Top 24 Place to Visit in Korea in winter – in and Around Seoul,
Winter in South Korea is a magical experience, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking snowy landscapes, vibrant winter festivals, and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist visiting for the first time, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Korea in winter. From exploring the festive streets of Seoul to discovering scenic snow-covered countryside retreats, winter in Korea provides an unforgettable experience for everyone.
With temperatures often dipping below freezing between December and February, the season presents a fantastic opportunity to indulge in seasonal delights like ice skating, skiing, and witnessing mesmerizing winter illuminations. If you’re wondering where to visit in Korea during winter, this guide will introduce you to some of the most spectacular destinations you can’t miss.
The winter season in Korea spans from December to February, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, making it the perfect time to enjoy snowy activities and cultural festivities. Whether you’re visiting Korea in December, January, or February, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Korea in winter.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve compiled the best winter destinations in and around Seoul that cater to adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and families alike. Whether you’re planning to enjoy the twinkling lights at the Seoul Lantern Festival, glide across the ice at Olympic Park, or explore the serene beauty of snow-covered national parks, this list has you covered.
Top Winter Destinations in Seoul
If you’re staying in Seoul, you don’t have to go far to experience the best winter festivals in Korea. The city comes alive with winter-themed events, dazzling lights, and festive activities.
1. Seoul Lantern Festival
The Seoul Lantern Festival is a must-see winter event in Seoul. Held along Cheonggyecheon Stream, the festival features stunning lantern displays representing Korean culture and history. This event offers a picturesque experience perfect for an evening stroll.
- Festival Duration: November 1, 2025 – November 20, 2025
- Opening Hours: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Official Website: www.seoullanternfestival.com
- How to Get There: Take Seoul Metro Line 1 or 2 to City Hall Station (Exit 4).
- Address: Cheonggyecheon Stream, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Enjoy the magical Seoul Lantern Festival and night tour in Seoul —plan ahead and book your tickets with Klook, Trazy, Get your guide or Viator
2. Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink
Located in the heart of Seoul, the Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink is one of the most popular winter attractions in Seoul. It offers an affordable and fun ice skating experience with a stunning view of the city’s skyline.
- Operating Period: December 20, 2024 – February 9, 2025
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9:30 PM
- Entry Fee: 1,000 KRW per hour (including skate rental)
- Official Website: plaza.seoul.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take Seoul Metro Line 1 or 2 to City Hall Station (Exit 5).
- Address: 110 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
3. Lotte World Christmas Miracle
Lotte World, Seoul’s famous indoor theme park, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, featuring special parades, festive decorations, and winter-themed performances.
- Festival Duration: December 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 10 PM
- Entry Fee: 59,000 KRW for adults, 47,000 KRW for children
- Official Website: www.lotteworld.com
- How to Get There: Take Seoul Metro Line 2 to Jamsil Station (Exit 4).
- Address: 240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
- Buy Your Ticket Online in Advance With Klook
4. Namsan Tower Winter Lights Festival
Seoul’s iconic Namsan Tower gets a beautiful makeover during the winter months with vibrant light displays and festive decorations. The panoramic view of the city covered in snow makes it a must-visit.
- Festival Duration: December 1, 2024 – February 28, 2025
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 11 PM
- Entry Fee: 16,000 KRW per person
- Official Website: www.nseoultower.co.kr
- How to Get There: Take the Namsan cable car from Myeongdong Station.
- Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Buy Your Ticket Online in Advance With Klook
5. Olympic Park Ice Skating Rink
For those looking to enjoy outdoor skating, Olympic Park offers an affordable and family-friendly experience with beautifully decorated surroundings.
- Operating Period: December 20, 2024 – February 10, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Entry Fee: 3,000 KRW for 50 minutes
- Official Website: www.olympicpark.co.kr
- How to Get There: Take Seoul Metro Line 5 to Olympic Park Station (Exit 3).
- Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
Top Winter Destinations Near Seoul (Gyeonggi-do)
6. Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival
Located in Gapyeong, the Garden of Morning Calm hosts one of Korea’s most stunning winter light festivals, covering the vast garden with millions of lights.
- Festival Duration: December 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (until 11 PM on weekends)
- Entry Fee: 9,500 KRW for adults, 7,000 KRW for children
- Official Website: www.morningcalm.co.kr
- How to Get There: Take the Gyeonchun Line to Cheongpyeong Station, then bus 31-7.
