Nestled in the remote Chilgapsan Mountain a couple of hours outside of Seoul, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival transforms this rural valley retreat into a glittering icy world that looks straight out of a fairy tale. This frozen festival of winter delights includes a giant wall of bubbling ice, snowy sculptures, igloos, ice caves, snow statues, ice carvings, and all round winter fun for the whole family.

In this article you can find out what there is to see and do at the Chilgapsan Festival, including the various ice-based activities and attractions, how to get there by tour or public transport, and information about whether this festival is worth visiting or not. If you’re thinking of visiting this Korean ice fountain festival, and want to know why I think it’s definitely worth it, then keep on reading.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Visit The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024?

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival (칠갑산 얼음분수축제) offers visitors the chance to see a truly unique sight – massive structures crafted entirely from long icicles that appear to sprout up from the ground and have earned this winter festival the nickname of ‘Ice Castle’. The icicles, sparkling to create the illusion of frozen ice fountains, are man-made but that makes them no less magical.

With its stunning mix of dramatic natural scenery and dream-like illuminations, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival promises a fairy tale experience found nowhere else in Korea. This festival runs from December 23rd, 2023 to February 28th, 2024, which makes it one of Korea’s longest winter festivals and gives you plenty of opportunities to see it if you visit Korea during winter.

By day, you can explore illuminated ice caves and sculptures that get more fantastical each year. But it’s at night when the full effect comes alive, with rainbow-hued lights reflecting off the icy landscape synchronized to festive music. Visitors wander through this winter wonderland with hot chocolate in hand, snapping selfies and admiring over 50,000 tons of magical ice art crafted just for the festival.

Who Will Enjoy This Korean Winter Festival?

I think the Chilgapsan festival will appeal to couples and families, as well as anyone who enjoys playing in the snow. There are many rides and activities aimed at children, so this is a great way to keep them entertained during winter and gives them a fun, snowy playground to play in. Couples will enjoy strolling around the snow-covered landscape, posing for pictures in the many photo zones.

Warning about Korea’s winter weather: Winter in Korea can be very cold, especially during January and February, with temperatures dropping below zero degrees Celsius even during the day. If you are travelling with children, make sure they’re wrapped up well so they don’t suffer from the cold. There are lots of markets in Seoul that sell winter clothes and you can get heat packs and hand warmers, too.

What To Do At The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival provides a whole day of fun for people of all ages with lots of activities available for everyone, especially children. The main draw during the day is the ice fountain, sculptures and ice caves, with winter illuminations bringing the festival site to life once the sun sets. There’s also Korean festival food to try, snow and ice-based sports, and children’s rides.

Here are some of the best things you can see and do at this festival:

Ice Fountain, Ice Wall And Ice Sculptures

The towering ice fountains, which give this festival its name, and giant ice wall really have to be seen to be believed. Created by shooting jets of water which then freeze in place, they look truly unique. They look impressive during the day, but look even more extraordinary once the sun goes down and the lights are turned on, illuminating them in an ever changing rainbow of colours.

As well as the ice fountains, there are carefully created sculptures (inspired by Korean cartoons, Disney, and Pokemon), cute animals, and lots more. There are also ice sculptures shaped like the famous Korean turtle boat, a frozen Gwanghwamun Gate, wild animals, and a life-sized train made from ice.

Ice Caves, Igloos And Illuminations

Head into the ice caves and igloos to escape the cold and see gleaming blocks of ice lit up with vivid lights bouncing from frozen surfaces. There are several icy buildings to wander around and, as with the ice fountains, these look best when it’s dark so you can appreciate the illuminations at their fullest. Speaking of illuminations, there are lots of displays with pretty lights to see at night.

Snow And Ice Sports

There are plenty of winter sports to keep you busy and this festival is a great place to see snow in Korea as there are many snow machines working just in case it doesn’t snow. Slide down the snow sledding slope on a rubber ring or the ice sledding slope on a small sleigh. If you prefer flat surfaces, try the traditional Korean wooden sleighs and push yourself along the ice with short sticks.

Besides sledding, you can also try your hand at other winter sports and activities such as ice fishing, bare hand fishing in frozen tanks of water, a zip line past the frozen fountains, and a cow-drawn sleigh ride through the snow. If you want to try ice fishing, the experience here isn’t as impressive as dedicated ice fishing festivals like the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, but it’s still fun.

Children’s Activities At The Chilgapsan Winter Festival

I saw lots of families at the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival and there were plenty of activities for kids to enjoy, including a tractor-pulled ‘can sled’. These ‘cans’ looked like big cut out barrels with chairs inside, but were quite safe and let the kids feel like they were in their own personal car. The activities aren’t exactly on par with Disneyland, but they’re a good way to play in the snow.

As well as the sled and skis, children can try horse riding while being led around a course by a handler. There are also cultural activities and arts and crafts in small tents, but you might need to know a bit of Korean to understand what’s going on there. Activities will probably vary each year and may only be open during the busier weekend day, but I’m not sure so they could be available.

Food At The Chilgapsan Festival

Fans of Korean food won’t be disappointed with the range of Korean winter snacks at the Chilgapsan winter festival. Inside the festival grounds you can try various winter street foods on skewers, including chicken, rice cakes, and fish cakes, as well as deep fried fish. There’s also a cafe to get coffee, but don’t expect a chain store cafe, this is a temporary hut with a coffee machine inside.

The best part about the food at this festival has to be the roasted chestnuts, sweetcorn, and sweet potatoes. You can roast your own chestnuts on a log fire and cook the sweetcorn over hot coals. The sweet potatoes are roasted inside big metal drum ovens and served piping hot and steaming. These provide not only hot and delicious snacks, but also a fun experience to try at the festival.

For proper meals, there are some restaurants serving traditional Korean dishes such as tteok-guk (rice cake soup), haemul pajeon (Korean seafood pancakes), guk-bap (soupy stew with rice inside), and my favourite, donkasu (pork cutlet). There are simple meals like Korean curry and soybean sauce rice, too.

Sights Near Cheongyang Alps Village

Chilgapsan is the name of the mountain that the Cheongyang Alps Village, home to the ice fountain festival, is located by, which is why this festival is sometimes called the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival. If you want to explore more of this area during winter, there’s a really nice suspension bridge, the Chilgapsan Suspension Bridge (천장호 출렁다리), and reservoir near the entrance to the festival.

The reservoir looks really pretty when it’s frozen over and covered in snow, as you can see in the picture above. You can walk around the reservoir by following the wooden pathways, which are decorated with cute Korean messages along the way. You might be wondering why the suspension bridge has two giant chili peppers at each end. That’s because this area is famous for growing chilies.

Ticket Prices And Essential Festival Information

The entry fee for the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is ₩8,000 per person (children under 36 months are free). This gives you access to the festival grounds and access to the sculptures, ice fountains, ice caves, igloos, and other sights and facilities at the festival.

The sledding pass, which includes access to the sledding hill for ice sledding, snow sledding, and bob sledding, costs about ₩20,000 per person. There are also additional costs for the zip line, ice fishing and children’s activities, such as horse riding and the can sled. The prices for these activities aren’t available on the festival’s official website yet, but I’ll update prices here when they are.

For more information about this festival (in Korean), you can visit the official Alps Village website.

Tours To Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024

Despite the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival becoming more popular each year, there aren’t many tours. If you don’t have a car, taking a tour to the festival is the best option and gives you the benefit of a guaranteed direct journey there and back, as well as a guide who can tell you more about the festival.

Here are two tours that I recommend for the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival:

Cheongyang (Chilgapsan) Ice Festival & Other Winter Sights from Seoul: This all day guided tour from various locations in Seoul will take you to some of the hottest winter destinations in Korea, including the Chilgapsan festival. There are various options to add on extra destinations, such as Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, Eobi Ice Valley, and a strawberry picking farm

Price: From ₩62,200 (about $47 USD)

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival at Cheongyang Alps Village from Seoul: This all day tour from Seoul will take you to the Cheongyang Alps Village to see the Chilgapsan winter festival. You can add on extras, such as ice sledding, snow sledding, and bobsleigh, as well as extra destinations, to give you a full winter experience in Korea. You get over 4 hours to enjoy at the festival.

Price: From ₩69,100 (about $53 USD)

I always recommend booking tours in advance when visiting Korea for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is usually easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

How To Get To The Chilgapsan Winter Festival

Cheongyang Alps Village is a resort located in North Chungcheong Province, which is south of Seoul and about an hour west of Daejeon. It’s about 3.5 hours away from Seoul by car and can be reached by car or guided tour. Here are details about how to get to this Korean ice fountain festival by each of those means. There are instructions in Korean on the festival website, too.

From Seoul To Chilgapsan Festival By Car: If you plan to rent a car in Korea, or you live in Korea and have your own car, then you can drive to the festival in just over three hours from Seoul. You can find the main festival location by searching for “칠갑산얼음분수축제” or “알프스마을영농조합법인” in Naver or Kakao map apps. Use the address shown below to get directions with a sat-nav.

Address in Korean: 충남 청양군 정산면 천장호길 223-35 없음

From Seoul To Chilgapsan Festival By Tour: There are various tours to the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival from Seoul, as detailed in the previous section. Taking a tour is a convenient way to see the festival and to save time vs. organising your own way there on public transportation.

Please note: You can get to the Chilgapsan festival by taking a train from Seoul to Gongju and then transferring to a local bus, but the options for buses are very limited and don’t run late. I strongly recommend either renting a car or taking a tour rather than trying to get there by public transport. If you do want to try, there are directions (in Korean) on the festival website.

Best time to visit the Chilgapsan Festival: The best time to visit this festival is in the afternoon so you can enjoy snowy sights during the day, but don’t have to wait so long for the sun to set and to see the night lights and illuminations. Avoid visiting during the weekends if you can as it will be very busy.

Is The Chilgapsan Festival Worth Visiting?

Should you visit the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival? In the words of my friend Tim, who kindly contributed a lot of the pictures for this article, this festival is, “Totally worth it!“. This festival has plenty to see and do and will keep people amused in the afternoon and evening. If you take a tour that also visits another winter destination, such as a strawberry farm, then it’s a great day trip from Seoul.

Families will find plenty to do with lots of the activities aimed at children, such as the sledding slope, horse rides, and the can sleigh. Even if you’re not travelling with children, the beautiful winter displays at the Chilgapsan festival offer couples and solo travellers the chance to take unique pictures with snowy backgrounds and icy buildings, sample traditional Korean snacks, and experience a Korean festival.

This festival is worth visiting, but please consider the weather during winter in Korea. It’s cold and dry, which can be tough for people not used to such conditions. Be sure to wrap up warm and bring skin cream to protect against the dryness. Gloves are a must and heat packs that go in your pockets can save your fingers. Be aware of the cold weather and you should be fine here.

A Special Thanks To Photos Of Korea

I want to give a big shout out and thanks to Tim from Photos of Korea for letting me use his incredible photos from this festival and for sharing his thoughts about the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival, which he visited in 2023. You can see loads of incredible pictures of Korea’s lesser-known locations and festivals from his Facebook page, Instagram page, and his uploads on Unsplash.

2024 Winter Festivals In Korea To See Snowy Sights

Besides this Korean ice fountain festival, there are many other winter festivals that you should check out for exciting activities, incredible views, and cultural immersion. These festivals introduce you to traditional Korean culture in beautiful surroundings and with lots of delicious Korean festival food. Here are some of the other major winter festivals you can see in Korea:

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations: Exploring sculpted gardens and electric forests when the sun has set is like entering into a magical world, a true winter fantasia with lots of photo opportunities. Every year the garden has a range of themed areas that focus on animals, plants, and even love for the sweethearts.

Seoul Lantern Festival: This dazzling festival is held in Gwanghwamun Square outside Gyeongbokgung Palace, which gives over it’s large pedestrianised areas to massive themed lantern installations. These installations feature different concepts each year like aquarium scenes, starry nights, nature landscapes, and Korean folktales.

