As the year winds down, Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant capital, turns into a winter wonderland that captivates visitors with its chilly charm. For those who love to explore bustling streets, experience cultural festivals, or savor seasonal delicacies, Seoul in November and December promises an unforgettable experience. The city becomes even more magical as its iconic landmarks, like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Namsan Tower, are dusted with snow, and sparkling lights illuminate the streets. Whether you’re a fan of cold-weather fashion, winter sports, or cozy cafes, Seoul is a must-visit city during these colder months.
Traveling to Seoul in late fall and early winter also means you’ll encounter unique seasonal events and activities that only come around once a year. From ice skating at city parks to shopping at winter-themed markets, Seoul offers a variety of ways to embrace the season. In this article, we’ll dive into the top things to do, must-see places, and the best experiences to enjoy in Seoul’s colder season, so you can get the most out of your winter trip.
Why is Seoul a Must-Visit City during November and December?
Experience Winter Festivals and Events:
Seoul transforms into a festive wonderland in November and December, hosting various winter festivals that showcase the city’s culture, cuisine, and creative energy. One of the biggest highlights is the Seoul Lantern Festival, held along the Cheonggyecheon Stream. Thousands of colorful lanterns light up the stream, creating a magical atmosphere and marking the beginning of the winter season. The event typically runs in early November and is free for the public, attracting both locals and tourists.
Another must-see is the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival, located just outside of Seoul. This festival starts in early December, with millions of lights illuminating the garden’s beautiful landscapes. Visitors can wander through themed light tunnels and see trees adorned with sparkling decorations. These festivals add an extra layer of warmth and joy to Seoul’s winter season, making it even more memorable.
Ideal Weather for Sightseeing:
November in Seoul marks the end of autumn, with cool temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, while December brings the first touches of snow. November’s crisp, clear days are perfect for sightseeing, especially if you’re interested in Seoul’s historic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village.
By December, temperatures drop significantly, but the colder weather only adds to the cozy winter vibe. Visitors can enjoy Seoul’s sights without the intense summer heat, and there’s a unique charm to seeing Seoul’s landmarks covered in frost or light snow.
Top Things to Do in Seoul’s Colder Season
1. Take a Stroll Through Gyeongbokgung Palace
One of the most iconic and historic sites in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace offers an especially picturesque scene during winter. As Seoul’s largest and most famous palace, it transforms into a winter wonderland when snow falls, with its grand architecture and traditional courtyards taking on a serene, timeless beauty. Fewer tourists visit in winter, so you can explore the expansive grounds and admire the historic structures with fewer crowds. Visitors can also rent hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) from nearby shops, making for stunning, seasonally unique photos in the palace grounds. Be sure to catch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony held outside the palace, which continues through winter and provides a glimpse into Korea’s historical military traditions.
2. Wander Around Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village, nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, is a preserved area with hundreds of hanok (traditional Korean houses). Walking through Bukchon during winter feels like stepping into another era, especially when rooftops are covered in snow. The village is dotted with small museums, craft shops, and cultural centers where visitors can learn about Korean traditions, making it an immersive experience. Winter provides a calm, quiet atmosphere, perfect for exploring the winding alleys and taking in the view of modern Seoul rising behind the traditional village. It’s a beautiful blend of old and new, and the winter scenery adds a magical quality to this historic area.
3. Enjoy Winter Sports at Vivaldi Park or Yongpyong Resort
For winter sports enthusiasts, Seoul’s proximity to some of South Korea’s best ski resorts is a huge advantage. Both Vivaldi Park and Yongpyong Resort are less than a two-hour drive from the city and offer a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snow sledding. Vivaldi Park, popular for its well-maintained slopes and accessible trails, caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers.
Yongpyong Resort, known for hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics, is one of the country’s premier skiing destinations with expansive slopes and breathtaking mountain views. Both resorts offer equipment rentals, lessons, and comfortable lodging options, so even first-time skiers can easily get started. They’re fantastic day-trip options from Seoul for anyone looking to enjoy a classic winter adventure.
