January in South Korea is a delightful time for winter enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. As the heart of winter, the country offers pristine snowy landscapes and a serene atmosphere. Streets are still adorned with festive lights, and traditional markets exude warmth with hot street foods and unique crafts. This month is ideal for experiencing outdoor winter sports like skiing or ice fishing. If you're headed here in January, here’s what you need to pack and the top activities you can't miss for a truly memorable trip!
South Korea in January | 2026
❄️ Must-Do Activities | 2025-26 Winter
💄 K-Beauty: Hair Salons, Skin Clinics, etc.
✨ Beauty Cashback Promotion ✨
Recently visited a skin clinic?
Upload your receipt and get 10% back in points!
Learn more about it here 👇
Other Monthly Guides
February | ||
January Weather in Korea
(Credit: Donga Ilbo)
January in South Korea marks the heart of winter, with cold, dry air settling across the peninsula. Temperatures frequently drop below freezing, and brisk winds can make it feel significantly colder, especially in the mornings and evenings. While the cold can be sharp, January 2026 is expected to follow a variable winter pattern, with short cold snaps alternating with milder periods.
(Credit: Yonhap News)
Snowfall adds a scenic charm to cities and landscapes, particularly in northern and inland regions. While snow is not constant, certain periods may bring brief but noticeable snow events, creating classic winter scenes without fully disrupting travel.
Seoul January Weather | Highs & Lows
Based on current forecasts, January 2026 temperatures are expected to be near seasonal averages or slightly milder overall, though short-lived cold waves are still likely.
Coldest periods: Early and late January
Milder stretches: Mid-January, with occasional daytime thaws
Wind chill: Can make temperatures feel several degrees colder
In Seoul, average temperatures are expected to range between –6°C (21°F) and 2°C (36°F), with colder nights dipping lower during brief cold spells. Extreme lows may occur on isolated days but are not expected to persist for long periods.
Visitors should still come prepared with:
Insulated outerwear
Thermal layers
Gloves, scarves, and hats
These essentials will make outdoor sightseeing far more comfortable.
How many days of snow can we expect?
Snow is a familiar part of January in Korea, but it’s usually intermittent rather than constant.
Seoul & Capital Area: approximately 4–7 snowy days
Gangwon (inland & mountainous areas): 7–10 days, with heavier accumulation
Other regions: fewer, more localized snow events
In Seoul, snowfall is typically light to moderate, with accumulation often limited to a few centimeters and melting quickly due to urban heat and sunny intervals. Snowy days tend to be visually striking — especially around parks and the Han River — but rarely cause major disruptions.
That said, travelers should stay alert for sudden snow bursts and icy roads, which can occur with little warning during winter weather shifts.
Korean Fashion | What To Wear in January
Source: 무신사
In January, dressing for the cold in South Korea is crucial, especially considering the harsher temperatures compared to December. A thermal base layer followed by a long-sleeve top and a heavy down jacket should suffice for outdoor activities.
Indoors and in subways, heating is typically very efficient during the winter months, making excessive layering unnecessary and sometimes uncomfortable. A warm, windproof outer layer is essential when stepping outside, but indoors, you'll likely want to shed some layers to stay comfortable. While accessories such as scarves, hats, and gloves are not strictly necessary, they will help you feel more comfortable being out in the cold.
How everyone experiences weather is subjective, so dress how you feel comfortable! For an in-depth guide on how to dress and what clothes to pack for your Korea trip, check out our guide below!
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
What to do if you get sick in Seoul
The colder weather brings back the winter flu outbreak every year. It's preventable by keeping up with good hygiene and wearing a mask, but sometimes, it's hard to fend off. If you're in need of emergency services in Seoul, stop by one of these hospitals with international clinics.
[Itaewon] International Clinic - English-Speaking Clinic
*This location is a clinic, while the others listed are hospitals. If you're looking for a more affordable option and your symptoms are not severe, this clinic is recommended.
- Location: 211 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul
- Contact: 02-790-0857
- Website: https://www.internationalclinic.co.kr:450/
- Operating Hours: 09:00 - 18:00 (Open until 2PM on Saturdays; Closed on Tuesdays and Sundays)
- Access: Walk straight for 3-mins from Itaewon Station Exit 2
[Jamsil] Asan Medical Center - International Healthcare Service
- Location: 88, Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul
- Contact: +82-2-3010-5001
- Website: Asan Medical Center (Available in Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Mongolian, Arabic)
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
- Access: Take the hospital shuttle from near Jamsillaru Station (Line 2, exit 1) which arrives every 10 minutes, or bus 4318 from Jamsil Station (Line 2, exit 7).
[Gangnam] Samsung Medical Center - International Healthcare Service
- Location: 80, Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Contact: Main: 02)3410-0200, Russian: 02)3410-6531, Chinese: 02)3410-1075
- Website: Samsung Medical Center (Languages include Korean, English, Chinese, Arabic, and more)
- Operating Hours: Weekdays 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Access: A five-minute walk from Irwon Station (Line 3, exit 1).
[Jongno, Myeongdong, Dongdaemun-gu] Seoul National University Hospital - International Healthcare Service
- Location: 101, Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Contact: 02)2072-2890/0505
- Website: SNU Hospital (Multilingual support)
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- Access: Near Hyehwa Station (Line 4, exit 3).
