Introduction
Seoul in December is breathtakingly beautiful. It offers a unique winter experience characterized by crisp weather, festive activities, and stunning scenery. The city comes alive with lights and joy, guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. The vibrant atmosphere will lift your spirits and leave you yearning to return to Korea for more.
In this article, we'll explore some exciting activities to make your trip to Seoul, South Korea unforgettable.
Shopping
Head to Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, two of the most popular shopping districts. Myeongdong is renowned for its beauty products and delicious Korean street food. Dongdaemun, on the other hand, is a shopper's paradise with over 30,000 stores and 25 malls.
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Cultural Experiences
A visit to a jjimjilbang (Korean bathhouse) is a must when in Seoul in December. These bathhouses offer visitors a unique cultural experience with various facilities for relaxation, including saunas, hot baths, and areas for stretching. It's the perfect place to warm up after spending time in the cold.
Winter Festivals
One of the best winter activities in South Korea is attending seasonal festivals. The Garden of Morning Calm, a popular botanical garden, is known for its fascinating landscapes and seasonal events.
The Lighting Festival, held from December 1, 2024, to March 15, 2025, features a spectacular display of 30,000 LED bulbs illuminating over 30,000 square meters of the garden. Interactive installations include illuminated arch tunnels, a glowing horse and carriage, and swings with twinkling hearts in the background—perfect for capturing memorable photos for social media.
This magical environment offers a special and unforgettable experience to enjoy with family, loved ones, and friends.
Nami Island
Nami Island (Namiseom), located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, is a beautiful destination famous for its natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and recreational activities. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
In winter, snow-covered landscapes make it ideal for activities such as sledding, ice skating, and building snowmen. Remember to wear warm clothing and appropriate boots, as the frosty weather can be quite intense.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a must-do activity in Korea! Seoul has several famous ice skating rinks that open in December:
- Opening Date: December 22, 2023
- Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 10 AM - 9:30 PM
- Friday, Saturday, and holidays: 10 AM - 11 PM
- Admission Fee: 1,000 KRW (approximately $0.77 USD)
- Facilities: Free rental of protective gear (knee pads, helmets), with additional options for winter apparel and lockers available for a fee.
- Admission Fee: Approximately $39 USD per hour for adults, with a minimum rental of two hours.
- Features: Known for its luxurious setting within the Grand Hyatt hotel.
- Features: Located in the popular Lotte World theme park, offering a unique experience with various attractions nearby.
These rinks offer a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations, children playing, holiday music, and people enjoying time with their loved ones.
Weather in December in Seoul
December marks the beginning of winter in Korea. The weather can be quite chilly, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C (37°F) during the day to -7°C (19°F) at night.
Be prepared for light to moderate snowfall and rain. Pack warm clothing such as coats, gloves, scarves, and ear-covering headbands.
Conclusion
As you can see, Seoul in December is a magical place full of winter wonder! From the twinkling lights of festive markets to the snowy landscapes of Nami Island, there's something for everyone to enjoy. You'll find plenty of ways to embrace the chilly weather and create unforgettable memories. Just remember to bundle up warm and get ready to experience the unique charm of Seoul's winter season. Who knows? You might just fall in love with this frosty wonderland and find yourself planning your next winter trip before you've even left!
Image Sources:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/skorea-sees-coldest-day-of-season-with-temperatures-dropping-to-393-c-seoul-freezes-at-255-c/2795586
https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3243744/3-seouls-best-ice-skating-rinks-visit-winter-holiday-heres-why-plus-price-opening-times-and-other
https://www.pelago.com/en/articles/nami-island-winter-guide/
https://blog.trazy.com/garden-of-morning-calm-guide/
https://10mag.com/6-things-youll-love-at-a-jjimjilbang-during-winter/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tX1JeFI8ejk&ab_channel=SeoulWalker