4. Ice Skate at Seoul Plaza or Olympic Park
Seoul’s winter ice-skating rinks are a beloved seasonal tradition. Seoul Plaza, located right in the heart of the city, transforms into a popular outdoor ice-skating rink every winter. It’s affordable and accessible for families, couples, and friends, and the surrounding holiday lights and decorations create a festive atmosphere. For a more spacious skating experience, head to Olympic Park, where the rink is larger and the park grounds offer scenic walking trails and cultural sculptures. Skate rentals are available at both locations, so you don’t need your own equipment to join the fun. Skating at either of these rinks is a quintessential Seoul winter experience that offers an exciting way to stay active and enjoy the season.
5. Relax in a Traditional Korean Bathhouse (Jjimjilbang)
Winter in Seoul is the perfect time to experience a jjimjilbang, or Korean bathhouse. These unique facilities offer saunas, hot baths, and cozy relaxation areas, providing the perfect retreat from the cold. Dragon Hill Spa in Yongsan is one of the most popular jjimjilbang in Seoul, featuring multiple hot baths, themed sauna rooms (such as an ice room and a salt sauna), and common areas where visitors can enjoy snacks and drinks.
Spending a few hours in a jjimjilbang is a relaxing experience, and it’s also a great way to learn about Korean culture, as jjimjilbang are an integral part of local life. Many of these bathhouses are open 24/7, so you can visit them whenever you need a break from sightseeing or want to warm up.
6. Experience the Seoul Lantern Festival at Cheonggyecheon Stream
The Seoul Lantern Festival, held along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, is a beautiful event that marks the start of the city’s winter festivities. Held in early November, this festival illuminates the stream with thousands of colorful lanterns, each representing different themes, from Korean folklore to global culture. The lanterns float along the water and create a mesmerizing sight against the city backdrop, making for a fantastic evening activity. Visitors can stroll along the stream, take photos, and even participate in activities like lantern-making workshops. The festival is free to attend and a must-see if you’re in Seoul in November. It’s a visually stunning experience that offers a glimpse into both traditional and modern Korean art.
7. Explore Seoul’s Winter Markets
Seoul’s winter markets are lively places to explore during November and December. Myeongdong, Namdaemun Market, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza are known for their bustling winter markets, where visitors can find holiday-themed gifts, winter fashion, and seasonal treats. Myeongdong is famous for its street food, where you can try popular winter snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes with cinnamon and nuts), and bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean). Dongdaemun Design Plaza often hosts a Christmas market with local artisans selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and other holiday items. These markets are not only great for shopping but also perfect for soaking up Seoul’s winter vibe with holiday lights and festive decor.
8. Warm Up in Cozy Seoul Cafes and Try Seasonal Treats
Seoul’s café culture thrives in the winter, and it’s a must-do for visitors who want to relax and warm up between activities. Many cafés in neighborhoods like Insadong, Hongdae, and Garosu-gil offer seasonal menus with treats like sweet potato lattes, chestnut pastries, and holiday-themed hot chocolate. Seoul is home to unique, themed cafés, including ones with animal themes (such as cat and dog cafes) and others with traditional hanok interiors. Exploring Seoul’s cozy cafes provides a chance to experience Korean takes on popular winter flavors while also discovering interesting, off-the-beaten-path spots. Additionally, cafes often host holiday events or showcase seasonal decorations, adding to the festive feel of the city.
Must-Visit Places in Seoul During Winter
These must-visit places highlight the best of what Seoul has to offer in winter, combining cultural experiences with unique seasonal activities. Each location provides a different taste of the city’s winter charm, ensuring that visitors experience Seoul’s full magic during the colder months.
Insadong Street
Insadong is a cultural gem in Seoul, ideal for winter strolls as it’s brimming with traditional tea houses, craft shops, art galleries, and souvenir stalls. This historic street is known for its preserved charm, with shop fronts and alleys that feel like a step back in time.
In winter, Insadong becomes even cozier, with many tea houses offering special seasonal teas like cinnamon ginger or persimmon tea, which are perfect for warming up. This area is also great for finding unique holiday gifts, such as handmade pottery, calligraphy supplies, and traditional Korean handicrafts that reflect Seoul’s artistic heritage. The street is beautifully decorated for the season, making it a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to experience Seoul’s old-world charm mixed with winter festivities.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza is Seoul’s iconic futuristic landmark and a hub for art, fashion, and design. During winter, DDP hosts seasonal events and night markets, including the popular LED Rose Garden, which features thousands of white LED roses lit up against the evening sky, creating a magical and photogenic winter scene. In December, DDP transforms with holiday markets selling handcrafted items, winter foods, and creative products from local artisans.
