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Kelly Today

Blog, South Korea, Travel, Travel Tips & Guides · December 28, 2023

20 of the Best Things to Do in Winter in Korea

Korea, often renowned for its vibrant culture and lush landscapes, undergoes a captivating transformation during the winter season. As the country is blanketed in snow, it unveils a different kind of beauty and charm that makes it an ideal destination for winter travellers. In this article, you can discover 20 of the best things to do in winter in Korea that you can’t miss.

Contents hide
1 Essentials for Traveling in Winter in Korea
2 Local Guide to Winter in South Korea
2.1 When is Winter in South Korea?
2.2 What is the weather like in winter in Korea?
2.3 What is the temperature like in winter in Korea?
2.4 Does it snow in South Korea?
2.5 Is Korea worth visiting in winter?
2.6 What to wear in Korea during winter?
3 Best Things To Do in Winter in Korea
3.1 Outdoor Activities in Korea in Winter
3.1.1 Enjoy the Winter Lights
3.1.2 Rail Bike Experiences
3.1.3 Visit Palaces and Temples
3.1.4 Go Strawberry Picking
3.1.5 Winter Day Trip
3.1.6 Go Ice Fishing
3.1.7 Go Ice Skating
3.1.8 Skiing or Snowboarding
3.1.9 Snow Sledding
3.1.10 Join a Winter Festival in Korea
3.2 Indoor Activities in Korea in Winter
3.2.1 Step Inside a Traditional Hanok
3.2.2 Visit Museums and Art Galleries
3.2.3 Try a Local Workshop
3.2.4 Enjoy a Traditional Performance
3.2.5 Spend a Day at Lotte World (롯데월드)
3.2.6 Experience a Traditional Tea House
3.2.7 Cafe Hopping
3.2.8 Escape the cold at a Jjimjilbang (찜질방)
3.2.9 Enjoy Shopping at Shopping Malls & Department Stores
3.2.9.1 Jamsil Lotte World Mall
3.2.9.2 Gangnam COEX Mall
3.2.10 Check Out Lotte World Aquarium (롯데월드 아쿠아리움)
3.2.11 Indoor Local Markets
3.2.11.1 Gwangjang Market (광장시장)
3.2.11.2 Noryangjin Fish Market (노량진수산물도매시장)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free resources and guides for my readers. Thank you for your support! Refer to the Disclosure Policy for more details.

Essentials for Traveling in Winter in Korea

To help plan your winter trip in Korea here are my recommendations that I’ve tried personally to make your trip easier and save money on bookings!

Short on time?

My top recommendations for your Seoul travel itinerary include:

💸 Save money: Seoul Pass helps you save up to 50% while getting access to up to 70 attractions with this one pass.

🗺️ Tours: Klook (very popular in Korea), GetYourGuide, and Viator.

🛌 Accommodation: Find the best deals on stays in Korea with Booking.com.

📍 Recommended Activities:

💄 Design your own K-Beauty Product

🎏 Discover foodie hidden gems in this local street tour.

🌷 Step into another world at the Garden of the Morning Calm – a floral wonderland!

🛤️ Getting Around Seoul: Order a T-money card to use public transport (buses, trains) and pay at convenience stores in Korea.

🚄 Traveling across Korea: The Korea Rail Pass provides unlimited rides on almost all trains operated by KORAIL.

🏥 Travel Insurance: World Nomads

📶 Staying Connected: Get instant access to data with Airalo eSIM.

Local Guide to Winter in South Korea

Winter in South Korea is an underrated time to visit the country! In addition to gorgeous snowy landscapes, there are other advantages to visiting during the colder months. From unique winter experiences such as winter festivals to experiencing a Korean jjimjilbang and many others. You’ll also be treated to smaller crowds at well-known attractions in Seoul and beyond. Whether you’re travelling to Korea for the first time or are a seasoned visitor, this blog post will share top tips and recommendations on travelling in Korea during winter.

When is Winter in South Korea?

Winter in Korea runs across three months – December, January and February. The cold winter weather usually sets in around late November and begins to ease off by the end of February.

What is the weather like in winter in Korea?

The whole of South Korea experiences chilly winter weather however the northeast corner of the country such as Gangwon-do Province usually experiences the coldest weather. This area is also where you’ll find the heaviest snowfall and the best ski resorts to explore in the cold months. Generally, as you head further south in Korea the winter is shorter and you experience slightly warmer temperatures.

