South Korea is a great destination to visit in the winter, and there are many places to see and things to do. Here are a few recommendations for places to visit in January and February:
Some of the best places to visit in South Korea in winter
Seoul
The capital city of South Korea is a great place to visit in the winter, with many indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy. Some popular sights to see include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, and the bustling shopping district of Myeong-dong.
Jeju Island
Known for its picturesque beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and natural scenery, Jeju Island is a great place to escape the cold of the mainland. Some popular activities on the island include hiking, sightseeing, and visiting the Jeju Folklore & Natural History Museum.
Pyeongchang
The host city of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang is a great place to visit for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors can go skiing, snowboarding, or take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain for stunning views.
Andong
Andong is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional Korean architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the Hahoe Folk Village, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the traditional way of life in the region.
Busan
Busan is the second-largest city in South Korea, and offers a great combination of city life and natural beauty. Some popular attractions include the beaches of Haeundae and Gwangalli, the Busan Tower and the Gamcheon Culture Village, which is a colorful and picturesque neighborhood built into the side of a hill.
These are just a few examples of the many places you can visit in South Korea in January and February. Each of these places offers a unique experience and diverse culture that South Korea is famous for.
Some additional places to consider
Gyeongju
Gyeongju is a historic city located in the southeast of the country, and it is known for its rich cultural heritage and many historical sites. Some popular attractions include the Bulguksa Temple, the Seokguram Grotto, and the Gyeongju National Museum.
Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park is a beautiful natural area located in the northeastern part of the country. Visitors can hike the many trails, take in the stunning mountain views and enjoy the hot springs.
The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
The DMZ is a strip of land that separates North and South Korea, and it offers a unique glimpse into the history and politics of the Korean peninsula. Visitors can take a tour of the DMZ, which includes a visit to the Joint Security Area (JSA) where they can see the famous blue buildings that straddle the border between the two countries.
Ski Resorts
South Korea is home to many ski resorts, and they are perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Some popular ski resorts include Yongpyong Ski Resort, High1 Ski Resort, and Phoenix Park Ski Resort.
Chuncheon
Chuncheon is a city located in the northeastern part of the country, and it is known for its beautiful natural scenery and delicious food. Visitors can take a boat ride on the beautiful Soyanggang River, visit the Chuncheon Puppet Theater, and enjoy a traditional Korean meal of dak galbi (spicy chicken and vegetables) which is the city's famous dish.
These are just a few more examples of the many places that you can visit in South Korea in January and February. Each of these places offers a unique experience and diverse culture that South Korea is famous for.
Things to know as a foreign visitor to S. Korea in winter season
There are a few things that a foreign traveler should keep in mind when visiting South Korea in the winter season:
Weather
South Korea can be quite cold in the winter, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit) depending on the region. Be sure to pack warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, hat, and scarf.
Transportation
Public transportation in South Korea is convenient and efficient, but it can be crowded during the peak travel seasons. Be sure to plan ahead and check for schedules and routes to avoid delays.
Currency
South Korea's currency is the Korean won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it's always good to have some cash on hand in case of emergency.
Language barrier
Not all South Koreans speak English, so it's always helpful to have a translation app or phrasebook handy.
Cultural customs
South Korea has its own unique cultural customs that may be different from what you're used to. For example, it's considered rude to leave food on your plate, and it's common to bow when greeting someone.
Health and safety
South Korea is generally a safe country to visit, but it's always good to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Also, it is always a good idea to have travel insurance.
Visas
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter South Korea. Be sure to check the visa requirements and apply for one in advance if necessary.
By keeping these things in mind, you will be able to enjoy a smooth and comfortable trip to South Korea in the winter season.