Seoul Plaza Ice Rink and Winter Skating in Seoul (2026–27): Dates, Price and Tips

Every winter, the lawn of Seoul Plaza in front of City Hall turns into an outdoor ice skating rink, one of the best-value things to do in Seoul: last season an hour on the ice cost just 1,000 won, with skates and a helmet included. Here’s what to expect for 2026–27, how it works and where else you can skate.

Last checked: October 2026. The 2026–27 season hasn’t been announced; details below are from the 2025–26 season and we’ll update when Seoul city publishes the new dates. Dollar figures use about 1,330 KRW = 1 USD (October 2026).

First time in Korea? Start here: our step-by-step guide from landing to your first day.

When does the Seoul Plaza ice rink open in 2026?

Seoul city usually announces the season a few weeks before it opens. The 2025–26 season ran for 52 days, from 19 December 2025 to 8 February 2026, and passed 100,000 visitors within its first 26 days. Expect a similar mid-to-late-December opening for 2026–27, but check the official announcement before planning around it.

How does it work?

1. Get a time slot. Sessions run by the hour, with breaks to resurface the ice. Slots can be booked online in advance (Korean-language booking) and some are sold on site.
2. Pay the 1,000 KRW fee per hour (last season’s price).
3. Collect free skates and a helmet at the rink. Lockers and winter clothing rental cost extra.
4. Skate for your session, then return the gear.

Weekday mornings and early afternoons are the quietest; evenings and weekends sell out. Gloves are a good idea for falls, and many rinks require them, so bring a pair.

Where is it and what’s nearby?

Seoul Plaza is right in front of Seoul City Hall, at City Hall Station (Lines 1 and 2). Deoksugung Palace is across the road, Gwanghwamun Square and the Cheonggyecheon lanterns are a few minutes north, and Myeongdong is a 10-minute walk.

Map — Seoul Plaza: Google Maps · Naver Map (Naver Map is still the most reliable app for walking, bus and subway directions in Korea)

Where else can I skate in Seoul?

• Other outdoor winter rinks: several districts and parks set up seasonal rinks; check Seoul city’s winter announcements each year.
• Indoor rinks in large malls and sports complexes run all year, including the rink inside the Lotte World theme park complex.
• Sledding: some Han River parks open sledding hills for children in winter.

How can I combine skating with other winter sights?

• Afternoon: Deoksugung Palace across the road.
• Dusk: skate as the lights come on.
• Evening: walk to the Seoul Lantern Festival on Cheonggyecheon (when it’s on) and the Christmas lights around Gwanghwamun.

What should I wear to go skating?

• Gloves are essential, both for warmth and to protect your hands if you fall; many rinks require them.
• Warm but flexible layers instead of a long coat, so you can move freely.
• Thick socks make rental skates more comfortable.
• Leave bags in a locker rather than carrying them on the ice.

Tips for families

• Go on a weekday morning, when the ice is quieter and the queues for skates are short.
• Children’s skate sizes run out first at busy times, another reason to go early.
• There are usually rest areas and snack stands beside the rink; warm drinks are welcome after an hour on the ice.
• Combine skating with a visit to Deoksugung across the road, where the palace grounds are flat and easy with children.

Is the rink suitable for kids and beginners?

Yes. Beginners and children are common, helmets are provided, and staff are on the ice. For wheelchair users, the plaza around the rink is flat for watching and photos; skating itself isn’t adapted.

FAQ

How much is the Seoul Plaza ice rink?
Last season it was 1,000 KRW per hour with skates included. Check the 2026–27 announcement for any change.

Do I need to book?
Booking ahead is recommended for evenings and weekends; some places may be available on site.

Can I bring my own skates?
Generally yes, but the free rental is the easy option.

Sources: Korea JoongAng Daily – Seoul Plaza rink 2025–26 · Kyunghyang Shinmun – 100,000 visitors · Stars and Stripes Korea – Seoul Plaza ice rink
Photos: Republic of Korea from Seoul, Republic of Korea / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0 · by LWY / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 · Republic of Korea from Seoul, Republic of Korea / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0