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival: This is one of Korea’s best winter festivals and made it into CNN’s top 7 ‘Wonder’s of Winter’ for a good reason. The Hwacheon Sancneoneo Ice Festival attracts over a million people each year to try ice fishing (with a rod or bare handed). There are winter activities, ice sculptures, and a Korean Winter Village with cultural games and Korean festival food.

Learn more: Discover all the best festivals to visit in Korea this winter with this guide to Korea’s winter festivals, which includes ice fishing festivals, illumination festivals, New Year festivals, and lots more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is worth visiting because you get to experience a traditional Korean winter festival on a day trip from Seoul. There are also lots of other interesting ice-based games, cultural activities, and opportunities for sightseeing around this fish-focused town. This winter festival creates such a lively atmosphere it’s no wonder that it attracts over one million visitors every year.

In this article you can find out what there is to see and do at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, including the various ice-based activities and attractions, how to get there by tour or public transport, and information about other ice fishing festivals in Korea. If you’re thinking of visiting this fun winter festival, and want to know why it’s one of CNN’s “7 Wonders of Winter”, then keep on reading.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why I Love The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

This festival was the first winter festival that I visited when I moved to Korea and it’s one I’ve gone back to and will go back to again in the future as it’s pretty, fun, and has plenty to do. I bought a souvenir wooden fish from Hwacheon on my first visit and it still sits proudly on the top of my bookcase as a reminder of this festival. The fish I caught for lunch that day, however, has long since gone!

If I know people are coming to visit Korea in January and want to experience a unique winter festival that offers a fun day out from Seoul, the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is always the first I recommend to them. This festival provides a mixture of culture, sports, entertainment, involvement, and surprising sights that makes it so memorable. This is a great festival to visit as a group or family.

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival runs from January 6th until January 23rd, 2024, right during the coldest part of winter in Korea when the river freezes over and there is ice over 40cm thick. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe to walk on, or even slide and sled on, even with all those holes drilled in it for you to catch fish through.

What To Do At The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival provides a whole day of fun for people of all ages with lots of activities available for everyone. The main draw is the ice fishing, which is one of the first things you see, but as you eyes stretch out over the icy river, you’ll notice a whole town alive with things to explore.

Here are some of the best things you can see and do at this festival:

1: Ice Fishing & Cooking

Ice fishing is the main attraction at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and one that people typically start with when they arrive. All along the long stretch of frozen river running through the town are temporary ice fishing spots right above where the fish are swimming in the cold waters below.

You will be given a small fishing rod and bag to store your catch in and then shown to your own little hole in the ice. Now it’s your chance to prove your fishing skills by trying to hook the fish out from the frigid waters below. Once you’ve caught a few (limit of 3 per person), you can go to the kitchens and grill the fish or have it prepared as sashimi (raw fish). Both go well with a Korean beer.

Ice fishing on the river is probably not something most people have done and it’s fun to try at least once. There are lots of fun photo opportunities and the fact that you can cook your fish afterwards is a tasty bonus. Slipping along on the ice is also fun, as is watching others fail at walking on it so well.

2: Bare Hand Ice Fishing Competition

For those who want to test themselves in the frosty waters, there’s the chance to join in the bare hand ice fishing competition that’s held on the shore of the river. This is exactly what it sounds like – catching trout with your bare hands in a giant pool of ice cold water. It’s also a great spectator sport.

The contestants jump in the pool dressed in shorts and an overly large t-shirt (provided) and stuff trout down their tops until the 5 minute time limit is up. There’s a special prize for anyone who finds a trout with a golden ring attached, but otherwise you get to keep 3 of the fish you caught. You can eat your catch in the same way as the ice fishing and there’s also a hot foot bath provided to warm you up after.

The competition starts every hour (10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00) with up to 40 people jumping in the pool together – both locals and brave foreigners who have joined in. A friend of mine tried it one time and he really enjoyed it, but was happy to be out of the cold water by the end. I think he managed to catch 2 fish, which is pretty good. Definitely don’t miss watching this.

3: Ice Sledding And Snow Sports

There are all kinds of icy winter sports and activities to try at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival that don’t involve fish. You can try your hand at ice sledding in the traditional Korean way – on a small wooden box with two poles to push yourself along. Grab a box and give it a go.

Alternatively, you can jump in a giant inflatable ring and zoom down the snowy slopes, ending on the frozen river below. I spent quite a while doing this as it’s lots of fun. Fans of the Winter Olympics can try out curling, bobsleigh, and ice skating. If you want something more extreme, there’s also a zip line over the ice and ice suit walking (ice zorbing).

4: Ice Displays And Illuminations

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is home to ‘the world’s largest indoor ice sculpture plaza‘, according to the sign outside the entrance to one of the top attractions at this Korean festival. Inside this large building you’ll find a frosty wonderland of frozen ice sculptures of all different shapes and sizes.

One of the most impressive ice sculptures in this display is the large Korean-style traditional building, which resembles a small palace that you’d find in Seoul. There’s also ice slides, frozen fish sculptures, romantic photo zones, and lots of other interesting icy sights that no doubt change every year.

When the sun starts to set, which happens before 6pm in January, you’ll be dazzled by the beautiful winter illuminations and lanterns strung up throughout the town of Hwacheon. These cover the central street and also spread out across other key areas in the town. Unsurprisingly, a lot of the lanterns are shaped like fish to represent the famous sancheoneo mountain trout the town is famous for.

5: Winter Culture Village And Sights

Between the ice sports, fishing, illuminations, and strange people jumping into pools of freezing cold water are cultural activities to check out, including traditional Korean games like the ones seen on Squid Game, at the Winter Culture Village. Koreans are keen to introduce foreigners to their traditional culture and this ice fishing festival is an opportunity for you to learn more about Korean culture.

Some of the activities you can try at the Winter Culture Village include archery, slingshot shooting, fire fighting, and games like yut nori. You can eat Korean traditional foods, such as fried rice cakes and nurungji (scorched rice). There’s also performances with traditional instruments on the weekend.

Hwacheon is a town that’s crazy about fish and to show their love for their slippery friends, they’ve painted lots of colourful murals on buildings throughout the town. These make for interesting photo spots and holiday snaps. There’s also a giant rotating fish statue looking over the river that rotates from atop a tall tower. There are many unique sights like this to check out in Hwacheon.

Ticket Prices And Tour Options For This Festival

The fee for the main activities at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival (ice fishing and bare hand ice fishing) is normally ₩15,000 per activity for anyone 11+. However, to encourage foreign visitors to join in this winter festival, there is a discount for all non-Koreans. Foreign visitors to the festival only pay ₩10,000 (~$9 USD) per activity and children under 6 year enter free.

What is included in the entry price? The entry fee for this festival allows you to enter the frozen river and try ice fishing with the provided fishing equipment. You get to eat the fish after you’ve caught it, prepared on a grill or as sashimi (raw fish) for an additional fee of ₩3,000 per fish. There’s a limit of 3 fish per person and you can take them home with you if you like.

Walking around the town and joining in cultural activities is free, as are some of the activities such as curling and badminton. Other activities at the ice fishing festival, such as sledding, bobsleigh, rubber tube slides, zip line etc., come with additional charges as follows:

Tours To The 2024 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

There are a number of tours available to the Hwacheon Sancehoneo Ice Festival that depart from Seoul and are open only to foreign tourists. These tours include transportation to Seoul and back, a tour guide who speaks English, and entry fees to various activities, which means you can see the best of the festival for one price and without the hassle of organising your own transport.

Here are two tours that I recommend for the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival:

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival Day Tour from Seoul: This 11 hour round-trip tour from Myeongdong and Hongdae will show you the best ice fishing festival in Korea with a professional English-speaking driver and guide. The tour fee includes ice fishing with grilled fish, 5 rides on the ice sled, the Ice Sculpture Square, and a complimentary ₩10,000 coupon to spend on other activities.

Price: ₩53,000 (about $43 USD)

Hwacheon Ice Fishing and Garden Of Morning Calm Lighting Festival: This combined tour from Seoul will take you to two of the hottest winter festivals in Korea – the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival. The tour includes entry fee for the ice fishing activity with all equipment, an English-speaking guide, and entry to the Garden of Morning calm.

Price: ₩73,000 (about $55 USD)

I always recommend booking tours in advance when visiting Korea for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is usually easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

How To Get To The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

Hwacheon is a town located in Gangwon Province halfway between Seoul and the east coast. It’s about 2.5 hours away from Seoul by car and can be reached by car, shuttle bus, or guided tour. Here’s some details about how to get to the ice fishing festival by each of those means. There are instructions in Korean on the festival website, too.

From Seoul To Hwacheon By Car: If you plan to rent a car in Korea, or you live in Korea and have your own car, then you can drive to the festival in a couple of hours from Seoul. The main festival location is “화천산천어축제”, but you will probably need to visit a temporary car park to park your car. The address of the festival is shown below. Use Naver Map or Kakao Map for directions.

Address in Korean: 강원 화천군 화천읍 중리 187-15

From Seoul To Hwacheon By Shuttle Bus: There is a special shuttle bus that operates for this festival exclusively for foreign tourists. This shuttle bus only runs once per day at 8:30am from Hongdae / 9:00am from Myeongdong and doesn’t include entry fees to any of the activities. The price for this shuttle bus is ₩20,000 per person.

From Seoul To Hwacheon By Tour: There are various tours to the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival from Seoul, as detailed in the previous section. Taking a tour is a convenient way to see the festival and to save time vs. organising your own way there on public transportation.

Please note: You can get to Hwacheon by bus and train from Seoul but this might be more expensive than taking the shuttle bus and definitely takes longer. I would recommend either using the shuttle bus or one of the tour options rather than trying to get there by public transport. If you do want to try, there are directions (in Korean) on the festival website.

Are Korean Ice Fishing Festivals Worth Visiting?

Should you visit an ice fishing festival in Korea this winter? In my opinion, you absolutely should. These winter festivals are a great opportunity to see snowy and icy landscapes, try a range of fun activities, eat delicious Korean festival foods, and create lasting memories from your time in Korea.

Just look at the guy in the picture. He’s standing in ice-cold water with a slippery trout in his hand and he’s got a big smile on his face. Whether you’re taking part or observing from the sidelines, there are so many entertaining sights and activities to enjoy at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival.

The festival does involve a long trip from Seoul to attend, about 2.5 hours each way, but you get a full day of activities and unique photo opportunities. If you add a side trip to the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival at the same time, you get your money’s worth in terms of travel time.

The only downside of this festival is its popularity. It can get busy on weekends, which might put some people off. As a tourist, you have the luxury to travel during the week and I would definitely recommend visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds and get more time and space at the festival.

Other Ice Fishing Festivals In Korea

I would say that the Hwacheon Ice Festival is my favourite fishing festival in Korea, but it’s not the only ice fishing festival that’s on during winter. There are few other big ice fishing festivals that run at the same time of year and offer the chance enjoy more ice and snow-based activities in Korea.

Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival 2024: Pyeongchang, home to the 2018 Winter Olympics, hosts a trout ice fishing festival each year with many people attending to try their luck with a rod. There are other events to enjoy, including bare hand fish catching, sledding, snow rafting, and a sleigh train. For extreme sports lovers, you can rent an ATV and zoom through the frozen landscape.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

Inje Ice Fishing Festival 2024: Running for more than 20 years, this large ice fishing festival in Inje is a family-friendly winter festival that not only includes ice fishing, but a range of other activities, too. There’s the Ice Playground, Snow Playground, and Mountain Village, where you can build a snowman, learn to sled and ski, slide down slippery slides, see ice sculptures, and see cultural exhibitions.

Yangpyeong Ice Fish Festival 2024: Held in the Soomy Village resort, this winter ice fishing festival runs from December to February and hosts a range of activities for families and other visitors to enjoy. Besides ice fishing, you can experience kite-flying, top spinning, sledding, and making traditional Korean snacks (jin-bang).

