Seoul in Winter (2026–27): Things to Do, Weather and What to Wear, December to February

Winter in Seoul runs from December to February: cold, dry and mostly sunny, with the occasional snowfall that turns palace roofs white. It’s low season for flights and hotels outside the holidays, the city glows with Christmas lights and winter festivals, and you can ski in the morning and soak in a spa in the evening. Here’s what to expect and how to make the most of it.

Last checked: October 2026. Winter 2026–27 event dates are announced from November; we update this guide as they’re confirmed. 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.

What is the weather like in Seoul in winter?

Cold snaps can push temperatures well below these averages for a few days, especially in January. Days are short (sunset around 5:15–6 p.m.), so plan outdoor sights for the middle of the day. More detail by month: Korea weather by month.

What should I wear in Seoul in December and January?

• A long padded coat (Koreans call it a “long padding”): the single most useful item.
• Thermal base layers under normal clothes, so you can take off the coat indoors without sweating.
• Hat, gloves and a scarf or neck warmer: the wind on bridges and open plazas is the coldest part.
• Warm, grippy shoes: sidewalks and stairs can be icy after snow.
• Heat packs (핫팩): sold in every convenience store for about a thousand won; stick-on versions go inside your clothes.
• Lip balm and hand cream: the air is very dry.

Full checklist: Korea packing list.

What are the best things to do in Seoul in winter?

• Christmas markets and lights (late November to December): see our Seoul Christmas market guide and Seoul in December.
• The Seoul Lantern Festival on Cheonggyecheon Stream, usually from mid-December: dates and tips in our Seoul Lantern Festival 2026 guide.
• Ice skating on the outdoor rink in front of City Hall, which has cost just 1,000 won an hour: see Seoul’s winter ice rinks.
• A ski day trip: several resorts are 1–2 hours away, with beginner slopes and full rental. See ski resorts near Seoul.
• A jjimjilbang (Korean spa) on a freezing evening: how a jjimjilbang works.
• Palaces in the snow: after a snowfall, go to Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung early. Wearing a padded hanbok gets you in free: see hanbok rental.
• Warm indoor stops: Starfield Library at COEX, museums, underground shopping arcades and markets.
• Winter street food: hotteok (sweet pancakes), bungeoppang (fish-shaped red-bean pastries), roasted sweet potatoes and fish-cake skewers in hot broth.

What events are on in Seoul in winter 2026–27?

Tips for a winter trip

• Book around the holidays early: Christmas, New Year and Seollal are busy for domestic travel, and some small restaurants close for Seollal.
• Use the underground: Seoul’s subway stations and shopping arcades let you cover long distances without going outside.
• Check fine dust as well as temperature; on bad days, plan indoor sights.
• Sunset is early, so night views (Namsan, Seoul Sky, the Han River) fit easily into the evening.

Is Seoul easy to get around in winter with a stroller or wheelchair?

The subway is fully indoor and most stations have elevators, so it’s the easiest way around in winter. After snow, sidewalks are cleared on main roads but side streets, hills (Bukchon, Namsan) and palace courtyards can stay icy for a day or two, so plan flat, indoor-heavy days after a snowfall.

FAQ

Is winter a good time to visit Seoul?
Yes, if you dress for it: fewer crowds outside the holidays, lower prices, festive lights, skiing and spas. Pack warmer than you think.

Does it snow in Seoul at Christmas?
Sometimes, but not reliably. Snow is more likely in January and in the mountains east of Seoul.

Are attractions open in winter?
Almost all are, with shorter hours at palaces and parks. The main closures are around Seollal, when some small shops and restaurants take a few days off.

Sources: Climate of Seoul (KMA normals) · Korea Grand Sale (official) · Korea JoongAng Daily – Seoul Plaza ice rink 2025–26 · Klook – South Korea public holidays 2027
Photos: Korea.net / Korean Culture and Information Service (Jeon Han) / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0 · Nat4Eben / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Republic of Korea from Seoul, Republic of Korea / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0