- Address: 432, Sumogwon-ro, Sang-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
- Buy Your Ticket Online in Advance With Klook
7. Bears Town Ski Resort
Just an hour from Seoul, Bears Town offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow sledding, making it a perfect winter getaway for beginners and families.
- Festival Duration: December 1, 2024 – March 1, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Entry Fee: 50,000 KRW for adults (gear rental extra)
- Official Website: www.bearstown.com
- How to Get There: Take a shuttle bus from Seoul.
- Address: 27, Geumgang-ro 2536beon-gil, Naechon-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
8. Gapyeong Singsing Winter Festival (Gyeonggi-do)
Before visiting the Garden of Morning Calm, you can enjoy the Gapyeong Singsing Winter Festival. Located nearby, this festival offers exciting winter fishing activities where visitors can catch fish, cook them on the spot, or take them home. Additional fun activities include ice sledding, bumper cars, and ice skating.
- Festival Duration: January 4, 2025 – February 14, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: 12,000 KRW for adults, 10,000 KRW for children (additional charges for other activities)
- Official Website: www.가평씽씽송어축제.com
- How to Get There: Take Seoul Metro Line 7/Jungang Line to Sangbong Station, transfer to Gyeongchun Line, and get off at Gapyeong Station. Walk for 15 minutes to the festival.
- Address: 119, Gapyeongjebang-gil, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
9. Petite France Little Prince Lighting Festival (Gyeonggi-do)
Inspired by the famous novel The Little Prince, Petite France offers a winter light festival filled with European-style architecture, French cultural performances, and beautifully decorated streets. The festival creates a magical winter ambiance, perfect for a romantic getaway.
- Festival Duration: December 1, 2024 – February 28, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: 10,000 KRW for adults, 8,000 KRW for children
- Official Website: www.pfcamp.com
- How to Get There: Take the ITX train from Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station, then take a local shuttle bus.
- Address: 1063, Hoban-ro, Cheongpyeong-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
10. Pocheon Herb Island Light Festival (Gyeonggi-do)
Herb Island in Pocheon transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights covering the gardens, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The festival includes romantic lighting displays, illuminated tunnels, and herbal food experiences.
- Festival Duration: November 15, 2024 – February 28, 2025
- Opening Hours: 3 PM – 10 PM
- Entry Fee: 9,000 KRW per person
- Official Website: www.herbisland.co.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Pocheon, then a local taxi to Herb Island.
- Address: 35, Cheongsin-ro 947beon-gil, Sinbuk-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
11. Pocheon Baegungyegok Valley Dongjangkun Festival (Gyeonggi-do)
Located in the scenic Baegungyegok Valley, this winter festival offers various snow activities, ice fishing, and a snow-covered hiking trail for visitors to enjoy.
- Festival Duration: December 20, 2024 – February 10, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: 7,000 KRW for adults, 5,000 KRW for children
- Official Website: www.pocheon.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Dong Seoul Terminal to Pocheon Terminal, then take a local taxi.
- Address: 774 Baegun-ro, Sinbuk-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
12. Yangpyeong Icefish Festival (Gyeonggi-do)
Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Yangpyeong Icefish Festival, where visitors can experience ice fishing, sledding, and delicious Korean winter snacks like hotteok (sweet pancakes).
- Festival Duration: January 10, 2025 – February 20, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: 10,000 KRW per person
- Official Website: www.yp21.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take the Gyeongui-Jungang Line to Yangpyeong Station, then a short bus ride to the festival site.
- Address: 445, Namhangang-ro, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
13. Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival (Gyeonggi-do)
This family-friendly winter festival offers sledding on the frozen Sanjeong Lake, along with other winter activities like snowball fights and traditional Korean games.
- Festival Duration: January 5, 2025 – February 15, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: 10,000 KRW per person
- Official Website: www.pocheon.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Dong Seoul Terminal to Pocheon Terminal, then a shuttle bus to the lake.
- Address: Sanjeong Lake, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
Top Winter Destinations Across Gangwon-do
14. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival (Gangwon-do)
The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is one of Korea’s most famous winter events, offering ice fishing, sledding, snow sculpture exhibitions, and various winter games. The festival attracts thousands of tourists every year.
- Festival Duration: January 11, 2025 – February 2, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: 15,000 KRW for adults, 10,000 KRW for children
- Official Website: www.narafestival.com
- How to Get There: Take an intercity bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Hwacheon Terminal. The festival venue is a 10-minute walk from the terminal.