2024 Winter Festivals In Korea To See Snowy Sights

Besides ice fishing festivals, there are many other winter festivals in Korea that you should check out for exciting activities, incredible views, and cultural immersion. Here are some of the other major winter festivals you can see in Korea:

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations: Exploring sculpted gardens and electric forests when the sun has set is like entering into a magical world, a true winter fantasia with lots of photo opportunities. Every year the garden has a range of themed areas that focus on animals, plants, and even love for the sweethearts.

Seoul Lantern Festival: This dazzling festival is held in Gwanghwamun Square outside Gyeongbokgung Palace, which gives over it’s large pedestrianised areas to massive themed lantern installations. These installations feature different concepts each year like aquarium scenes, starry nights, nature landscapes, and Korean folktales.

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival: The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is a lesser-known gem among Korea’s winter festivals, but is fast becoming a must-see destination as a day trip from Seoul due to the unique ice fountains. There’s also a lot of delicious Korean winter foods to try, such as roasted chestnuts that you can cook yourself.

Learn more: Discover all the best festivals to visit in Korea this winter with this guide to Korea’s winter festivals, which includes ice fishing festivals, illumination festivals, New Year festivals, and lots more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

Support In My Korea

Thanks for reading. If you want to help me to create more great content in the future, why not buy me a coffee? A strong coffee helps me write more and is a simple way to show gratitude for this free content.

Liked This? Pin It For Others

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Hiking In Korea

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April 15, 2023May 15, 2024

Joel Marrinan
Korean Culture, Korean Language

Skate on frozen lakes, fish through holes in the ice, slide down snowy slopes, and marvel at illuminated landscapes glowing against the night – there are so many ways to embrace the magic of Korea’s winter! From frosty ice fishing festivals that turn into carnivals on ice to beaches that brighten the shore with artistic light sculptures, Korea puts on an incredible festival spread all winter long.

In this article I’ll introduce you to snowy adventures, eye-popping light displays, fishy festivals, and exciting New Year’s festivities. Bundle up, grab your mittens, and get ready to join in the frozen fun as we explore these fantastic winter festivals across Korea that you won’t want to miss!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Visit Korean Winter Festivals In 2024?

Winter in Korea might be cold with early sunsets, but it’s also filled with blue skies, little rain, and lots of beautiful winter festivals that will cheer you up and wash away the winter blues. These frosty festivities provide the chance to see and join in unique Korean cultural celebrations that go back centuries.

Catching trout bare-handed in freezing waters, strolling hand-in-hand through magical illuminations, sledding down snowy slopes, or contemplating all the New Year has to offer you. There are so many incredible winter festivals in Korea that will make your trip to Korea an unforgettable adventure.

Perhaps the main reasons you should visit a Korean winter festival (or two) is that they’re a lot of fun, provide lots of unique opportunities to experience Korean culture, and look great in your travel photos. And if you’re from a country that doesn’t get much snow, it might be your best chance to enjoy it.

There are many awesome winter festivals to check out if you’re in Korea during winter that I’m sure you’ll love. Click the links below to jump to those festivals, or read on to discover all the festivals in this article. There are delicious Korean winter food festivals to check out at the end, too.

My Favourite Winter Festivals In Korea

There are so many astounding winter festivals in Korea, it’s hard to choose just 3. I love fun festivals where you can get your hands dirty and try something unique. I also enjoy learning about culture and witnessing something I can’t see back home, which is why I chose these Korean winter festivals.

1: Hwacheon Sancheono Ice Fishing Festival – this was one of my first festivals in Korea and I can still remember the taste of my freshly caught trout, sliding around on the ice, the beautiful night lights, and all the fun I had there. It really is a completely Korean experience.

2: Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival – the sights and colours at this winter festival are amazing, and really helped brighten up a dull wintry day. These gardens are a great place to check out any time of year, but even more so during the dark nights of a Korean winter.

3: Bosingak Bell Ringing New Year’s Eve Festival – I love to join in any kind of traditional festival when possible, and seeing in the New Year with something a bit different makes it a lot more memorable. Don’t miss the chance to see something unique as the New Year approaches.

2024 Korean Winter Festival Summary

There are so many winter festivals in Korea to check out from December to February. To help you see what festivals are on when you’re visiting, here’s a summary of the festivals by month. These festivals are included in the article and you can find more information about each in the following sections.

Please note, some festivals last for several months and therefore are included more than once.

Recommended Tours To Korean Winter Festivals

Why not take a day trip to a fun festival this winter? Travelling to Korea’s winter festivals by public transport can sometimes take longer and be more difficult than a guided tour. Here’s a collection of the best winter festival tours leaving from Seoul and Busan that you can add to your Korean itinerary.

Winter Festival Tours Leaving From Seoul:

• Cheongyang Alps Village Ice Fountain Festival Day Tour
• Eobi Ice Valley | Nami Island | Morning Calm | Railbike | Petite France
• Frozen Journey at Hantan Ice Canyon Day Tour
• Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing | Morning Calm Lighting Festival
• Nami Island | Elysian Gangchon Ski | Garden of Morning Calm Tour
• New Year Sunrise Tour: Sokcho Beach 1 Day Tour
• Pocheon Apple | Strawberry Farm Day Tour
• Pyeongchang Trout Festival Ice Fishing Tour
• Snowyland | Alpaca World | Strawberry Picking | Ice Fishing | Morning Calm

Winter Festival Tours Leaving From Busan:

• New Year Sunrise Tour: Ulsan Ganjeolgot & Gyeongju

Ice Fishing Festivals In Korea 2024

The very first winter festival I visited in Korea was an ice fishing festival in Hwacheon and it was an absolute blast. Ice fishing has long been a traditional winter activity in Korea that is now celebrated at various festivals across the country and open for travellers to Korea to enjoy.

These festivals, held in January and February, contain a lot more than what the name suggests. Combining ice fishing with other winter activities, such as ice sledding, bare-hand fishing, ice sports, ice sculptures, and snowy displays, ice fishing festivals in Korea provide a whole day of fun.

The main reason to visit one of these winter festivals is to try your hand at ice fishing. When you go ice fishing, you’ll be given a small fishing rod and bag for your catch. Slide over the icy river or lake to an available hole and begin fishing for your lunch. Once you’ve caught a fish or two (and taken a few pictures for social media), take it back to get grilled and savour the taste of your hard-earned catch.

Here are 3 of the best ice fishing festivals in Korea in 2024 for you to enjoy:

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival 2024

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is one of Korea’s most popular winter festivals held every January along a frozen river in Hwacheon County. Drawing over a million visitors each year, this iconic festival celebrates the mountain trout fish (sancheoneo) that live in the clean waters of the river.

Ice fishing sites, which come with all necessary equipment, are set up along the 1.5km stretch of frozen river where visitors can try ice fishing. Other activities include ice sledding, ice sports, and riding down the river on tube rafts, which is a lot of fun and what I spent a lot of time doing at this festival.

I recommend staying until it gets dark as at night the ice glows with colourful lights and sculptures and there are winter lights on display. Festival highlights are the ice fishing competition and the grand prize draw for all who catch a fish with their bare hands in the freezing pools!

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival 2024

Home to the 2018 Winter Olympics, you can understand why Pyeongchang would be the perfect place to host another of the best winter festivals in Korea. As with the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival, the main draw at this festival is the chance to catch your lunch in the frozen waters.

Head over to the large icy river and get ready to fish. There are also many fun events held throughout the festival, such as bare-handed fish catching (only for the very brave), sledding, snow rafting, and sleigh trains. You can even rent an ATV and go zooming about through the snowy landscape.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

Inje Ice Fishing Festival 2024

This winter festival has a lot more to offer than just ice fishing. Running for more than 20 years now, the Inje Ice Fishing Festival has developed a range of other activities to enjoy. You can find family-friendly areas such as the Ice Playground and Snow Playground.

There are loads of ice and snow-based activities and sports for all ages. Learn to sled and ski, or just play around with the various slides and build a snowman. If you want to learn more about how Koreans survive the cold weather, visit the mountain village and join the cultural exhibitions and activities there.

There are currently no tours available, but there may be closer to the start of the festival.

Yangpyeong Ice Fish Festival

The Yangpyeong Ice Fish Festival is held in the Soomy Village resort, which is a couple of hours away from Seoul. This winter ice fishing festival runs from December to February and hosts a range of activities for families and other visitors to enjoy. Besides ice fishing, you can experience kite-flying, top spinning, sledding, and making traditional Korean snacks (jin-bang).

There are currently no tours available, but there may be closer to the start of the festival.

Other ice fishing festivals that might be on but I can’t confirm:

• Hongcheon Ggong Ggong River Ginseng Trout Festival 2024

Winter Light Festivals Across Korea

With the advent of winter in Korea, cities across the country light up with magical illumination and light festivals. These dazzling winter events feature artistic light installations, massive LED displays, neon sculptures, and seas of sparkling bulbs that transform cities into winter wonderlands.

Korea’s winter light festivals are a feast for the eyes and spirit, spreading joy during the long, cold nights. Families, couples, or anyone who wants to see magical wintry wonderlands as the sun sets will certainly enjoy these festivals. I go every year and never fail to be impressed with the displays.

The winter days are short and the sun sets early in Korea, making it the perfect time of year for bright and colourful lights. You’ll find many brilliant light displays in places that are usually areas of natural beauty throughout the rest of the year, as well as in popular city-centre areas and attractions.

Here are 5 of the best winter illumination festivals in Korea in 2024 for you to enjoy:

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations 2024

Another of my favourite Korean winter festivals, the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival is one of the top spots to visit during the dark, wintry days. What makes this so special is the effort they put into making everything so colourful and alive with lights, even when the plants aren’t so alive.

Walking with your loved ones through these gardens and electric forests when the sun has set is like entering into a magical world, a true winter fantasia with lots of photo opportunities. Every year the garden has a range of themed areas that focus on animals, plants, and even love for the sweethearts.

If you take a guided tour from Seoul during winter, it’s almost guaranteed the final stop will be at the Garden of Morning Calm on the way back to the city. You only need a couple of hours to take everything in, and it’s only an hour from Seoul so you can be back in time for a late dinner in town.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

Herb Island Light Festival 2024

The Herb Island Lighting Festival in winter and allows travellers to see Herb Garden, which is a popular destination year-round, transformed into a glittering winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling bulbs and light installations. The entire garden is electrified with millions of little lights.

This winter festival is a place for lovers to share a romantic stroll along the Magic Road, adorned with shimmering lights shaped like herbs, flowers, butterflies and other pretty designs. Friends can make lasting memories of their adventures together crossing the glowing arch of the Rainbow Bridge.

Sparkling tunnels of light and fluorescent mushroom sculptures make for whimsical photo ops that the whole family will enjoy. In the evenings, the lights sync with music for delightful performances. I recommend warming up with a hot herbal tea, fresh from the surrounding gardens.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

Seoul Lantern Festival 2024

I love travelling to Seoul during winter, especially in the build up to Christmas as you can see lots of Christmassy scenes that remind me of home. One of my favourite festivals in Seoul during winter is therefore the Seoul Lantern Festival, which puts on a festive display of lights and lanterns.

This dazzling festival is held in the newly converted Gwanghwamun Square outside Gyeongbokgung Palace, which gives over it’s large pedestrianised areas to massive themed lantern installations. These installations are definitely the main draw, featuring different concepts each year like aquarium scenes, starry nights, nature landscapes, and Korean folktales. Last year there was a giant rabbit.

The Seoul Lantern Festival’s illuminated sculptures and immersive atmosphere attract over 2 million visitors every year, including me, making it one of Korea’s brightest and most popular winter lights events. If you want to experience a blend of Korean culture and winter lights in Seoul, visit here.

Seoul Winter Festa 2024

The Seoul Lantern Festival is part of the wider Seoul Winter Festa, which includes light displays at the newly opened Gwanghwamun Square (Seoul Light Gwanghwamun) and Songhyeon Green Plaza (Light Festa in Songhyeon). There’s also the impressive Seoul Light DDP where you can see digital light displays on the side of the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza. That runs from December 21st until 31st.

