Winter in South Korea starts in December, and it is very cold; each season is distinguished, offering multiple experiences to both locals and international tourists. When the country puts on a white blanket of snow, this can be a great opportunity for travelers to enjoy various outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and celebrations. Here is the best guide on where to go in Korea in December, featuring what to see and do during this month:
1. Seoul: A Winter Wonderland
So, Seoul is the capital and an ideal place from which to start your December adventure. The average temperature during this period of the month is around 0°C (32°F), usually being the coldest time of the year. While that might sound quite uncomfortable, the festive atmosphere, holiday lights around most corners, and special charm arouse in the town. The weather is cold, the sky is clear, and along with all the holiday lights, it forms a magical setting for any tourist.
Attractions NOT TO MISS:
Seoul Lantern Festival: A yearly event that hangs the beautiful Cheonggyecheon Stream with colorful lanterns, hence producing a miraculous, wonderful atmosphere that attracts thousands of people from home and abroad. The festival gives immense recognition to the local artists in their work, wholly putting them into an environment with a unique atmosphere of traditional Korean culture.
Ice Skating Rinks: Some of the fashionable ice skating rinks in Seoul include the one in Seoul Plaza or the Olympic Park Ice Skating. It is a really different feeling, as if you are skating under the towering skyscrapers.
Night markets: Visit one of the lively night markets like Myeongdong and enjoy delicious street food to warm yourself with hot drinks. Munch on local delicacies: tteokbokki, spicy rice cakes, or hotteok, sweet pancakes-one will be having the time of one’s life.
Cultural Experiences: It can meet the needs of Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace for people who want to know more about Korean history. Almost every place will hold some special event in December, during which time one can feel the traditional Korean culture.
2. Jeju Island: A Winter Paradise
Jeju Island is one of the great places to visit in December, famous for its mild temperature and beautiful nature. Though the average low falls to about 5°C, this island is generally more moderate in climate compared to the mainland. Jeju caters to cultural experiences and outdoor activities; therefore, this is an ideal spot for travelers.
Things to Do:
Hot Springs: Enjoy the hot springs that are responsible for the main fame of this island. They come in handy during cold weather, soothing your body. Places like Jeju Spa Land are famous for their therapeutic capability and melting one’s tensions.
Hiking: Hallasan National Park, which contains Korea’s highest peak, is often blessed with clear skies at the summit. During winter, the trails within the park are very beautiful, with unique landscapes shaped by volcanic activities.
Ice Fishing: Experience ice fishing in the coastal areas and taste the fresh seafood. Jeju is also famous for its mouth-watering seafood dishes, so there’s no better chance to try freshly caught ones.
Cultural Sites: Never leave without a visit to the Jeju Folk Village Museum for a glimpse into traditional Korean culture through its various exhibitions and performances.
3. Pyeongchang: Winter Sports Capital
For lovers of winter sports, Pyeongchang in December is just about the place to be, considering it once hosted the Winter Olympics. The region houses some of the classiest ski resorts in the world, with brilliant snow conditions around the area.
Best Ski Resorts:
Alpensia Resort: It offers skiing, snowboarding, and cable car services with great views of the mountainous regions. This is a skiers’ paradise, offering slopes for beginners, intermediate, and advanced skiers, thus being an excellent place for winter sports with family or friends.
Yongpyong Resort: Renowned for its expansive slopes and winter sports, it is an ideal place for both novice and experienced skiers. The resort boasts first-class facilities that include equipment rentals and ski lessons.
Winter Sports: Besides skiing, Pyeongchang also provides other winter sports such as ice sledding; this is a place for lovers of outdoor activities. Its beautiful snow-covered landscape provides an ideal arena for winter photography.
4. National Parks: Nature’s Beauty
Various national parks in South Korea are very beautiful during December. The best parks one must visit include:
Seoraksan National Park: It is one of the most dramatic peaks in the country, with a beautiful landscape to explore, allowing you to take breathtaking views after a short walk, capped with white snow. It has diverse wildlife and a number of hiking trails for different levels of fitness.
Bukhansan National Park: Enjoy hiking trails with scenic views and see traces of Korean history through the ancient fortresses. The accessibility from Seoul makes it one of the favorite day-trip destinations.
Odaesan National Park: Less visited than Seoraksan, this park offers a peaceful retreat: with stunning views and serene hiking trails. Worth visiting during colder months by those interested in getting back to nature.
5. Cultural Experiences: Embrace Korean Traditions
December is a great time to experience the cultural festivals and events that happen according to usual Korean culture.
Festivals to Enjoy:
Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival: This fairy-tale event is filled with breathtaking lights throughout the garden and acts as a picture-perfect background for photos. It happens from early December until winter months to highlight the beauty of the garden during winter.
Lunar New Year Preparation: While preparing for this festival, be a part of the gaiety of families when events and special markets fill the roads. That is the time when, with beaucoup gaiety, families are united to celebrate and pay respect to their ancestors.
Traditional Markets: Visit traditional markets like Gwangjang Market and get the vibe right in the middle of local life while tasting the traditional foods.
6. Weather Conditions and Travel Tips
Planning your trip in December, the first thing to consider is the weather: a more significant daily average temperature varies from -3°C (27°F) at night to 5°C (41°F) during daytime. The month gets comparatively low wind speeds. It is also one of the driest months (barely experiences rain), and for this reason, it is well adapted for outdoor events.
Travel Tips:
Wear in layers: Wear several layers which you can put on or remove as per the chilled temperature.
Daytime Tours to Historic Spots and Museums: Avail the day time to visit the historic sites and museums.
Guided Tours: You can consider joining guided tours so that you are not losing out on any major cultural experience and view all the major attractions
Korea in December is a haven for diverse ranges of interests-from thrilling winter sports and relaxing hot springs on Jeju Island to cultural festivals in Seoul. In fact, with its festive atmosphere and seasonal charm, December is one of the best months to explore the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes that South Korea has to offer. Whether ice-skating in the city, walking in the national parks, or enjoying the festive lights, this winter wonderland promises a lifetime of unforgettable adventures. With average wind speeds low and humidity low, it is very comfortable to walk the streets, enjoy festivals put up by the culture of the city, and delight in the culinary pleasures that come with the season. Don’t miss this beauty of Korea in December, which will render just in time to embrace winter wholeheartedly, have outdoor activities, and create long-lasting memories.
Want more? Check out A Different Path: 1 Amazing Year In South Korea