What is the temperature like in winter in Korea?

The coldest month in Korea is January with average temperatures of around −3 °C (26°F). The night temperature during winter also easily reaches zero degrees and you’ll want to pack a thick winter jacket to keep your body warm from the cold.

Does it snow in South Korea?

Across the whole of South Korea, it snows during winter, however, certain regions experience heavier snowfall. For the best chances of catching the heaviest snowfall head northeast of South Korea and travel between late December and January. Generally though you can see snow anywhere in Korea including the capital city of Seoul.

Is Korea worth visiting in winter?

South Korea is known for its distinctive seasons and winter in Korea you can enjoy a variety of festivals and events across the cities. From ice-skating in Seoul, taking a day trip from Seoul to a ski resort for skiing and more.

Don’t miss out on the best winter festivals in Korea between December to February in this local guide.

What to wear in Korea during winter?

To prepare yourself for the brutal and cold weather in winter make sure to pack all these winter clothing essentials.

  • Bottoms: Thermals or heat-tech leggings to keep your legs warm.
  • Socks: Pack thick or thermal socks. I recommend merino wool or heat-tech socks.
  • Shoes: This depends on what you want to do in Korea during winter and how much time you plan to spend in the snow. If you’re planning to be outside a lot, invest in some waterproof snowshoes. I recommend the Timerland boots which are comfortable for walking and protecting you from the cold.
  • Tops: Pack a long-sleeve top, hech-tech thermals, sweaters, a light jacket and a thick winter jacket with insulation. I highly recommend bringing a long down jacket to protect yourself from the chilly wind and snow.

Read up on must-have travel essentials and Korean phrases for your trip to South Korea in this Korea Survival Guide.

Best Things To Do in Winter in Korea

Outdoor Activities in Korea in Winter

Enjoy the Winter Lights

If you didn’t know Koreans love searching for photo opportunities, and winter and Christmas in Korea are often celebrated with gorgeous decorations and lights. Across the country, many cities set up sparking displays for visitors to enjoy. Some of the top spots to see winter illuminations in Korea fall between early December to the end of February and are best enjoyed at night. Below are some of the best spots to enjoy the light illuminations during winter.

  • Garden of the Morning Calm Lighting Festival is one of the biggest festivals in Korea which occurs at the Garden of the Morning Calm in Gapyeong.
  • Herb Island Light Festival
  • World Nightview Fantasy Lighting Festival
  • Winter Wonderland Everland
  • LED Rose Garden at Dongdaemun Design Plaza
  • Ansan Starlight Village Photo Land
  • Everland is one of the largest amusement parks in Korea. Around winter they hold themed light illuminations with last year’s theme “Winter Wishes” to allow visitors to experience Christmas performances, parades and markets.

For more places to visit in Korea during winter including spots to enjoy the holiday lights read this local guide to winter in Korea.

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Rail Bike Experiences

Address: 1385 Gimyujeong-ro, Sindong-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea

For those who are looking to enjoy both nature and adventure, a rail bike experience is perfect for you. You’ll get to enjoy gorgeous winter picturesque scenery whilst pedalling down a rail track with your friends or loved ones. One of the best winter activities includes the rail bike experience at Gangchon Rail Park (강촌레일파크) in Gapyeong. Built on an old railway, the Gyeongchun line previously connected Cheunheon and Seoul for over 70 years. Today, visitors can ride a railroad bike along the disused train track with gorgeous scenery throughout the seasons.

The easiest way to reach Gangchon Rail Park is through a local day trip tour which also includes roundtrip transfers and visiting key winter attractions of Nami Island and Garden of Morning Calm. Check out these winter tours below which take you to Gangchon Rail Park and other must-see winter destinations in Korea.

Don’t miss out on these unforgettable day trips from Seoul in this local guide.

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Visit Palaces and Temples

Take advantage of the winter weather and check out Korea’s gorgeous palaces and temples adorned in white powdery snow. Whilst the fall foliage and cherry blossoms are a close second to experiencing these attractions, there’s something magical about witnessing these spots decorated in the winter snow. Another bonus of checking out these sightseeing spots in winter is the fewer crowds at these places. Often due to the cold weather, you might be lucky to have these sites to yourself.

You can get FREE entry into Seoul’s 5 Grand Palaces by visiting on the Wednesday of every last month or by renting a traditional hanbok.

