The First Snow in Korea:

Meaning, Myths & Best Spots to Experience It in Seoul

 

 

 

Why “첫눈” matters so much in Korean culture & K-dramas

In Korea, the first snow — 첫눈 (cheot-nun) — is more than a seasonal moment.
It is a cultural symbol, a romantic belief, and one of the strongest emotional triggers in Korean pop culture.

Every year, when the first flakes fall, the entire country shifts: couples rush outside, cafés fill instantly, and social media floods with the hashtag #첫눈.

But why does the first snow carry so much meaning?

Let’s explore the tradition, the symbolism, the K-drama influence, and the best places in Seoul to experience this magical moment.

 

🌨️ 1. The Symbolic Meaning of 첫눈 (“First Snow”)

The first snow traditionally represents:

• Good luck and positive beginnings
• A wish for a long-lasting relationship
• Purity and renewal
• A perfect moment to confess feelings

A popular saying in Korea states:

“If you see the first snow with someone special, your relationship will last for a long time.”

For many Koreans, this moment is both romantic and meaningful — almost like a sign from fate.

 

 

 

 

💕 2. Cultural Origins — Why Is It So Special?

 

The meaning of the first snow comes from several layers of Korean tradition:

✔️ Folklore & Symbolism

Snow was seen as a pure gift from the sky, marking a new cycle.

✔️ Confucian Influence

Winter represented renewal and moral clarity.

✔️ Modern Popular Culture

Korean dramas have amplified the meaning of the first snow, turning it into a symbol of destiny, romance, and emotional turning points.

 

 

📺 3. Iconic K-Drama Scenes Featuring the First Snow

 

K-dramas are a huge reason why the first snowfall feels so cinematic.
Here are some of the most memorable references:

 

❄️ Crash Landing on You (사랑의 불시착)

One of the most emotional winter dramas ever made. Snow symbolizes fate, distance, and love that survives impossible situations.

❄️ Goblin (도깨비)

Snow is tied to destiny and transformation. Some of the most iconic scenes of the drama occur during snowfall.

❄️ My Love From the Star (별에서 온 그대)

The first snow marks emotional shifts and romantic tension between the two leads.

❄️ Winter Sonata (겨울연가)

The drama that started Korea’s “winter romance” wave in the early 2000s.

❄️ Our Beloved Summer (그 해 우리는)

Snow scenes reflect emotional growth and reconnection.

❄️ Twenty-Five Twenty-One (스물다섯 스물하나)

Snow symbolizes bittersweet memories and fleeting youth.

 

 

 

 

💌 4. Real Korean Habits During the First Snow

 

When the first snow begins, you’ll notice:

• Couples rushing outside to see it together
• People taking photos and videos immediately
• Friends messaging “첫눈 봤어?”
• Confessions happening spontaneously
• Cafés filling up for warm “snow-view” seats
• Busy streets turning suddenly quiet and soft

Even long-term residents say the first snow never feels ordinary.

 

 

 

 

📍 5. Best Places in Seoul to Experience the First Snow

⭐ 1. Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)

Hanok rooftops covered in snow look straight out of a historical drama.

⭐ 2. N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

The classic “couple date spot” for the first snow. Views over the whole city + romantic lighting.

⭐ 3. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Snow falling on the palace grounds feels incredibly peaceful and cinematic.

⭐ 4. Myeongdong

Bright lights, street food steam, holiday decorations — perfect for energetic winter shots.

⭐ 5. Hongdae

Trendy cafés, cute stores, youthful vibes — ideal for lifestyle content.

⭐ 6. Cheonggyecheon Stream

Beautiful spot to capture snowflakes over the water and bridges.

⭐ 7. Seoul Forest

Quiet paths, trees, and wide open spaces for soft, romantic snow scenes.

 

 

🧊 6. Why Tourists Should Experience the First Snow in Korea

 

The first snow is a moment where modern dating culture, old traditions, K-drama romance and real winter beauty merge together.

Whether you’re here with someone or exploring solo, 첫눈 is a reminder that every winter begins with a quiet promise — a moment you won’t forget.

The first snowfall in Korea is more than weather. It’s emotion.
It’s culture.
It’s storytelling.
It’s romance — in the K-drama sense of the word.

 

 

 

A simple flurry of snow can turn an ordinary day into something meaningful.

 

If you’re in Korea during winter, don’t miss this magical moment… because as the saying goes:

 

“The first snow is a message from the universe — someone is thinking of you.”