Seoul has stolen the hearts of travelers with its charming blend of the old and the new, romantic city setting, and culinary scene. It stays alive in every season, including the freezing winter. Streets are decked with lights, and the crisp air enhances the beauty of Seoul’s famous landmarks. Winter in Seoul offers beautiful snowy scenes and an opportunity to experience the culture, cuisine, and traditions that come alive during this season. Then, are you planning to travel to Seoul or South Korea generally? This guide – based on our expert TripLeaders’ recommendations – allows you to get the most out of Seoul in winter.
Winter in Seoul Guide – Summary
- What Does Seoul Looks Like During Winter?
- When is Winter in Seoul?
- Which is the Best Month to Travel in Winter in Seoul?
- Things to Do During Winter in Seoul
- Winter Destinations in Seoul
- How Much Does a Winter Trip to Seoul Cost?
- What to Wear for Winter in Seoul?
- Travel Tips for Winter in Seoul
- Is it Worth Visiting Seoul in Winter?
What Does Seoul Look Like During Winter?
Sitting on the north-western part of the Korean Peninsula, Seoul experiences consistent snowfall and freezing temperatures. Generally, Seoul sees its first snow in late November – with 2024 bringing the heaviest snow fall in the last 5 years. The snowfall in Seoul might be early, but it melts away pretty quickly too. However, in mid-December around Christmas, you can finally see Seoul as a snow-cloaked wonderland. The city’s iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Namsan Tower are sprinkled with sparkling snow, which creates a captivating scene. Moreover, Seoul’s overall snow-covered trails and parks highlight beautiful photo opportunities for travelers.
Winter comes along with the holidays in the capital city, bringing a triumphant air. You can look forward to striking light displays, including the Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Gwanghamun Square. Find dazzling Christmas decorations in some of Seoul’s top attractions, including Myeongdong and Itaewon districts. Furthermore, you can easily warm yourself with a hot soju or hotteok pancakes after a stroll in the snow.
When is Winter in Seoul?
Winter typically spans from December to February in the capital. During these months, temperatures can dip below freezing, and the city often sees a sprinkling of snow. With distinct seasonal changes, Seoul’s winter is a marked contrast to its warm and humid summer. Here’s a quick breakdown of winter months in Seoul:
- December: The weather is cold and dry with temperatures hovering around -6°C to 3°C. Wind can be strong, requiring you to wear thick windbreaker jackets. It is a magical time to enjoy Seoul’s winter atmosphere, from walking through the Gwanghwamun Market to ice skating in Seoul Plaza
- January: The coldest month in Seoul with temperatures reaching -8°C at the lowest and 0°C at the highest. It usually snows in January, adding to the winter magic. It is a great time to do winter sports in Pyongchang or see cultural festivals.
- February: Peak winter in Seoul with temperatures hovering around -4°C to 4°C and high snowfall. Tourist crowds start to thin but Seoul’s winter highlights and activities are still on.
Which is the Best Winter Month to Travel to Seoul?
You can choose the best month to travel to Seoul based on the activity you preferred. Here are what you can expect for each winter month in the city:
- Best for festivities: December is the ideal time to visit for everyone who loves holiday vibes. Like in European cities, Seoul takes Christmas seriously
- Best for shopping: December marks the beginning of Korea Grand Sale which extends to mid-February. It is the best time to splurge on fashion, electronics, beauty products, and more.
- Best for snowy landscapes: January brings consistent snowfall and thick powders, adding to the beauty of some of Seoul’s main attractions
- Best for lesser crowds: February – international tourists have left yet there are preparation for Lunar New Year (Seollal). It’s the best time to enjoy authentic Korean wonders.
Things to Do in Winter in Seoul
1. Explore Winter Festivals
South Korea never fails to surprise travelers when it comes to festival. Winter marks the beginning of vibrant and thematic festivals, blending Korean traditional culture and modern culture. One of the most-awaited festivals during winter in Seoul is light festivals. In mid-December, you can sign up for Seoul Winter Festa, the city’s biggest winter festival. The grandeur event comprises spectacular lights exhibitions, a giant Christmas tree, a Christmas ‘village’ selling local handicrafts and food, and a lantern show.
2. Visit the Snowy Version of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Here is a picture of our TripMates during their trip in Seoul in autumn! They delved into astonishing Korean culture by visiting the Gyeongbokgung Palace and felt like a royalty by wearing traditional hanbok. Although the palace looks stunning regardless the season, winter brings a distinctive landscape. The Joseon-era architecture looks twice as stunning as pure white snow coats its ornate gates and roofs.
Roam around the palace while the snow is starting to blanket the land. Let your camera snap the gorgeous contrast between Gyeongbokgung’s reddish hues and the sparkling white snow. Then, do you want to try wearing hanbok but afraid that it will be too cold? Don’t worry, the rental shops offer winter jackets and warm inners during the snowy season! You won’t freeze while strolling around the historical place in a gorgeous traditional attire.
3. Ice Skating and Snow-Sledding
Experience a winter that feels out of a Korean drama by hitting one of Seoul’s many ice rinks. The locals, from kids to young couples, in Seoul head to the already-frozen outdoor ice rinks once the temperature lowers. Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Park is the city’s equivalent of Central Park. You can enjoy a dreamy ice skating session in the middle of Seoul’s skyscrapers and metropolitan buildings. Other than that, you can head to the outskirts of Seoul and visit the Olympic Park Ice Skating Rink. Some parks even have sledding hills for a fun winter day outdoors.