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Go Strawberry Picking

Escape the cold weather in Korea by going strawberry picking in Korea. It’s a fun activity to try with family and/or friends and you’ll get to try the delicious Korean strawberries.

I recommend booking an all-inclusive strawberry picking tour that includes transport, as most of the strawberry farms are not public transport-friendly locations. Here are a few recommendations for strawberry picking day trip tours. The best part of these tours is that they also cover popular attractions in Korea including infamous spots such as the Garden of the Morning Calm, Nami Island and Alpacca World.

Departs fromActivities & AttractionsPriceBooking
Seoul🍓 Strawberry Picking
🛷 Sledding experience
🍃 Garden of Morning Calm
$98.15 AUDSeoul Day Trip Tour
Seoul🍓 Strawberry Picking & Jam Making
❄️ Snowyland
✨ Alpacca World
$141 AUDSeoul Snowy Day Trip Tour
Seoul🍓 Strawberry Picking & Jam Making
❄️ Snowyland
🍃 Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm
$157 AUDSeoul Day Trip Tour
Seoul🍓 Strawberry Picking
🖼️ Pocheon Art Valley
🌿 Herb Island Light & Illumination Festival
$125 AUDPocheon Strawberry Day Tour
Seoul🍓 Strawberry Picking
🍃 Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm 🚲 Railbike
~$110 AUDWinter Strawberry Day Tour
Seoul🍓 Strawberry Picking
❄️Eobi Ice Valley
🍃 Nami Island
$106 AUDWinter Day Trip Tour
Seoul🍓 Strawberry Picking
❄️Eobi Ice Valley
🍃Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm
$121 AUD Winter Day Trip Tour

Winter Day Trip

Don’t make the mistake of just visiting the capital city of Seoul. There are so many gorgeous places to explore outside of Seoul that are stunning to visit during the colder winter months. From lesser-well-known destinations such as Ganghwa Island in Incheon to the historic city of Gyeongju, you won’t be disappointed with Korea’s diverse landscapes. For the top day trips from Seoul read this local guide.

Don’t miss out on these unforgettable day trips from Seoul in this local guide.

Best Things to do in Winter in South Korea.
Best Things to do in Winter in South Korea.

Go Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is a popular winter activity amongst the locals in Korea. During January you’ll find that the lakes and rivers are frozen over with some of the best winter festivals happening across the country. This includes fun ice fishing festivals usually in Gangwon-do near Sokcho and Hwacheon which are a great day trip from Seoul. Besides ice fishing, there are also other fun activities to enjoy in the winter weather including sledding, ice skating, and enjoying the light illuminations and ice sculptures.

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Go Ice Skating

If you’re looking for a fun winter activity without leaving the bustling city of Seoul add ice skating to your winter itinerary. Across Seoul, there are various outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks to enjoy with friends and/or family on a trip. Just be aware that the ice rinks can get quite crowded during peak times, especially on weekends. Some popular places to enjoy ice skating in Seoul include the following spots:

  • Lotte World – Has a themepark and an indoor ice skating rink.
  • Seoul Plaza
  • Grand Hyatt Ice Skating Rink
  • Yeouido Ice Park
  • Olympic Park Ice Skating Rink
  • Seoul City Hall ice Skating Rink

IMPORTANT: If you’re planning to visit multiple local attractions in Korea that require tickets you can save money by ordering a Seoul Pass.

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Skiing or Snowboarding

A trip to South Korea during winter wouldn’t be complete without hitting one of Korea’s 20 ski resorts. Most of the ski resorts are found deep in the mountains of Gangwon-do but there are smaller resorts that can be done as a day trip from Seoul or Busan. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional skier there are a variety of ski resorts around Korea that cater for different level of skiing or snowboarding experience. To save you time, here are few ski resorts found near Seoul either in Gangwon-do or Gyeonggi-do.

