December is a magical time to visit South Korea, as the country transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive charm. The streets come alive with dazzling Christmas decorations, sparkling lights, and cozy holiday markets, creating an enchanting atmosphere. While the crisp winter air brings cooler temperatures, it also sets the perfect stage for winter activities like ice skating, skiing, and enjoying warm seasonal treats. If you're planning a December trip, read on for tips on what to wear and must-do activities to make the most of your visit!
South Korea in December | 2025
❄️ Must-Do Activities | 2025 Winter
💄 K-Beauty: Hair Salons, Skin Clinics, etc.
Other Monthly Guides
December Weather in Korea
Source: 한국경제
Starting in late November, temperatures in South Korea begin to drop steadily, often falling below freezing as December marks the start of winter. The weather during this time is typically dry and crisp, with a sharp, icy chill in the air. On calm days, the cold can feel brisk and refreshing, but when it’s windy or rainy, the chill cuts deeper, making it feel much colder and, at times, quite harsh. This captures the essence of winter in South Korea.
Source: 불교방송
As winter approaches, forecasts for South Korea’s 2025-26 season suggest somewhat warmer-than‐normal temperatures overall, but cold snaps are still possible. For example, in Seoul the averages for December still hover around –3 °C to 4 °C (26 °F to 39 °F), with occasional dips below –10 °C during strong cold blasts.
Given these conditions, visitors planning trips in December, January, or February should still dress in layers, wear insulated outerwear, and protect extremities with gloves and hats to maintain comfort and safety during their stay.
Seoul December Weather | Highs & Lows
December 2023 Seoul Temperature (Source: weatherspark)
Early December (Daytime): ~ 3 °C to 6 °C (37.4 °F–42.8 °F)
Early December (Nighttime): ~ –2 °C to +2 °C (28.4 °F–35.6 °F)
Late December (Daytime): ~ 0 °C to 4 °C (32.0 °F–39.2 °F)
Late December (Nighttime): ~ –7 °C to –3 °C (19.4 °F–26.6 °F)
In December, temperatures in Seoul generally sit just above or below freezing, with monthly averages hovering around –1°C to 4°C (30°F–39°F). Still, sudden cold waves can hit, occasionally dragging nighttime temperatures down to around –10°C to –15°C (14°F–5°F).
At the same time, you might catch a few milder days when temperatures climb slightly above freezing. These brief warm spells can make the city feel noticeably more comfortable, offering travelers a short break from the harsher winter chill.
Does it snow in Seoul in December?
Source: 이투데이
If you’re visiting from a warmer country, you might be excited about experiencing snowy days. However, let’s get straight to the point: December isn’t actually South Korea’s peak snow season. Even with the low temperatures, snowfall depends on having enough moisture, which isn’t always guaranteed in the plains during this time. The first snow in Seoul fell on November 26, 2024. However, as of November 25, 2025, it has yet to snow in Seoul. We may have to wait until December to see snowfall.
Korean Fashion | What To Wear in December
Source: 무신사
In December, dressing for South Korea focuses on staying warm outdoors and protecting against the wind. Layering isn’t always necessary; a thermal shirt paired with a long-sleeve top and a down jacket is usually enough.
Indoor spaces and subways in South Korea are heated during the winter, so wearing too many layers can feel cumbersome. As long as your outermost coat is warm and windproof, you’ll be prepared. Since most time is spent indoors, accessories like scarves, hats, and gloves are optional and depend on personal preference.
Source: 무신사
In recent years, short down (puffer) jackets have made a comeback in South Korea. However, wardrobe choices often depend on the weather. When temperatures drop to an extreme -15°C (5°F), practicality takes precedence over fashion, and people tend to opt for long down jackets that provide full-body coverage to stay warm.
What to Wear in Korea | Seasonal Guide
What to shop for warmer clothes while you're here? Check out our shopping guides below!
Find winter essential accessories for super cheap here!
Winter Essentials Shopping Guide
Things To Do in South Korea in December
Budget-friendly Winter Activities
Ice Skating at Seoul City Hall Ice Rink
Seoul’s City Hall transforms into a winter wonderland every year with its outdoor ice rink. For just 1,000 KRW (1000), you can enjoy an hour of ice skating, including skate and helmet rentals! It’s a fantastic, budget-friendly way to embrace the chilly weather and get into the festive spirit.
Opens Dec. 19th ~ Feb 8th
Address: 110 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 세종대로 110)
Public Transportation: Subway Station City Hall Station Exit 5
Snow Sledding at Ttukseom Hangang Park
If you’re looking for more outdoor fun, head to Ttukseom Hangang Park for snow sledding. At just 6,000 KRW for unlimited rides, it’s a thrilling activity for all ages. Slide down the snowy hills while enjoying views of the Han River—it’s a classic Korean winter experience. The sled parks are also available at Jamwon Hanggang Park and Yeouido Hanggang Park.