Haeundae Beach Lighting Festival 2024

The Haeundae Lighting Festival covers Busan’s Haeundae beach in glittering lights and illuminations during the dark winter when it’s too cold to go swimming in the sea. As one of Korea’s largest winter light festivals, Haeundae features a dazzling array of over 800,000 LED lights and installations.

Gunam-ro Street becomes a neon forest with towering light tree sculptures. Along Haeundae Beach, light structures create aquatic scenes like waves, jellyfish, and glowing reefs in the sand. Meanwhile, Dalmaji Hill is covered in romantic illuminations for couples to stroll through.

I highly recommend spending an evening visiting this winter festival and grabbing a hot drink to watch the light shows choreographed to music. There’s also a show on Haeundae Beach with lasers and fireworks over the sea. This is certainly a very impressive and photo-worthy winter festival.

Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival 2024

Located in Busan’s bustling downtown Nampo area, close to Jagalchi Market and popular Busan attractions, is the Busan Christmas Tree Culture Festival. If you’re in Busan and want Christmassy sights, this is absolutely a winter festival you shouldn’t miss and probably can’t miss as a tourist.

Wandering around the streets of Busan during this festival is like walking the streets of London or New York, with rows of Christmas lights, a giant Christmas tree, musical performances, and lots of other Christmassy events going on in the area. There are even reindeer and snowman lanterns to see.

Jeju Light Garden Winter Illuminations

Opened in 2017, the Jeju Light Garden is a large garden that spans more than 11,900 square meters of Jeju’s beautiful lowlands and immerses visitors in a fantasy world of vibrant lighting displays synchronised to music. This is not technically a winter festival, but it’s a great place to see winter lights.

The garden is comprised of themed sections like the Rainbow Bridge, Water Light Cave, Moonlight Garden, and Jeju Forest, utilising thousands of LED lights to create stunning visual effects. Intricate animal light sculptures, neon portraits, and dynamic light tunnels reflect off the surfaces at night.

Visitors can take a romantic stroll along the illuminated walking paths and bridges to admire the bright splendour. With shows choreographed nightly to Korean pop songs and classical music, the Jeju Light Garden provides a whimsical ambience unlike anywhere else on the island.

Other winter illumination light festivals that might be on but I can’t confirm:

• Boseong Green Tea Plantation Winter Light Festival 2024
• DDP Light & Winter Festa Festival 2024

Korean Snow & Ice Festivals 2024

For winter lovers like me, Korea has no shortage of frosty festivals focused on snow and ice activities. Head to Korea’s snowy countryside regions, which are mostly in the north, to discover opportunities for skating on frozen lakes, sledding down mountains, building snowmen, and more snowy fun.

From elaborate snow and ice sculptures to professional ice carving contests, these festivals showcase stunning frozen creations while giving you a chance to see Korea’s rural charm. Put on your warmest winter gear and get ready to have fun in the Korean snow at these terrific winter festivals.

It doesn’t always snow in Korea, but when it does, the sights are breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks, blanketed trees, and shimmering frost-covered waters. I highly recommend getting out of the big cities if you want to see snow in Korea as it’s colder and the snow stays around longer.

Here are 4 of the best snow and ice festivals in Korea in 2024 for you to enjoy:

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is a lesser-known gem among Korea’s winter festivals, but is fast becoming a must-see destination as a day trip from Seoul due to the unique ice fountains. There’s also a lot of delicious Korean winter foods to try, such as roasted chestnuts you cook yourself.

The centrepiece of the festival is its majestic ice fountains, where water sprays from the ground and freezes, creating towering, shimmering structures that resemble frozen waterfalls. These ice fountains, like an enchanting ice kingdom, look best during the night when they are set aglow with colour.

Apart from the ice fountains, this Korean winter festival offers a variety of other snowy activities for you to enjoy. You can try ice sledding, ice climbing, and traditional Korean games. Children and those young at heart can play around the many snowmen and ice sculptures, perfect for photo opportunities.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook. Please note, this is called the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival, but it is the same location. Cheongyang is the area, Chilgapsan is the mountain.

Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival 2024

Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival, located in picturesque Taebaeksan National Park, is a great place for snow lovers to enjoy winter festivities in rural Korea. Walk among gigantic snow and ice sculptures, join in the various fun activities on offer in this mountainous area, and try hiking, too.

There’s more to do here than just see the snow and natural beauty of Taebaeksan. For example, you can enjoy snow sliding, snow hiking, pop into an ice igloo, and see the various performances. Come on the weekend during the daytime for the performances, or any time for snowy beauty.

There are currently no tours available, but there may be closer to the start of the festival.

Daegwallyeong Snowflake Festival 2024

A family-friendly fun festival for lovers of snow, the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival is a good day out from Seoul or Busan. Located in the ‘Alps of Korea’, this festival is packed full of fun activities in the snow. Try snow sledding and enjoy sliding down the snowy slopes and into the soft snow below.

Furthermore, you can walk around huge ice sculptures representing building-sized structures, such as castles, people, characters, and more. There’s also performances during the day, parades, and a fireworks show to light up the skies at night, as well as obligatory night illuminations all around.

There are currently no tours available, but there may be closer to the start of the festival.

Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival 2024

This is not really a festival, but it’s a cute destination outside of Seoul that’s lots of fun, especially if you’re travelling with children. The Sanjeong Lake Sledding Festival is held on Sanjeong Lake when it’s frozen over with thick layers of ice and you can safely enjoy sledding and riding and falling over.

Children will love a ride on the bright yellow duck sled train, which looks like something out of a fairy tale, or riding on a penguin pedal bike. When it snows, this area is gorgeous, with soft snow covering everything. Relax and stay warm at the food stalls, amusement park, and other attractions.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

Other snow and ice winter festivals that might be on but I can’t confirm:

• Jaraseom Singsing Winter Festival
• Go-Go Ski Festival at High1 Ski Resort
• Gangwon Snow Festa

2024 New Year Festivals In Korea

As the winter chill sets in, Korea comes alive with festivals and events to welcome the start of a fresh year according to both the solar and lunar calendars. Yes, there are two new years in Korea, one on January 1st, and one that changes based on the lunar calendar, which is called Seollal.

Major New Year’s Eve festivals include the spectacular Bosingak Bell Ringing in Seoul and firework celebrations across the country to welcome the start of the new year. There are also traditional New Year’s Day events where Koreans watch the first sunrise of the new year by heading to the East Coast.

These lively festivals feature bell ringing ceremonies, fireworks shows, cultural performances, delicious holiday food, traditional games, and so much more. In Seoul, countdown festivities centre around Bosingak Bell and Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink and are free to enter, but might be rather crowded.

Seollal brings Koreans together to hold ancestral memorial rituals, dress in colourful hanbok, play folk games, and honour Korean heritage. There aren’t really any winter festivals in Korea that celebrate Seollal, but it’s a great time to be in Seoul as some attractions are free and certainly less crowded.

Here are 5 of the best New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivals in Korea in 2024:

Bosingak Bell Ringing New Year’s Eve Festival 2024

If you’re in Seoul for the New Year and want to join the locals in welcoming in the year ahead, head to Jongno for the Bosingak Bell Ringing ceremony. At the stroke of midnight, people will crowd around the gigantic bell in the Buddhist shrine and watch together as the bell rings out for the New Year.

Join in as people cheer and watch hundreds of balloons fly into the sky, celebrating the start of a new year and new opportunity for fortune and happiness in the year ahead. Bell ringing ceremonies take place at midnight across the country and you can find them in other major cities across Korea.

Lotte World Tower New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Winter festivals in Korea are often breathtaking, but few can compare to the sight of the world’s 6th tallest building alight with fire and colours on all 123 levels. With fireworks shooting off in all directions, reflected in the gorgeous Seokchon Lake below, this will be a sight not to miss.

If the celebrations for 2024 are the same as 2023, Lotte will put on a grand spectacle to welcome in the new year with 555 seconds of fireworks. This represents the 555 metres of the skyscraper. The festival starts at 8:30 pm with performances and attractions going on before the main event at midnight.

If you want to see what the fireworks at the Lotte World Tower look like, here’s a video of them from last year’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Homigot New Year Sunrise Festival 2024

Join thousands of Koreans celebrating the New Year by watching the very first sunrise of the year at Homgiot Sunrise Square. Wake up early, or stay out late, and see the sun hitting the crisp waves on the horizon. This is one of those winter festivals in Korea that is perfect if you’re alone or with others.

This particular New Year sunrise festival is the best place to see the first sunrise in Korea as Homigot Village near Pohang is the eastern-most point on the Korean peninsula. Therefore, it sees the sun before anyone else in the country. Be the first to welcome the New Year with this fun festival

There are currently no tours available, but there may be closer to the start of the festival.

Jeju Seongsan New Year Sunrise Festival 2024

Situated at a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is certainly a unique place to watch the sun rise in the New Year. The Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak is a volcanic cone rising out of the sea and connecting to Jeju Island. It offers fantastic views of the sea and the glowing light of the first sunrise of the year.

This is a very special location for Koreans due to it’s unique geography. It has been a famous spot for watching the sunrise since at least the 13th Century. The festival provides a chance to learn more about Korea’s rich history and to join in cultural activities and games before exploring Jeju in winter.

There are currently no tours available, but there may be closer to the start of the festival.

Gyeongpo & Jeongdongjin Sunrise Festivals 2024

If you’re staying in Seoul but want to watch the first sunrise of the year on the beach, then the easiest way is to head over to Gangneung and visit Gyeongpo Beach. This is one of my favourite summer beach destinations and easily accessible from Seoul thanks to the KTX high-speed train.

Not only is there the New Year sunrise to watch, there are also celebrations the night before right on the beach. Head to the beach for New Year’s Eve and watch fireworks shoot off over the rocking sea. Then stay warm in the bars and cafes along the coast. Once you’re done celebrating, check out Gangneung’s great cafes and keep staring out into the distance with a hot coffee.

There are currently no tours available, but there may be closer to the start of the festival.

Ganjeolgot Sunrise Festival 2024

If you’re near Ulsan at the start of the year, head to Ganjeolgot Cape and watch the New Year sunrise from the viewing spot above the rocky slopes. You can see some impressive views of the sunrise and join in with hundreds of other revellers in this popular sunrise point close to Ulsan. Stand in silence, clasp your hands together, and make a wish for the year ahead.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

If you’re interested in seeing the sunrise on January 1st on Korea’s East Coast, here’s a tour that will take you to a lovely beach in Sokcho.

• New Year Sunrise Tour: Sokcho Beach 1 Day Tour – from Seoul

Other New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivals that might be on but I can’t confirm:

• Sampo Beach New Year’s Eve Fireworks Festival 2024
• Jeongdongjin New Year Sunrise Festival 2024
• Seogwipo Winter Sea International Penguin Swimming Festival 2024

About Seollal – New Year’s Day In Korea

There’s not just one New Year in Korea, but two. The Korean New Year, known as Seollal, is based on the lunar calendar and occurs sometime in January or February. Seollal spreads over several days and is one of two long public holidays in Korea – the other being Chuseok in autumn.

The dates for Seollal for the next three years are as follows:

*When major Korean holidays such as Seollal or Chuseok fall on a Sunday, there is often an extra day off granted so people get more time off work / school. It’s likely that the February 12th will be an extra holiday to account for the Sunday Seollal date in 2024.

Whilst there aren’t many big festivals occurring during Seollal, as Koreans spend time with their families, this is a great time to visit Korea. Seoul’s royal palaces, including Gyeongbokgung, are free to enter and there are cultural events put on to celebrate Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Korean Winter Food Festivals 2024

If you’re a fan of Korean winter food, these tasty festivals will have your mouth watering. Although winter isn’t normally associated with food festivals, which are abundant in autumn harvest time, there’s still a few winter fruits and foods for you to enjoy eating, including winter strawberries and snow crabs.

