Winter in Korea has its own charm, and many winter activities go beyond the typical tourist checklist. Here are some uniquely Korean ways to enjoy this season if you are visiting in the next 2 months!
1. Catch the first snow
The first snow in Korea is a very special moment. The world seems to pause for a moment under the snowflakes, and everything goes quiet. People step out of their apartments to watch the flakes fall under streetlights and snap videos and photos of the memory. (Many believe that the person you share that first snow with is someone meant to stay in your life) When the snow starts to pile up, students rush out of their classrooms to make their first snowman of the year. It’s a heartwarming sight, and it can also be a memorable activity if you decide to join in on the fun! Usually happening sometime around late November to early December, the timing of the first snow can be quite unpredictable. So if you’re lucky enough to catch it, be sure to savour the experience and join in the shared anticipation of welcoming the final season of the year.
2. Ice valley hiking
For an aesthetic winter adventure that feels straight out of a fantasy film, take a hike in one of Korea’s ice valleys. In areas like Pocheon, Taebaek, or Gapyeong, entire riverbeds freeze into layers of ice. Thick icicles hang from cliffs, waterfalls are frozen over, and clear sheets of ice stretch across mountain paths, creating an unforgettable scenery. Unlike crowded ski resorts, ice valley treks are quieter and far more serene. These walks are safe as long as the trails are marked, and the views make every step worthwhile. Just remember to bundle up for the cold and wear some non-slip shoes for your adventure!
3. Ice fishing
A charming winter tradition, ice fishing festivals are a highlight you should not miss! Small holes are drilled in the frozen lake surface, and special fishing rods are used to catch small fish. People gather on these frozen lakes with tiny stools and colorful tents, and you can even grill your catch right on the spot. Even if you’re not lucky enough to get a bite, the atmosphere is part of the fun! It is a family-friendly activity for all ages to enjoy. Representative festivals are the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival (화천 산천어 축제) and the Pyeongchang Trout Festival (평창송어축제).
4. Seasonal delicacies
Winter is the peak season for sashimi as cold ocean temperatures create firmer and sweeter fish. Seafood restaurants in coastal cities like Sokcho, Busan, and Pohang get extremely busy and are always bustling with customers. Yellowfish (대방어) is a local favourite in the winter. Pair it with some hot fish broth (매운탕), and you have the perfect winter meal that will warm you from the inside.
Korea is also famous for its on-the-go street snacks that help keep your hands warm and stomachs full in the cold. Want something savoury? Get some fish cake skewers and spicy rice cakes from roadside stalls. Served with free cups of steaming broth, you can take off your gloves and indulge momentarily in the warmth this comfort food has to offer. If you have more of a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on these 3 items. Boong-eo bbang (붕어빵) is a fish-shaped crispy bread stuffed with warm red bean or custard filling. Hotteok (호떡) is a hand pressed pancake with gooey brown sugar filling. Last but not least, grilled sweet potatoes (군고구마), which are typically wrapped in foil and are smoking hot when you open them.
These snacks are usually sold at small carts with no English menu, so make sure to brush up on your basic Korean language skills before you go! And don’t forget the small change, as only cash is accepted most of the time.
5. Waterpark?
It may sound like the last place you would want to visit in the freezing cold, but indoor waterparks in Korea are actually a popular place to spend time in winter! Facilities like Vivaldi Park’s Ocean World or Club D Oasis in Busan will make you question if you are in a subtropical escape with cozy temperatures and heated pools. Lazy rivers, thrilling rides, and comfortable bubble spas will make you forget all about the winter temperature outdoors. It’s a great activity for anyone looking to relive the fun of summer vacations!
A season of beautiful sights and unique experiences, winter in Korea offers something for everyone. Knowing the language as you travel in a foreign country can elevate your experiences by notches, as you connect with the locals and gain insight into their daily life in ways that foreigners typically would not. Here in Sejong Korean Language School, we offer a range of Korean classes for learners of different levels (from Beginners to Advanced). With a comprehensive curriculum and friendly native Korean teachers, kick-start your Korean language journey with us today!
Written by: Ms Luisa Lim, January 2026