The design plaza also hosts winter-themed exhibitions and installations, making it an inspiring place to wander around and immerse yourself in Seoul’s vibrant art scene. The curved architecture of DDP is impressive at any time of year, but the winter lights bring out its full beauty.
Lotte World
Lotte World is one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, making it an ideal destination for cold winter days. In December, Lotte World goes all-out with holiday decorations, featuring festive lights, a Christmas parade, and seasonal performances, making it especially fun for families and groups of friends. You’ll find an array of thrilling rides and attractions, as well as an indoor ice-skating rink where you can glide around to holiday tunes.
Lotte World Tower, Songpa-gu, South Korea
In the connected Lotte World Mall, there are endless dining and shopping options, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring the different attractions. For a classic winter amusement experience without the chill, Lotte World is a perfect choice.
Hongdae
Known for its youthful and energetic vibe, Hongdae is Seoul’s trendy arts and entertainment district, with a fantastic winter atmosphere. During the colder months, Hongdae is dressed up with lights and seasonal decorations, making it an inviting place to wander. The area is famous for its quirky cafes, boutique shops, and street performances that continue throughout winter.
For café lovers, Hongdae is a hotspot, with themed cafes offering seasonal drinks and desserts. Don’t miss the chance to try a unique winter treat like dalgona coffee (a Korean whipped coffee trend) or a sweet potato latte. If you’re in the mood for shopping, Hongdae’s indie boutiques and vintage shops offer one-of-a-kind finds, perfect for winter fashion and souvenirs.
Myeongdong Shopping Street
Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district that comes alive with holiday spirit in winter. The street is famous for its collection of cosmetic stores, clothing boutiques, and endless street food vendors offering seasonal Korean snacks. In winter, Myeongdong is lined with festive lights and decorations, creating a lively holiday atmosphere. Try hotteok (Korean pancakes filled with sweet syrup), roasted chestnuts, and fish-shaped pastries called bungeoppang, which are stuffed with red bean paste.
For skincare enthusiasts, many shops release limited-edition winter collections, making it a great time to explore Korean beauty products. Myeongdong is also conveniently located near other attractions, so you can easily combine a shopping trip with a visit to nearby landmarks like Namsan Seoul Tower or the historic Namdaemun Market.
The Garden of Morning Calm
While technically located just outside Seoul, the Garden of Morning Calm is worth the short journey for its spectacular winter lights display. Every year, starting in December, the garden hosts the Lighting Festival, transforming its lush landscapes into a dazzling winter wonderland with millions of colorful LED lights. Visitors can wander through themed areas featuring light tunnels, illuminated trees, and beautifully decorated walkways, all creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
The garden is especially popular with couples, families, and photographers looking to capture magical winter scenes. With hot drinks and snacks available at the garden’s cafes, it’s easy to spend an entire evening enjoying the enchanting displays.
Namsan Seoul Tower (N Seoul Tower)
Perched atop Namsan Mountain, Seoul’s iconic Namsan Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, which are particularly stunning in winter when Seoul is blanketed with snow. The tower itself is often adorned with winter decorations, and there’s a popular observation deck for visitors to enjoy the view, as well as a café and a restaurant for those wanting to dine with a scenic backdrop.
Namsan Seoul Tower also features a “Locks of Love” area, where couples leave padlocks symbolizing their relationship—a popular photo spot that becomes even more romantic when covered in frost. In the evening, the tower lights up with colorful displays, creating a beautiful sight against the winter night sky.
Top Winter Foods to Try in Seoul
Food plays a huge part in the Seoul winter experience, and there are several dishes you shouldn’t miss:
- Hotteok: A sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, hotteok is a popular street food that’s especially satisfying on cold days.
- Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes that are commonly found at street vendors in Myeongdong and Hongdae, tteokbokki is a winter staple that provides warmth and a bit of spice.
- Bungeoppang: These fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean paste are found at many winter street stalls. They’re perfect for a quick, warming snack.
- Jjimdak: A comforting chicken and vegetable stew with a soy-based sauce, jjimdak is ideal for warming up after a long day of sightseeing.