[Hongdae, Sinchon, Mapo-gu] Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Hospital) - International Healthcare Service
- Location: 134, Sinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
- Contact: 02)2228-5800/5810
- Emergency Contact: 02) 2228 - 8888, 6566
- Website: Severance Hospital (Available in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian)
- Operating Hours: Weekdays 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM; Saturdays 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
- Access: 15-minute walk from Sinchon Station (Line 2, exit 3) or take the shuttle next to Yonsei University.
[Gangnam] Seoul St. Mary's Hospital (Catholic University of Korea) - International Healthcare Service
- Location: 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
- Contact: 02)2258-5745
- Emergency Contact: 02) 2228 - 8888, 6566
- Website: Seoul St. Mary's Hospital (Multiple languages available)
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Access: A short walk from Express Bus Terminal Station (Line 7, 9, exit 4) or shuttle from exit 3 (Line 3).
Pharmacies: Pharmacies in Korea are identified by the "약" sign. They typically stock Western medicines, with most over-the-counter medications available only at pharmacies. Basic drugs like Tylenol or aspirin can also be found in convenience stores. Pharmacies are generally closed on Sundays, although those near major transport hubs may remain open.
Things To Do in South Korea January
Wondering what 2025, the Year of the Snake, has in store for you?
Discover your future with Creatrip’s Korean New Year Fortune-Telling!
Results delivered online within 24 hours!
Where to See The New Year's Countdown in Seoul
It’s a unique experience celebrating the New Year in a crowd full of people just as excited for the upcoming year, counting down the last few seconds of another fulfilling year. Here are the major New Year's Eve events happening in Seoul!
Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony
A historic and deeply symbolic event, the Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony features the striking of the large bell in Jongno 12 times at midnight, heralding the New Year. This tradition, attended by both locals and tourists, is a vibrant celebration of Korean heritage and communal hope for the future.
Address: Bosingak Bell, 54 Jong-ro, Jongno District, Seoul (서울 종로구 종로 54 보신각)
Seoul Light DDP & Gwanghwamun
The Seoul Light DDP event transforms the Dongdaemun Design Plaza into a mesmerizing light festival. Featuring spectacular light installations and multimedia shows, this event combines art and technology to create an unforgettable New Year’s Eve spectacle in the heart of Seoul.
Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Jung District, Seoul (서울 중구 을지로 281)
2026 Lotte World Tower Countdown
Celebrating New Year's Eve at Lotte Tower involves an impressive fireworks display that lights up the Seoul skyline from one of the tallest buildings in the world. The event draws large crowds, all eager to catch the breathtaking views of the fireworks enveloping the tower.
Address: 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa District, Seoul (서울 송파구 올림픽로 300)
Myeongdong Shinsegae Department Store 2025 Countdown Show Light Now
The Myeongdong Shinsegae Department Store hosts a special concert event for New Year’s Eve, offering live performances that attract K-pop fans and shoppers alike. Set against the backdrop of one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts, it’s a lively way to ring in the New Year with some musical flair.
Address: 63 Sogong-ro, Jung District, Seoul (서울 중구 소공로 63 신세계백화점본점)
2026 Sinchon Countdown Concert
The Sinchon Yonsei-ro concert is a dynamic street party that brings together live music and festive celebrations on the road leading to Yonsei University. This event is particularly popular among young people and students, featuring performances by up-and-coming artists and bands to kick off the New Year with energy and excitement.
Address: Yonsei Street, Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (서대문구 연세로)
Cafes & Other Places to Enjoy the Snow
Seeing the snow is a highlight for many travelers to Korea, especially those from areas where it doesn't snow! However, spending extended periods outside in the cold can be less enjoyable. Here are some hidden gems where you can watch the snowfall from the comfort of the indoors.
📍 Inwangsan Shelter in the Woods
This rest stop near the base of Inwang Mountain transforms into a cozy sanctuary during snowfall. Stocked with books (in Korean) and free water, it offers a beautiful view of Seoul blanketed in fresh snow. If you plan to visit, be careful while hiking in the snow, and make sure to look up directions beforehand.
📍 Eunpyeong Hanok Village
Located in the northern part of Seoul, Eunyeong Hanok Village is less known than the popular Bukchon Hanok Village, but it is equally beautiful. Its charm truly comes alive when it snows, with the white snow covering the traditional roofs and Mt. Bukhansan in the background creating a must-see view.
Here are two cafes that we recommend stopping by to see the view from indoors.
📍 The Lone Tree (Nahollo Namu)
The Nahollo Namu is a lone tree on a hill in Olympic Park in the Jamsil area. When it snows, the hill turns a cottony white, and the tree stands out even more, enhancing its beautifully solitary presence.
📍 Tung Anguk
Tung is a cafe with a view of Changdeokgung Palace. You can enjoy a warm cup of tea by the window while watching the snow fall gently on the palace.
✨ Beauty Cashback Promotion ✨
Recently visited a skin clinic?
Upload your receipt and get 10% back in points!
Learn more about it here 👇
South Korea in January | 2026
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!
