots and lots of cafes
• Visit a museum
• Visit a spa
• Visit an amusement park
• See the DMZ
• Check out these notable spots in between

To Join A Tour Or Not To Join A Tour

• Where To Get Out Of Seoul For A Day Trip

Want To Get Off The Beaten Path In & Around Seoul?

Places to take trips from seoul.

(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.)

Need help with an itinerary? Elevate your travel experience with our downloadable Seoul Itinerary Pack. combine, and conquer the city’s wonders, one unforgettable day at a time.

What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

Are you traveling to Seoul soon? Here are some things to help you prepare for the trip:

Buy Your Plane Ticket: You can get some great deals on flights to Seoul, Korea. If you haven’t tried, check Skyscanner.com for the best rates.

Can I use the Wise Card In Korea? How To Send Money To Korea

Wise Travel Card: Whether you’re looking to travel to Korea for the first time or you’re moving to Korea and want to be able to use your money from home in Korea easily, you should look into the Wise travel card when it comes to converting currencies and getting away from card fees and bad exchange rates. The first time I came to Korea I had difficulty getting my debit card/Mastercard to work. Don’t be like me, come prepared. You can learn more about the Wise travel card in my review .

Get a Visa/Korea Electronic Travel Authorization: The process for coming into Korea has changed during Covid and now everyone must apply for a K-ETA before arrival. The K-ETA is for visa-free foreign visitors and while you’re visa free, they still want to know you’re coming and where you’re headed. Here is a guide to fill out the information for the K-ETA . Go to the K-ETA website to apply. You should find out if you’ve received approval within 24 hours, but usually faster.

Study Korean:  90 Day Languages has a great course on Korean and offers a lot of help if you’re interested in preparing before you come. A little goes a long way here and it actually only takes about an hour to learn how to read Hangul… no joke! You can also check out this guide to learning Korean online and through apps I put together to get some more Korean learning options.

Plan Your Airport Transfer:  There are numerous ways to transfer from Incheon International Airport outside of the city into the city of Seoul from the subway/train and bus to taxis. To be honest, we almost always opt for the private transfer. It’s fast and easy and we don’t have to worry about dragging our bags this way and that and up and down escalators. TaDa is a great company that provides transfers as well as rides within the city.  Book your transfer in advance  to make the trip smooth and easy.

Get Good Hard Case Luggage:  Packing all of the essentials is good only if they get to the other side with you. Make sure to have good luggage to get you and your belongings all the way.  Roam Luggage has awesome customizable bags that will go the distance and look super cool on the way. We highly recommend using hard case luggage for any international flight.

International Driver’s License: To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend driving in Seoul if it’s your first time to this massive city. BUT, if you plan to and will rent a car  while you’re here, then remember to bring your International Driver’s License. I highly recommend renting a car if you’ll be headed to Jeju Island or anywhere aside from Seoul and Busan because it’s much easier to get around that way in those cases.

Where To Buy A TMoney Card For Korea

How To Get A T-Money Card For Kids in Korea

The Discover Seoul Pass: Travel On A Budget In Seoul

The Seoul City Tour Bus Guide: What To See & Do When You Hop On Hop Off

T-Money Card/Discover Seoul Pass/Hop On & Hop Off Bus: To get around using the Seoul Subway System or buses or other public transportation options, you’ll need to get a T-Money card . This card allows you to put money on it and scan it at the turnstiles in subways and when you’re getting on and off buses and even works in taxis.

HOWEVER, if you’ll be doing a lot of touristy things and visiting the touristy sites, then you might be better off getting the Discover Seoul Pass . This pass comes with a variety of perks like access to Hanbok rentals, palaces, view points and other major attractions AND it also works as a T-Money card. On top of that, you get a free ride on the AREX and Airport bus to/from Incheon International Airport. 

SO, if you’ll be touristy,  grab the Discover Seoul Pass to get out and about plus this also acts as a T-Money card. But do know how to use it. Here is a guide and itineraries for using the Discover Seoul Pass to the max. There’s also a great Hop On/ Hop Off Tour Bus option here in Seoul you can use too.

Korea Rail Pass:  If you want to get out of Seoul and plan to use the train more than twice, then the Korea Rail Pass is the economical/budget choice you want to have on hand. You can get back and forth between the popular  Nami Island  nearby the city or go as far as  Andong  or even  Busan . The train line is the limits.  Grab the card here  and just head to the station with your confirmation and it’s as easy as that.

Wifi Eggs/Sim Cards:  While there is great WiFi in many places around Seoul and Korea, nothing beats having your own Wifi Egg so there’s no lag in connection. You can pre-reserve  Sim Cards via Klook so they’re ready and waiting for you when you fly into either Incheon International Airport or into Busan International Airport. You can alco get an eSIM with eSIM Korea which is even’t easier. Here’s a complete guide to the best Korean SIM cards for your trip to Korea.

Top 15 Apps to Download When You Come To Korea

Download Some Useful Apps: The Seoul subway system is super efficient and you can ride it for two hours or more, not pay an arm and a leg, and see a ton. Make sure to download the subway app to know where to go the easiest. The app even tells you which subway car to stand on when.

On the note of apps, do note that Google Maps is horrible when it comes to Korea and will be more difficulty than it’s worth. Another map app that you’ll find useful is Kakao Maps which can be used in both Korean and English. Kakao also has Kakao Taxi which is the best option should you want to get around using local taxis.

Pack The Right Clothes: Seoul has four distinct seasons. The summer is hot hot hot and the winter is cold cold cold! Be prepared. Check out this post for what to pack when you come to Korea . You’ll want to have everything from a fine dust mask to good walking shoes for the best trip you can have in Korea.

Recommended Travel Adapters For Korea

Don’t Forget A Travel Adapter: For some reason travel adapters are easily forgotten among the tourists I’ve met. Remember that not every place has the same plugs/outlets. Make sure you know which travel adapter to bring to Korea so your trip isn’t bumpy at the beginning as you race around trying to charge your devices.

Get Your TEFL:  This is less for travelers than it is for the soon to be teachers. There are a lot of teaching positions available in Korea so to make yourself stand out, definitely make sure you get your TEFL before you come… though you can also get it online once you come too!

Is it safe to travel in South Korea?

Generally, yes, it is very safe in Korea. That said, many foreigners come here assuming that because there is no gun violence or drug issues in Korea it’s MUCH safer than it really is. While you will likely not have any problems while you’re here, certainly don’t put yourself in situations you wouldn’t in your home country.

While I don’t think there is a ton of scamming to look out for, I do want to say you should be wary of cults in Korea that will see tourists coming a mile away. Most vendors aren’t jacking up prices just because you speak a different language, but I would watch out for people that spike drinks. Just be mindful as you should be at all times.

Is it safe to drink tap water in South Korea?

After coming here and seeing how everyone consistently opts for bottled water over tap water, you might be surprised to learn that tap water is indeed potable in Korea and actually tested more than most other places for safety. Yes, you can drink the tap water in Korea, but read this article to find out why Koreans tend to drink bottled water.

The unit of currency is the Korean Won (KRW)

Your cards will likely work, but they will also likely not work. That is to say that for every ATM you find that your card works at, it won’t work at two others and this can be frustrating. While Koreans walk around swiping everywhere now and probably have NO cash in their wallets, as a traveler, you’ll want to have some.

Make sure to let your bank/creditor know that you’ll be traveling to Korea before you come and you will be able to find an ATM that works…. at some point. But bring at least W300,000 = $300.00 in cash to get by at the beginning just in case it takes you longer to find cash.

You could even bring more just to be safe. Most places downtown will also accept your card, but if you’re looking to get into some hole in the wall spots, you’ll probably find spots that won’t take your card. Just be prepared. This is one of the biggest worries for tourists here so better to be safe rather than sorry.

If you want to exchange when you get here, the best spot to do it is in Myeongdong if you have cash and can’t find an ATM that works.

Tipping culture in Korea : Tipping is not a common part of Korean culture. Yes, you can try to tip at restaurants, to taxi drivers, or to your tour guides, but it isn’t expected, though may be accepted. Learn more in this guide to tipping in Korea so you can understand.

Is Korea cheap?

It can be, but it also may not be. For instance, a mistake a lot of new residents and tourists make is heading to expensive bars for drinks or trendy restaurants. Eating out can definitely rack up the bills, however, eating at traditional markets or in small mom and pop shops will definitely make it cheaper.

There are numerous ways to make a trip to Korea more budget friendly like taking advantage of the 40 free walking tours in Seoul. There is even hiking gear available to borrow for free from the city. Find out more ways to save money on a trip to Korea and check out this list of completely free things to do in Seoul to help you if you’re on a budget.

Which is the best area to stay in Seoul?

There are some areas that are definitely better for tourists to stay in if you’re hoping to see the top sites, have the fun, and get in the cultural experiences. Seoul is massive and you definitely don’t want to be in an area that requires a lot of transportation to get to the major sites. I’ve written a complete guide to where to stay in Seoul here. Check it out. More concisely, here are the top areas to stay in and a bit of info about each:

Myeongdong:  Myeongdong is a very central location and a great spot to stay for tourists, especially tourists that want to shop. It’s a big shopping district but that also means all of the restaurants and cafes have Korean AND English menus among other language options. Things open up with the tourists and stay open late with them too.

Transportation on the train, subway, and buses is easy from here and a lot of the tourists sites are within 20 to 30 minutes. I wrote a guide to the best places to stay in Myeongdong , but you can also go directly to Booking.com to find Myeongdong hotels here . If you want to check out the Airbnb options, look here.

Bukchon Hanok Village: If you’re looking for a more traditional Hanok house to stay in, then you’ll want to head to this area. The Bukchon Hanok Village is between the main palaces and near a lot of the cultural experiences. This is also a highly touristed area so restaurants will be able to help you and you’ll see some of the gorgeous older neighborhoods in the city.

You can find Bukchon Hanok Village stays here . If you’re an Airbnb person, then you can check here for some amazing Airbnbs in the Bukchon Hanok Village .

Hongdae: If you’re looking for a younger, hipper area with live music and an arts scene, this is the neighborhood for you. It doesn’t wake up as early as the above areas because it stays awake so late. There are a ton of restaurants and cafes here and it’s an area that best serves the night owls and the people that want to see busking, find a cool pub or bar, or see some live music.

I have culled a list of the best places to stay in Hongdae right here. But, if you want to get right to it, you can find Hongdae hotels here . For Airbnbs in the Hongdae area, look here .

Itaewon: Itaewon is the foreign area of Seoul and where a ton of foreign locals reside so there is GOOD foreign food if you’re looking for that foreign comfort food. I don’t usually recommend this area to tourists because I think the majority of sites you’ll want to see are more north, BUT if you’ll want to split your time between the Hanok villages and palaces and Gangnam which is south of the river, then Itaewon is your best bet so you have the same transportation time from here to there and everywhere.

You can find Itaewon hotels here . There are some great Airbnbs in the Itaewon area, too.

Dongdaemun: Another shopping district, Dongdaemun is very close to the touristy north and also has easy transportation to the south. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a lot of hidden gems and a lot fashionable people. There are quite a few subway line options, buses, and it’s easy to get taxis here too. You can find Dongdaemun hotels here . You can check here if you’re more of an Airbnb person.

What is the best time to visit Korea?

There are four distinct seasons in Korea… well maybe five if you include monsoon season. Since I live here and have gone through every season, I can honestly say that they are all amazing for one reason or another.