For those visiting Jeju Island during winter, be sure to check out the tangerines and hallabong (big oranges). Winter is when they’re in season and you can find them in traditional markets for low prices. They’re sweet and juicy and absolutely irresistible – my favourite winter snack for sure.

Here are 2 Korean winter food festivals for you to visit in Korea in 2024:

Winter Strawberry Picking Festival

Winter welcomes the start of strawberry season in Korea, one of the juiciest times of year. There are several places to go strawberry picking, including in the major strawberry producing regions, Nonsan (Nonsan Strawberry Festival) and Yangpyeong (Yangpyeong Strawberry Festival). You’ll find big, juicy strawberries as you wander through the fields, picking them to eat later, or right then.

There are usually a feast of other activities at these festivals, such as strawberry cake making, strawberry jam making, and lots of other strawberry-based activities. Get your gardening gloves on and go out into the strawberry fields to gather some of the abundant red gems to fill your belly.

The easiest way to experience strawberry picking is with a tour from Klook. These tours typically stop at these festivals as part of a day trip that also visits other popular destinations in the area.

Uljin Snow Crab Festival

The Uljin Snow Crab Festival is dedicated to Uljin’s local delight, the snow crab. Whilst this might lack the glamour and excitement of other big winter festivals, it’s a chance to see how small town Korea celebrates. Witness the crab fancy-dress parade, crab fishing, and music performances. And, of course, try some delicious local crabs for dinner – perfect during a cold winter’s day.

Guide To Visiting Korean Winter Festivals

Here’s a brief guide to surviving and enjoying winter in Korea. There are a few things you’ll need to consider when you travel at this time, including the weather, getting around, and where to stay.

Weather In Korea During Winter:

There is no guarantee about how the weather will be during winter in Korea, except that it’s going to be cold and dry. Be sure to pack lots of skin cream as the dry air can be tough on your skin. Snow falls mostly in January and February, although you can also see some in December and March if you’re lucky. The snow is not constant, but can fall for up to a week at a time when it does arrive.

From late November the temperature quickly drops below 0 degrees Celsius at night and the days will be below 0 most of the time during January and February. The coldest I’ve seen the temperature drop was -18 Celsius at night. Make sure you bring lots of cold-weather clothes, such as a padded jacket and gloves, etc. Most indoor places and public transport will be well heated, no worries.

Getting To Winter Festivals In Korea:

Travelling around Korea is actually really easy, even if you don’t speak much Korean. There are great public transport options available in English, especially in big cities such as Seoul and Busan. To get around on all public transport, and taxis, too, you should definitely get a Korean transportation card such as the T-Money Card. You can buy one at Incheon Airport when you arrive in Korea.

Use apps and websites to help you navigate public transport in Korea. The best ones that I use regularly are Naver Map for planning where to go and Papago to translate any Korean into English. To book trains, use the Korea Rail website for train tickets between cities. You can book a taxi really easily using the Kakao Taxi app to call a taxi directly to your location.

Travelling outside of the big cities, however, can be a bit more difficult as there are not so many buses or trains and fewer English translations. Seeing as a lot of these festivals are in the countryside, you might want to consider booking a tour to travel to remote winter festivals. That’s why I’ve included tour links to festivals when I think it’ll save you time and hassle vs. trying to get there on public transport.

If you want to book a tour in Korea, I recommend using one of these tour companies:

• Klook
• Get Your Guide
• Viator
• Trazy

Seasonal Guides For Korea:

I think you’ll love these winter festivals and chances are you’ll want to come to Korea again later. No worries, I’ve got you covered for the other seasons in Korea, too. Check out my season-specific guides to Korea that will help you plan more amazing journeys in the Land of the Morning Calm.

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Spring is one of the best times to visit Korea due to the warm weather, sunny days, and bright nature that reappears after the cold Korean winter. This is the busiest season for festivals of all kinds, including the famous cherry blossom festivals in late March / early April. There’s so much to do.

This guide to the best spring festivals in Korea covers all the fun festivals between March and May and in all parts of Korea. Learn about what’s on this spring, how to get to each festival, when the festivals start and end, and all the exciting activities you can do at each festival. Find out more below.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

The Best Korean Spring Festivals In 2024

There are various spring festivals to enjoy in Korea between March and May that happen across the country in this lovely season. Whether you want to see bright & beautiful nature, unique sights & experiences, or learn about traditional & modern culture, there is a Korean spring festival for you.

Here’s a brief overview of what you can find in each section of this article:

2024 Korean spring festival summary: All of the 2024 Korean spring festivals listed in month order to help you figure out what you can see during your visit. Also some top festival tour options.

Korean cherry blossom festivals: Cherry blossoms festivals are some of the most popular festivals during spring in Korea. Find out which ones to see and when the blossoms will be out this spring.

Spring nature festivals in Korea: Besides cherry blossoms, there are lots of nature-based festivals to visit in Korea, including festivals for plum blossoms, bamboo trees, green tea, and lots more.

Unique Korean spring festivals: These Korean spring festivals are like nothing you’ve experienced before, including a sea-parting miracle, modern Korean cultural shows, and a lantern festival.

Korean spring cultural festivals: Find the best of Korean traditional and modern culture, as well as international cultural events, at these spring festivals. Perfect for those looking to learn about Korea.

Guide to visiting Korea in spring: Make the most of your trip to Korea in spring with these tips about spring weather, public holidays in spring, how to get around, and where to stay to visit festivals.

Use the links above to jump to the section you’re most interested in, or read through to discover all of the best Korean spring festivals you can see and explore. There’s also some great tips at the end of this article to help you enjoy visiting Korea in spring and to travel more easily.

2024 Korean Spring Festival Summary

There are dozens of spring festivals in Korea to check out from March to May. To help you see what festivals are on when you’re visiting, I’ve added a summary of the festivals by month. These festivals are included in the article and you can find more information about each in the following sections.

Korean Spring Festivals In March 2024

March is the start of spring in Korea and there are lots of festivals celebrating the return of nature after the long winter. There are maehwa (plum blossom) and cherry blossom festivals to see in the southern part of the country, as well as cultural festivals featuring Korean and international culture.

• Everland Fairy Town Tulip Festival
• Gurye Sansuyu Flower Festival
• Gwangyang Maehwa Plum Blossom Festival
• Holi Hai Festival
• House Of Yu Gi-Bang Daffodil Festival
• Hwagae Market Cherry Blossom Festival
• Jeju Canola Flower Festival
• Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival
• Jeju Field Fire Festival
• Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival
• Nonsan Strawberry Festival
• Seocheon Camellia Octopus Festival
• Tongyeong International Music Festival
• Wondong Maehwa Festival
• Yeongam Wangin Festival

Korean Spring Festivals In April 2024

April is when the cherry blossoms start to bloom in the northern half of the country, including Seoul. Not only are the cherry blossoms on display, there are many other beautiful flowers that get their own festivals, including azaleas and tulips. Visit the Seoul Festa for a look at modern Korean culture.

• Boseong Green Tea Culture Festival
• Garden Of Morning Calm Spring Festival
• Gijang Anchovy Festival
• Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival
• Goyang International Flower Festival
• Gyeongju Cherry Marathon
• Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival
• Jindo Sea Parting Festival
• Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
• Seoul Festa Festival
• Suncheonman International Garden Festival
• Taean Tulip Festival
• Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival

Korean Spring Festivals In May 2024

May has fewer festivals than the other two months of spring, but there are several large festivals to visit, including the Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival, which celebrates Buddha’s Birthday. The Damyang International Bamboo Festival is a great festival for those looking to walk among giant bamboo trees.

• Busan Gwangalli Eobang Yellowtail Festival
• Changwon Jindong Midodeok Festival
• Chuncheon International Mime Festival
• Damyang International Bamboo Festival
• Eumseong Pumba Festival
• Yeon Deung Hoe (Seoul) Lotus Lantern Festival
• The Samgwangsa Lotus Lantern Festival
• Haeundae Beach Sand Festival
• The Seoul Jazz Festival
• The Color Run Korea

Available Spring Festival Tours In Korea

Why not take a day trip to a fun festival this spring? Travelling to Korea’s spring festivals by public transport can sometimes take longer and be more difficult than a guided tour. Here’s a collection of the best spring festival tours leaving from Seoul and Busan that you can add to your Korean itinerary.

Korean Spring Festival Tours From Seoul

• Available Cherry Blossom Tour from Seoul
• Daegu E-WORLD Land & Spring Cherry Blossom from Seoul
• Ganghwa Island Cherry Blossom & Luge Ride from Seoul
• Garden of Morning Calm & Eden Cherry Blossom Tour from Seoul
• Goseokjeong Flower Field/Cheorwon Historical Day Tour from Seoul
• Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival & Seafood Tour from Seoul
• Gwangyang Maehwa & Jeonju Hanok Village Tour from Seoul
• Jarasum Flower Festival & Nami island & Alpaca Ranch from Seoul
• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Day Tour from Seoul
• Taean Flower Festivals Trip with Strawberry Picking from Seoul
• Yangpyeong Galsan Park Cherry blossom Tour from Seoul

Korean Spring Festival Tours From Busan

• Available Cherry Blossom Tour from Busan
• Cherry Blossom Hunting Tour from Busan
• Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Tour from Busan
• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Tour from Busan

You don’t have to book a day tour to visit most of the festivals in this article, but it can certainly help save time and planning if you do. Some of the festivals are in rural locations and I would certainly recommend using a day tour to see those. Alternatively, rent a car and drive there.

Korean Cherry Blossom Festivals Spring 2024

The biggest Korean spring festivals have to be the cherry blossom festivals, which run in late March and early April. Starting on Jeju Island and finishing on the country’s northern border, the return of spring is truly encapsulated in the celebration of these soft blossoms.

These spring festivals can draw thousands of people each day, with millions attending popular locations like Jinhae, Seokchon Lake, and Yeouido Hangang Park. The festivals below are 6 of the most popular in Korea with some of the most incredible cherry blossom views to enjoy this spring.

Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

When: March 25 – April 5 2024

The Jinjae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival hosts more than 2 million people each year, making it one of the largest spring festivals in Korea and one that shouldn’t be missed. People flock to Jinhae to see the blossoms create a magnificent painting of colours, with lines of trees painting pinky-white stripes across the city. Enjoy walking along romantic riverside walkways, trying delicious street foods, and taking pictures with the colourful street murals at this festival.

How to get there: To get to the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival, take a bus from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal to Jinhae. The journey takes 4 hours and costs W27,000.

Address: 경상남도 창원시 창원시 진해구 여명로

Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

When: April 1 – April 4 2024

The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, located at the beautiful butterfly-shaped lake that sits below Lotte World Tower, is a free festival that’s extremely popular thanks to the long, tree-lined walkways along the edge of the lake. Visit on a sunny day to get views of the blossoms reflected on the lake’s surface and falling from above. It gets crowded during cherry blossom season, but fortunately there are many places to take pretty cherry blossom selfies.

How to get there: To get to the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, take the subway to Jamsil Subway Station (Lines 2 & 8) and go out exit 2 or 3. The lake is visible in front of you.

Address: 서울특별시 송파구 잠실6동

Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival 2024

When: March 29 – April 2 2024

The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is where you’ll find the scenic street of Yeouiseo-ro Road, which is lined with hundreds of cherry blossom trees for you to walk under. This is a popular destination with locals who want to enjoy river views and lovely nature at the same time. At this colourful festival you can also see azaleas, forsythia, royal azaleas, and other spring flowers in full bloom. Stay for the night-time light show, where flowers are lit up as a backdrop to street performances and art exhibitions.

How to get there: Take the subway to either National Assembly Subway Station (Line 9) or Yeouinaru Subway Station (Line 5) and follow the festival signs.