4. Hunt for Korean Street Food
South Korean street food has gained worldwide popularity and featured in many media. Good news, they are warm and tasty enough to kick away the winter cold. You can visit some of Seoul’s biggest street food markets, like Gwangjang Market and Myeongdong Night Market, for a culinary galore. TripLeader Sharon, who has traveled back-forth to South Korea in the past three years, said that you can’t miss kimchi stew and sundubu jiggae during the winter. The spicy taste of gochujang will give you enough heat during Seoul’s freezing weather.
Another good thing about Korean street food is that they are available everywhere around the town. During winter, you can find small stalls in a random street selling piping hot odeng (fish cake in a soup) or tteokbokki. Tourist spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace also brim with street food vendors offering hearty Korean delicacies to enjoy in the cold weather.
5. Enjoy Traditional Korean Bathhouses
If you are visiting East Asia, especially Japan and South Korea, don’t miss delving into the bath house culture. While Japan has onsen, South Korea is proud of their jjimjilbang or simply translated as bath house. Every winter, the communal bath houses offer a place to relax, from enjoying a sauna or dipping into mineral-rich hot tubs. Additionally, to enjoy jjimjilbang like the locals, order some boiled eggs and a cup of hot corn tea. They are the staples after getting into the hot baths or saunas. Therefore, jjimbjilbang is a great way to escape the cold during winter in Seoul.
Winter Destinations in Seoul
Here are some of Seoul’s top destinations that lead you to an unforgettable winter holiday. Discover unique activities and local specialties in each destination.
1. Namsan Seoul Tower
A visit to Namsan Tower provides sweeping views of the entire city blanketed in snow. The panoramic observation deck is especially romantic and scenic during winter.
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village, with its traditional Korean houses, is a must-visit. The village’s narrow streets and beautiful architecture provide a unique winter experience, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
3. Lotte World and Everland
These amusement parks transform into winter wonderlands. Lotte World offers an indoor skating rink and winter-themed decorations, while Everland is known for its Snow Safari and seasonal events.
4. The Han River Parks
The Han River offers serene views, and a winter walk along the riverbanks is particularly refreshing. The parks along the Han River, like Yeouido Hangang Park, provide peaceful winter landscapes and lovely riverside paths.
5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) Light Festival
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is the heart of winter in Seoul. The venue hosts the city’s biggest light festival – Seoul Light DDP Festival – which transforms it into unique light exhibitions. Each year brings a different theme, and for 2025 it is ‘HIIP Santa’. The massive exhibition and creative installations attract tourists has become a winter event that locals cannot miss.
How Much Does a Winter Trip to Seoul Cost?
Winter is one of the more budget-friendly times to visit Seoul, especially compared to spring cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. Flights to South Korea tend to be cheaper between December and February (excluding Lunar New Year), and accommodation prices in Seoul are generally lower due to reduced tourist demand.
On average, a mid-range daily budget for Seoul in winter looks like this:
- Accommodation: €40–80 per night for a good hotel or private Airbnb; €15–30 for hostels
- Food: €10–20 per day if eating local Korean food; €25–35 with cafés and Western meals included
- Transport: €4–7 per day using public transport (T-money card)
- Attractions & activities: €5–15 per day (many palaces and museums are very affordable)
Overall, budget travelers can comfortably spend €50–70 per day, while mid-range travelers should expect around €80–120 per day. Winter sales, street food, and free attractions like markets and palaces make Seoul great value during the colder months.
What to Wear for Winter in Seoul?
Seoul winters are cold, dry, and often windy, with temperatures usually ranging from -10°C to 5°C. Dressing properly makes a huge difference to how much you enjoy the city.
Winter essentials for Seoul include:
- Long padded coat or down jacket (locals almost all wear long padding)
- Thermal base layers (especially for outdoor sightseeing)
- Sweaters and hoodies for layering
- Warm trousers or fleece-lined pants
- Waterproof, insulated shoes (snow and ice are common)
- Accessories: gloves, scarf, beanie, and thick socks
A useful tip: if you don’t want to pack bulky winter gear, you can buy affordable winter clothing in Seoul, especially in areas like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Hongdae.
Travel Tips for Winter in Seoul
Winter travel in Seoul is easy and enjoyable if you plan smartly. These tips will help you stay comfortable and make the most of your trip:
- Use public transport: Seoul’s subway system is heated, efficient, and perfect for escaping the cold
- Plan indoor activities: Cafés, museums, shopping malls, jjimjilbangs (Korean spas), and markets are ideal in winter
- Take advantage of winter-only experiences: Street food season, ice skating rinks, winter festivals, and snowy palace views
- Stay hydrated: Winter air in Seoul is very dry, and heated indoor spaces can be dehydrating
- Check air quality: Winter can bring occasional fine dust—having a mask is useful
- Day trips are worth it: Nami Island, ski resorts, and nearby mountain areas look stunning in winter
Winter in Seoul rewards travelers who embrace the season. With fewer crowds, lower prices, and a cozy city atmosphere, it’s one of the best times to experience Korea beyond peak tourist months.
Is It Worth Visiting Seoul in Winter?
Winter in Seoul isn’t just about colder temperatures—it’s a season that brings people together. Seoul hosts a variety of winter festivals, holiday markets, and light displays, particularly around the New Year and Lunar New Year. Visitors can enjoy not only these events but also the warm embrace of Korean hospitality, which shines through its food, cozy cafes, and traditional winter customs.
Are you ready to say, “Annyeonghaseyo” to winter in Seoul? Or do you have the idea in mind but want to leave the planning part behind? Then, you are in the right page! JoinMyTrip offers trips to South Korea, especially Seoul, that are expertly crafted and hosted by experienced travelers from all over the world. They have planned every detail of the trip, from the itineraries to accommodations, for you to have a safe and fun experience. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to travel with new travel buddies. They share the same passion for exploration and are always excited for the next adventure!
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