Summer (June ~ Mid-September): Summer can be horribly humid. If you aren’t used to humidity, then you definitely won’t want to stay in Seoul the entire time you’re here. Most Seoulites head to the coast whenever they can or up into the mountains to soak in the rivers and lakes because that is just the best way to cool off. There are beautiful beaches on the eastern, southern, and western coasts of Korea so make sure to have time to visit one.

Once you get here, you’ll definitely want to make the time because summer is hot hot hot! Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to summer in Korea for more information.

Autumn (Mid-September ~ November): Autumn is definitely one of the most beautiful times to visit Korea when the fall foliage bursts into an array of colors across the peninsula and the scents of cinnamony hoddeok waft down the streets. Not only do the leaves change, but there are flower fields that burst into bloom as well. You can find some gorgeous flowers in the World Cup Parks as well as at Nari Park .

The only problem with autumn is that it’s difficult to pin down. You can make plans, but the foliage can burst at any time. October is a sure bet and early November for flowers and foliage at the same time. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to fall in Korea for more information.

Winter (December ~ February): Winter is not easy in Seoul. It can be beautiful if it snows and I know a lot of tourists headed here in the winter are hoping for that winter wonderland they may have seen in Korean dramas. Honestly though, if you definitely want to see snow, make plans to head out of Seoul to the mountains where you can ski or snowboard or just visit a resort with a ton of snow. There are some great options for getting out of the city to see snow if that’s what you’re looking for.

Otherwise, if you’re staying in Seoul this winter, just plan to wear a long parka and jump inside as often as possible. It is freezing especially in January and February. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to winter in Korea for more information.

Spring (March ~ May): Spring is a gorgeous time to visit… again if it’s planned right. People often come looking for the cherry blossoms and that’s just so difficult to pinpoint early in the year. They’re often blooming on my birthday in mid April, but this year it was still soooo cold and no blooms that early, so it’s hard to say.

However, that said, there are lots of flowers to see around Seoul whether it be cherry blossoms, tulips, or daisies, so just be ready to look for some other bloomers if flowers is what you seek. Also, make sure to bring jackets and cover ups because it can still be quite chilly in the spring. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to spring in Korea for more information. 

A Guide To Spring In Korea: Cherry Blossoms and More

A Guide to Summer in Korea: Get Ready For Fun

A Guide to Fall In Korea: Foliage and More

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

• Tipping is not required or expected in South Korea.
• Water from the tap is potable, safe to drink.
• You won’t find large glasses of water at restaurants but you can find water machines so grab a water bottle to carry along with you.

The Top Things You Must See & Do In Seoul

1. a korean palace.

There are five palaces in the city of Seoul with the largest and most popular being Gyeongbokgung Palace . Gyeongbokgung Palace is beautiful and very much worth the visit. This is THE palace that a first-timer to Korea should see but it does get crowded during high tourist seasons so here’s what you should know about the other palaces nearby just in case.

A lot of tourists rent Hanboks and visit the palaces. Did you know you actually get free entry if you’re wearing a Hanbok? Keep reading to find the best places to go to rent a Hanbok in downtown Seoul.

The nearby Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden require a tour reservation and is known for having gorgeous views in every season. Changgyeonggung Palace is just around the corner from Changdeokgung Palace and actually connects in the back corner and yet most people never even see this one.

If you want a palace to yourself with a beautiful pond and a gorgeous greenhouse built during the Japanese colonization, don’t miss it and then you can walk through the back gate into Changdeokgung Palace. Kind of a two for one experience and a unique one at that.

Deoksugung Palace is one that’s rather well known because it’s easy to find near City Hall and they have a changing of the guard ceremony which is great fun to watch. This palace is unique in that there are numerous architectural styles on the grounds as well as an art museum inside one of the buildings in the grounds. This palace is much smaller than the others and easy to see quickly if you don’t have much time in your schedule.

Gyeonghuigung Palace is the smallest and least popular of the palaces, which doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be visited, so do look at the info for it.

Though that is the five that are well known, there is also a royal residence that is downtown that you could easily walk to and is very different from the others in that it’s unpainted and often used for photos by the locals. The royal residence is called Unhyeonggung Royal Residence. This beautiful spot is great for photos.

2. A traditional market

Gwangjang Market: This is my FAVORITE spot to take visitors and get good authentic eats in the city of Seoul. It is hustling and busy and there are good eats to be had from every vendor there.

If you want to see an awesome traditional market, the oldest traditional market, in Seoul, then go here and check out my guide t o Gwangjang Market if you want to know what to eat. This market was also featured in a Netflix series as well so if you’re a foodie, do not miss it.

Tongin Market: Tongin Market is another traditional market that does it just a bit differently. This market which is just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace , a neighborhood not often visited by tourists but more well known by locals, does a cool thing with old traditional coins and food.

This is a great option if you aren’t sure what you like yet and want to try a little of a lot of different things. Here is some information on how to use the coins at Tongin Market and what you can get.

Noryangjin Fish Market:  If you want to see the largest fish market in Seoul, then Noryangjin Fish Market is the one for you. While it is by no means the ONLY fish market in the city, it is the most popular for tourists to visit.

If you want to see the real action, you’ll have to wake up before sunrise to see the sale, but if you want to some good eats, definitely go later so you can pick out your own fish and then eat it in the market. There is both an old and a new part of Noryangjin Market , so make sure you know where you’re headed.

3. Rent a Hanbok

Renting a Hanbok is one of the most memorable and unique experiences you can have in Seoul. On top of it being a great way to learn more about the culture, it’s also a lot more budget friendly than you might realize and you can even get into traditional sites for FREE when you’re wearing a Hanbok. Learn more about where to rent a Hanbok in Seoul and everything else you need to know about it. 

4. Find the hotspots

Bukchon Hanok Village:  One of the must see neighborhoods in the city of Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village is popular for a reason. The residential neighborhood is home to traditional Korean Hanok houses lined up all in a row. They are beautiful and there are a ton of intimate Hanok cafes and traditional experiences.

This is one of those areas that you’ve seen pictures of again and again but will want to visit on your own. Check out this guide to Bukchon Hanok Village to learn more about the area, where to go, and what to eat. Or, check out this Bukchon Itinerary .

Insadong District:  Near Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, this is a popular district for traditional tea houses and Buddhist restaurants. If you want to prepare for the traditional tea houses, check out this guide to traditional Korean tea options because there are so so many!

This is also THE district to head to if you’re looking to purchase Korean souvenirs to take home to friends and family. If you want to learn more about the area, check out this guide to Insadong that I put together.

Gangnam:  The district that became popular around the world when Psy’s song “Gangnam Style” took over the airwaves, this district is known for a bit of luxury, lots of cosmetic surgery, and some great eats too.

If you’re interested in seeing what there is to see in the area, then check out this guide to Gangnam to see it all from amazing street art to museums and more. Oh, and definitely make sure you see the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Show .

Hongdae: Full of live music, artistic fun, and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and fun cafes to check out . Check out this guide to Hongdae for all of the best things to do there.

The area has grown and expanded and now when people saying they’re going to Hongdae, they might very well mean they’re headed to Yeontral Park (a play on Central Park) in Yeonnam-dong or they’re headed to the up and coming district of Mangwon-dong . There are buskers and groups of K-pop dancers that make the entire area very vibrant and fun.

Myeongdong Shopping District:  Myeongdong is THE spot to go if you’re looking to get your shopping on while you’re in Seoul and is one of the best districts to try a ton of amazing street food options.

With all of the major international and local brands as well as a TON of K-beauty shops, you can get everything on your list in this area. Find out more in this guide to Myeongdong with some fun things to do in the area.

5. See a show

Nanta: This is the most popular and longest running theater show in Seoul. The show is a hilarious kitchen-based performance with a talented group of performers who have a mix of traditional folk pieces as well as modern skits.

Don’t worry if you can’t understand Korean, this performance is non-verbal and fun fun fun. Get your Nanta tickets through Klook to get an awesome discount.

The Painters: A new concept art performance that combines colorful live drawings with cutting-edge media art has been remodeled and reopened. Actors resembling idols, numbering from 4 to 8, express world-famous paintings such as Michelangelo’s ‘Creation of Heaven,’ Vincent Van Gohee’s ‘Self-Portrait,’ and Gustav Klimt’s ‘Kiss’ with splendid choreography and live drawings.

Their super luxurious stereoscopic images and live performances create a a new impression of painting. G et your tickets to see The Painters online with Klook for the discount.

6. Visit the Han River

The Han River cuts through the center of the city so at some point, you’ll definitely see it either when you’re crossing a bridge or from your tall hotel, but you should definitely take some time to go and visit one of the Han riverside parks. They are gorgeous and there is definitely going to be one near wherever you’re staying. Some of them have beautiful art installations while others are where you can jump on a Eland Hangang River cruise .

There are some great experiences to be had at the river. Check out this complete guide to all of the Han River parks to see which one will be near you. Some have outdoor swimming pools, one even has a beautiful infinity pool that ends at the river and it is super budget friendly. Some have bike rental kiosks, kayaks, sail boats and more.

7. Get a good view

Seoul Sky Tower: Seoul Sky Observatory is the third highest observatory in the world and features the highest glass deck in the world. The views are absolutely stunning and there are multiple floors for viewing from the 117th to the 120th floor. This is just next to Lotte World as well if you want to combine it with some fun and views! Seoul Sky Tower is a bit out of the way compared to a lot of the tourist sites but worth the subway ride.

And, to top it off, if you want to stay in the tallest hotel in Seoul and get the most beautiful views right when you wake up in the morning, then look no further than Signiel Hotel which is right in this tower too!

N Seoul Tower: While Seoul Sky is the newest dazzling spot in the city to get views from, Namsan Tower, also called N Seoul Tower , is older, more central, and a bit more romantic. Take a cable car up to the tower and then sit beneath a beautiful pagoda until your time to head up to the top. This tour is a major highlight in the city and is easy to combine with any bit of the itinerary in central Seoul. It’s an iconic spot that is definitely one of the top three must visit locations in the city.

Other Spots For Views: The two spots above are definitely the most popular for views, but they are not the only places to get views though they are the most iconic. If you want some more ideas though, here are more great spots in Seoul to get amazing views that also happen to be super budget friendly. These are definitely spots that will surprise you and even some that locals don’t know about.

8. Visit lots and lots of cafes

It honestly amazes me how many cafes there are and how interesting they all are. Koreans go all out with aesthetics and creating Instagrammable cafes and you can really find them all over but there are a few neighborhoods that you can literally hop from fun and quirky cafe to beautiful cafe and back again. How many coffees can you possibly drink in one day? Don’t miss the cafes in Mangwon-dong . If you want to know what some of the trendiest cafes are, check out this guide to the awesome greenhouse cafes that have been popping up over the past couple of years.

9. Visit a museum

The Korean War Memorial: There are some really amazing museums in Korea and what’s even better is that they’re budget friendly if not free. The Korean War Memorial is really interesting especially if you’re interested in learning about the Korean War and the numerous other wars in Korean history.

There are also often docents who actually fought in the Korean War available to show you around and offer stories and information. If you have children, it’s also great because there are historic planes and other relics outside that kids can climb up to and through to check out. You can learn more about the museum here .

The National Museum Of Korea: Another great museum that has both free and paid exhibitions, is the National Museum of Korea which also has a substantial park and pond with relics beautiful in all seasons. This is a museum more focused on the historical artifacts of Korea.

This is also a great option to have during monsoon season. Learn more about the National Museum of Korea here. FYI, you can also visit the National Hangeul Museum which is just in front of this one as well.