Address: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의서로

Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

When: March 29 – April 4 2024

Head to Gyeongpodae Lake in the coastal city of Gangneung to see cherry blossoms with beaches. Gaze at the cherry blossoms floating on trees above you and blowing down to the lake’s waters when a sea breeze blows through the trees. With over 4km of trees to walk through, this is certainly a lovely way to spend a warm spring day. Check out the pavilion for romantic views that are best shared with a loved on. There are games and activities to enjoy, as well as unique festival foods, such as flower pancakes.

How to get there: Take a train or bus from Seoul to Gangneung City. From Gangneung Bus Terminal, take Bus 202 and get off at Gyeongpodae Lake.

Address: 강원도 강릉시 초당동 459-2

Hwagae Market Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

When: March 22 – March 24 2024

The Hwagae Market Cherry Blossom Festival, located near Jirisan National Park, is one of the most magical cherry blossom festivals in Korea. What makes this so amazing is the landscape, set in the Korean countryside for a view of cherry blossoms surrounded by nature. The attraction is the ‘marriage road‘, which is rumoured to guarantee a long and happy life together if couples walk down it holding hands. When the sun hits the blossoms from above, they cast a romantic pink glow on the road below.

How to get there: Take the intercity bus from Nambu Bus Terminal (Seoul) to Hwagae City. Get off at Hwagaejangteo Market and walk to the temple from Hwagae following the river. Roads will probably be crowded, so expect delays.

Address: 경상남도 하동군 화개면 쌍계로 15

Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

When: March 22 – March 24 2024

At the Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival you’ll find streets full of cherry blossom goods, arts and craft stalls, and festival food stalls, all overlooked by the cloudy cherry blossoms. This is the most popular cherry blossom festival on Jeju Island and a perfect place for blossom viewing. If you arrive a few weeks after the festival, towards mid-April, you can see the special Jeju King cherry blossoms. These cherry blossoms, native to Jeju Island, are bigger than the usual cherry blossoms and much brighter, too.

How to get there: Take bus 122 from Jeju Airport to Jeju Bus Terminal. Walk north along the river for 10 minutes or take a taxi. You can also see the cherry blossoms at Jangjeon-ri in Aewol and outside Jeju National University.

Address: 삼도일동 721-14번지 제주시

Korean Cherry Blossom Festival Tour Options

Here are some tours that will take you to these cherry blossom festivals if you want a simpler and faster way to visit the tours than by travelling on public transport.

• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Day Tour from Seoul
• Available Cherry Blossom Tour from Seoul & Busan
• Ganghwa Island Cherry Blossom & Luge Ride from Seoul
• Garden of Morning Calm & Eden Cherry Blossom Tour from Seoul
• Yangpyeong Galsan Park Cherry blossom Tour from Seoul
• Daegu E-WORLD Land & Spring Cherry Blossom from Seoul
• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Tour from Busan
• Cherry Blossom Hunting Tour from Busan
• Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Tour from Busan
• Jeju Canola Flower & Cherry Blossom from Jeju City

Want to know whether it’s worth visiting a spring cherry blossom festival in Korea? Check out this video of some of the prettiest, pinkest cherry blossom views in Seoul.

Korean Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024

The 2024 Korean cherry blossom forecast is now available and you can see the dates for the start and peak blossom dates in major cities and cherry blossom spots across Korea, including Jinhae, Seoul, and Busan. The cherry blossom forecast dates for South Korea in 2024 are on average a day or two earlier than 2023, indicating another early cherry blossom season in Korea.

The 2024 Korean cherry blossom forecast below will show you the start dates for cherry blossoms in Korea this spring. The cherry blossom peak (the best time to visit) is usually around 4-7 days after the start of the blossoming. The spring cherry blossom festivals typically run from the first blossoms.

For a more detailed guide to seeing cherry blossoms in Korea this spring, check out my Korean cherry blossom guide. This guide covers all the best festivals, riverside and lakeside walking spots, peaceful forests abloom with nature, and useful tips for getting around Korea in spring.

Spring Nature Festivals In Korea 2024

Spring is one of the best times to visit Korea. The main reason for this is the abundance of vibrant plants and flowers that come alive in this season. Korea has beautiful nature and shows it a lot of respect with a profusion of spring festivals focused on foliage, blossoms, and blooms.

From cool and shaded bamboo forests, to distinctly Dutch-looking tulip farms, there’s certainly plenty of nature-based spring festivals in Korea that will please outdoors lovers. These Korean spring festivals begin with the very first blossoms of the season, apricot plums, in early March.

Spring Nature Festival Tours

Many of these Korean spring nature festivals are located far from the major cities and are therefore quite difficult to get to, even if you are familiar with using public transport in Korea. Therefore, I’ve included some tours that will help you see these festivals and save you a lot of time.

• Gwangyang Maehwa & Jeonju Hanok Village Tour from Seoul
• Jeju Canola and Cherry Blossom Tour from Jeju City
• Taean Tulip Festival & Strawberry Picking Tour from Seoul
• Garden of Morning Calm & Gapyeong Day Tour from Seoul
• Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival & Seafood Tour from Seoul

The address of each of these spring festivals has been included below, as well as directions for how to reach the festival. Please note that some of these festivals may take up to 4 or 5 hours to get to one-way from Seoul or Busan, which is why tours really can be a much better option.

Damyang International Bamboo Festival 2024

When: May 11 – May 15 2024

The Damyang International Bamboo Festival is a beautiful Korean spring festival that is located in Juknokwon, a pretty bamboo forest with gigantic bamboo trees to walk through. The festival has lots of hands-on activities, including bamboo log rafting and water biking. There is also food made with bamboo, bamboo beer, and bamboo-based souvenirs to purchase. The Damyang bamboo forest is a peaceful, refreshing destination with lots of secretive pathways, babbling brooks, and traditional Korean buildings to explore.

How to get there: Damyang is far from Seoul, so a tour would be the easiest option. Take the KTX from Yongsan Station to Gwangju Station and then change to bus 311.

Address: 전라남도 담양군 담양읍 죽녹원로 119

Boseong Green Tea Culture Festival 2024

When: May 03 – May 7 2024

The Boseong Green Tea Culture Festival is a collection of festivals and events held at the lush green tea fields in Boseong and showcases one of Korea’s healthiest drinks – green tea. This festival will give you the opportunity to pick your own leaves, make healthy Korean green tea, and try lots of green tea-based products. Other activities include learning about traditional Korean tea ceremonies and the manners involved, a green tea stamp tour, tea competition, and even an astrology experience.

How to get there: Boseong is far from Seoul and Busan and a tour would be the best option. From Gwangju, take the train to Boseong Station, then transfer to Yulpo Bus 70-5 or 71-5/6/8.

Address: 전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 775

Gwangyang Maehwa Plum Blossom Festival 2024

When: March 8 – March 17 2024

The Gwangyang Maehwa Plum Blossom Festival is one of the first of the Korean spring festivals as the apricot plum blossoms are the first to come out after winter. The apricot plum blossoms are often mistaken for cherry blossoms as they look quite similar and are equally as pretty. Spread over 83 acres, there are countless apricot plum blossoms to see in Maehwa Village. You can sample apricot plum blossom ice cream at this spring festival, too. All made locally.

How to get there: This is not easily accessed by public transport unless you’re staying locally. Take bus 35 from Gwangyang Bus Terminal (75 minutes) to reach the festival ground.

Address: 광양시 다압면 섬진강매화로 1563-1

Garden Of Morning Calm Spring Festival 2024

When: April 15 – May 31 2024

The Garden of Morning Calm Spring Festival celebrates the beautiful rebirth of nature with a plethora of different flowers on display throughout April and May. You can find such delights as magnolia, azalea, Japanese apricot, forsythia and even cherry blossoms. There is also the wild flower exhibition to see in the large greenhouses inside the Garden of Morning Calm. Certainly one of the most colourful and beautiful of the spring nature festivals in Korea.

How to get there: The Garden of Morning Calm can be accessed from Seoul by bus, train, or by driving. Check out the directions from their website to find the best way for you.

Address: 경기도 가평군 상면 수목원로 432

Jeju Canola Flower Festival 2024

When: March 20 – April 10 2024

The Jeju Canola Flower Festival is held in Gasi-ri Town, which is famous for having the largest number of canola flowers on Jeju Island. This area has picturesque views of long, winding roads, cherry blossoms and canola flowers blooming together, and Jeju’s famous volcanic rock walls offering contrast to the bright spring colours. Drive down Noksan-ro Road between Noksanjang and Gammajang for one of the most scenic routes in Korea. Also visit Hueree Natural Park near Seogwipo for more canola sights.

How to get there: Both of these locations are not easily accessed by public transport. Car rental for Jeju Island is the easiest way to enjoy seeing canola flowers in spring.

Address: 서귀포시 표선면 가시리 산41-1

Nonsan Strawberry Festival 2024

When: March 21 – March 24 2024

The Nonsan Strawberry Festival is held in the central Korean city of Nonsan, the largest strawberry producing area in the whole country and one famous for large, succulent strawberries. The festival spreads across wide strawberry fields near the Nonsancheon Stream with millions of juicy strawberries to pick and eat. There are various events, such as strawberry picking, strawberry cake & jam making, and other strawberry-based activities. K-Drama fans can also visit the Sunshine Studio in Nonsan.

How to get there: Take the KTX from Seoul Station, change at Gwangmyeong Station and get off at Nonsan Station. Walk or take a taxi to the festival area.

Address: 충청남도 논산시 취암동 체육로 110

Gurye Sansuyu Festival 2024

When: March 9 – March 17 2024

The Gurye Sansuyu Festival is a spring festival celebrating the yellow sansuyu (cornelian cherry) blossoms and runs at the same time as the maehwa (plum blossoms) are on display in Jirisan National Park. This area has more than 30,000 sansuyu trees, making an ocean of yellow flowers to walk under and appreciate. There are also dance performances, traditional music, and other festival events to enjoy, including fireworks.

How to get there: From Gurye Bus Terminal, take bus 7-4, 7-7, or 7-9 until the Jungdong bus stop near the festival.

Address: 전라남도 구례군 산동면 좌사리 835-2

Taean Tulip Festival 2024

When: April 10 – May 7 2024

The Taean Tulip Festival is Korea’s largest flower festival and held at the Korea Flower Park in the coastal city of Taean on Korea’s west coast. Visitors to this festival can experience oceans of bright tulips in a variety of colours, from dazzling yellow to deep red. The flower park provides many photo opportunities for nature-lovers, with spring flowers as well as decorations, ornaments, and sculpted displays.

How to get there: Take a bus from Central City Bus Terminal in Seoul to the Anmyeon Bus Terminal. Take a taxi to the festival.

Address: 충청남도 태안군 안면읍 꽃지해안로 400

Everland Fairy Town Tulip Festival 2024

When: March 22 – June 18 2024

The Everland Fairy Town Tulip Festival is the spring 2024 festival for Korea’s biggest theme park and features not only beautiful tulips, it also has a fantastic fairy world to go with it. There are loads of fun photo zones with fairies and other magical creatures here. Everland hosts one of the largest spring flower festivals and primarily includes tulips and daffodils, as well as more flowers as they come into season through spring. Visitors to Everland can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, fun fairground activities, animals, fireworks, parades, and many pretty flowers.

How to get there: Take the Everland Shuttle Bus from Seoul to Everland directly or book a shuttle bus with entrance fee included.

Address: 경기 용인시 처인구 포곡읍 에버랜드로 199

House Of Yu Gi-Bang Daffodil Festival 2024

When: March 22 – April 30 2024

The House of Yu Gi-Bang Daffodil Festival isn’t actually a festival, but it’s worth adding to this list as it’s a seasonal event that’s on for a limited time. During March and April, visitors to The House of Yu Gi-Bang can witness thousands of golden daffodils shining upwards among the grounds of this historic hanok house. This house may be familiar to fans of ‘Mr. Sunshine’ as it was used in the K-Drama. It’s a lovely place outside of Seoul where you can walk and explore the gardens and buildings, surrounded by pine forests and experience traditional Korea.

How to get there: The house is close to Seosan, but you should take a bus and transfer several times. Driving is recommended.