- Address: 137, Sancheoneo-gil, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon-do
- Buy Your Ticket Online in Advance With Klook
15. Pyeongchang Trout Festival (Gangwon-do)
Pyeongchang, known for hosting the Winter Olympics, also holds an annual trout festival where visitors can enjoy fishing, sledding, and outdoor winter sports surrounded by breathtaking snowy landscapes.
- Festival Duration: December 28, 2024 – February 2, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: 15,000 KRW per person
- Official Website: festival700.or.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Jinbu Bus Terminal, then walk to the festival site.
- Address: 3562, Gyeonggang-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do
- Buy Your Ticket Online in Advance With Klook
16. Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival (Gangwon-do)
Enjoy breathtaking snow-covered landscapes at Taebaeksan Mountain while experiencing cultural events, ice sculptures, and fun snow activities.
- Festival Duration: January 13, 2025 – February 3, 2025
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Official Website: www.taebaek.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Taebaek Terminal, then a short taxi ride to the park.
- Address: 168 Cheonjedan-gil, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do
- Buy Your Ticket Online in Advance With Klook
17. Seoraksan Mountain Snow Hiking (Gangwon-do)
Seoraksan National Park offers one of the most scenic winter hiking experiences in Korea, with snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas.
- Festival Duration: December 2024 – February 2025
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: 4,000 KRW for adults
- Official Website: www.knps.or.kr
- How to Get There: Take an intercity bus from Seoul to Sokcho, then take a local bus to the park.
- Address: 998, Seoraksan-ro, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do
18. Taebaek Ice Fountain Festival (Gangwon-do)
A winter wonderland featuring giant ice fountains, frozen tunnels, and beautifully sculpted ice castles that light up at night, creating a fairy-tale ambiance.
- Festival Duration: January 10, 2025 – February 16, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: 8,000 KRW for adults, 5,000 KRW for children
- Official Website: www.taebaek.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Taebaek Terminal, then a local taxi.
- Address: 450, Taebaeksan-ro, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do
19. Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival (Busan)
Held in Busan’s bustling shopping district of Nampo-dong, this festival features enormous Christmas trees, carol singing, and festive market stalls.
- Festival Duration: December 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025
- Opening Hours: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Official Website: www.busan.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take a train to Busan Station, then a local bus to Nampo-dong.
- Address: Nampo-dong, Jung-gu, Busan
Top Winter Destinations Across South korea
20. Haeundae Beach Light Festival (Busan)
Haeundae Beach transforms into a winter wonderland with millions of LED lights illuminating the coastline. The festival features themed zones, light tunnels, and cultural performances, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening stroll.
- Festival Duration: December 1, 2024 – February 29, 2025
- Opening Hours: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Official Website: www.haeundae.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take a train to Busan Station, then transfer to Busan Metro Line 2 to Haeundae Station (Exit 5).
- Address: 264, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
21. Deogyusan Mountain Snow Festival (Jeollabuk-do)
This winter festival takes place in one of Korea’s most beautiful national parks, featuring snow sculpture contests, hiking trails, and traditional performances.
- Festival Duration: January 5, 2025 – February 15, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Official Website: www.knps.or.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Jeonju Bus Terminal to Muju, then transfer to the park shuttle.
- Address: 670, Gucheondong-ro, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do
22. Boseong Green Tea Plantation Light Festival (Jeollanam-do)
Famous for its lush tea fields, Boseong hosts a breathtaking light festival, where the rolling hills are illuminated with colorful lights, creating a serene winter atmosphere.
- Festival Duration: December 15, 2024 – January 31, 2025
- Opening Hours: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Entry Fee: 5,000 KRW per person
- Official Website: www.boseong.go.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus to Boseong Terminal, then a taxi to the plantation.
- Address: 775, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-eup, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do
23. Jeju Fire Festival (Jeju Island)
Jeju Fire Festival celebrates traditional agricultural practices, where massive bonfires are lit across the island to welcome prosperity and good fortune for the new year.
- Festival Duration: March 1, 2025 – March 3, 2025
- Opening Hours: Various events throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Official Website: www.visitjeju.net
- How to Get There: Take a flight to Jeju International Airport, then a local bus or taxi to the festival site.
- Address: Various locations in Jeju
24. Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival (Chungcheongnam-do)
Chilgapsan Mountain becomes a frozen paradise during the winter season, with towering ice formations, sledding slopes, and fun winter activities for families and children.
- Festival Duration: January 6, 2025 – February 16, 2025
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: 8,000 KRW for adults, 6,000 KRW for children
- Official Website: www.chilgapsan.co.kr
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Seoul Nambu Terminal to Cheongyang, then a local taxi to the festival site.