Seodaemun Prison History Museum:  The Seodaemun Prison History Museum is a former prison that housed martyrs during the Japanese colonization of Korea and is now a museum dedicated to tell the stories about the people that were once housed there.

Again, this is a very impactful museum especially if you are interested in the tumultuous history in Korea. Here is more information about the Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

The War & Women’s Human Rights Museum: A much smaller but no less impactful museum in Seoul is the War and Women’s Human Rights Museum which is dedicated to tell the story about the comfort women. The issue of sexual slavery during WWII is still highly contested by Japan but certainly proven by enough groups at this point.

The Korean comfort women are still fighting to be heard. Go visit this museum to learn more about what they went through and the fight they continue to have today.

The Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art (MMCA): If you’re more interested in the arts, then don’t miss the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art which is just east of Gyeongbokgung Palace so it’s easy to add to any itinerary in downtown Seoul. This museum uses varying architectural styles and hosts some gorgeous exhibitions. To check out the hours and learn more about the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art, check out this guide .

Leeum Samsung Museum: The Leeum Samsung Museum is both architecturally stunning and always has some amazing exhibitions to check out. It’s in the easy to visit area of Hannam-dong and is one of my favorite art museums in the city. There are quite a few to choose from, but this is one that should be on your list if you like art museums and architecture.

This is probably a museum that is off the beaten path for most first-travelers but might just be up your alley if you like art and architecture. Here’s more information about Leeum Samsung Museum here .

Seoul Museum of Craft Art: SeMoCA is the first national museum in Seoul created to showcase Korean crafts. The museum is made up of seven buildings so you need to weave in and out and around much like some of the embroidery products you’ll see inside.

Not only is the museum amazing, the children’s museum is just wonderful and offers so many free experiences for kids. Learn more in this guide to the Seoul Museum of Craft Art.

10. Visit a Spa

There are some great options if you want the Korean spa experience. If you don’t want to get all the way nude but want to experience at least a Korean facial , you can do that too! Here are a couple great spas to check out in Seoul if you want the full experience complete with a Korean Italy towel exfoliating scrub.

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa:  Want something more traditional? Visit this spa which is one of the 25 must visit wellness attractions in Korea as designated by the Korea Tourism Organization. After a quick physical analysis, the staff will provide a customized spa package using natural medicinal plants, pressure point, and massage. It’s a truly unique spa experience here in Seoul .

Hana Mud Spa: If you want a more local experience, check out this Korean bath house. The spa is a bit extra with their mud masks straight from the Boryeong mud that’s rich in minerals, but other than that, it’s a pretty standard spa for women only. Prepare to bare and enjoy the experience. If you want to know more about a Korean bath house and what to do inside, here’s a step by step guide to the Korean bath house culture.

11. Visit an amusement park

Lotte World: Lotte World is the most popular theme park in Seoul and is easy to get to right in the city. Get the Magic Pass to skip the lines and enjoy the rides. The rides to check out are the Conquistador, World Monorail, French Revolution, VR Space, and the Flume Ride. There’s fun, adventure, and more. Take a day and enjoy!

Everland: If you’ve got a bit more time, visit Everland, outside of the city of Seoul, but hop on the shuttle bus and you can get there. It is one of the world’s largest theme parks and features a ton of rides and experiences to be had. Make sure to get your tickets online before you go to get the discount that is available.

12. See the DMZ

While this isn’t technically IN Seoul, most tours to the DMZ start from Seoul . If you don’t know it yet, you’re technically visiting a country that is at war. Have I ever been scared living here? No. Let’s just get that question out the way.

Should you visit the DMZ? If you want to have a glimpse of North Korea and visit the most heavily guarded limit line in the world? Then definitely yes. There is a lot to be learned and some interesting spots to check out.

You can only go INTO the DMZ with a tour. You can get pretty close without one, but you need to be on a government approved tour if you want to go in. Most tours will take you to the DMZ area in Paju where you will first make a stop in the Nuri Peace Park and then head into to see one of the tunnels that the North Koreans dug to try and sneak into South Korea. If you want to go it on your own and try to get in, there is one option.

You can go in to see Camp Greaves which was formerly an American base which was given back to the Korean people and is now a museum featuring art and history information. Another option if you want to go it on your own a bit, head up to the Cheorwon DMZ area where you can enter with an approved taxi. No matter what, you can’t just wander in though so if you want to make it easy on yourself, sign up for a tour early as they do fill up. Here are some good options to choose from:

• Panmunjom & DMZ Tour: Visit the Unification Bridge and Panmunjom along with Imjingak/Nuri Peace Park and the 3rd Tunnel on this full day tour. Join this tour here.
• Imjingak Transfer Service: If you just want to get back and forth to Imjingak/ Nuri Peace Park area where you can get on the bus to Camp Greaves, or just enjoy the unification village, then look into this transfer service which will take you back and forth easily.

13. Check out these notable spots in between

Seoul Botanic Park: Seoul Botanic Park is one of the newest and beautiful parks in Seoul. There is a gorgeously huge greenhouse and if it’s winter, it is warm warm warm inside. If it’s summer, head inside, but then check out the substantial park that surrounds.

This is in an up and coming area of Seoul and it’s super easy to get to right out of the subway station. To learn more about this greenhouse and park, check out this complete post on the Seoul Botanic Park.

Cheonggyecheon Stream: The Cheonggyecheon Stream is another iconic spot in central Seoul. This stream was actually covered over in the modernization of the city after the war but during construction some years later was rediscovered and the high way built atop it was removed.

Not only did it make for a beautiful green space in central Seoul, but it helped in lowering the temperature downtown and birds and fish returned. Now, there are events like the Lantern Festival held here throughout the year. Walk along the stream from Gwanghwamun Square down to Gwangjang Market and even all the way down to Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): The Dongdaemun Design Plaza was immediately popular upon being built and opened to the public. Now the host of the Seoul Fashion Week as well as numerous other exhibitions and events, this eye catching structure designed by Zaha Hadid was the most Instagrammed location in Korea in 2015.

You’ll have to walk up, down, inside, and outside to really understand what is going on. Want to see some more architectural wonders in Seoul? Check out this list of really interesting architectural spots in Seoul .

Ihwa Mural Village: Ihwa Mural Village is a fun neighborhood in central Seoul near the palaces that provide a great spot to take a walk and area to learn about local communities. The neighbors didn’t ASK for their neighborhood to be turned into an attraction though, so it’s important to know the rules before you go.

Here’s more information on the street murals to see there and how to find it. See the murals and you can walk along a section of the Seoul Fortress Wall for great views out over the city as well.

Seoullo Walkway:  In central Seoul just outside of Seoul Station, is a beautiful walkway that connects the downtown neighborhoods for pedestrians so that they never have to wait for a traffic light.

The walkway used to be an overpass but was renovated into a fun spot to take a walk with outdoor installations, trampolines for kids, tons of plants and greenery and there are often events held on the walkway. If you’re headed to the train station for any reason, this is an easy addition onto the day that doesn’t take too long to enjoy. Here is more info about Seoullo and what you can do there.

Oil Tank Culture Park: I personally like to check out unique spots that show how a city is growing and adapting. The Oil Tank Culture Park is just that. There are six massive oil drums that have been converted through a series of conservation measures to now be a public space.

The drums have been opened up so visitors can use them with one housing a cafe, another a performance space, and more. If you want to see some awesome eco-friendly innovation, this is a must visit. Learn more about the Oil Tank Culture Park here.

In general, it’s easy to get around and you’ll be able to see what you see, but if you really want to learn about a place, know what’s in the food you’re about to eat, and understand Korean culture and history, I’d highly recommend joining a tour or two to get some insight. The other reason to join a tour or at least book tickets for shows, entrance fees, etc, is because online is almost always cheaper.

Koreans use companies online always and that’s because tickets can be 10%-50% cheaper than when you just walk up. Don’t get left out of the discounts. Book what you can in advance. If it’s your first time in Seoul, then find a few tours, maybe one focused on culture, one on food, and one on adventure to join while you’re here.

Here are some ideas I’d recommend:

• History of Joseon Dynasty Tour: Spend the day visiting one of the royal palaces and witnessing a beautiful changing of the guard ceremony. Stop into the Jogyesa Buddhist temple and ginseng center while learning about history and architecture and culture and then end the day in one of the traditional folk villages. It’s an all encompassing tour to see traditional spots and learn a ton about how Seoul was started and built. Check out the tour here on Klook .
• Cooking classes in Seoul : There are a number of cooking classes in Seoul that I think are great not only to try some great food, but to learn about Korea’s culinary history, tradition, and culture and you can ask questions about dining etiquette in Korea and more.

Want help with your itinerary? I have a lot of experience building the perfect itineraries for travelers to Seoul. I’ve created 15 interchangeable daily itineraries for Seoul, Korea that cover the popular spots you must see, some districts that aren’t so touristy but offer great fun, and more.

Where To Get Out Of Seoul For a Day Trip

Daytrips are awesome and there are so many places you can get to if you’ve got a free day on your itinerary. Here are a few ideas, but if you want more, check out my list of “ Best Daytrips to take from Seoul “. There are 25 spots to see and enjoy and I’ll know there is something you’ll want to do.

Nami Island: This is by far one of the most popular day trip options and for good reason. It’s gorgeous. While it’s popular with K-drama fans, I can say, as someone who has NOT seen any drama that was filmed there, that it’s not just a fan that would appreciate this place. There are art installations, restaurants, cafes, and plenty of nature to see.

I’ve visited in the autumn and summer and would definitely go back in the winter and spring too. It’s an easy option for a day trip and can be combined with some other great spots in the area. Read this guide to Nami Island if its on your list.

The DMZ:  At just 60km from Seoul, it’s easy enough to visit the DMZ, but only if you book a tour in advance. Tours do sell out so if you’re at all interested in visiting the border between North and South Korea, you’ll want to plan this ahead of time. The Demilitarized Zone is a 4 kilometer wide buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea.

There are various options from Seoul with the most popular being out to Nuri Peace Park in Paju and into the DMZ. If you do get out there and want to do something really special, visit Camp Greaves, an abandoned military base that’s been converted into an art experience. If you want to visit a spot that’s more off the beaten path but just a bit more involved, check out the trip to the Cheorwon DMZ .

Heyri Art Village: This is one of my favorite spots to take my daughter to, but it’s not just for kids, it is for everyone. There are chic art galleries and museums as well as artistic experiences for children to partake in. There are SO many museums and galleries to check out that you could stay an entire weekend and still not see everything.

We’ve gone and gone again and there’s always something new to do. If you want to know how to get there, and have some ideas on what to do, here is a guide to Heyri Art Village.

Anyang Art Park: The Anyang Art Park is an awesome natural area with art installations and exhibitions throughout the year. There are restaurants and cafes and it’s a great spot to check out if you want to get out into nature and take a walk.

The installations are super fun to find and require a bit of a walk up into a nearby mountain… but not to worry, it’s not really a trek and toddlers can even do it. Here is a guide to Anyang Art Park to help you on your way.

Seongsu-dong

Seongsu-dong has been called the Brooklyn of Seoul. Once a district known for shoe factories, today, many of those factories are being converted into cafes, galleries, and restaurants. This district is hip, it’s cool, and it is THE place to go if you want to do something different in Seoul. There is awesome street art and murals and a ton of hidden gems in this new hot spot in Seoul. If you want some suggestions for where to go, what to do, and what to eat while you’re there, check out this guide to Seongsu-dong .