Address: 충남 서산시 운산면 이문안길 72-10

Goyang International Flower Festival 2024

When: April 27 – May 8 2024 (2024 Dates TBC)

The Goyang International Flower Festival by International Horticulture Goyang Korea is an impressive flower exhibition held in spring and autumn each year at the Ilsan Lake Park in Goyang. Visitors to the spring festival can spend the day admiring creative flower displays along the shore of the lake, which features art pieces, photo zones, unique and rare plants, and flower-filled pathways. There are also cultural events, performances, and festival food to enjoy.

How to get there: Take the orange subway line (Line 3) to Jeongbalsan Station and use exit 1 or 2 to get to the park.

Address: 경기도 고양시 일산동구 호수로 595 KR

Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival 2024

When: April 26 – May 12 2024

The Ganghwado Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival is located on one of the islands of Incheon, just outside of Seoul. Mount Goryeosan is an area of natural wonder that is known for it’s roaming displays of vivid pink and purple azaleas spread over the mountain. Visit on a sunny day for impressive postcard-like scenes of traditional buildings, rocky mountains, and colourful pools of pink and purple azaleas. Also see azalea photo zones, art exhibitions, and street art.

How to get there: Take a bus to Ganghwa Terminal from Gimpo in Seoul. Transfer to bus 14 or 39 and get off at Seonhaeng-ri Entrance.

Address: 인천광역시 강화군 강화읍 국화리 550

Unique Korean Spring Festivals 2024

Spring in Korea is a time with many unique festivals that celebrate both local and international culture, traditions, and spectacles, including a miraculous sea parting. These spring festivals are not to be missed and will show you some sights you won’t normally see in other seasons.

This section contains diverse festivals that have happened for a long time, such as the Seoul Lantern Festival for Buddha’s Birthday, and the Jeju Fire Festival. These historic festivals are a window into Korea’s past, while others show modern and international cultural influences on Korea.

Jindo Sea Parting Miracle Festival 2024

When: Mar 12 – Mar 13 2024

The Jindo Sea Parting Miracle Festival is a unique annual occurrence in Jindo where the seas give way to form a 3km-long pathway between islands. You’re not likely to see an event like this elsewhere in the world. The ‘miracle’ occurs due to an extremely low tide, caused by tidal harmonics. During this time, you can walk from Jindo Island to Modo Island, hunt for clams and shells who have been abandoned by the waters, and take lots of pictures.

How to get there: Jindo is an island in SW Korea and not easily accessed from major cities. There are no current tours to the Jindo Sea Parting Festival, so driving is the best option.

Address: 전남 진도군 고군면 신비의바닷길 74

Yeon Deung Hoe (Seoul) Lotus Lantern Festival 2024

When: May 10 – May 12 2024

The Yeon Deung Hoe Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival is the biggest celebration of Buddha’s Birthday in Korea. At the Seoul Lantern Festival, which is held in two of Seoul’s most famous temples, Bongeunsa Temple in Gangnam and Jogyesa Temple in Jongno, you can see lots of colourful lantern displays, cultural performances, and traditional decorations. The highlight of this festival is the lantern parade through central Seoul, held on May 20th from 7pm.

How to get there: The parade runs from Jonggak to Dongdaemun Station. Jogyesa Temple is near Anguk Station & Bongeunsa Temple is outside Bongeunsa Station.

Address: 서울특별시 종로구 우정국로 55

Gyeongju Cherry Marathon 2024

When: April 6 2024

The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon Festival is a festival that combines beautiful cherry blossoms with the spectacle of a half marathon. The Gyeongju Cherry Marathon starts in the Bomun Lake area and goes around the lake, following the river into Gyeongju City and back along the opposite shore back past the lake again, running under cherry tree-lined river roads. The shorter 10km and 5km races stick to the Bomun Lake area, which is one of the most spectacular places for cherry blossoms in Gyeongju. The race starts at 8:00am.

How to get there: From Singyeongju KTX station, take bus 700 to Bomun Lake and get off at the K Hotel stop. Cross the bridge for the start.

Address: 경상북도 경주시 천군동 157-8

Jeju Fire Festival 2024

When: Skipped in 2024 (normally early March)

The Jeju Fire Festival is a unique Korean spring festival where Saebyeol Oreum (volcanic cone hill) is set alight as huge daljip (moon houses) are burnt at night. This cultural festival helps bring good fortune to the island, protects from evil, and ensures a strong harvest in autumn. It also signals the move from winter to spring with the first burning away the old grass. Watch the night skies glow red as the massive fires spread across the hill and watch other festival events, such as a torch march, fire show, entertainment shows, and try local foods.

How to get there: Take bus 282 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal and get off at Saebyeol Oreum stop. Walk towards Saebyeol Oreum.

Address: 제주 제주시 애월읍 봉성리 산59-8

Holi Hai Festival 2024

When: April 13 2024

The Holi Hai Festival is held by the Indians in Korea group to celebrate India’s largest festival. Running for more than a decade in Korea, this colourful festival will be held on Nami Island in 2024 and is open to people from all nationalities and ethnicities as a way to celebrate the coming of spring, the joy of friendship, and equality for all. Bring a white t-shirt to the event and prepare to get very messy as you throw coloured powders into the air and at each other while Bollywood music blasts out in the background. Please note, you should register on the Holi Hai website to be able to join the event.

How to get there: There are many ways to get to Nami Island, including a train from Seoul. Find out more in my guide to getting to Nami Island.

Address: 강원 춘천시 남산면 남이섬길 1

Seoul Festa Festival 2024

When: May 1 – May 6 2024

The Seoul Festa Festival, now in its second year, is a cultural festival in Seoul that highlights the best of the city’s culture and entertainment. The five themes of the Seoul Festa are music, style, taste, night-scape, and ‘boom-up’ events. There will be events and activities across Seoul. K-Pop acts will perform on April 30th at the Jamsil Sports Complex and there will be numerous events at the main venue in Gwanghwamun Square focusing on drama, beauty, fashion, and traditional crafts. Experience outdoor dining and light shows at the Hangang River Parks and the Myeongdong Festival in Myeongdong.

How to get there: Gwanghwamun Station for the main venue, Myeongdong Station for the Myeongdong Festival. Sports Complex Station for the K-Pop event.

Address: 인천광역시 강화군 강화읍 국화리 550

The Color Run Korea 2024

When: 2024 Date TBC

The Color Run Korea is another colourful spring festival that is all about enjoying the lovely weather and getting outside for fun with friends. Held in Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, join with a host of Korean celebrities and run 5km through 5 different colour-themed zones and get colourful as colour powder is thrown all around, just like in the Holi Hai festival. Food trucks, after-run parties, photo zones, and live performances make this a fun day out in spring.

Tickets required, so be sure to book in advance to guarantee a spot.

How to get there: Take the subway to Songdo Moonlight Festival Park Station and use exit 4. The subway line is Incheon Line 1.

Address: 인천광역시 연수구 센트럴로 350

Seoul Jazz Festival 2024

When: May 31 – Jun 2 2024

The Seoul Jazz Festival is one of the first big summer festivals (it actually happens in spring this year) and features lots of fantastic sets from artists such as Taeyang, Epik High, Balming Tiger, Damien Rice, and more. The Seoul Jazz Festival is held each year in Olympic Park in Seoul, a wide park with lots of indoor and outdoor venues that host the various types of acts. There is more than just jazz, with indie, hip-hop, dance music, and more by artists from around the world.

Tickets required, so be sure to book in advance to guarantee a spot.

How to get there: Take the subway to Olympic Park Station and use exit 3. Line 5 and Line 9 both stop at this station.

Address: 서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 424

The Samgwangsa Lotus Lantern Festival 2024

When: May 5 – May 27 2024 (2024 Dates TBC)

The Samgwangsa Lotus Lantern Festival is a festival celebrating Buddha’s Birthday in one of Busan’s most beautiful Buddhist temples. See thousands and thousands of lanterns strung out between temple buildings, along pathways, hanging from trees, and wrapped around the temple buildings. This beautiful festival is best seen at night after the lanterns are turned on at 7pm, which creates a dazzling display of colours across the temple. Climb up the lantern-lined stairs of Baegyangsan Mountain and discover this awe-inspiring spring festival in Korea.

How to get there: Take bus 81 from outside Busan Station. Get off at Seonggok Traditional Market and walk to the temple.

Address: 부산진구 초읍천로43번길 77

Haeundae Sand Festival In Busan 2024

When: May 19 – May 22 2024 (2024 Dates TBC)

The Busan Haeundae Sand Festival is a unique spring festival that sees Busan’s most popular beach destination transformed into an outdoor canvas for the best sand artists. You can see a range of sand sculptures at this festival, from local characters and heroes, to gigantic replicas of famous sights, such as the Eiffel Tower. There are tall sculptures all along the beach to walk along and admire, or to gaze at while you rest in one of the beachside cafes or bars. Although the festival only runs for a few days, the sand art remains on display until June 6th.

How to get there: Take the subway to Haeundae Station and walk towards the beach. Take bus 1003 from Busan Station.

Address: 부산광역시 해운대구 중제1동 1411-25

These unique spring festivals are not to be missed if you’re in Korea at the right time, especially the Seoul Lantern Festival. It’s a massive parade that goes through the centre of the city and will be something you’ll remember for a long time. Here’s a video of what it looks like.

Korean Spring Cultural Festivals 2024

Korea has lots of unique culture and traditions that are best witnessed in these Korean spring festivals. You can experience traditional crafts, learn about folklore and historical events, and visit long-running festivals that celebrate life and harmony in Korea during spring.

As well as traditional Korean culture, some of these spring festivals showcase the best of international culture and performances, such as the Chuncheon Mime Festival and Tongyeong International Music Festival. These smaller festivals will offer a unique glimpse into Korea.

Chuncheon International Mime Festival 2024

When: May 26 – June 2 2024

The Chuncheon International Mime Festival is one of the 3 major mime festivals in the world and has been running for more than 30 years. The festival includes performances of Korea’s top mime artists, as well as mime artists from around the world. The mime festival is held in several venues in the city of Chuncheon, with the main area near the river. Visitors to this festival not only watch the interesting mime performances, they can also join in and be part of the show.

How to get there: Take the ITX from Yongsan Station to Chuncheon Station, then take a taxi to the main riverside festival area.

Address: 강원도 춘천시 삼천동 200-9

Busan Gwangalli Eobang Yellowtail Festival 2024

When: May 10 – May 12 2024

The Busan Gwangalli Eobang Yellowtail Festival is held on one of Busan’s most popular beaches, Gwangalli Beach, and is a festival dedicated to the fishermen of this coastal region. At the Busan Eobang Yellowtail Festival you can see parades, watch the fishermen go out to sea, see cultural performances, and be part of the local traditions. Visitors can try out bare-handed fish catching, take part in a cooking contest, and try lots of Busan’s famous local yellowtail fish.

How to get there: From Busan Station, take bus 40 / 41 / 1001 / 1003 to Gwangalli Beach or bus 38 / 1001 / 1003 from Haeundae Beach.

Address: 부산광역시 수영구 광남로

Seocheon Camellia Octopus Festival 2024

When: March 16 – March 31 2024

The Seocheon Camellia Octopus Festival is a festival held in the small town of Seocheon on Korea’s west coast that celebrates two local specialities; camellia flowers and webfoot octopuses. Held at the Maryangjun Port in Seocheon, visitors can walk around the beautiful pink, red, and white camellia flowers and take in views of the Yellow Sea where the octopuses roam. There are octopus-themed events such as octopus fishing and octopus cooking, as well as cultural performances and festival food.

How to get there: Seocheon is not easily accessed by public transport, so I recommend using a car to drive there.

Address: 충청남도 서천군 서면 서인로 56

Tongyeong International Music Festival 2024

When: March 29 – April 7 2024

The Tongyeong International Music Festival was created to celebrate the world-famous composer Yoon Lee-Sang, who was born in Tongyeong on Korea’s south coast. This spring festival is a good chance to experience classical music performances from Korean and international musicians, including the Korean National Symphony Orchestra. Tongyeong is not only a popular attraction for summer travellers who want to enjoy the areas many beaches, it’s also a UNESCO Creative City of Music.