⛷️Overview of the best ski resorts in South Korea

Ski ResortAboutBooking
Alpensia Ski Resort (알펜시아리조트 스키장)📍2.5 to 3 hours from Seouul
⛷️ 6 slopes for beginners & advanced skiers
Alpensia Ski Resort Tour from Seoul
Bear Town Ski Resort (베어스타운리조트 스키장)📍1 hour from Seoul lies
⛷️11 slopes for beginner to advanced levels.
Bears Town Ski Resort Day Tour
Elysian Ganchon Resort
(엘리시안 강촌 스키장)
📍1.5 hours from Seoul,
⛷️10 slopes -8 slopes for beginners & intermediate skiers.
Elysian Gangchon Winter Ski Day Tour
High 1 Ski Resort
(하이원리조트 스키장))
📍2-3 hours from Seoul
⛷️20 slopes
High1 Resort 1 Day Ski Tour
Jisan Forest Ski Resort
(지산 포레스트 리조트 스키장)
📍2 hours away from Seoul
⛷️7 main slopes for beginner & intermediate skiers
Jisan Winter Ski Day (From Seoul)
Oak Valley Ski Resort
(오크밸리 스키장)
📍2 hours from Seoul
⛷️ 9 slopes
Oak Valley Resort Ski Day Trip
Vivaldi Ski World
(비발디 파크 스키월드)
📍1 hour awya from Seoul in Hongcheon
⛷️ 12 slopes
Vivaldi Park Ski Resort One Day Trip
Yongpyong Resort
(용평리조트 스키장)
📍 3-4 hours from Seoul in Hoenggye
⛷️ 28 slopes & largest ski resort in Korea
Zongpyong Ski Resort Day Trip

Snow Sledding

If you’re not big on snowboarding or skiing but still want to enjoy the snow why not try snow sledding in Korea? It’s a fun activity to try with the kids or a group of friends when visiting Korea. Here are some of the best places to try snow sledding around Korea.

  • Everland (에버랜드)– Across the year different festivals happen at Everland that shouldn’t be missed. During the winter, Everland sets up several winter attractions adorned with light illuminations and fun snow activities to add to your winter itinerary.
  • Seoul Land (서울랜드) is the first attraction park and during winter there is a sledding slope installed.
  • Snow Land is found in Vivaldi Ski Resort
  • Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort has plenty of spots for skiing, sightseeing and sledding.
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Join a Winter Festival in Korea

A trip to South Korea wouldn’t be complete without checking out at least one seasonal festival. During winter you’ll be treated to a variety of winter festivals from the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival to Pocheon Herb Island Festival. Each festival is unique and offers something for every type of traveller. From chasing the best picturesque winter destinations, fun-fuelled winter activities, ice-fishing and more. No matter which festival you choose to join you’ll be treated to gorgeous winter scenery with abundant Insta-worthy shots for you to take home.

Discover all the best winter festivals during the colder months of South Korea in this local guide.

Best Things to do in Winter in South Korea.
Best Things to do in Winter in South Korea.

Indoor Activities in Korea in Winter

Don’t let the cold weather dampen your spirits during your visit to Korea during winter. Escape the cold weather by exploring Korea’s vibrant indoor activities and attractions. From enjoying a special art or exhibition at a gallery or museum, unleashing your creativity in a workshop or relaxing at a spa. Read on for the top indoor activities in Seoul and beyond for your Korean winter itinerary.

Step Inside a Traditional Hanok

If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience in Korea add a stay at a traditional hanok. A hanok generally refers to private dwellings that retain Korean traditional appearance and structure, emphasising the wood-floored main hall, kitchen, yard and traditional heating system (ondol). 

Instead of just visiting a traditional hanok village such as Eunpyeong Hanok Village or the well-known Bukchon Hanok Village. Escape the cold weather by enjoying the modern comforts of a hanok. You’ll be treated to the traditional furnishings and architectural elements that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and elegance of Korean tradition. Some hanok stays also offer cultural experiences including home-cooked meals and hanbok rentals to add to your trip.

Discover the best traditional hanok stays in Korea in this local accommodation guide.

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Visit Museums and Art Galleries

If you’re an art lover or history buff explore Seoul’s cultural heritage by exploring its world-class art galleries and museums. Indulge yourself in the poignant history at the War Memorial of Korea or admire the contemporary artworks at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

For a diverse range of exhibitions, head to the Seoul Museum of Art and Daelim Museum which boasts artworks from both international and local artists. If you’re looking to escape the crowds at museums or art galleries I recommend visiting later in the day. Some museums even offer late opening hours where you might be the only one visiting during this time.

Discover the best things to do at night in Seoul in this local guide.

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Try a Local Workshop

If you want a more hands-on indoor activity in Seoul join a local workshop or class to get your creativity flowing. My personal favourite is participating in a perfume-making class. During the workshop, you’ll get to discover the art of scent creation, by experimenting with varying aromatic scents to craft your fragrance that reflects your unique style. It’s a fun activity to try by yourself or with friends that allows you to explore your olfactory preferences and leave with a personalised gift. If this isn’t your vibe, here are 20 of the best one-day workshops in Seoul to get your creativity flowing.