Mullae-dong

Also a district known for factories, Mullae-dong is still very much filled with the iron works factories it’s famous for. Some years ago, artists from Hongdae that couldn’t afford the rent in the popular district moved south and found homes in Mullae-dong. By day, this area is noisy and gritty with iron workers, but come evening into night, there are galleries and restaurants owned by artists and musicians.

It’s off the beaten path to tourists for sure, but there are some cool things to be found if you like to have a good hunt. Here are my suggestions for what to see in Mullae-dong if you want to head there.

Yongma Land

Yongma Land is a popular abandoned amusement park in Seoul. It’s been showcased in various K-pop videos and dramas and anyone looking for some cool photos can head to the park to take their own photos. It’s a funky spot but a fun one especially if you’ve got some friends that want to get some quirky photos in Seoul or if you are a Hallyu fan and want to take photos in the same spots that you’ve seen in dramas and vids. Here’s more information on the popular abandoned Yongma Land in Seoul.

Ganghwado Island

Ganghwado is an island west of the city of Seoul that is easily accessible with public buses from the city. It used to be a bit more difficult to get to, but in recent years a bridge was added and now more and more Seoulites are making their way out to this island to see what there is to see, like the awesome Royyal Dog mural above.

There are cool restaurants and cafes, a few beaches, and some interesting historical spots to check out. Here are some flower fields and cool cafes to check out if you want to make your way out to Ganghwado.

Hannam-dong

Hannam-dong is the district that’s just up the road from the foreigner district known as Itaewon. Hannam-dong has art museums and a ton of cafes and restaurants with foreign treats if you want something in the American-fare style. Here’s a guide to the Hannam-dong area that has cool cafes, good eats, and a lot of Instagrammable book stores and staircases.

This isn’t a hugely popular spot for tourists but mostly for expats and foreigners in Korea that want to get good authentic foreign food. If you have a hankering for something other than Korean food, then you’ll easily find it over here.

Pocheon is an interesting area northeast of Seoul that has hidden wooden giants in forests, bridges, and lakes. There are some beautiful hidden wonders that are really only accessible if you’ll be renting a car for a day. But if you will be, look into this easy trip from Seoul that is off the beaten path.

Here’s a guide to Pocheon and what to see there. Again, this isn’t a spot that’s usually on the radars of most tourists, but if you want something unique, it’s a good area to get out to where can visit an amazing makgeolli, or rice wine, brewery and find nature too!

Busan is the second largest city in the country and on the southern coast of Korea. It’s the most popular spot to check out for most travelers that want to see something outside of Seoul. The city is easy to get to from Seoul using the KTX fast train and there are beaches, a seaside temple, a colorful seaside village, and a TON more to check out.

Some of the must see spots include Gamcheon Culture Village, Taejongdae , and Haeundae. You could easily spend a couple days or more in this awesome city.

Here’s a guide to Busan to help you on your way! Definitely don’t miss stops into the Huinnyeoul Culture Village and then take a ride on the cable car in Songdo or a ride on the now very popular Busan Sky Capsule . For a real treat, check out the premier spa in the country, Busan’s Spa Land . There’s so much to do, you could fill a week or more!

Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty and the capital before Seoul. It’s one of the most historic, if not THE most historic, cities in the entire country and features more pagodas, relics, and historic sites in one city than any other in the country.

The small city is basically an open air museum as every corner you turn leads to another historic observatory, tomb, palace, or Buddhist relic. It was one of the first trips I made out of Seoul when I first moved here in 2006 and is an easy trip to make using the KTX from Seoul.

It’s a gorgeous area with history and culture and beautiful sites to visit. Definitely look into Gyeongju if you want to learn more about history in Korea and appreciate quite peaceful surroundings. Here is a guide to Gyeongju with more information on what you can find there.

Andong has been called the most traditional place in Korea. There is a beautiful huge traditional village and some amazing food to eat in Andong. It’s gorgeous in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom and the Andong Mask Festival is an amazing event to check out in the autumn if you’re visiting at the same time.

From delicious food to traditional and cultural spots, Andong has it all. Here’s a guide to Andong , how to get there, and what to do if it sounds like the spot for you.

Most likely you came into Korea through Incheon but you probably didn’t stay too long as you headed into Seoul. You should definitely head back out there. There are some really interesting spots in Incheon including the only legit Chinatown in the country.

Incheon’s Chinatown was first started by the Chinese immigrants that came to Korea to work. Nearby there is also a fun fairytale mural village and a village made entirely of older buildings. It’s a fun area to walk around and makes for a great day trip from Seoul.

You could also plan to see what’s around the Incheon International Airport on your way in or out. The airport is on an island in Incheon and there’s plenty to do just around the airport. If you want to treat yourself on your way in or out, then definitely look into staying at the amazing Paradise City Resort . Even if you don’t stay there, there’s a free art museum and a beautiful pool and sauna that you can visit.

Want to see some amazing architecture, check out the Songdo Central Park where the awesome TriBowl is located. Another great option in Incheon is to take a ferry and visit nearby islands like Modo, Sindo, and Sido ! All of these spots are really in different parts of Incheon so don’t try to see them all in one day. You’ll have to pick one if you just have one day to travel.

Jeju Island is the most popular and largest island in Korea. It has been called the Hawai’i of Korea and is absolutely stunning. The island is bigger than you might expect so know that before you go. You can really only see things in one quadrant; northwest, northeast, southwest, or southeast at a time especially if you’ve only got a weekend. Choose what you want to see and then stay nearby (Here’s a guide to help you figure out where to stay on Jeju Island ) and an absolute must do is hiking up Mt. Halla .

If hiking isn’t your thing though, there’s also a walking trail that follows the entire coast of Jeju. Choose an area and you can walk and enjoy cliff views, black sand beaches, and forests too. If you want to get somewhere easily and have fun, check out Hamdeok Beach . Another hot spot for tourists is the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields and the gigantic and gorgeous Jeongbang Waterfall .

But if you want my two recommendations, definitely get a ferry out to nearby Gapa Island which you can only leisurely enjoy via bicycle and then walk up Sanbang Mountain to visit a beautiful grotto Nearby you can walk along the rocky but beautiful Yeongmori Coastcoast . Jeju is amazing and there is just so much to do and see there. You can even go island hopping to visit nearby islands like Udo Island or Gapa Island . If you have time, don’t miss a trip there to get a completely different experience from the hustling bustling city of Seoul.

Danyang, Korea is in the central area of Korea so a lot of people pass right by on the way south without stopping. But if you like adventure and maybe have a bit less time, it’s definitely worth a look. Visit the Mancheonha Skywalk and then zipline down.

From there, head to Chungju Lake and ride a ferry to see the gorgeous views. Head down into the Gosu Caves that were formed over 450 million years ago and then end the weekend paragliding off of the mountains. It’s a spot for the adventure loving traveler. Here’s what you should check out in Danyang.

Oido & Daebudo Islands

Maybe you want to see the coast in quick fashion. Oido is an island you can actually reach using just the Seoul subway system! If you’ve got a car, you can go just a bit further to Daebudo Island to see the glass museum and watch the waves come in.

The islands are beautiful and great for a summer’s day. There is seafood to be eaten and a rest stop that even features an observatory. I love getting to the coast whenever I can and this is an easy spot to get to if you just have a day to work with. Here’s what you can find in Oido and Daebudo.

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Amaizing and so useful website! Congratulations! I will arrive in Korea on 20th of May and can’t wait to explore the country.

Michelle Topham

Wow, I just discovered your site and, honestly, it’s probably the best travel site I’ve ever seen.

I’m currently considering moving to Korea within the next 18 months, and was looking for a site that could answer the thousands of questions I have about the country.

And then I stumbled across yours.

(I’ve only been on an airport layover in Seoul a couple of times during the 14 years I lived in Bangkok so, weirdly, never actually visited Korea. But, after 6 years in Europe, I’m desperate to get back to Asia permanently and Korea interests me. A lot),

An absolutely superb site, with SO much useful information. I have you bookmarked and will be back pretty much every day as I read through everything you have written — and maybe with some questions too 🙂

Thanks for this. I couldn’t be happier to hav e found something so darned useful 🙂

I really envy you. I wish I could do the same thing. Thank you for sharing such valuable information. I am planning a trip to Seoul and this is definitely very very useful. thank you.

Hallie Bradley

I hope you have a fantastic trip!

Hi you mentioned a subway app under useful apps to download. I’m curious if you could tell me the name of the app? Thank you!

I am just amazed! What a fantastic job you did here Hallie. Hello from Centerville Ohio!

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10 Things to do in Seoul in Winter: Mix of Indoor and Outdoor Fun!

Looking for things to do in seoul in winter we’ve got you covered with this list of indoor and outdoor activities so you can enjoy the snow but also warm up in between.

It can get pretty cold in Seoul during the winter months. Once the Siberian winds begin to blow from the north and the wind chill reaches temperatures well below zero, you’ll be looking for ways to stay warm. 

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to spend winter in Seoul; from cosy teahouses to themed cafes, and public bathhouses to video arcades, we’ve got a few ideas to keep you toasty…and a few fun outdoor activities to get you enjoying the snow, even if it’s briefly!

Here’s a list of things to do in Seoul during the winter months.

Things to do in Seoul in Winter

1. warm up at one of the teahouses.

Sometimes there’s no better way to enjoy Seoul in winter than by having a piping hot cup of tea with a side of sweet rice cakes.

If you want to experience a traditional teahouse, head to Insadong where the side lanes are lined with them.

A few to check out include:

• Shin Old Tea House – Located down a side street away from the busy Insadong district, this typical Korean tea house with floor seating offers a relaxing and cozy atmosphere. It was one of the first tea houses I visited in Seoul and one of my personal favourites! They have a wonderful selection of sweet teas that are served with sticky rice cakes and puffed rice.
• The Moonbird Only Thinks of the Moon – This cafe is locally known as Dalsaeneun Dalman Saenggak Handa. The inside of the teahouse is very quirky with lots of antiques, some farming equipment, rustic furniture and lots of writing on the wall from previous guests. They have a unique selection of teas that can be served hot or cold including chrysanthemum, jasmine, bamboo leaf, and mugwort. I found their teas very fragrant and it was a nice place to linger in.
• Dawon Traditional Tea Garden – This is considered the oldest teahouse in Seoul and it is located in the courtyard of Kyung-in Museum of Fine Art in Insadong. The teahouse is set in a traditional Korean hanok building and offers homemade teas and Korean snacks amid a setting of beautiful magnolia flowers in spring.
• Suyeon Mountain Tea Room – Also known as Suyeonsanbang, this Koren teahouse was converted from a hanok and was once the former home of Korean novelist Lee Tae Jun. It offers a classic and antique style in a tranquil setting with garden views.
• Yetchatjip – This is another teahouse in Insadong that combines a modern flair with warm, rustic touches that make the place feel very warm and cozy, especially on a winter day. They are known for their jujube tea is very rich and fruity.

2. Spend the day at a jjimjilbang

Jjimjilbangs are public baths where you can scrub your body clean of all of the dead skin cells and then soak in hot and cold tubs.

It’s a very common activity for Koreans, no matter what the time of year, and it’s a fun way to pass time on a cold winter day.

The bath areas are segregated by gender so you don’t have to feel embarrassed.

After the bath, you can wrap yourself up in a robe and hang out in one of the common rooms.

