When people think of South Korea, they often imagine cherry blossoms, summer street food, or Seoul’s nightlife. But visiting South Korea in Winter is an underrated wonderland. Discover a world of snow-covered palaces, steaming hot baths, and magical festivals that turn the cold season into a fairytale.
Whether you’re into winter sports or comfort food, here is why South Korea in winter is a destination worth discovering.
Warm Up and start Visiting South Korea in Winter
Korean spas, known as jjimjilbangs, are a deeply rooted part of local culture and a perfect way to warm up during the cold season. These are not typical spas, they are huge, multi-level bathhouses. These bathouses includes hot pools, steam rooms, saunas, nap zones, and even movie rooms and snack bars. Locals often spend hours there, and some even stay overnight, wrapped in cozy towels and relaxing with friends or family. A visit to a jjimjilbang is both a cultural experience and a wellness retreat. It’s also an excellent opportunity to detox your body, try traditional Korean snacks like sikhye (sweet rice drink) or baked eggs, and embrace a slower rhythm of life.
Winter Sports Paradise: Hit the Slopes!
Winter in South Korea offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy snow sports, thanks to the country’s well-developed ski infrastructure. South Korea hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics, and since then, winter resorts such as Yongpyong keep attracting many visitors. Most ski resorts are very accessible from Seoul, making them ideal for weekend trips or even one-day getaways. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, there are slopes and lessons adapted to all levels. And for Tourists, Many resorts offer equipment rental and English-speaking instructors. Even for non-skiers, these places offer sledding zones, scenic cafes with mountain views, and winter-friendly activities for the whole family.
Ice and Light Festivals: A Magical Wonderland
South Korea transforms into a festive country in winter, with numerous ice and light festivals illuminating the darker months. One of the most famous is the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. In this Festival, visitors can fish through ice holes, ride sleds, and walk through mesmerizing snow sculptures. If you’re looking for something more romantic, the Lighting Festival at the Garden of Morning Calm is a must-see. Millions of colorful lights decorate trees and pathways, creating an enchanting nighttime walk perfect for couples or families. These festivals across the whole country offers visual beauty, as well as cultural performances, food stalls, and winter fun. Attending one of them is a great way to experience Korea’s community spirit and joyful celebration of the season.
Comfort Food Heaven: South Korea Winter Dishes
Winter is the best time to indulge in Korea’s most comforting and warming dishes. Imagine sitting at a small restaurant table, while snow falls outside, enjoying a hot bowl of kimchi jjigae, a spicy stew filled with aged kimchi, tofu, and pork. Other popular dishes include budae jjigae, also known as “army stew,” which combines ramen noodles, sausages, baked beans, and cheese into one hearty pot. On the streets, you’ll find vendors selling hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts which are crispy outside. These foods are part of the Korean way of enduring and enjoying the cold months. Eating them is a warm, delicious embrace that adds flavor to your winter journey.
Snowy Palaces and Peaceful Temples
The winter season brings a calm and almost poetic atmosphere to Korea’s historical landmarks. Palaces like Gyeongbokgung in Seoul are particularly stunning when blanketed with fresh snow, offering a peaceful contrast to the usual bustling crowds. Wandering through their quiet courtyards in the cold air feels like stepping into a historical painting. Winter is also the perfect time to participate in a temple stay program where travelers can live for a day or two in a working Buddhist temple. These temples, often located in serene mountain areas, offer meditation sessions, traditional meals, and a deep sense of tranquility. Experiencing them in winter enhances their peaceful atmosphere and allows for moments of real introspection away from the noise of daily life.
South Korea in winter is just an amazing feeling. It’s the soothing steam of a spa after a snowy walk, the warmth of a spicy stew shared with friends, and the glow of millions of lights shining through the cold night. It’s quieter, more intimate, and full of beauty often missed by summer tourists. If you’re looking for a journey that mixes authentic culture, festive joy, and peaceful reflection, Korea in winter offers all these things. So wrap yourself in layers, charge your camera, and open your heart to a different kind of adventure in the Land of the Morning Calm.