Although South Korea is a lovely place to visit year-round, the winter months provide particular appeal. The scene changes to a winter wonderland as snow blankets the mountains and towns. There are plenty of things to do if you are going to travel during the winter season. From cosy inside pleasures to outdoor activities, South Korea provides something for every visitor.
Staying connected via an eSIM is among the finest advice available to winter travelers. Using an eSIM like eSIM Korea relieves you of concern about losing connectivity while around the nation. An useful tool especially in winter when conditions can change rapidly, mobile data can be readily used for navigation, ticket buying for activities, or even weather checking.
Whether your search is adventure, culture, or relaxation, this article will help you navigate some of the greatest activities to enjoy in South Korea on a snowy day.
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Embrace Winter Sports in South Korea
Snowboarding and skiing are best enjoyed in South Korea during winter. If you enjoy the outdoors, there are various excellent ski resorts where you may run the slopes.
Yongpyong Resort
Comprising the Gangwon Province, Yongpyong Resort is the biggest ski resort in South Korea. Though it gained notoriety during the 2018 Winter Olympics, skiers and snowboarders still frequent this location. This is a terrific spot for everyone with slopes for all degrees, from beginners to professionals. Following a day on the slopes, you can unwind in the comfortable lodge and take in the breathtaking snow-capped mountains.
Pyeongchang Olympic Park
Not only does the Pyeongchang area—known for the 2018 Winter Olympics—offers skiing. Try snowshoeing, tubing, even ice skating at Pyeongchang Olympic Park. Families or parties with diverse interests would find the park perfect since it is big and provides a range of winter sports.
Vivaldi Park Ski World
Another well-liked place for skiing and snowboarding is Vivaldi Park, in the Gangwon Province. Snowboarders particularly enjoy it since its stunning snowy settings are well-known. For those living in Seoul, the resort is conveniently located and a fantastic weekend trip.
Snow-covered palaces and temples provide a calm and beautiful view that will let you have a look into South Korea’s royal past. In the winter, these ancient sites especially seem breathtaking since the snow accentuates their splendor.
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Visit Historical Palaces and Temples Under the Snow
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Among Seoul’s most famous sites is Gyeongbokgung Palace. With snow softly falling over the royal grounds’ ancient structures, the winter seems to be calm and magical. It is quite remarkable to go via the great gates and tour the palace. Remember to visit the National Folk Museum, housed on palace grounds.
Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden
A further palace worth seeing is Changdeokgung, a World Heritage Site under UNESCO. Particularly in winter, the Secret Garden is quiet and lovely with frozen ponds and snow-covered trees. This garden is well-known for its tranquilly and provides a fantastic getaway from the bustle of the city.
Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju
One of the most well-known Buddhist temples in South Korea, Bulguksa Temple stands in Gyeongju. This is a calm location to explore; the snow accentuates its serenity in winter. The temple is surrounded by mountains, which get even more lovely covered in snow; this makes it a fantastic place for meditation and pictures.
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Cozy Up at Korean Cafes and Winter Delights
One of the finest aspects of winter in South Korea is warming up with a hot drink and some great delicacies following a day in the cold. Cozy Korean cafés with a range of seasonally appropriate beverages and nibbles abound.
Traditional Korean Tea Houses
Korea is well-known for its tea culture; visiting a classic tea shop is absolutely must-do. Tea businesses offering a range of traditional teas, including green tea and ginseng tea, abound in areas like Insadong or Bukchon Hanok Village. For a great experience, pair it with a dish of traditional sweets like yakgwa (honey cookies).
Winter Treats to Try
Winter also is the season for warming up with some scrumptious Korean cuisine. Popular winter delicacy Hotteok, a sweet pancake loaded with brown sugar and almonds, is Street vendors in markets all throughout the nation will have it. Another must-try is tteok, a classic Korean rice cake, usually eaten in the cooler months with hot tea.
Street Food in Winter
Though it’s a treat all year long, Korean street cuisine is especially cozy in the winter. Among the finest winter street delicacies are roasted chestnuts, gamja hotdogs—potato-covered corn dogs—and odeng, or fish cakes. These munchies are ideal for staying cosy while strolling across wintered streets.
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Explore Snow-Capped Mountains on a Winter Hike
The stunning mountains of South Korea are well-known, thus winter trekking provides very different experience. An amazing journey is created from the snow-capped mountains and frozen settings.
Seoraksan National Park
Among the most well-known national parks in South Korea, Seoraksan is particularly breathtaking during winter. Perfect for winter hiking are the snow-covered mountains, frozen waterfalls, and peaceful paths. If you’re feeling daring, you might even attempt snowshoeing or ride the cable car to the summit for amazing views of the snow-covered terrain.
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan is a conveniently reachable hiking spot close to Seoul. There are various paths throughout the park, from mild walks to more difficult hikes. The park is less packed in winter and the snow-covered paths offer a serene experience. From the top, Seoul looks absolutely amazing—especially considering the city covered in snow.
Jirisan National Park
Jirisan National Park in southern South Korea provides lovely winter trekking chances for a more remote experience. The snow-covered paths offer a calm and quiet surroundings; the tracks are less packed. For those wishing to get away from the city, Jirisan is a fantastic place because of its unspoiling beauty.
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Experience South Korea’s Winter Festivals
Several fantastic winter celebrations hosted by South Korea honor the season with ice sculptures, snow sports, and cultural events.
Seoul Lantern Festival
Among the most often watched winter celebrations is the Seoul Lantern Festival. Celebrated by the Cheonggyecheon Stream, this festival highlights thousands of vibrant lanterns lighting the snow-covered streets. It’s rather lovely and offers lots of chances for pictures.
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival
Held in the town of Hwacheon, the Hwacheon Ice Festival is a singular winter celebration where guests may enjoy ice sculptures, ride snow sleds, and attempt ice fishing. The whole family will enjoy this and it’s a terrific way to welcome the winter.
Ice Fishing in Gangwon Province
Ice fishing is a well-known activity in Gangwon Province; the lakes freeze over in the winter, giving chances to try your hand at this sport. In South Korea, this is a classic winter sport.
Final Thought
During the winter, South Korea is a fantastic place to travel. There is something for everyone whether your tastes are for cultural events like touring palaces and drinking hot tea or outdoor activities include skiing, hiking, and ice fishing. An eSIM adds even more convenience so you may quickly negotiate the icy terrain, keep in touch, and maximize your winter vacation. Pack your winter clothing then be ready to enjoy the wonder of South Korea in the snow!