Buzz
Think winter in South Korea is all about snow? While playing in the snow is fun, in the last months of the year, the land of kimchi offers plenty of diverse entertainment activities for travelers to explore. Don't believe it? Check out the travel guide below!
When Does Winter Start in South Korea?
Winter in South Korea typically lasts from December to the end of February. During this time, the weather becomes cold and dry. Particularly, January and February are considered the coldest months of the year. The average temperature is quite low, varying depending on the specific region, for example, in the North with an average temperature of about -8°C, while in the South slightly warmer, ranging from 0°C to 6°C.
One of the highlights of winter in South Korea is snow. Snowfall on roads, tree branches, and rooftops creates an extremely romantic and picturesque atmosphere. In some areas, snow can cover a large area, providing ideal conditions for exciting snow activities.
Top 12 Must-Do Winter Activities in South Korea
1. Explore the Winter Wonderland at Jade Garden
If you enjoy building snowmen or frolicking in the first snow of the season (a classic scene in every romantic movie), make sure to put Jade Garden on your dream destination list. During the year-end, this European-themed park transforms into a real winter paradise.
Although there are no flowers, Jade Garden still leaves a lasting impression on numerous travelers with its exquisite wooden pathways winding through snowy meadows and forests. When you need a break, you can relax at the Gubongsan Mountain Observatory Cafe Street to enjoy the scenery and treat yourself to a steaming cup of coffee.
Jade Garden
- Address: 80 Haetgol-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
2. Test Your Skiing Skills at Vivaldi Park Snowy Land
Vivaldi Park Snowy Land is a familiar retreat for Koreans every winter. After several renovations, this family-friendly resort now offers a variety of exciting and safe activities suitable for both children and adults. Put on your warm clothes and get ready to hit the slopes. With 5 unique skiing lanes and plenty of activities for kids, you and your family are sure to have an exhilarating physical activity here.
Pro tip for #teamKlook: Remember to pack breakfast and snacks in your backpack when visiting Vivaldi Park Snowy Land. The journey from Myeong Dong takes two hours (round trip) and involves multiple modes of transportation. So, take this time to refuel or rest!
Vivaldi Park Snowy World
- Address: 262 Hanchigol-gil, Seo-myeon, Hongcheon, Gangwon-do
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
3. Admire the Sparkling Garden of Morning Calm
Winter travel in Korea, how can you forget the picturesque Nami Island? Tucked under a thick blanket of snow, the famous island seems to transform into a magical white wonderland. Stay until nightfall to witness the spectacular light show at Garden of Morning Calm.
Of course, travelers also get to live in the beloved cinematic moments of the drama 'Love in the Moonlight', featuring the 'national prince' Park Bo Gum and the 'national fairy' Park Yoo Jung. This unique drama set experience will be available on Nami Island starting from 09/12/2019.
Garden of Morning Calm
- Address: 432 Sumogwon-ro, Sang-myeon, 상면 Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
- Operating Hours: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM
4. Relive Childhood Memories at Everland Theme Park
Everland is South Korea's largest theme park, renowned for its thrilling roller coasters seemingly defying the laws of physics and iconic pirate ship rides. Here, you can SKIP THE LINE to explore the wild world up close, stroll through wooden roller coasters, join the Wicked Parade, or witness the Trick or Treat show.
Everland Theme Park
- Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM from Sunday to Thursday; 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday
5. Explore the Petite France Village
If you're a hardcore fan of 'The Little Prince,' take some time to visit Petite France - a standout theme park featuring white snow (only in winter, of course) and vibrant, cheerful colors. The walls adorned with romantic paintings, French-style decorations, and miniature landscapes featuring famous Disney characters like Cinderella and Snow White will serve as the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos. Fully charge your camera and let's get snapping!
Pro Tip for #teamKlook: Remember to stay hydrated and keep warm with a cup of Petite France coffee!
Petite France
- Address: Hoban-ro, Oeseo-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6. Cycling Adventure on Nami Island Rail Bike
Still haven't experienced the 'wow' factor at the so-called 'moon island' of Korea? Klook has got you covered. Before wrapping up your journey, hop on a bike to conquer the 318km-long rail track around the Bukhangang River in the snowy city. This ride will offer you a close-up view of the snow-covered riverbank gradually melting into the water, creating a sparkling effect that's beyond words. Don't worry too much about transportation because there's a convenient bus stop at the end of the rail track.
Gangchon Rail Bike Station
- Address: 1385, Gimyujeong-ro, Sindong-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
7. 'Selfie' with Alpaca
Spanning an area of approximately 10,219 square meters (equivalent to 2 soccer fields), visitors can easily interact with friendly wild friends like Alpaca at Alpaca World. You can play, feed, or even take a leisurely stroll with them. Don't be surprised to encounter various small animals such as deer, horses, and more!
Alpaca World
- Address: Pungcheon-ri, Hwachon-myeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
- Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
8. Embrace the Winter Multiverse at N Seoul Tower
Imagine how stunning winter in Korea looks from the perspective of N Seoul Tower. In the early morning, the city is quieter under the blanket of white snow covering every street. As night falls, Seoul comes alive with glittering lights and festive Christmas atmosphere. This will undoubtedly be a visually immersive experience for every traveler.