Jjimjilbangs aren’t just for bathing and you’ll often find movie rooms, workout rooms, reading rooms, gaming rooms, sleeping rooms, and even a restaurant or two where you can enjoy some Korean food.

When I was working as an English teacher in Korea , my students would always come back to class on Monday and tell me how much fund they’d had over the weekend hanging out at the local jjimjilbang with their families. It was the thing to do!

3. Go sledding at Everland

So technically this next activity isn’t in Seoul, but it’s fairly easy to reach Everland in Yongin . 

Here you’ll find the Snow Buster, a hill that is covered in snow and has tons of tubes that you can rent. Choose a single tube or a couples tube.

Then all you have to do is hook your tube up to the lift and let it pull you to the top of the hill.

It’s really well organized and once you get to the top you can choose which path you want to take. Some are straight down while others have curves that make you go even faster.

If you get too cold, you can head inside to the lounge where there is a cafe and restaurant selling plenty of hot drinks and delicious Korean food.

If you want to make your visit as easy as possible and not even have to worry about transportation, you can book this Jisan Ski Resort and Everland Day Tour which includes transportation to and from Seoul.

4. Sample Korean winter street food

Seoul has so much great street food and there are a few dishes that taste even better in winter!

If you’re in the mood for something savoury, keep your eyes peeled for  tteokbokki , which are rice cakes cooked in a spicy red chilli paste and sometimes served with fish cakes.

Another popular snack is gyeran bbang , which translates to ‘egg bread’ in Korean. This is a small steamed bread with a whole egg inside and it can come with different toppings.

And we can’t forget hotteok ; these are Korean pancakes stuffed with nuts and honey, though you can also find savoury ones with green onions or kimchi inside. They usually serve them in a little cup so you can hold it while you eat without burning your fingers. This was my favourite street snack living in Korea and I would buy it every time I saw a food vendor on the street selling it!

5. Visit a themed cafe

Seoul has so many interesting themed cafes to check out and winter is the perfect time to do so. The idea is that you can go in, pay for a drink, and enjoy the company of cats, dogs, or even sheep depending on the cafe.

If animal cafes aren’t your cup of tea, there is a Hello Kitty cafe, a Lego cafe, a board game cafe, and a poop cafe that serves your coffee in mugs shaped like toilets.

You can get a better idea of the  strange and quirky cafes in Seoul  here.

6. Stay in a hanok

Hanoks are traditional Korean houses with heated floors and they are a great choice for winter travel.

When you spend the night in a hanok, you sleep on a thick mat on the floor, while the heat rises to keep you warm.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Seoul for a traditional hanok experience, Bukchon and nearby Samcheongdong are your best bet.

Keep in mind that there are all sorts of hanoks to fit every budget, so you can find high-end properties with lots of modern amenities as well as budget-friendly guesthouses with smaller rooms but plenty of charm. You can view some hanok options here .

7. Go ice skating in Seoul

If you enjoy ice skating, there are plenty of places to do so in Seoul during winter.

One of the most popular spots is Seoul Plaza Skating Rink , which is located right next to City Hall. This is one of the most central places in the city if you want to go skating.

Another popular choice for outdoor skating is Yeoui Ice Park , located near the Han River. This is a fairly new spot, where aside from skating, you can also use the sledding slope or have fun making snowmen in the snow playground.

8. Visit Seoul’s royal palaces

Seoul’s palaces look completely different throughout the year. Spring means lots of flowers in bloom, summer offers great weather, fall brings beautiful foliage, but visiting in winter means seeing them covered in snow.

Not only do the palaces look magical covered in fresh powder, but the ponds freeze over and there are far fewer tourists which makes for some great photo ops.

For an in-depth look at Seoul’s royal palaces, check out this small group Seoul Morning Royal Palaces Tour which also includes a visit to Jogyesa Temple.

9. Escape to a nearby ski resort

There are so many mountains to explore in South Korea. The country is made up of more than 70 percent mountains, so you’re sure to find a few nearby that are great for skiing.

Jisan Forest Resort is very close to Seoul. You can be on your first run in under an hour if you’re driving. During the winter there are direct buses from Gangnam.

Daemyung Vivaldi Park is another popular ski resort that is only an hour and a half from Seoul. The resort has 13 slopes and offers one, two, and three-day ski packages that include your lift ticket and ski or snowboard rental.

10. Play arcade games

For some indoor fun to escape the cold, you can also head to one of Seoul’s arcades.

Rovio Korea is a big arcade and bar in Gangnam where you can play tons of different games, watch international sporting events, and have a few beers or cocktails.

If you want to dabble in virtual reality, there’s VR Plus, Korea’s first virtual reality cafe where you can try numerous games and experiences.

Or if you’re looking to play online games, keep your eyes peeled for PC-bangs, which are scattered all over the city.

Tips for visiting Seoul in winter

• Dress in layers to stay warm. Seoul’s winter can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Layer your clothing, and don’t forget essentials like a warm coat, gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Thermal wear is highly recommended.
• Get some hand warmers. These little hot packs or heating pads produce quite a bit of heat and if it’s really cold you can stuff them inside your mittens or inside your pockets to keep your hands warm. This is something that you’ll find at almost every Korean convenience store in winter and it’s really useful if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outside.
• Explore indoor attractions. As we’ve already mentioned, take advantage of Seoul’s numerous indoor attractions, such as museums, palaces, shopping malls, and cafes, to stay warm. You can still enjoy some outdoor activities, but sprinkle some indoor attractions in between.
• Be prepared for shorter days. Winter days in Seoul are shorter, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Start your day early to make the most of the daylight hours for sightseeing.

Read more about Korea:

• 50 Things to Do in Seoul, Korea
• 10 Tips to Visit Seoul on a Budget

A spa day sounds good to me!

I love your blog! It’s helping me and giving me good ideas of where to visit!

Hi, I just saw that you have been to Croatia I welcome you to visit Slovenia also, it is a small country that has all – mountains, sea and beautiful forests.

If I get a choice for travelling this year, I’ll choose Seoul in winter. There’s something so charming that I feel intrigued to visit.

Ooooohh now I know how they call their public baths – Jjimjilbangs.. I’ve seen a lot of Korean dramas with scenes in Jjimjilbangs where the actors are shown laying on the floor relaxed after bathing.. It really looks interesting and I somehow wanted to try it once I travel to South Korea (one of my dream travel destination) 😀 But what surprised me even more, is the idea that their public baths also have movie rooms, workout rooms, reading rooms, gaming rooms, sleeping rooms, and even a restaurant or two where you can enjoy some Korean food. I’m soooooooooo looking forward to going there and trying Jjimjilbangs aside from the other nine exciting things to do in South Korea during Winter 😀

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15 Things to do in Seoul in Winter

We invited our fellow blogger Kaila Yu of the blog NomList to display the best things to do in Seoul in Winter. We are convinced, what about you?

Seoul is such an amazing city to visit on vacation, so much so that everyone reading should visit at least once. But when should you visit this fantastic city? The answer is winter! We will be going into great detail as to why this time is best, the best places to stay, and recommendations for visiting! 

Page Contents

Why should you visit Seoul in Winter?

The festivals are one of the main reasons why you should visit Seoul in winter . They are special in the sense that you can’t really do them at any other time of the year. The experience is also further elevated because you won’t have trouble finding space to enjoy them. This is because winter in Seoul can get really cold, so chances are not many people will gather at the same time.

Furthermore, you can experience some amazing sights and visit some marvelous places. Seoul has some of the best nature experiences in the world. But if that is not to your liking, then Seoul’s food and stores will certainly do the trick. Every recommendation in this article will be things that you might enjoy, and they will complement each other, making this trip to Seoul in winter a complete experience.

15 Things to Do in Seoul in Winter

#1 nami island.

Do you know how I talked about beautiful sights in Seoul? Well, Nami Island is a wonderful example. The Nami island is home to some of the most amazing natural sights, so much so that even the most introverted person would agree! If that doesn’t interest you somehow, you can visit the areas used to film the popular Korean show called Winter Sonata.

Finally, you might even see some animals in their natural habitat, which is always fun. Animals are always a joy! You are then able to end your experience by visiting some nearby restaurants.

Definitely try out the KKOKKO Chuncheon chicken ribs during your visit. They are certainly delicious, and while consuming this delicacy, you can enjoy sights you may have missed out on.

#2 MyeongDong Shopping

Some people believe that they should dress similarly to the people of the country they visit. If you are one of them, then you should definitely visit the Myeongdong Underground shopping center. This place is home to some of Korea’s best fashion. You don’t even need an interpreter because fashion doesn’t have “multiple languages.” I mean, clothes are just clothes, so you should be able to style yourself just fine on your own. 

But what about paying for your clothes? Don’t worry; the cashier is there to help you out, and they are used to receiving tourists. Also, don’t worry about getting tired of looking at clothes. There are a lot of other places to visit near Myeongdong shopping. You can get some delicious food or watch movies at a movie theater. There is even a cat cafe to visit! That doesn’t need an explanation as to why you should visit, haha!

#3 Garden of Morning Calm

Are you a plant fanatic? Well, you’re in luck. The garden of Morning Calm is one of the best places to go if you want to look at different plants. It is home to 5000 different species! You can go to this place often and not see the same plants for a long time. The only downside is the plants would be affected by the harsh winter that Seoul has to deal with. But in my opinion, the winter helps increase the appeal of the different plants.

You may even get lucky and see some rare or endangered plants. It is unfortunate that they are endangered, but this makes visiting the garden even more special since you can’t see them anywhere else. You can help preserve their beauty in photography. So they can still at least be remembered through your pictures, even if they do become extinct.

#4 Insadong Cultural Street

You know what they say, good food brings people together. This is certainly true when you visit Insadong cultural street. This place is great for people who want to try some good Korean food like Korean barbeque or street food like Tteokbokki. What makes this great is that you can take the street food with you while visiting some shops there with your group.

You can look for some antique-like pottery while chomping down on your Tteokbokki and chatting with your friends. You might even get a chance to experience what it is like to live in Korea if you pay careful attention to the locals. There is a lot to learn about the language and mannerisms. Definitely, a must-go-to place if you come to Seoul.

#5 Parasite Filming Location

This section is a little special since I will spend a lot of time praising Parasite. This movie is such a great watch, and you should definitely see it if you get a chance. It’s such a well-written and directed story. You really get to see the differences between the characters. The build-up is just amazing, and the ending is still such a shock, even if you could predict it. I was definitely happy with the time and money I spent on this movie.

If my opinion doesn’t convince you, then maybe the four Oscars it won will. They won the best picture, director, screenplay, and best international feature film! A foreign film that won this many Oscars should undoubtedly gain your interest. So much so that you should be interested in visiting the places where they used to film this wonderful movie. There are not many places, but they are all great places to visit!

#6 Gyeongbokgung Palace

I personally believe that history will always be interesting to look at and learn about. You can learn how people lived before. This is why you should definitely visit this palace because it was the Joseon dynasty’s royal palace. You get to see the place where politics get to play out. Plus, this place is one of the most beautiful buildings in South Korea .

Though you should note that this royal palace is not actually the original Palace, it was destroyed a long time ago, but then they rebuilt it as best as possible. Originally built in 1394, it was later burned down and abandoned for three centuries e and rebuilt in 1867. So, even though it isn’t the original, it’s still an impressive building that’s well worth the visit.

#7 Bangsan Market

Bangsan Market is such a surprising place is lots of things happening all the time. This place is special because it has everything you could want in one place, just like Netflix or Amazon! It has 550 stores all in one place! This means there are food, clothes, souvenirs, you name it!

