Jeju in December (2026): Weather, What to Wear and Camellia Season at Camellia Hill

Jeju in December is mild by Korean standards, quiet after the autumn crowds and full of winter colour: red camellias in bloom, orange tangerines on the trees and snow on Hallasan. It’s also grey, windy and wetter than Seoul, so it pays to plan. Here’s what the weather is really like, what to wear, when camellia season starts, and the best things to do on Jeju Island in December.

Last checked: 2 November 2026. Opening hours and prices at gardens and farms change by season; confirm on Naver Map before you go. Dollar figures use about 1,330 KRW = 1 USD (October 2026).

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What is Jeju weather like in December?

Jeju weather in December is cool and changeable rather than freezing. Long-term averages for Jeju City (1991–2020) are a high of about 11°C (52°F) and a low of about 6°C (42°F), compared with roughly 4°C and −3°C in Seoul. The catch is the wind and cloud: Jeju gets about 11 days with some rain or snow showers in December and only around 80 hours of sunshine, so expect grey skies more often than in Seoul. Snow falls on several days, mostly in the uplands; on the coast it rarely settles.

What should I wear in Jeju in December?

Pack a warm, windproof jacket rather than Seoul’s heaviest padding, plus layers, a hat and gloves for the wind. Waterproof shoes help on wet days. If you’re hiking Hallasan, you’ll need proper winter gear — warm layers, waterproof boots and crampons (sold in shops at trailheads and in Jeju City). See what to wear in Korea in winter.

When is Jeju camellia season?

Jeju camellia season runs from roughly December to March, peaking in mid-winter. Red camellias (동백, dongbaek) grow wild along the coast and in groves across the south of the island, and pink and white garden varieties bloom in the big gardens from December. Fallen flowers carpeting the paths are a favourite photo scene.

Is Camellia Hill Jeju worth visiting?

Camellia Hill Jeju, in Andeok-myeon on the island’s southwest side near Jungmun and the tea fields, is the best-known camellia garden on the island and the classic December visit. Expect paths through camellia trees, a pond, thatched-roof houses and plenty of photo spots. Listings from 2025 show adult admission of about 8,000–10,000 KRW (~$6–8), with winter hours of about 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and last entry at 5 p.m. It’s easiest by car or taxi; combine it with O’Sulloc tea fields and the Jungmun area for a south-side day. Visit on a weekday morning to avoid tour groups.

What to do on Jeju Island in December

Here’s what to do on Jeju Island in December, mixing outdoor sights with warm indoor stops for bad weather:

Is December a good time to visit Jeju?

December is a good time for a quieter, cheaper Jeju trip: it’s after autumn’s peak and before the Korean school-holiday rush, though the Christmas long weekend (25–27 December 2026) and New Year get busy. Flights and hotels are generally cheaper than in summer. The main downsides are short days, wind and grey weather, and some ferries or flights can be delayed in storms. Hiring a car makes the most of the daylight. For areas to stay, see where to stay in Jeju.

FAQ

Is Jeju cold in December?
It’s cool rather than freezing: about 11°C by day and 6°C at night on average, but windy.

Does it snow in Jeju in December?
Snow falls on a few days, mostly on Hallasan and the uplands; it rarely settles on the coast.

When do camellias bloom in Jeju?
From about December to March, peaking in mid-winter.

How much is Camellia Hill?
2025 listings show about 8,000–10,000 KRW for adults; check before you go.

Can I still pick tangerines in December?
Yes, December is in the middle of the picking season.

Sources: Wikipedia – Jeju City climate (1991–2020 normals) · Wikipedia – Seoul climate · WAUG – Camellia Hill entrance fee and hours · Korea Trip Tips – Camellia Hill
Photos: photos from Wikimedia Commons, credited in each caption