Don’t miss out on these one-day classes in Seoul and beyond.

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Enjoy a Traditional Performance

Add to your Korea itinerary with an entertaining or cultural performance in Seoul. With the Cookin’ NANTA show you’ll be treated to an entertaining performance that fuses music, culinary skills and comedy that will leave you laughing throughout the performance.

If you’re looking for something more traditional head to the National Gugak Center to experience the rich cultural heritage of Korea. You’ll get to witness traditional performances featuring graceful movements and captivating melodies. You’ll be left with a deeper appreciation for Korean traditions by enjoying a harmonious blend of music and dance.

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Spend a Day at Lotte World (롯데월드)

Address: 240, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 240)

Entry: Admission Ticket or Seoul Pass.

Embark on an adventure-fuelled at Lotte World Theme Park, where live performances, enhancing attractions and thrilling rides await to create unforgettable moments on a winter day in Seoul.

I recommend spending a full day to enjoy all the attractions and events at the theme park. If you’re a thrill-seeker and want to try all the rides I recommend getting the day pass which allows you to skip long waiting lines for rides. In addition to trying thrilling rides, you’ll want to stay late in the evening to catch the live performances and festive illuminations that light up the night sky.

If you’re visiting multiple local attractions in Seoul that require admission tickets you can save money by ordering a Seoul Pass.

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Experience a Traditional Tea House

Soak up the cozy ambience and tranquillity of a traditional tea house in Seoul, where you can escape the cold weather and unwind. A visit to a traditional tea house and you’ll be treated to rich aromas, sweet treats and the opportunity to embrace Korean tea culture. Personal recommendations for traditional tea houses in Seoul include Shin Old Tea House (신옛찻집) and Cha Masineun Tteul (차 마시는 뜰).

Discover the underrated local eateries including aesthetic cafes, tea houses and local restaurants in this interactive map guide.

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Cafe Hopping

South Korea is infamous for its cafe-hopping scene, from animal cafes, and themed cafes to hanok cafes there is something for every type of traveller. During winter, some cafes during this period get festive with Christmas decorations and/or light illuminations which add to the cafe hopping experience. For top aesthetic cafes to visit in Seoul dive into this guide with over 15 recommendations.

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☕️ Want to find the best places to eat in South Korea?

Don’t miss out on over 290 cafes and restaurants to visit in Korea in my Cafe & Restaurant Guide. I’ve included some of my favourite eateries and essential information including:

  • Over 290 local cafes & restaurants to visit (with Naver Map links)
  • How to find hidden local eateries (cafes & restaurants)
  • Over 30 essential Korean phrases & vocabulary for ordering at restaurants & cafes
  • Essential etiquette for eating out in Korea ….. and more!
Explore here
Best cafes to Visit in South Korea. Find the best aesthetic cafes in Seoul South Korea in this cafe hopping guide.

Escape the cold at a Jjimjilbang (찜질방)

Escape the cold weather in Korea at a traditional Korean bathhouse – a jjimjilbang. A jjimjilbang is a traditional Korean bathhouse where you can enjoy a variety of spa treatments. From food areas, communal sleeping rooms, massage areas, relaxing saunas and hot and cold pools. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and escape the cold a jjimjilbang is a perfect winter activity.

You can find a jjimjilbang almost everywhere in Korean even in the smallest of towns. For jjimjilbang recommendations in Seoul check out Spa 1899 in Gangnam, Insadong Janjeungmak in Jongno-gu and Siloam Sauna in Jung-gu.

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Enjoy Shopping at Shopping Malls & Department Stores

Get ready to shop and drop! Indulge yourself with some retail therapy at one of the many shopping malls and department stores in Seoul. If you want to find all the best local shopping areas and Korean brands check out my in-depth Seoul travel guide.

Jamsil Lotte World Mall

At Jamsil Lotte World you can hunt for the latest fashion trends, search for underrated gems or treat yourself to a variety of unique products, all within the bustling atmosphere of this shopping destination.

Gangnam COEX Mall

If you’re looking to combine both shopping and sightseeing head to Gangnam COEX Mall in Seoul. You won’t be disappointed with its large array of trendy boutiques, unique stores and shops where you can discover the latest fashion trends, enticing products and restaurants to satisfy your retail therapy.