There is no way you will ever find it a waste of time to visit this place. It is just a great place to visit with a group of friends to hang out!

Book Seoul city pass here

#8 Seoul lantern festival

The lantern festival is easily one of the best things to do in Seoul during the winter. You get to experience a popular tradition that is fun to visit with your family or friends. The public recreation space of Cheonggyecheon is decorated with hundreds of lanterns that make the sights even more appealing during the festival. So with the lanterns, you can see the beautiful snowy sights in all their natural beauty.

During the two weeks of November when the festival is held, visitors can encounter various types of lanterns from Cheonggye Plaza to Supyo Bridge.

#9 Little prince lighting festival of Petite France

Petite France is a French style theme park built in Seoul; it’s pretty nice, with great places to see and photograph. In fact, there is so much that you can do that you’ll probably get tired while exploring. For those who want to take a break from walking, there are other things to see as well, like an orgel, marionette, magic, and puppet performance.

Little Prince Lighting Festival of Petite France is held throughout the Park with beautiful lighting sceneries at nighttime. Lovely buildings and streets, as well as Christmas trees, are adorned with shimmering lights like a fairy tale. It’s guaranteed to give you that joyful winter experience that you need!

#10 Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink

I know this seems kinda simple and bland but bear with me. I know you can ice skate in northern Europe and America as easily as in Korea, but Ice skating is always fun! Plus, the Seoul Plaza ice skating rink is more than just a rink; it has many complementary areas like concerts and restaurants.

Don’t know how to skate? It’s also a great fun place to learn how to skate properly. It will be well worth it, but remember that ice skating is really hard. At least, in my opinion, haha!

#11 Jjimjilbang

When traveling to Seoul in Winter, one must be ready for the cold weather! And what do you need when facing cold weather? Heat! That is where the Jjimjilbang enters. A Jjimjilbang is a large, public South Korean bathhouse. They are sex-segregated and furnished with showers, massage tables, hot tubs, and traditional Korean kiln saunas.

During the winter, you can enjoy all of these facilities to the fullest. Go with a group of friends and warm yourself up in the sauna! If that doesn’t do the job for you, then the hot tubs or showers will certainly do the trick.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an excellent massage at an affordable price. It may seem bland that I am just listing activities you can do, but there are just so many activities. You will find it hard to get bored in the Jjimjilbang, particularly the foreigners who will find most of it a new experience.

#12 Bukchon Hanok Village

Alright, so I talked about the royal palace as one of the best things to do in Seoul in Winter, which shows much of the royalty’s life. But what about the other people? To learn about them, we have the Bukchon Hanok Village , which shows how normal Koreans lived back then. You can see the housing and where they went to eat during this time, like restaurants. But the main appeal would be this village’s design, architecture, and cultural value. Even the alleys and small streets are important features of this village.

Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of Hanok (traditional houses) that date back to the Joseon dynasty. Bukchon means “northern village,” as the neighborhood lies north of two significant Seoul landmarks, the Cheonggyecheon River and Jongno. Today the Hanoks operate mostly as guest houses, tea houses, cultural centers, and restaurants. Providing visitors with an opportunity

It’s one of the best places to experience, learn, and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture. You can even learn how people traveled throughout the village as well and how tough it may be on them. Think of it like an Adventure that you can enjoy with your group.

The last great thing about this place is that you can go on an actual tour and learn about each of the main attractions in greater detail . This way, you’ll learn to appreciate the Korean culture even more!

#13 Winter food

I firmly believe that some foods taste better during a specific time frame, in this case, the winter. So I will recommend several Korean foods that are great for your winter travel in Seoul. Bungeo-ppang, Sundubu-jjigae, fish cakes, and Hotteok are all special because they get elevated by the winter season. How are they elevated? The answer is simple: they help keep you warm or warm you up when you are too cold. But let us go over each of these foods in great detail.

The Bungeo-ppang are pretty little fish pastries filled with a hot filling like red bean paste. The sweetness is just irresistible and to die for! Another great option would be the fish cakes that are just plain scrumptious. They are a mixture of a wide variety of seafood and vegetables, which are later fried! 

Hotteok, aka Korean pancakes, is something more simple and healthier, and will get the job done! The final thing is the most healthy: the Sundubu-jjigae, a tofu soup. You get all the vegetables and meat that you want. Add in a mouth-watering broth, and you will definitely warm up at the end of your meal!

#14 Ice Fishing

I am willing to bet that many people reading this have never fished before. Let us add to that and say that chances are most of you have never ice-fished before. Well, if you are interested in such a thing, then you should go and visit the Hwacheon Sancheoneo ice festival. There you can actually try and fish for something with a rod or even fish with only your hands. I wouldn’t suggest the latter for beginners because it could be devastating if something goes horribly wrong!

Nearby it’s possible to visit a place like a winter village and enjoy “dalgona,” a sponge candy. Granted, candy might not be enough to encourage you to come and visit, but it’s a great addition to this wonderful experience of immersing in the unique culture of Korea!

There is also a winter sports zone where you can try ice soccer and ice badminton! I know most people have tried out soccer or badminton before, but I am positive that you haven’t tried the ice version unless you are Korean. It is such a unique activity to try with your friends.

#15 Seoul Everland

Everland is probably one of the most famous parks in Seoul. You get five different areas, and each is special in its own way. For example, it has a European and American themed area. There are even a water park and roller coaster. Granted, who would want to go to a water park during the winter, right? Only if you want to develop a horrible cold. Also, not everyone would go on a roller coaster during the winter because you will be exposed to heavy wind. But if you can deal with that, then you should be fine.

On the other hand, Everland makes up for it by having sledding options for you, and they will change up some of the other attractions to give you that winter joy! You will also still be able to see the animals, but again that will depend on their ability to handle the cold. Finally, there are fewer people during winter, and you won’t have to endure the typically long lines for rides in these popular parks!

In the end, I can assure you that you will enjoy your time in Seoul’s masterpiece, even in Wintertime.

Where to Stay in Seoul

The best accommodation to stay in Seoul for your winter vacation is a hotel. They are at a really affordable price during winter, and they are typically near great tourist spots! Your best bet is to research where you want to visit, and a good hotel will typically be nearby! Have a look below!

About the author

Kaila Yu is an on-camera correspondent/expert and travel & food writer based in Los Angeles. She is the co-author of the best-selling book 30-Day Travel Challenge and the founder of the blog NomList. She also writes for several other outlets: VICE, Extra Crispy, Fodors, The Matador Network, Skyscanner, and Fly Washington.

* Cover photo by sepavone via Depositphotos

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What to do in Seoul in winter? — 9+ best things to do in Seoul in winter & in Korea in winter

Winter in Korea is quite cold with temperatures as low as -20°C. Are you planning a trip to the ‘land of kimchi’ this season, but don’t know where to start? So what makes this country outstanding in winter? Joining us to find out what you should try when coming to Korea through in the winter in the article below! So, what to do in Korea in winter and what to do in Seoul in winter? Let’s check out our suggested 9+ best things to do in Korea in winter and best things to do in Seoul in winter, what to do in South Korea in winter as follows!

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• Korea winter travel blog — Some useful tips, top things to do & best places to travel in Korea in winter
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Go ice skating at Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink (# best things to do in seoul in winter)

Winter in the land of kimchi starts in December and ends in mid-March. The first thing any tourist visiting Korea will experience is watching the snowfall and participating in exciting outdoor sports activities. During the coldest times of the year, all the parks, tourist attractions and mountain slopes are covered with picturesque white snow.

Ice skating is also one of the great things to do first in the cold winter in Korea. Visitors can try it at any time, but to experience ice skating and falling snow in an outdoor ice rink is a unique experience during the winter. Especially if you go around Christmas time, the decorations and ambient lighting will add a warm, fuzzy feeling as you glide along the ice.

There are quite a few outdoor ice skating rinks open around Seoul, for example: Grand Hyatt in Itaewon and Olympic Park in Songpa-gu, Seoul Plaza (City Hall) seems to be the destination that attracts the most tourists. With a fairly cheap price, suitable for every tourist’s budget, about 1,000 KRW per person per hour, including skate rental. If you need extra gloves and a locker to store your belongings can be rented for another 1,000 KRW.

In addition, there will also be a separate ice skating rink for children and beginners. Children’s helmets are also provided free of charge if needed.

• Address: Seoul plaza, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening hours: Monday-Thursday: 10am to 10pm, Friday-Sunday: 10am to 11pm (Including holidays)

Stroll around Bukchon Hanok village (# what to do in seoul in december)

It is a 600-year-old ancient village with peaceful beauty in the heart of Seoul. Bukchon Hanok Ancient Village is one of the famous tourist destinations that attracts visitors in the winter to immerse themselves in the ancient space and experience the unique traditional culture of Korea.

With a location in the north of Seoul, located between Jongmyo royal shrine, Changdeok palace and Gyeongbokgung palace. This beautiful village gathers about 900 hanok houses, all built in a unique architectural style with natural materials but typical of houses in the ancient village.

This is an ideal place for young people from many parts of the world to have the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of the land of kimchi. You can experience courses such as making handicrafts, embroidering bags or most especially renting traditional Hanbok costumes. In winter, the whole village will be covered in white snow, this is an opportunity for you to save beautiful photos for yourself.

In addition, you can visit any roadside restaurant in the village to enjoy Korean snacks such as spicy rice cakes, fish cakes, fried chicken skewers…

Address: Bukchon Hanok Cultural Village, Seoul, Korea.

Experience the sauna (# what to do in seoul in winter)

Coming to Korea in winter, what any tourist will experience is soaking in hot springs or public saunas.

Many tourists often choose natural hot springs located outside the city to relax and have a quiet space to rest. Among them,

Spa in Seoul and Spa Land in Busan are two tourist destinations that attract ten of thousands of visitors every year.

In addition, an address also popular with tourists during winter in the land of kimchi is the unique Korean-style public sauna, also known as Jjimjilbang. These bathhouses will often have saunas, hot tubs and bedrooms to help tourists stay warm and relax comfortably. Besides, there are also tea rooms, karaoke rooms and fast food restaurants that are both comfortable and cozy.

Christmas concerts and events

Winter in Korea starts in December and that is also the start of Christmas holidays here. Therefore, many families or young people want to enjoy their vacation at this time in the land of kimchi.

In particular, although it is not a major festival in the country, many concerts are held here during Christmas. You can go to Interpark or the leading ticket sales sites in Korea to research and buy tickets.

In addition, the roads and major city centers are also decorated with many Christmas trees and beautifully shaped bright light bulbs. Besides, the Christmas party will not be complete without traditional dishes such as grilled beef, a warm bowl of seaweed soup, and cups of fragrant wine to gather together happily.

Ice fishing in Hwacheon

Hwacheon is located in Gangwon province, about 120km northeast of Seoul and borders North Korea. This is the first area of Korea to freeze every winter.

Therefore, the ice fishing festival in Hwacheon is one of the 7 wonders of tourism and one of the 4 largest winter festivals in the world. Every year, this place attracts millions of tourists and local people.

When you come here, you will experience ice fishing with your bare hands, this activity takes place all day and night. Festival participants drop fishing lines through holes in the ice that have been carved to catch “sancheoneo” – a landlocked species of trout that only lives in very clean fresh water. Children can especially participate, so if you travel with the whole family, this will be a meaningful and wonderful experience.

