December is a festive time in South Korea, with light displays and holiday festivals. Embrace the frosty temperatures and take advantage of reduced crowds as you visit top destinations, with evenings spent beneath the warm glow of colorful Christmas lights and lanterns. Hit the slopes for opening weekend at one of the country’s best ski resorts, or take in picturesque winter landscapes on a hike through a national park.
December in South Korea unveils a captivating winter landscape, just in time for the holiday season, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences and festive cheer. As the year draws to a close, South Korea embraces the crisp air and transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights and seasonal celebrations. The weather in December ushers in the heart of winter, painting a picture of serene beauty across the peninsula.
The average high temperature hovers around a chilly 37°F (3°C), while the average low dips to a brisk 19°F (-7°C), establishing December as the second coldest month of the year, following closely behind January’s frigid grip. Therefore, prepare for cold weather. While the temperatures may be low, December is also considered among the driest months. In the bustling metropolis of Seoul, the daily chance of rain is a mere 10%, and the capital city receives, on average, less than an inch of precipitation throughout the entire month. This relative dryness, coupled with low humidity levels, can create an even drier sensation in the air, so make sure you moisturize!
When embarking on your sightseeing adventures this month, it’s crucial to equip yourself with appropriate winter gear. Be sure to bundle up in layers to shield yourself from the piercing cold winds that often blow in from the northwest. While snow is a possibility in most parts of the country, it remains a relatively rare occurrence. However, as December progresses, travelers venturing into the northern ski regions can anticipate substantial snowfall, creating ideal conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. The days continue to shorten as the month progresses, reaching their minimum length during the third week of December, marking the winter solstice, the year’s shortest day. While the hours of sunshine may be limited, visitors can generally expect clear skies, providing ample opportunities for engaging in various outdoor activities.
December marks the beginning of the winter low season in South Korea, presenting a welcome respite from the bustling crowds typically encountered at popular tourist destinations. This translates into more reasonable prices for flights and accommodations, making it an opportune time to explore the country without breaking the bank. This month presents an excellent opportunity to snag attractive deals on travel expenses and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of major cities, such as Seoul, without having to contend with overwhelming crowds. However, it’s worth noting that Korean schoolchildren typically begin their winter vacation in mid-December, which leads to an increase in domestic tourism at family-friendly attractions like the country’s beloved theme parks. Similarly, visitors should anticipate a rise in crowds and costs during the holiday season at the end of the month. Christmas is recognized as a public holiday for South Korean workers, and many people take advantage of the long weekend.
For those seeking the best holiday sightseeing experiences, Seoul is an ideal starting point. Throughout December, the capital city transforms into a dazzling spectacle of festive light displays and Christmas decorations. Experience the captivating holiday spirit of Seoul by indulging in activities such as ice skating at Seoul City Hall or taking a leisurely stroll along Myeongdong Walking Street, bathed in the warm glow of colorful string lights. However, Seoul is by no means the sole destination for holiday festivities. Consider a trip to Busan, the vibrant coastal city, to witness the annual Christmas Tree Festival and the Haeundae Lighting Festival, where you can revel in a “white Christmas” ambiance along Busan’s picturesque beaches. Alternatively, for an option closer to Seoul, embark on a delightful day trip to the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival, located in Gapyeong County, and witness the arboretum’s stunning transformation into a winter wonderland.
As the ski season commences, winter sports aficionados have a multitude of options to capitalize on the prevailing wintry weather conditions. For the best possible natural snowfall, head to the mountainous northwest region of the country. The Pyeongchang district, which served as the esteemed host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, now boasts several world-class ski resorts that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. These resorts offer not only exhilarating slopes but also cozy lodges where you can warm up with a hot beverage. Visitors staying in Seoul can easily plan a convenient day trip to a resort near the capital city, such as Jisan Forest Resort or Konjiam Resort, both of which are approximately one hour away by car.
In South Korea’s major cities, December provides an ideal opportunity to explore top tourist attractions with minimal crowds. Start your day with a steaming cup of coffee or tea from one of the country’s renowned cafés. Chilly mornings are perfectly suited for indoor activities such as visiting museums, while outdoor sightseeing is best reserved for the warmest part of the day when the afternoon sun offers some respite from the freezing temperatures. In the evenings, be sure to bundle up in your warmest winter attire to savor authentic South Korean cuisine at bustling night markets and revel in the mesmerizing holiday light displays, which have the magical ability to make even the frostiest night feel festive.
Adventure travelers can celebrate the commencement of the winter sports season this month. Hit the slopes for opening weekend toward the beginning of December, or wait until the end of the month when natural snowfall is typically heavier. Hiking remains a popular year-round activity in South Korea, and wintertime offers its own unique charm. Admire the breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains and the picturesque winter landscapes at the country’s premier national parks, from Hallasan National Park on Jeju Island, the southernmost point, to Seoraksan National Park in the northeast. Hikers should ensure they pack seasonally appropriate gear, including cleats or spikes, to provide adequate traction on icy surfaces.
A variety of events enhance the December experience:
**Busan Christmas Tree Festival**, **Busan**: From December to January, immerse yourself in the spectacular lights and Christmas tree display in the heart of Busan.
**Haeundae Lighting Festival**, **Busan**: This second Christmas-themed festival in Busan illuminates Haeundae Beach and the surrounding area, creating a magical atmosphere.
**Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival**, **Gapyeong**: This captivating festival, held from December to March, transforms the natural surroundings of the Garden of Morning Calm arboretum into a vibrant spectacle of colors.
**Seoul Lantern Festival**, **Seoul**: Embrace the holiday spirit with a Christmas market, light and lantern exhibit, and countless photo opportunities in the heart of the capital city.
**Seongsan Sunrise Festival**, **Jeju Island**: From December 30 to January 1, celebrate the end of the year with a breathtaking sunrise scene over Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Nature Heritage Site.
B-2324