N Seoul Tower
- Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM on Saturdays and 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM on other days of the week
9. Explore the Famous 'Goblin' Filming Location
If you haven't watched 'Goblin' or 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,' it's time to update your Hallyu knowledge! For hardcore fans of the series, you can step foot in this romantic famous filming location during your day trip to Gangneung. Capture stunning angles to recreate those romantic winter scenes that often only appear on the small screen!
10. This Winter, You Must Visit the Snowy Gyeongbokgung Palace!
First things first, you have to accept the fact that Gyeongbokgung Palace is always beautiful. However, Gyeongbokgung Palace becomes even more enchanting and magical in winter. From the gardens to the distinctive Korean architecture, everything is covered in white snow. It's time to turn your winter dream into reality and more!
11. Experience Winter Strawberry Picking on Nami Island
Every winter, strawberries become a craze because winter is the season of ripe and sweet strawberries. Stepping into the 'strawberry paradise' on Nami Island, you'll be completely immersed in strawberries, every bunch is plump, ripe, and red. Pick your own Korean super sweet strawberries to treat your family and friends #teamKlook!
12. Immerse Yourself in the Giant Ice Valley in Cheongsong
The Cheongsong Ice Valley is a natural resort with giant ice walls that resemble the ice kingdom that Elsa steps into in the popular animated movie Frozen. Even in summer, the mineral water here is icy cold like ice, making it an ideal cool retreat for locals.
Delicious Korean Foods to Try During Winter Travel
1. Bulgogi
A traditional Korean dish favored by many diners during the cold winter days in Korea is bulgogi. It's a delicious and popular dish made from marinated beef that is grilled to perfection. Bulgogi is often enjoyed with hot rice or served with carrots, cabbage, and sliced cucumbers. Another popular application of bulgogi is using it as a filling for sandwiches.
2. Galbitang
Galbitang, also known as Korean beef rib soup, is a delicious traditional dish perfect for winter. It features beef ribs cooked with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, radishes, onions, garlic, and herbs. Sometimes, noodles are also added to enhance the dish. Galbitang is a favorite choice for many during chilly days.
3. Sundubu Jjigae
This soft tofu stew is often an essential part of local meals. It includes soft tofu cooked with finely chopped chili peppers, eggs, kimchi, Korean chili paste, and onions. Particularly, the stew is often enhanced with flavors from small freshwater clams, cooked in a sweet broth, to add unique taste to the dish. Enjoying a spoonful of hot soup on a cold winter day while watching people passing by on the streets and traditional markets will surely make your Korean travel experience extremely enjoyable.
4. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki, also known as 'spicy rice cakes' in Korean street food, is a traditional and enticing dish. It's made from rice cakes, cut into long finger-length pieces, then combined with a unique spicy sauce. In more elaborate versions, tteokbokki is often accompanied by various meats and vegetables, making the dish even more appealing and flavorful.
5. Samgyetang
Ginseng chicken soup, also known as 'samgyetang,' is a unique delicacy of Korean cuisine. To prepare this dish, chefs use a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, red dates, chestnuts, ginkgo nuts, and fresh ginseng, creating a distinctive flavor profile.
The special broth for this dish is made from angelica root, licorice, ginger, and garlic to impart a distinctive aroma and eliminate the chicken's odor. Samgyetang is typically enjoyed in winter to warm the body, but Koreans also favor this dish in summer to boost health and cool down in the sweltering heat.
Winter Festivals in South Korea
1. Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival
The light festival at the Morning Calm Garden, also known as the Garden of Peace, is one of the largest and most unique light festivals in South Korea. The vast garden area spanning over 30,000 square meters is home to over 5,000 plant species arranged into different themed zones.
This place is a stark contrast to the bleak and monotonous winter. As you step in, you'll immerse yourself in a magical space, aglow with colors from thousands of LED lights.
In addition to using a special LED system to create dazzling lights for the festival, this place also showcases unique art pieces created from various types of lights throughout the garden.
2. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival
With over 1 million visitors each year, the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is considered one of the largest winter events worldwide. Once you attend, you won't be too surprised to see thousands of tourists returning here every year.
Here, you'll have a variety of exciting activities to choose from, including figure skating, cold water swimming, ice fishing, ice sledding, soccer, and even a snow castle and snow park to explore all day long.
3. Hongcheon River Trout Festival
If you're not into dazzling lights or are seeking a more adventurous and challenging experience in winter, look no further than the Hongcheon River Trout Festival. Every winter, thousands of tourists flock to the frozen Hongcheon River each year for a chance to catch special trout – named because they're fed with Hongcheon Ginseng and renowned for their medicinal values.
4. Taebaeksan Snow Festival
Every winter, the Taebaeksan Snow Festival flourishes amidst the snowy peaks of Mount Taebaeksan, renowned for its unique ice sculptures created by talented artists. Immerse yourself in the world of traditional winter games and enhance your skills through snow mountain climbing competitions. Alternatively, you may be surprised by the stunning international snow sculpture collection created by local residents.
Impressive Snowboarding Experiences in South Korea
Independent Travel in Korea Made Easy with Klook!
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Still debating whether to travel to Korea in winter or not? Check out some useful independent travel tips from Klook's Blog such as Gangwon-do Travel Guide, Autumn Travel Guide in Korea, 5 Days 4 Nights Korea Travel Experience for Independent Travelers, 20 Seoul Travel Destinations for Every Travel Preference, Updated Korea Tourist Visa Procedures, Busan 4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary from Seoul,...
Let's explore the winter wonderland of South Korea!