Enjoy street food

Coming to Korea in winter to enjoy dishes with hot and spicy flavors that warm the senses and bring a warm atmosphere will be the top choice of every tourist. Winter here is quite appealing. Step out on any street on the street and you will see carts full of hot dishes or crowded small roadside stalls.

Most tourists who visit are attracted by the steaming plates of food and attractive colors. If you try a piece and enjoy the spicy taste and ecstatic aroma, the whole cold winter space will seem to be warmed. The street food here is quite diverse and rich, you can find it anywhere, for example tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), Odeng (fish cake skewers dipped in broth), Gamja sausage (French fried sausage) and Mattang (candied sweet potato)…

Tasting ice cream

Many people will think this is strange because the winter weather is cold but enjoying ice cream is equally cold. However, if you try it, it will be a completely new and wonderful experience.

When enjoying ice cream sticks in the cold weather here, instead of being cold, you will feel extremely warm. The feeling of the ice cream melting in your mouth, both cold and warm, will definitely make you unforgettable.

Especially, if you go with your lover or it’s a honeymoon trip, don’t miss the bingsu ice cream. With a very simple flavor of just shaved ice cream and sweet red bean paste on top of the cup and enhanced by yogurt and condensed milk, you can add a little almond, red apple or some other ingredients. This is also a type of ice cream that not only people but foreign tourists love when they visit Korea.

Visit Nami Island

It is a semicircular island located near Seoul. If you have ever heard of or watched the famous Korean drama “Winter Sonata”, you will definitely know about this destination right away. Nami Island at any time is beautiful and attracts tourists, but winter is probably the most beautiful and worth a visit time. In winter, Nami Island will be covered in pristine white snow with picturesque landscapes.

When you come here, you will be immersed in a poetic natural scenery with rows of straight, spindly but strong trees. In particular, this place also has roads full of white snow, walking on these roads to watch the tiny first snowflakes flying in the wind. Although the scenery is cold, it will give you unforgettable emotions.

Satisfy yourself in shopping paradise

Korea is known as a shopping paradise and attracts many tourists to enjoy it here. Just being in the largest capital city, Seoul, is enough to make ‘shoppers’ not want to go home.

There are many shopping areas here from shopping malls, close-together clothing stores, cosmetic stores to Myeongdong neighborhoods, Dongdaemun market, Namdaemun… From high-end brands yo affordable stores, various brands, all products are very diverse and rich.

In addition, if you visit Busan there will also be many stores to choose from, the most prominent is probably the Shinsage Centum City shopping center with 14 modern floors. Besides, there is also Lotte Duty, Seomyeon underground shopping center, Lotte Mall Dong Busan… These locations will be shopping lands for you.

Things to note when traveling to Korea in winter

Korean winter lasts from the end of November to the end of March. Especially in the morning and evening, the temperature can drop below zero and snow falls. Take note of this note from us to make your Korean winter trip perfect:

Clothes to avoid the cold: Prepare a thick and warm outerwear, wool hat to cover the ears, gloves and scarf, etc. If you have enough money, you can buy long life jackets at shopping malls or Spao, Uniqlo stores, etc. These brands often sell life jackets every winter with super warm and trendy models. According to my personal experience, you should wear layers of clothing because it will keep you warm better instead of wearing a thick, heavy shirt.

The heating bags sold at 7 Eleven stores are our savior. If you go out to play in the evening, you should buy a few heating bags to put inside your shirt or hold in your hand to warm up. Purchase at 7 Eleven and pay easily with T-money multi-function card. To buy the card and details on how to use it, please see the link below.

Skin lotion: If you have sensitive skin, you should prepare lotion because cold air will make your skin dry and flaky.

Coming to Korea in December will definitely bring you wonderful and meaningful experiences. Hopefully Living Nomads’ sharing above will provide useful information about winter for your upcoming trip to Korea. Wishing you a fun and happy trip!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Seoul you can refer to

• Private Incheon International Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Private Incheon Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Incheon International Airport (ICN) Limousine Bus Transfers for Seoul (Gangnam District)
• Klook Exclusive Seoul 5 Day Pass
• Discover Seoul Pass (BTS Edition Available)
• [SALE] Instant Ticket! Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS) 2/3/4/5 Days to travel around the cities in Korea
• Private Incheon Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport (GMP) Transfers for Seoul by S.A Tour
• Everland Private Car Charter with Admission Ticket by Wondertrip
• KAL Limousine Bus Ticket for Seoul
• [Limited Offer] AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul
• Bukchon Oneday Hanbok Rental Experience (4/24 Hrs)
• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Seoul City Sightseeing Bus (Downtown Palace Namsan Course/Seoul Panorama Course)
• [Limited Offer] Incheon International Airport (ICN) Luggage Services (Between Airport and Hotel) by Safex
• 4G Prepaid SIM Card (SK Airports Pick Up) for South Korea
• [Sale] Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store) with Korean Hairstyling
• [SALE] South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT Olleh
• 4G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for South Korea (Unlimited Data)
• 4G Portable WiFi for South Korea from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)

Are you finding more top things to do in Seoul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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• Discover South Korea In December In 2024 For A Truly Mind-Blowing Vacation

27 Dec 2021

South Korea welcomes winter with full fledge in December. It is an exotic destination that beckons every tourist to explore its charm and elegance. Swanky cities, lovely islands, and breathtaking vistas will definitely leave you spellbound. This touristy place during winter witnesses a temperature drop.

South Korea is home to some of the world’s best national parks and plenty of eye-popping places. Right from the islands to the fearsome border zones placed in the heart of the Korean Peninsula, there are innumerable things you can enjoy at this dream-like destination. If you love to party hard with live music, then the fantastic nightlife will satiate your craving for fun.

Weather In South Korea In December

As winter arrives, the skies turn cloudy that is amazing to watch. The average temperature is around -3.3°C (26.1°F) to 4.4°C (39.9°F) range during this month. Cold is extremely severe and the temperature may fluctuate and drop down.

The snow showers are probably the best reason alluring people from across the globe to explore South Korea in winter. Besides sledding and skiing, you also get to taste some awesome winter street food like chestnuts and sweet potato.

Top 8 Places To Visit In South Korea In December

Are you planning to explore South Korea in December? This perfectly curated list of places is must read so that you enjoy a fulfilling vacation.

Image Source Seoul is a vibrant and a high-spirited city that will definitely captivate you with its contemporary architecture, positive vibes, and lovely parks. This is an eye-popping city that is rich in culture and history. Seoul boasts plenty of chic restaurants, stylish boutiques, and magnificent palaces. It is ranked as an alpha world city and is a dreamlike destination to explore. Walkthrough the history of Seoul by exploring the War Memorial and National Museum. Witness the mash-up of K-pop music, night markets, majestic palaces, skyscrapers, and temple lined streets right here in Seoul. Seoul is sorted under the best places to visit in South Korea in December.

28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea In 2022

2. Jeju Island

Image Source

Positioned 85 km off the coast, Jeju Island is one of the beautiful places of South Korea. The sun kissed beaches with far-stretching shores of white sand, encircled by pine forests, lava caves, botanical gardens, and volcanic craters will leave you astonished. Deemed to be Korea’s largest island, it is one of the awesome holiday destinations that are worth exploring. Want to know some interesting facts about Jeju Island? It was formed by a volcanic eruption that probably took place 2 million years ago.

13 Incredible Things To Do In Korea In 2022 For Once In A Lifetime Experience

3. Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a lively city, located on the southeastern coast of Korea and is one of the oldest capital of the Silla kingdom. All those who are interested in knowing more about the cultural heritage and architecture of the Joseon Dynasty can definitely explore this place. To add more, Gyeongju features a list of UNESCO world heritage sites like the Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto.

8 Museums In Seoul You Must Visit In 2022 To Learn About Korean History

Image Source Regarded as the spiritual cultural capital of Korea, Andong is a must-visit place for people who love to know more about the intriguing culture of this nation. The main attraction of this city is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village where you can witness the Korean culture. Needless to say, Andong is paradise for foodies, as the city offers an array of options to satiate your taste buds. The famous chicken and the jjimdak dish that is prepared here are super delicious. Do try sipping Soju, a distinct and unique kind of alcohol before leaving South Korea.

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5. Seoraksan National Park

Image Source Are you an adventure freak? then head to Seoraksan National Park where you can enjoy hiking and get a glimpse of the awesome mountain ranges of South Korea. Within the park, you can spot pine forests, rocky mountain peaks, and crystal clear lakes. This national park is a breeding ground for over 2000 species of animals that is definitely worth appreciating.

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Image Source A major port, Busan is the second-largest city of South Korea, popularly renowned for its beaches and hot springs. There are numerous temples here, with Beomeosa Temple being one of most visited. Also, it boasts ample museums and shopping centers. Haeundae Beach, Nakdong River Estuary, Migratory Bird Sanctuary and Taejongdae Park are worth giving attention to.

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7. Chuncheon

Image Source Chuncheon is a marvelous city that is surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains. Winter Sonata Korea’s most popular soap operas conducted here that draws an influx of tourists. Deemed to be foodie’s paradise, this place encompasses ample restaurants. Pay your visit to Statue Park or Cheongpyeong-sa Temple, Soyang Dam and then head to Dakgalbi Street. You can taste Dakgalbi, a mouth-watering grilled chicken meal served with a mixture of rice and spicy vegetables. There are ample restaurants available, with each serving slightly different variations in the recipe.

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Image Source Capital of Gyeonggi Province, Suwon is located just 30kms outside of Seoul. You can easily access this place either by car or train. This is the most remote location that is skipped by most of the tourists. A die-hard fan of soccer can visit the World Cup Stadium. If not, you can explore the historic 18th-century Hwaseong Fortress, known for its amazing intricate architecture. In the premises, you can also try out archery.

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Top 8 Things To Do In South Korea In December

South Korea is teeming with many outstanding attractions. Besides this, things to do in South Korea in December are listed down.

1. Relish Korean Food

Image Source One of the best ways to explore the culture of Korea is to try their incredible cuisine. Marked by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, Korean food will truly leave you speechless. Bulgogi, Gomguk, and Japchae are a few tasty treats that are a must-try in Korea. If you are in Seoul, you can enjoy street foods that are rich in flavours and taste.

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2. Seek Blessings At The Temples

Image Source Sorted among the top things to do in South Korea, visit the 900 Buddhist temples that are available in the country. Meditation halls, ceremonial tearooms, and statues present inside the sanctum are worth visiting. During your stay at these temples, you can meditate with the monks and get a deep insight into Buddhism.

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3. Enjoy Ice Skating

Image Source Shinsegae Centum City in Busan encompasses an ice skating rink which you can visit all round the year. Ice skating is a thrilling experience during the winter months and hosts up to 500 people. Apart from ice skating, there is a culture hall, food court, and customer lounges available.

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4. Go Biking

Image Source A fascinating thing to do in South Korea is to travel around South Korea by bicycle. Visit the scenic coastlines and well-known temples on your way. This place has invested huge amounts to build the most fabulous cycling trails in the world. Most of the rivers in Korea have lovely cycle trails. Plus, Seoul has famous parks and walking trails.

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5. Ride The Wooden Roller Coaster

Image Source Everland is South Korea’s largest outdoor park and is a must visit if you are travelling with kids. This themed park boats five breathtaking rides and a few eye-catching attractions. As there are many rides available in this park, the best advice is to visit this park early in the morning.

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6. Shopping At University Shopping Street

Image Source Well known as Edae, Ewha Women’s University is a shopping paradise. Stroll through the street and purchase the cosmetics, shoes, and clothing you love. If you wish for a makeover, then pop to a salon. Visit the cafes around after taking a break from shopping.