- Address: 220-5, Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
Top FAQs About Winter Festivals in Korea
The best time to visit is from December to February when most winter events take place. Popular festivals like the Seoul Lantern Festival, Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival, and Pyeongchang Trout Festival are held during this period.
Yes, it is recommended to book in advance for popular events like ice fishing and ski resorts, especially on weekends and holidays, to avoid long wait times.
Wear warm layers, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a hat, and thermal boots. Temperatures can drop below freezing, so dressing appropriately will help you stay comfortable.
Yes, most winter festivals offer activities suitable for families and children, including sledding, snow sculpture exhibitions, and fun interactive events.
Popular spots include Ganjeolgot in Ulsan, Homigot in Pohang, and Jeongdongjin Beach in Gangwon-do. These locations offer spectacular sunrise views and special New Year’s celebrations.
Some major festivals, especially in Seoul and Busan, offer halal-friendly food options. However, it’s best to check ahead or bring your own food if you have specific dietary restrictions.
Ice fishing, sledding, skiing, snowboarding, hiking in snow-covered mountains, and enjoying light festivals are highly recommended winter activities in Korea.
Yes, many ski resorts and festival sites offer rental services for clothing and equipment, including ski gear, snow boots, and warm coats.
Most festivals have accessible public transportation options from major cities, such as buses and trains from Seoul to places like Gangwon-do and Jeollanam-do.
Free festivals such as the Seoul Lantern Festival and the sunrise events at Jeongdongjin and Homigot are great budget-friendly options. Some ski resorts also offer discounted rates for early bookings.
Absolutely! Winter in Korea offers breathtaking snowy landscapes, exciting festivals, and unique seasonal activities like skiing and ice fishing. It’s also a great time to enjoy winter delicacies like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and spicy hot soups.
Yes, Jeju Island is a great winter destination with milder temperatures compared to the mainland. Snow-dusted Hallasan Mountain and Jeju’s natural beauty create a serene winter retreat, while fewer crowds allow for a more relaxed experience.
Yes, Lotte World operates year-round. The indoor theme park is ideal for escaping the cold, while the outdoor Magic Island is beautifully decorated with festive lights and attractions during winter.
You can experience snowfall in areas like Gangwon-do (Pyeongchang, Taebaek, and Seoraksan), Nami Island, and parts of Seoul such as Bukhansan and Namsan Tower.
Yes, Gyeongju’s ancient sites, like Bulguksa Temple and Daereungwon Tomb Complex, look stunning covered in snow. Winter is also a great time to enjoy the city’s hot springs and traditional tea houses.
Gangwon-do, particularly in Pyeongchang and Taebaek, experiences the coldest temperatures, often dropping to -15°C (5°F) or lower, with heavy snowfall.
Generally, Korea experiences colder winters than most parts of Japan, especially in inland areas like Seoul and Gangwon-do. Coastal regions such as Busan have milder temperatures.
Yes, Busan’s milder climate makes it a great winter escape. The Haeundae Beach Light Festival, local seafood, and stunning ocean views offer a refreshing change from the colder northern cities.
Yes, Nami Island usually experiences snow in December, transforming it into a beautiful winter wonderland with its tree-lined paths covered in snow.
Yes, hiking Bukhansan in winter is possible and offers incredible snowy views of Seoul. However, you should wear proper hiking gear as trails can be icy and slippery.
January is usually the coldest month in Korea, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing in most parts of the country.
Temperatures typically range from -18°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F), with northern regions experiencing colder conditions and southern coastal cities having milder weather.
South Korea offers a mix of budget and luxury options. While food and public transport are affordable, accommodation and shopping can be pricey in major cities like Seoul. Budget travelers can find affordable hostels and enjoy street food.
Plan Your Perfect Winter Getaway in South Korea
South Korea offers an array of winter experiences that captivate visitors with their charm, beauty, and excitement. Whether you’re looking to experience the lively winter festivals in Seoul, indulge in thrilling ski adventures, or enjoy tranquil winter landscapes, Korea has something for everyone. From bustling cities to scenic retreats, each destination provides a unique glimpse into Korea’s winter wonderland.
To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to plan ahead—book your accommodations early, secure tickets for popular attractions in advance, and dress warmly to enjoy outdoor activities comfortably. Don’t forget to check the latest travel advisories and local COVID-19 regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
So, whether you’re planning to visit South Korea in December, January, or February, the country offers countless opportunities to create cherished memories. Start planning your winter adventure today and experience the best of Korea in winter!