- Samgyetang: A traditional ginseng chicken soup, samgyetang is often served as a health-boosting meal and is especially popular during the colder months.
7 Tips for Visiting Seoul in November and December
1. Dress in Layers and Prepare for the Cold
Seoul’s temperatures in November are relatively mild but can drop rapidly in December, often hovering around freezing. This means dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable. Bring a warm winter coat, scarves, gloves, and a hat to protect yourself from chilly winds, especially if you’re planning to spend time outdoors. Also, thermal innerwear and heat-retaining socks can make all the difference. Many cafes, restaurants, and stores are well-heated indoors, so dressing in layers allows you to adjust easily to the temperature changes between inside and outside.
2. Plan for Early Sunsets and Embrace Evening Activities
Seoul experiences shorter daylight hours in winter, with sunsets as early as 5 p.m. Plan to start your sightseeing early to make the most of the daylight for outdoor activities. The good news is that Seoul is incredibly lively at night, especially during winter when streets, plazas, and landmarks are adorned with beautiful seasonal lights and holiday decorations. Locations like Namsan Seoul Tower, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, and the Myeongdong shopping district are ideal for evening explorations with twinkling lights and festive displays.
3. Use the Efficient Public Transit System and Stay Warm While Commuting
Seoul’s public transit system is not only affordable and easy to navigate, but it’s also a practical choice during winter. The subway stations and buses are heated, so you’ll be able to warm up during your commute, which makes traveling around the city a lot more comfortable. Get a T-money card, a reloadable card that works on buses, subways, and even in some taxis, which will save you both time and money. Some stations, especially the larger ones, even have heated waiting areas for added comfort.
4. Book Popular Attractions and Activities in Advance
Winter is peak travel season for Seoul, especially around major holidays like Christmas and New Year’s. Many seasonal attractions, like the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival or Lotte World’s indoor amusement park, become crowded, and tickets sell out quickly. Booking popular attractions online in advance helps you avoid long wait times and ensures you won’t miss out. Some places also offer discounted tickets for online bookings, so you can save a bit of money by planning ahead.
5. Take Advantage of Seoul’s Cozy Cafés
One of Seoul’s unique winter experiences is its extensive and cozy café culture. From traditional Korean tea houses in Insadong to Instagrammable, themed cafés in Hongdae, you’ll find endless options to warm up and relax after being out in the cold. Many cafés in Seoul serve seasonal treats like hotteok-flavored drinks or sweet potato lattes, which are comforting during the winter months. Using café breaks as a regular part of your sightseeing schedule can be a delightful way to recharge while experiencing Seoul’s diverse coffee and tea scene.
6. Prepare for Seasonal Health Needs
Winter in Seoul can be quite dry, especially indoors where heating is used extensively. Bringing a small, portable moisturizer or lip balm in your bag can be helpful to combat the dryness, especially if you’re sensitive to the cold. Also, the air quality can vary, with occasional cold air fronts bringing in dust. Consider checking the daily air quality index if you plan on spending time outdoors, and if needed, wear a mask, which is common and widely accepted in Seoul.
7. Try a Traditional Korean Bathhouse (Jjimjilbang)
To stay warm and relax after a chilly day, visit a jjimjilbang, or Korean bathhouse. These bathhouses, like the popular Dragon Hill Spa in Yongsan, offer sauna rooms, heated pools, and various relaxation areas where you can unwind and experience a unique part of Korean culture. Spending a few hours in a jjimjilbang is a great way to stay cozy while also rejuvenating for the rest of your trip. Many of them are open 24/7, making them a convenient stop in your winter itinerary, even if you only want to visit for an hour or two.
A perfect destination for anyone looking to end the year on a high note
Seoul’s winter season, spanning November and December, offers a distinctive blend of culture, festivities, and cozy charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. From traditional palaces that look ethereal under a blanket of snow to bustling shopping districts lined with winter lights, Seoul truly is a must-visit city this time of year. With activities ranging from thrilling winter sports to cozy tea house visits, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a memorable and unique winter experience, Seoul’s combination of festivals, seasonal foods, and breathtaking sights will not disappoint. The city’s charm, amplified by the glow of winter lights and the warmth of local hospitality, makes it a perfect destination for anyone looking to end the year on a high note. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another taste of Seoul’s winter magic, the city promises a holiday season like no other.
