South Korea is gorgeous all year-round, although, it can be difficult to think of things to do in Korea during the winter season when you’re not familiar with the area. Plus, it can be pretty tempting to curl up indoors with hot tea.
However, the snowy terrain in Korea is arguably equally as stunning as their cherry blossom season. Korea gets pretty chilly but it’s not a reason to hibernate! Pack your hat and gloves and take advantage of Korea’s amazing winter activities.
We’ve listed out six fun and unique winter experiences in South Korea:
Winter Activity #1: Go Ice Fishing
Try your hand at ice fishing during Korea’s Pyeongchang Trout Festival! This three-week festival is held every January by the Odaecheon River in the Gangwon Province.
Participants drill a hole through 16 inches of the frozen river, cast their fishing lines, and try to catch as much mountain trout as they can.
While this may seem easy, you’d be surprised at how competitive the festival can get! Afterwards, many choose to grill and eat their catch of the day for dinner.
Winter Activity #2: Go Sledding at Everland
Everland, Korea’s largest and most popular theme park, is a year-round must-see attraction featuring roller coaster rides, shows, performances and more. One of the most popular activities at Everland during the winter is sledding.
The star attraction is the Snow Buster, a huge sledding hill with a ‘tube lift’ that lets park-goes ride back up to the top for another round of sledding. If you’re looking for more kid-friendly slopes, take advantage of Everland’s Jungfrau Sledge or Monch Kid’s Sledge.
Winter Activity #3: See the Herb Island Lights Festival
Enjoy a relaxing stroll around Herb Island during the Light & Fairy Tale Festival during the winer in Korea. As the snow begins to fall, Herb Island becomes illuminated by thousands of LED lights across the Santa’s Village area. Bring the entire family to delight in the bright lights against the night sky and admire the scenic setting of this charming island.
Winter Activity #4: Have a Blast at Seoul Lotte World
Looking for an indoor winter activity? Grab a ticket to Lotte World in Seoul. This huge indoor amusement center complex boasts games, rides, and even a skating rink. K-Pop fans can take in special performances and even catch a fan meet-up during the winter season.
Winter Activity #5: Conquer the Slopes at the Vivaldi Park Ski World
Korea is blessed with a striking mountainous landscape. In the summer, people spend their weekends on hikes and camping trips, but come winter time, skiing is the sport of choice. For one of the best ski slopes in Korea, head to Vivaldi Park Ski World.
Travelers will enjoy a scenic cable ride that overlooks Palbong Mountain before choosing from thirteen different terrains. Beginners can take guided lessons along easy slopes, while more advanced skiers can opt for the more extreme courses. Whatever your ski level, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the park. We recommend to stay more than one day to truly immerse yourself in this winter wonderland and enjoy various snow activities:
Book Now: Vivaldi Park Ski World and Ocean World 2-Day Ski Tour from Seoul
Winter Activity #6: Detox with a Hot Spring Bath
After a long day of skiing, a hot spring bath can be the perfect remedy to ease sore muscles. Even if you’re just hoping for a relaxing break during your winter vacation in Korea, a visit to the hot spring, does the trick. Korea’s mountains are home to mineral-rich hot springs that will revive and rejuvenate you after a long day of sightseeing.