You’ll also want to tick off the famous COEX Starfield Library from your Seoul travel bucket list with the festive and light illuminations decorating the library. Since you’re in the area, you’ll also want to check out Lotte Aquarium or gorgeous skyline views of Seoul at Seoul Sky Observatory.

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Check Out Lotte World Aquarium (롯데월드 아쿠아리움)

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 300 롯데월드 몰 B1)

Entry: Admission Ticket or Seoul Pass.

Dive into the aquatic wonders at Lotte World Aquarium in Gangnam. You’ll be treated to an enchanting journey through underwater landscapes where you can catch a glimpse of vibrant marine life. From captivating shows, educational displays and interactive exhibits you’ll be transported into a world of wonder and fun, making it a great indoor activity to escape the cold winter weather.

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Indoor Local Markets

If you’re visiting during the colder months of Korea you can keep warm by visiting one or a few of Korea’s local markets. With the arrival of winter comes some of the best Korean street food to keep you warm or delight your taste palette. Indulge in Korean snacks which are only available during the winter months in Korea. Here are a few recommendations for Korean snacks to try in winter.

  • Fish Bread (붕어빵) – Bungeoppang is a fish-shaped pastry with red bean filling.
  • Egg Bread (계란빵) is an egg cooked on sweet bread. It tastes better than it sounds!
  • Ddeokbbeokki (떡뻑기)  can be enjoyed at any time of the year, however, since it is a bit spicy it’s a great option to keep you warm in winter.
  • Hotteok (호떡) is a sweet pancake that is popular in the colder months of Korea.
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes (고구마) are perfect to enjoy by themselves on their own during winter.
Gwangjang Market (광장시장)

Address: 88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 창경궁로 88)

Head to the bustling Gwangjang Market for tantalising aromas and mouth-watering street food to try the local cuisine. Cold wintery days offer the best opportunity to revel in the vibrant atmosphere and feast on warm delicious treats at Gwangjang Market.

If you want local recommendations you can join a local foodie tour which takes you on the best street food in Seoul whilst delving into the rich history of Korea on this Netflix food tour. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous you can take it a step further by taking a Korean cooking class which covers a local market tour and learning authentic Korean dishes to take home with you.

📌 Ultimate Seoul Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Seoul for the first time? Save hours of planning with this one-stop Seoul Travel Guide.

  • +300 places to explore in Seoul and outside the capital city (with Naver Map links)
  • Local guide to using and booking transport in Korea
  • Best places to eat in Seoul (cafe & restaurant recommendations)
  • Best photo spots in Seoul (tourist traps & local recommendations)
  • Insider tips on where to stay, shop & things to do in Seoul
  • … and more!
Top things to do in Seoul South Korea in this Seoul Travel Guide.
Noryangjin Fish Market (노량진수산물도매시장)

Address: 674, Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 동작구 노들로 674)

If you’re looking for a hidden gem to explore head to the lively Noryangjin Fish Market. Here, you can discover a bustling world with seafood delights. Soak in the bustling market as you navigate the maze of local vendors and grab a bite to eat with the freshest catches from the ocean. If you’re anxious to explore this market by yourself you can always join a half-day walking food tour at Noryangjin Fish Market.

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Korea’s winter enchantment is a captivating journey for travellers looking to explore a different side of this beautiful country. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene landscapes of Nami Island Korea has a winter experience for every traveller. So, bundle up and embark on a winter adventure to discover the enchanting places to visit in Korea during this magical season.

Travel Planning Resources ✈️

Public Transport 🚊 If you plan to use public transport make sure to order a T-money card in advance which can be used for subways, taxis, and buses. For booking Korea’s high-speed trains, save money and get unlimited rides with a Korea Rail Pass.

Arriving in Korea ✈️ Most travellers arrive at Incheon International Airport to start their journey. I’m guessing you’ll be starting your trip to Seoul. You can either use public transport (the subway) or order a private transfer to get to your accommodation to check in. If you’re taking public transport take the Airport Express (AREX) to your destination.

Attractions & Tours 🌟 Klook and GetYourGuide are my preferred platforms for local tours and activities in Korea. They make it easy to compare tours, book experiences and the best deals. You can also download their mobile app where you can easily access your bookings on the go.

Power Adaptors 🔌: South Korea uses standard Type C and F sockets with a standard voltage of 220. Note if you have a similar plug socket from your home country that the voltage may be different so be careful with your electronics and use a voltage converter. I always recommend buying a universal adaptor so you can use it in any country (great for future travels) and it offers extra ports for USB cables to charge your devices.

Accommodation 🛌: I book all my accommodation in Korea through Booking.com. They have a wide selection of accommodations worldwide, with flexible booking options and great deals. They also have a Genius Loyalty program where you can get discounts and benefits on selected stays.

Easy Car Rental 🚗 Get hassle-free car rentals on DiscoverCars with a wide selection, competitive prices, and great customer service. Often it’s cheaper than booking direct and you can compare a large range of suppliers to check if you’re getting the best price.

Stay Connected 📶 wherever you go by easily and affordably purchasing an eSim for all your travels. Thanks to Airalo, you’ll get instant access to data and you don’t need to physically swap a plastic SIM card every time you’re travelling to a new country.

Travel Insurance 🛡️ I use World Nomads for overseas travel insurance. Travel with peace of mind knowing you’ll be covered for unexpected events and plan a worry-free journey.

Camera Gear 📸: If you’re curious about the camera gear I’ve used for my photos find out what’s in my camera bag here.

📌 Click on this pin to save this article for later!

Best Things to do in Winter in South Korea.
Best Things to do in Winter in South Korea.

Posted By: kellytoday · In: Blog, South Korea, Travel, Travel Tips & Guides

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Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm an Asian Australian content creator from Perth, Western Australia. I inspire others to get outside and explore the world. Join my adventures and discover my best travel & photography tips!

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What happens when you stop waiting for others and What happens when you stop waiting for others and you do it yourself…. ➡️

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💭 What are some habits or products you wish you invested in earlier?

💌 If you enjoyed this post I have a free weekly newsletter sharing more tips and resources like this. Sign up is in my bio. 

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If you find this helpful, I share even more resources, habits, and products I’ve invested in this year over on my Substack. 🌿

📌 Comment ‘list’ and I’ll send you my full roundup of the habits I’m sticking to this year.

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5. 👩🏻‍💻 If you want the full list of habits that are helping me save time and money this year, just comment ‘list’ and I’ll send it your way!

📌 Also — don't forget to check out Parts 1–3 in this series if you haven’t yet. 

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💌 If you enjoyed this post, I have a weekly newsletter (LINK IN BIO) that delivers media recommendations (articles, podcasts, books, films, etc) like this straight to your inbox.
💭 Is there a specific topic you’d like covered in the next media recommendations?

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💭 Found this helpful? Comment ‘list’ and I’ll send you my list of things to do instead of doom-scrolling. 

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It’s surprisingly easy to get caught up in the excitement of wanting the latest must-have items. I’ll be honest — in my early twenties, I made my fair share of impulse purchases, chasing after trends without much thought.

This year, I'm focusing on being more intentional with my spending — seeking out true ‘investment’ pieces, from clothing and everyday essentials to technology.

Here are my honest reflections on the products I believe are worth the splurge — and the ones that aren’t.

💭 What’s a product you wish you hadn’t purchased? I’d love to hear!

💌 Found this helpful? Comment ‘list’ and I’ll send you my personal roundup of items I genuinely don’t regret buying.

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This week’s media recommendations include articles, essays and podcasts about social media, technology and personal identity.

⚠️  Don’t forget to check out the previous parts of my article recommendations on my profile.

💌 If you enjoyed this post, I have a weekly newsletter (LINK IN BIO) that delivers media recommendations (articles, podcasts, books, films, etc) like this straight to your inbox. 💭 Is there a specific topic you’d like covered in the next media recommendations?

📌 comment ‘link’ if you want all the links to the media included in this carousel.

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💭 What are your must-have apps or daily go-to resources?

📌 A few extra tips & links for the ones I mentioned:

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2. My favourite reading app is @fable — and if you're keen, there's a referral link in my bio to get $5 off your first ebook. 📖

3. Planning a group trip? This next app is a game-changer for coordinating and keeping everyone on track. ✈️

4. Jetting off soon? This money transfer app saved me more than once — best rates and so easy to use. There's a referral link in my bio for a free card or zero fees on transfers up to $1,000. 💵

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What happens when you stop waiting for others and What happens when you stop waiting for others and you do it yourself…. ➡️

💭 What’s something you’ve always wanted to do but have held back? 

#twenties #solotravel #femaletravel #europe
🤫 If I could revisit my early twenties, here’s what I’d do differently to invest in myself. ➡️

Here’s a real look at the habits, tools, and small shifts that are helping me show up for myself now—things that save me time, money, and energy (and that I wish I’d started sooner).

