Winter - December - March

The winter months in South Korea bring a sudden drop in temperatures plummeting to -20C degrees in the northern regions of the Gangwon-do-Province. Along the southern coast and on the island of Jeju in the far north temperatures are much milder. From December to March the long winter brings crisp, white snow that can be quite charming in some of the towns and cities in the country. Winter sports enthusiasts will rejoice in the abundance of activities such as skiing, and snowboarding at spectacular ski resorts in the Gyeonggi-do, and Gangwon-do Provinces. 

Winter in the capital city of Seoul can be quite chilly with temperatures that hover in the 20-30s. The price of hotels and airfare tend to be cheaper this time of year, however, as the Lunar New Year approaches the prices skyrocket and accommodations and destinations become very crowded. When it comes to Christmas and New Year's in South Korea, the big cities such as Seoul and Busan know how to put on a party! These magnificent cities are adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations and festive displays. There are plenty of holiday activities to keep visitors entertained, go ice skating at the Seoul City Hall, or watching the annual Christmas Tree Festival in Busan. 

Events and Festivals

- Seogwipo Penguin Festival - December 30th - Jeju Island

- Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival - January - Taebaek - Snow sculpting, sledding, and more

- The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival - January 4-26th - Hwacheon

- Jeju Fire Festival - March 7-9th - Jeju Island - The festival aims to aid in the wish for good health and bountiful harvests.