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7. Visit Seoul Alive Illusion Museum

Image Source Seoul Alive Illusion Museum is located right in the center of Seoul. You can get a glimpse of over 100 exhibits in this museum and also create your own artwork by using your body & facial expressions. Carry a fully charged camera along with you, as you can snap some lovely pictures roaming around the museum.

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8. Enjoy The Skyline From Seoul Tower

Image Source Marked as a major landmark of Korea, Seoul Tower is counted among the best places to explore in Korea. Visit this place at night, as you get a completely different view of this tower altogether. When you are with your life partner, lock a message during the dusk and take a stroll through the tower.

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Best Area To Stay In South Korea In December

Image Source Are you ready to explore South Korea? Wondering where to stay? Then Seoul is the right pick for you. If you love shopping and fashion, then stay at Myeongdong. Head to Hongdae, if you wish for a cool neighborhood. All the history buffs can land in Insadong. If you love social events, then stay at Itaewon.

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Is South Korea in December on your bucket list? Then winter is the recommended season to book your tickets. During this period, all the places are full of inherent natural beauty that makes it a fabulous place to stay. To witness South Korea in its full bloom, plan your vacation in December. Visiting South Korea during Christmas and New year will definitely be the right decision.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About South Korea In December

How cold is South Korea in December?

The temperature of South Korea in December ranges about 6~3°C on average but can drop below -10°C.

Is it good to visit Korea in December?

Yes, December is absolutely the best time to visit Korea in December. As the places are less crowded and you get to explore each & every destination to the fullest.

Does it snow in South Korea in December?

Yes, it snows in South Korea during the month of December. You can find mountains covered with snow this month.

Which is the best area to stay in Seoul?

Myeongdong, Gangnam, Hongdae, Jamsil and Itaewon are the best places where you can stay in Seoul.

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The Maya Train Will Get You to All of Yucatán’s Best Spots. But Not Yet.

In December, the train began running on its first route through Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. On a five-day journey a few months later, the author encountered enthusiasm, and scheduling hiccups.

By Elisabeth Malkin

Elisabeth Malkin has been visiting the Yucatán Peninsula for three decades.

I stepped off the platform at the gleaming new Maxcanú train station, eager to see the magnificent Maya archaeological site of Uxmal. All I needed was a taxi to take me there, a trip of about 30 miles away.

There are no taxis, said the stationmaster, as we stood on the polished limestone floors of the high-ceilinged station, which was cool and breezy despite the brilliant late-morning sun outside. And I was the third person in two weeks to get off at Maxcanú expecting to reach Uxmal, he said.

I was midway through a five-day trip to explore the brand-new Maya Train and several of its destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico . Designed to run 965 miles (1,554 kilometers) around a loop of 34 stations when completed, the train will whisk passengers in cool comfort through colonial cities, archaeological sites, splashy resorts and tropical forests.

Now I was stunned. Wrangling a taxi has never been a problem in Mexico. But the drivers gathered in the main square of Maxcanú offered only beat-up vans that hopscotch through small towns, where I might or might not find a taxi to Uxmal. The next van was leaving in 45 minutes.

Yucatán’s layers of history have long held me spellbound. During earlier car trips, I have clambered up deserted Maya temples and palaces, stepped into the cool naves of massive 16th-century churches and visited restored haciendas, testaments of the ostentation — and hardship — of the peninsula’s 19th-century plantation economy. Traveling by train, I thought, would allow me to steep myself in more of that history.

But as I found in Maxcanú, a train won’t necessarily get you to where you want to go.

During my February trip, I traveled on the only route then available, an east-west leg that opened in December and runs from Cancún to Mérida, and then south through the port city of Campeche to the Maya site of Palenque (a short route between Cancún and Playa del Carmen opened last month, with three trains a day). I encountered scheduling confusion, unfinished stations and a dearth of trains — just two operating daily each way between Cancún and Campeche, and only one to Palenque. Overnight sleepers and special dining trains seem years away.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador considers the Maya Train his showcase development project, and wants to inaugurate the rest of the train before he leaves office on October 1. Based on my experience, that goal seems elusive.

A $29-billion route through the jungle

I started my journey in Cancún, where in the pre-dawn gloom the station hovered like a glowing spaceship. An attendant scanned the ticket I had bought online and a half-dozen more pointed me toward my tourist-class car, which was about a quarter full. I planned to go to Campeche, about 300 miles away, stopping once each day. At 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) an hour, the train covers the route in about six hours, the same as a car. (When construction is complete, the train’s speed should increase to 160 kilometers an hour.)

The car’s wide windows looked out at a wall of low jungle. The blue-green seats were comfortable and there was ample space between the rows. I bought a very good cappuccino at the snack bar, but declined the plastic-wrapped sandwiches. The rest of the merchandise was fruit cups, milk boxes and junk food.

The train will ultimately cost much more than the $29 billion budgeted so far, and it’s not the first time ambitious planners have alighted on the region. Cancún was once a tiny fishing village, selected half a century ago as a tourist hub. Last year 10 million international tourists flew into its airport, more than the airports of Mexico City, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta combined.

But uncontrolled growth has stressed the Caribbean coast’s fragile environment. The Maya Train, scientists warn , will push those problems south, threatening the area’s water supply, its unique system of underground limestone caves and its vast nature reserves.

Mr. López Obrador has charged ahead, handing the train over to the military , and arguing that it will spread Cancún’s wealth and attract new visitors. Mexico received more than 42 million overseas tourists last year and they spent almost $31 billion .

Local governments see an opportunity. “The train will allow people to disperse throughout the peninsula,” said Michelle Fridman, the tourism secretary for Yucatán state, which promotes dozens of attractions far beyond highlights like Mérida and Chichén Itzá .

Now that the train is operating, transport companies will begin to connect stations with lesser-known sites nearby, she said.

It’s fair to ask whether the train is the most effective way to develop the peninsula’s tourism. Tour companies already run trips to many sites from major cities, which are well served by buses. Driving a rental car through most of the area is considered safe , according to U.S. State Department travel guidance .

Route of Mexico’s Maya Train

Canceled trip.

It took two hours (and one time-zone change) to reach Valladolid, a colonial city of handsome streets and ancient churches, where I bought the rest of my tickets at the station. A tourist-class ticket from Cancún to Valladolid costs 472 pesos (around $28) for foreigners and 355 pesos (around $21) for Mexicans. First class, with wider seats, costs 755.50 pesos and 566.50 pesos, and discounts are available for older travelers and residents of the five states along the train’s route. (A first-class bus from downtown Cancún to Valladolid costs between 222 and 344 pesos, depending on the time of day, and takes half an hour longer.)

It was impossible to run the new Maya Train tracks into dense city centers and the Valladolid station, like the rest, was outside the urban core. A waiting bus took disembarking passengers downtown, a 15-minute ride for 35 pesos.

That day I toured Ek Balam , the site of a ninth-century Maya kingdom that is dominated by a 100-foot palace distinguished by a facade of carvings depicting winged warriors, stylized animal features and geometric patterns bordered by giant fangs. Admission to the site includes entry to the X-Canché cenote, one of thousands of limestone sinkholes that were sacred to the Maya.

Later that afternoon, I was wandering through the Museum of Ethnic Clothing, a private collection of traditional dress, embroidery and hats, when a WhatsApp message from the ticket office blinked on my phone. My train scheduled for the following day was canceled.

I decided to deal with the problem in the morning and enjoy the city. As I wandered past the antique shops and boutique hotels of the elegant Calzada de los Frailes, it was clear that Valladolid’s tourism, and the infrastructure to handle it, was well established. The Maya Train is simply an alternative way to reach a city that tourists discovered years ago.

‘We’re on the Tren Maya!’

In the morning, I found that my train had not been canceled, but the station for which I had a ticket, Tixkokob, was closed. I got off instead one stop earlier at Izamal, known for its ocher streets and the giant Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop the ruins of a pyramid.

During the 90-minute ride, I heard widespread enthusiasm among fellow travelers who expressed a willingness to give the train time to work out the kinks. “We’re an experiment,” said Oliva Escobedo Ochoa, 64, who was vacationing from her home in central Mexico.

Leticia Iliassich, 57, who is Mexican, was traveling with her Croatian husband along with relatives from Mexico and Croatia. They had initially been scheduled on an earlier train to Mérida that had been canceled. “We knew that it was a new project,” she said. “We don’t mind.”

The group had already sent a video to friends declaring, “We’re on the Tren Maya!”

At the Izamal station I hitched a 15-minute ride into the town center with a man who had asked me to take his photo alongside the train and his father. From there I negotiated a taxi to Hacienda San Lorenzo Aké, a working hacienda that still turns the fiber from an agave plant called henequén into coarse rope. Global demand for henequén, known as Yucatán’s “green gold,” brought fantastic wealth to the region in the mid-19th century, speckling the peninsula with more than 1,000 haciendas. ( Many are now sumptuous hotels.)

Where geometry, nature and the divine merge

It was during my third day that I found myself stuck in Maxcanú, after a 90-minute train ride from Izamal. The stationmaster, an army captain, offered me a ride to Uxmal, just as he had to the stranded tourists before me.

Eying Uxmal’s 4 p.m. final ticket sale, I accepted.

My situation made it clear just how distant the Maya Train’s promises are for tourists seeking to explore more of Yucatán. In time, that will change, said Ms. Fridman, the tourism secretary. “The idea is to have more hotels along the train line,” she said. “That will happen little by little.”

But Uxmal , among the most stunning of the Maya sites, made up for the inconvenience. Uxmal’s grand buildings are faced with intricate decorative masks as well as friezes in which geometry, nature and the divine merge. New plaques at each structure offer detailed information in English and Spanish, part of the government’s investment in improving displays at Maya sites for the train project.

Most tourists either take day trips by car or bus to Uxmal from Mérida or stay at one of three nearby hotels. As I finished dinner at my hotel, the dining room began to fill up: 47 Polish tourists had arrived.

Panama hats and a cramped van

My plan for the day was to go by taxi to Bécal, a town where Panama hats are woven in limestone caves to keep the fibers soft, and then pick up the afternoon train in nearby Calkiní for the port city of Campeche.

But I spent so much time watching the hat-making demonstration and then fitting my new hat and buying gifts that we set off with little time to reach the station. To my chagrin, I missed the train, the last one of the day.

On Calkiní’s central square, I found a van that was leaving for Campeche. Cost: 65 pesos. Time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes, similar to what I would have spent on the train. Of course, I was trapped in a cramped seat and had to listen to the driver’s choice of sentimental ballads, but I was dropped off in downtown Campeche, close to my hotel.

The next day, I toured the Museum of Maya Archaeology , an expertly curated collection that included haunting jade funeral masks, glyphs and delicate ceramic figures.

José Madrigal, 45, an engineer from Fremont, Calif., was trying to make Maya pottery interesting for his twin sons. The boys had just turned 5 and their birthday present had been a ride on the Maya Train. “They love trains,” Mr. Madrigal said. Then the family moved on, keeping up a brisk clip through the museum. They had another train to catch.

Should you take the train?

Yes, if you are traveling between larger stations. The train also offers a way to get to Palenque, which is harder to reach and has roads with security concerns. Travelers can stow bicycles on board.

To see train times, check the destinations on the website . You cannot buy tickets online more than a week in advance. But when you finally board, the ride is smooth — and the coffee is excellent.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .