2024 South Korea Travel Guide: December Edition | Average Weather, What To Wear, Things To Do, etc.
If you're traveling to Korea this December, check out our guide to help you plan your trip!
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 | 2024
❄️ Must-Do Activities | 2024 Winter
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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 indicate that South Korea may experience exceptionally low temperatures, potentially reaching as low as -18°C (0°F) during the 2024-2025 season. For instance, in Seoul, average temperatures in December are expected to range from -3.2°C (26.2°F) to 4.3°C (39.7°F).
Given these conditions, it's essential for visitors planning trips in December, January, or February to prepare adequately for the cold. Dressing in layers, wearing insulated clothing, and protecting extremities with gloves and hats are crucial steps to ensure comfort and safety during your stay.
Seoul December Weather | Highs & Lows
December 2023 Seoul Temperature (Source: weatherspark)
- Early December (Daytime): 3–8°C (37.4–46.4°F)
- Early December (Nighttime): -3–2°C (26.6–35.6°F)
- Late December (Daytime): -1–4°C (30.2–39.2°F)
- Late December (Nighttime): -7–-2°C (19.4–28.4°F)
In December, temperatures in Seoul typically hover around freezing, with an average close to 0°C (32°F). However, cold waves can occasionally sweep through, bringing temperatures down to as low as -15°C (5°F).
On the other hand, if you're lucky, December might bring milder days with temperatures rising slightly above freezing. These warmer spells offer a break from the biting cold and provide a more comfortable experience for travelers.
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.
Snowfall Days in Seoul December 2023 (Source: weatherspark)
The blue section of the chart above indicates snowfall, while the green section represents rainfall. Based on the temperature trends shown, there’s a possibility of more snowfall if a cold wave in late December coincides with sufficient moisture. The first snow in Seoul fell on November 26, 2024.
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!
Winter Essentials Shopping Guide
Things To Do in South Korea in December
Olive Young December Big Sale
Dec. 1~7, 2024
Look forward to the last big sale of the year at Olive Young this December! Here are our Seasonal Olive Young Recs you should pick up during the sale!
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.
Address: 110 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 세종대로 110)
Public Transportation: Subway Station City Hall Station Exit 5
CHANEL THE MAGICAL HOUSE ICE RINK
Lotte Department Store has partnered with Chanel to bring a stunning ice rink to Jamsil, located at Lotte Tower. As a special promotion, customers who spend over 100,000 KRW (100000) at the department store will receive two free tickets to the ice rink. It's the perfect chance to enjoy a luxurious winter experience while indulging in some holiday shopping!
Address: 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul / Lotte World Tower, Jamsil, Outdoor Arena Plaza
Date: November 21, 2024 - January 12, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday - Sunday: 12:00 PM - 8:45 PM (*Last entry at 8:00 PM)
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.
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 2024
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!
🏷️ LE GRAND THEATRE Harry’s Christmas Show
🗓️ Dates: November 1 (Fri) - December 31 (Tue)
📍 Location: Sounds Forest, 5th Floor, The Hyundai Seoul
🏷️ Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch Christmas Lighting
🗓️ Dates: Starting November 1, 2024 (Fri)
📍 Location: 63 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
⏰ Lighting Hours: Daily from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
*Hours may vary based on last year’s schedule and are subject to change.
*Updates will be made as more information is announced.
🏷️ Lotte Christmas Village
🗓️ Dates: November 20 - January 5, 2025
📍 Location: Jandi Plaza, Lotte Tower, Olympic-ro 300, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울 송파구 올림픽로 300)
⏰ Hours: 10:30 - 22:00
🏷️ Gwanghwamun Christmas Market
🗓️ Dates: December 13 - January 5, 2025
📍 Location: Gwanghwamun Plaza, Sejongdaero 175, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 세종대로 175 (세종로) 광화문광장)
2025 SBS Inkigayo Tickets
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You can also get tickets to the 2025 KBS Gayo Daechukje here!
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:
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South Korea in December | 2024
❄️ Must-Do Activities | 2024 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!