💭 What are some habits or products you wish you invested in earlier?

💌 If you enjoyed this post I have a free weekly newsletter sharing more tips and resources like this. Sign up is in my bio. 

#twenties #productivity #personaldevelopment
✨ PART 4 of habits, mindsets and products that ✨ PART 4 of habits, mindsets and products that have ACTUALLY made a difference in my life ✨

If you find this helpful, I share even more resources, habits, and products I’ve invested in this year over on my Substack. 🌿

📌 Comment ‘list’ and I’ll send you my full roundup of the habits I’m sticking to this year.

💭 I'd love to know — what’s one habit, mindset, or product that’s genuinely improved your life?

🔗 All products and resources are linked throughout this carousel!

Here's a quick peek at what’s inside:

1. 👗 The outfit planning app every organiser (like me!) needs to know about.
2. 💵 The simple investing habit I wish I had started sooner — plus my favourite app for beginners.
3. 📈 How I track my expenses easily using free tools like Notion or Google Sheets.
4. 📝 My go-to sources for longform content and favourite podcasts for staying informed and inspired.
5. 👩🏻‍💻 If you want the full list of habits that are helping me save time and money this year, just comment ‘list’ and I’ll send it your way!

📌 Also — don't forget to check out Parts 1–3 in this series if you haven’t yet. 

#personaldevelopment #twenties #productivity
🤳🏼 Part 6 of media I’ve consumed instead 🤳🏼 Part 6 of media I’ve consumed instead of doom-scrolling 📱

This week’s media recommendations include articles, essays and podcasts about social media, technology and personal identity. 

⚠️  Don’t forget to check out the previous parts of my article recommendations on my profile.

💌 If you enjoyed this post, I have a weekly newsletter (LINK IN BIO) that delivers media recommendations (articles, podcasts, books, films, etc) like this straight to your inbox.
💭 Is there a specific topic you’d like covered in the next media recommendations?

📌 comment ‘link’ if you want all the links to the media included in this carousel. 

#twenties #whattoread #bookstoread
What are some things you regret doing when visitin What are some things you regret doing when visiting Japan? ➡️

I’ve been to Japan 3 times, and here’s what I’d do differently for a future Japan trip. From little travel tips to save you time and money. 

📌 Found this helpful? Comment ‘Japan guide’ and I’ll send you my Japan travel guide. 

💭 What are some things you wish you had done differently for your Japan trip?

#japan #traveltips #travelguide #bucketlist #asia
Lately, I’ve been craving more quiet moments — Lately, I’ve been craving more quiet moments — the kind that don’t involve endless scrolling or staring at a screen. 🕯️

 If you’ve been feeling the same, here are a few gentle ways I’m reducing my screen time (without feeling like I’m missing out). Swipe through for ideas you might want to try too. ✨📵 Which one speaks to you most?

💭 Found this helpful? Comment ‘list’ and I’ll send you my list of things to do instead of doom-scrolling. 

#twenties #personaldevelopment #digitaldetox
✨️Are these products really worth your money?💸 

It’s surprisingly easy to get caught up in the excitement of wanting the latest must-have items. I’ll be honest — in my early twenties, I made my fair share of impulse purchases, chasing after trends without much thought.

This year, I'm focusing on being more intentional with my spending — seeking out true ‘investment’ pieces, from clothing and everyday essentials to technology.

Here are my honest reflections on the products I believe are worth the splurge — and the ones that aren’t.

💭 What’s a product you wish you hadn’t purchased? I’d love to hear!

💌 Found this helpful? Comment ‘list’ and I’ll send you my personal roundup of items I genuinely don’t regret buying.

#twenties #personaldevelopment #pinterestinspired
📱Part 5 of media I’ve consumed instead of doo 📱Part 5 of media I’ve consumed instead of doom-scrolling 📱

This week’s media recommendations include articles, essays and podcasts about social media, technology and personal identity.

⚠️  Don’t forget to check out the previous parts of my article recommendations on my profile.

💌 If you enjoyed this post, I have a weekly newsletter (LINK IN BIO) that delivers media recommendations (articles, podcasts, books, films, etc) like this straight to your inbox. 💭 Is there a specific topic you’d like covered in the next media recommendations?

📌 comment ‘link’ if you want all the links to the media included in this carousel.

#twenties #whattoread #bookstoread
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