**2025-26 Season Opening dates TBA
Ttukseom Snow Sledding Park
Address: 139, Gangbyeonbuk-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 광진구 강변북로 139)
Public Transportation: Subway Line 7, Jayang Station (Ttukseom Hangang Park), Exit 2, a 5-minute walk
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed temporarily from 12:00 PM to 12:40 PM for snow and surface maintenance)
Yeouido Snow Sledding Park
Address: Inside Yeouido Hangang Park Swimming Pool, 82-9 Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울시 영등포구 여의도동 82-9 여의도한강공원 수영장 내)
Public Transportation: Subway Line 9, National Assembly Station, Exit 1, a 15-minute walk
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed temporarily from 12:00 PM to 12:40 PM for snow and surface maintenance)
Jamwon Snow Sledding Park
Address: Inside Jamwon Hangang Park Swimming Pool, 145-57 Jamwon-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul (서울시 서초구 잠원로 145-57 (잠원동 121) 잠원한강공원 수영장 내)
Public Transportation: Subway Line 3, Jamwon Station, Exit 4, a 20-minute walk
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed temporarily from 12:00 PM to 12:40 PM for snow and surface maintenance)
Christmas Markets & Festivals in South Korea 2025
The holiday spirit comes alive in Korea starting in November, with malls and streets decked out in dazzling Christmas lights and displays. Some of the best spots to admire festive decor include The Hyundai Seoul and Lotte Tower. Wander around, snap Instagram-worthy photos, and soak in the holiday cheer—all for free!
🏷️ LOTTE TOWN Christmas Market
🗓️ Dates: November 20 (Thu) – January 4 (Sun)
📍 Location: World Park (Grass Plaza), Lotte World Tower, Jamsil
Outdoor market, large scale: 52+ booths, big Christmas tree, carousel, light shows.
Entry: Free before 4 PM (via “General Free Ticket”), after 4 PM there’s a paid ticket (~₩5,000) including a photo-print voucher.
Tip: Evening is more vivid (lights + atmosphere), but more crowded. If you go late afternoon before 4 PM you can enter free (if ticket still available) and get good daylight/early evening shots.
🏷️ Gwanghwamun Christmas Market
🗓️ Dates: December 12 - 31, 2025
📍 Location: Gwanghwamun Plaza, Sejongdaero 175, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 세종대로 175 (세종로) 광화문광장)
🏷️ Seoul Light Gwanghwamun
🗓️ Dates: December 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026.
📍 Location: Gwanghwamun Square (Sejong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
A large-scale media-art light festival where Gwanghwamun Square transforms into a luminous canvas—featuring projection mapping on historic gates, interactive light sculptures, and Instagram-worthy installations.
Tip: Best experienced at evening/night time when the lights are most vivid; dress warmly for standing outdoors.
🏷️ Seoul Light DDP
🗓️ Dates: December 18, 2025 – December 31, 2025.
📍 Location: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Seoul – the futuristic landmark designed by Zaha Hadid.
A winter edition of a light & media-art festival projected onto and around DDP, offering immersive installations and visual spectacles in one of Seoul’s most architecturally striking venues.
Tip: Arrive after dark for full effect; it’s near shopping and street-food areas in Dongdaemun, so you can combine strolling with light viewings.
🏷️ Seoul Lantern Festival (Bit Chorong Festival)
🗓️ Dates: December 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026
📍 Location: Along Cheonggyecheon Stream & Uicheon, central Seoul (near Jongno/Jung districts)
A magical lantern-and-light exhibition featuring traditional hanji lanterns alongside LED art displays. Meandering through the stream path at night offers a serene contrast to the city’s bustle.
Tip: Best viewed from around 18:00 to 22:00; the terrain is pedestrian-friendly but cold—wear good footwear and warm gear.
🏷️ SeoulCON
🗓️ Dates: December 29, 2025 – January 1, 2026
📍 Location: Primarily at DDP + surrounding festival venues in Seoul.
A global influencer and K-culture convention embedded within the winter festival, featuring street fashion, live stream events, K-pop dance parties, and the New Year Eve countdown. Over 3,000 influencer teams from 50+ countries expected.
Tip: If you're into K-culture or influencer-scene vibes, go during the evening; expect crowds and high energy.
🏷️ Bell Ringing Ceremony
🗓️ Dates: December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026
📍 Location: Bosingak Pavilion, Jongno-gu, Seoul
A landmark New Year’s countdown ceremony where the giant bell at Bosingak is rung at midnight accompanied by synchronized light and visual effects (“Midnight Sun”), welcoming the new year in style.
Tip: Get there early (before 23:00) if you want a good viewing spot; it’ll be packed. Dress very warmly—it can be freezing at midnight.
Skin Treatments for Dry Skin
Taking care of your skin during the drier months is essential, especially with the harsh contrast between chilly outdoor air and heated indoor spaces. One quick and effective solution is getting a skin treatment! It’s also surprisingly affordable in South Korea, so be sure to give it a try while you’re here!
Here are our top foreigner-friendly skin clinics:
South Korea in December | 2025
❄️ Must-Do Activities | 2025 Winter
💄 K-Beauty: Hair Salons, Skin Clinics, etc.
We hope that this has helped you plan out your winter Korea trip! If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment below or send us an email at help@creatrip.com! You can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook to stay updated on all things Korea!