How to get there: From Busan Seobu Bus Terminal, take the intercity bus to Tongyeong Bus Terminal, then change to bus 104 / 141 / 184.

Address: 경상남도 통영시 큰발개1길 38

Eumseong Pumba Festival 2024

When: May 22 – May 26 2024

The Eumseong Pumba Festival is a Korean spring festival dedicated to the tradition of begging and street singing. ‘Pumba’ is the word that street singers would sing as they moved around towns and villages looking for food or money or anything people would offer. The word is meaningless, but provides a basis for the chants and a beat for dancing. The Eumseong Pumba Festival has performances by gakseori, modern day performers who show their exicitng and colourful singing and dancing skills.

How to get there: From Seoul Nambu Terminal, take an intercity bus to Eumseong Bus Terminal, then walk to the park where the festival is held.

Address: 충청북도 음성군 음성읍 설성공원길 28

Yeongam Wangin Festival 2024

When: March 28 – March 31 2024

The Yeongam Wangin Culture Festival is held at the start of April to coincide with the cherry blossoms and offers a colourful look into the life of the famous Korean scholar, Dr. Wangin. Dr. Wangin travelled to Japan 1,600 years ago with his followers and taught the Japanese royal court about Confucian values, as well as teaching arts and singing techniques. This festival celebrates his achievements and features traditional Korean cultural events, including parades, performances, songs, and dancing.

How to get there: From Mokpo, take bus 101 and get off at the Historic Site of Dr. Wangin, which is where the festival is held.

Address: 전라남도 영암군 군서면 왕인로 440

There are lots more smaller cultural spring festivals in Korea that might appeal to those who want to see a different side of Korea. I won’t go into detail about these festivals, but you can learn more about them from the links below.

• Busan Gijang Anchovy Festival (Cancelled in 2024)
• Changwon Jindong Midodeok Festival (May 12 – May 14 2024)
• Daegu Hip Hop Festival (May 4 – May 5 2024)
• Daejeon Gyejoksan Red Clay Path Festival (May – 2024 TBC)
• Mungyeong Chasabal Festival (April 27 – May 6 2024)

Most of these links are in Korean. If you can’t read Korean, I recommend using a plugin like Google Translate, or translating via an app like Papago. There typically aren’t tours for these as major tour companies don’t bother to visit them. Trazy is probably the only tour company that might.

If you’re not sure how to use Papago, check out my guide to the Papago app and find out why it’s a must-have when travelling to Korea. I used it a lot when writing this article.

Guide To Visiting Korea In Spring

To get the most out of these Korean spring festivals, it is important to consider what travelling to Korea during spring is like. Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Korea as the weather is pleasant, nature puts on a good show, and there are many things to see and do.

However, there are some issues when travelling to Korea during spring, such as public holidays that might make it difficult to travel, seasonal air pollution, and peak travel problems. The following section of this guide to spring festivals in Korea offers lots of useful information to help you travel more easily.

What Is Korean Spring Weather Like?

Here’s a quick summary of the weather in Korea during each month of spring:

• March: cold and wintry still
• April: warmer and sunny, some rain.
• May: warm and sunny, some rain.

March is the start of spring in Korea and there’s still a chance of snow. Temperatures at night are below zero in the first half of March but may be up to 20 degrees during the day. The weather changes a lot during March and may be snowing one week and warm and sunny the next.

April has warmer temperatures, especially at night, but usually requires a jacket at the start of the month. There is more rain in April, which can be a problem if you want to see cherry blossoms, but it’s not usually constant. Generally, April is warm with clear skies and a great time to travel in Korea.

May is a much warmer than the start of spring and the summer weather starts to begin. Temperatures can be as high as 30 degrees, but typically stay around the low 20s with clear skies and lots of sunshine. There are still rainy days, but they’re not as bad as June, which is rainy season in Korea.

Fine Dust During Spring In Korea

Although the weather in Korea during spring is usually clear and sunny, with mild rain showers on some days, the air pollution is at its worst. The seasonal air pollution, known as Yellow Dust, hits Korea during spring and can cause thick pollution that’s dangerous to be outside in.

If you’re sensitive to air pollution, be sure to check out the current fine dust levels in Korea and wear an appropriate face mask. Use a weather or air pollution app to check the current situation and take appropriate actions. You can tell when the fine dust is serious as there will be a yellow haze in the sky.

Are There Any Public Holidays During Spring In Korea?

There are several public holidays during spring in Korea that might affect your travel plans or provide extra festivals to see. Most of these are fixed to a certain date, but Buddha’s Birthday, was is based on the lunar calendar, changes each year. Be sure to check the correct dates for the year.

May 15th: Buddha’s Birthday (celebrated May 15th in 2024). This public holiday is the Buddhist equivalent of Christmas for Christians. There are big celebrations at Buddhist temples across Korea on this day, with lanterns, cultural events, and food provided by temples. Tourist sites should be open.

March 1st: Independence Day. This is a public holiday for workers, so banks and government buildings will be closed. Tourist sights and shops should still be open with regular hours.

May 5th: Children’s Day. This is a public holiday to celebrate children. Banks and government buildings (incl. schools) will be closed. Expect family-oriented places to be especially busy on this day as families celebrate their children and the weather is usually good for being outdoors at this time.

June 6th: Memorial Day. This is a public holiday to remember those who have died in wars. This isn’t in spring, but may affect travel plans for those travelling between seasons. Banks and government buildings will be closed, but tourist sights and shops should be open.

Please note: holidays that fall on a weekend day will usually be moved to the following Monday.

How Can You Travel To Korean Spring Festivals?

The easiest option to see Korean spring festivals is with a guided tour. There are many tour companies that provide tours to popular festivals during spring, such as the cherry blossom and flower festivals. Here are some of the best tour companies operating in Korea:

• Klook
• Viator
• Get Your Guide
• Trazy

To get around on Korea’s public transport, it is best to get a T-Money card, which is a prepaid transportation card used for buses, subways, and taxis in Korea. You can purchase a T-Money card at Incheon Airport when you arrive, or at convenience stores in Korea.

Travelling to city-based Korean spring festivals can be easy, depending on the location of the festival and its popularity. Korea has a well-connected public transport system that covers the country, as well as excellent bus, subway, and train networks in big cities that are mostly available in English.

However, travelling to remote spring festivals in the Korean countryside may be more challenging and might not be feasible without a car. You can rent a car in Korea to help you get around outside the cities and see a very different side to Korea than you’ll find in the urban areas.

Useful Apps For Travelling Korea In Spring

There are many apps and websites that can help you navigate in Korea and find your way to spring festivals more easily. The most useful apps include Naver Maps, which you can use to plan routes and check bus times, and Papago Korean Translation, which can help you translate Korean.

Kakao Taxi is the best Korean app for booking taxis in Korea. Kakao Taxi is easy to use and you can use my guide to help you setup Kakao Taxi with or without a Korean phone number. Finally, use the official Korean Rail website to check train times and book tickets in Korea.

For more tips about how to travel around Korea to see festivals and other attractions, read my South Korea Travel Guide. It’s full of useful tips to help you plan your journey to Korea and has more information about what to see, do, and discover during spring and other seasons.

Where Should You Stay To Visit Korean Festivals In Spring?

Tours that go to Korean spring festivals, such as the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, usually start from Seoul or Busan, so staying in one of these cities is the best option if you plan to book a day tour. If you’re planning to see festivals on Jeju Island, then Jeju City is a good place to stay.

Seoul and Busan have several spring festivals that can be accessed by public transport and each city has a good transport network that means you don’t need to stay near the festival to see it. I recommend finding a good location you want to stay in, then travelling to the festival that day.

For Seoul, I recommend looking for hotels in Myeongdong or hotels in Hongdae for first time travellers. These areas have good hotel options for budget to mid-range travellers, great transport connections, lots of interesting nightlife, and good food and cafe options nearby.

For Busan, I recommend looking for hotels in the Haeundae Beach area or in the downtown Seomyeon area. These two areas are popular with travellers and have lots of dining and accommodation options. Haeundae Beach is also close to attractions and has coastal views.

FAQs About Spring Festivals In Korea

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about Korean spring festivals, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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You’ll find all the best Korean travel tips and advice in this article. Whether you’re a first-time traveller to Korea, or you’ve visited before, this South Korea travel guide will show what to see, when to travel, and which places to visit, as well as help you avoid any difficult situations or surprising culture shocks.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your trip to Korea. You can use it to plan your itinerary, to pre-book travel essentials, to learn about what festivals and seasonal events are on, and to find more reasons to want to travel to Korea right now.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What’s In This South Korea Travel Guide

This South Korea travel guide covers all the essential information you need to plan a trip to Korea. This is useful for first-time travellers to Korea who might not be aware of uniquely Korean cultural and travel issues. Even if you’ve visited Korea before, I’m sure you can learn a lot from this travel guide.

This article contains lots of insights and knowledge about travelling to Korea and is quite long. I’ve added links in each section to articles that provide more information about each topic. Therefore, I suggest viewing this South Korea travel guide on a desktop computer as it will be easier to read.

What Are You Looking For?

To help make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for, I’ve broken this article into the following sections. Click the quick links below to jump straight there or keep reading through all parts.

Latest Travel News

Entry Requirements

Why Visit Korea

When To Visit

Flights To Korea

Where To Stay

Korea Travel Costs

Travel Money

Phones & Internet

Public Transport

Where To Visit

Seoul Day Tours

Sightseeing Spots

Korean Activities

Korean Festivals

1-Week Itinerary

Culture Issues

Language Issues

Health & Safety

Korean Travel Tips

Korean Travel News And Travel Restrictions 2024

This section of the South Korea travel guide will show you the latest travel news and restriction updates, including any temporary or permanent changes to the entry process, visa changes, and other things that might affect travel to Korea. COVID-related updates will also be posted here.

Latest Korean Travel News In 2024

This section will detail any interesting or important travel news that could affect travellers to Korea, such as price increases in public transport, travel changes, new services, or closures.

What Are the Current COVID Restrictions In Korea In 2024?

Korea has been removing COVID-related restrictions in the country throughout 2022 and 2023. It is no longer necessary to show a QR code to enter a building and restrictions involving masks and health checks have mostly gone. The latest COVID-related rules for Korea are as follows.

Masks: From Monday, March 20th, Korea has removed the mandatory mask rule for public transport, one of the final places that masks were required for the general public. The only places that require a face mask (from June 1st) are in medical facilities (hospitals). Masks are not mandatory elsewhere, including in schools, shops, restaurants or anywhere outside. Source: Korea Herald

Self-Quarantine: From June 1st, Korea will no longer impose a mandatory self-isolation period on infected people. The government instead ‘recommends’ a period of self-isolation for 5 days to reduce the chance of transmission to other people. Source: Korea Herald

For further details about the latest COVID requirements for entering or travelling in Korea, check out the second section of this South Korea travel guide, which has a list of all the updated entry requirements, including visas, tests, and other considerations.

Current Requirements To Travel To Korea In 2024

This part of the South Korea travel guide is for tourists. If you plan to travel for business, employment, or other reasons, check your nearest Korean embassy for the latest travel requirements.

Most of the restrictions and requirements for travelling to Korea have now been scrapped. You can see what entry and travel rules are in place for Korea in the table below:

The following section provides more information and exceptions about these requirements:

COVID-positive travellers should avoid travelling to Korea: To avoid infecting others on the way to Korea, as well as in Korea, the Korean government recommends that you shouldn’t travel to Korea if you exhibit COVID-symptoms or have tested positive. Self-quarantine is mandatory in Korea.

There are no PCR or other testing requirements: It is not necessary to take a PCR or other test before travelling to Korea. However, you will be asked to take a test if you show symptoms of COVID or similar illnesses when travelling to or arriving in Korea.

There is no quarantine on arrival: Travellers to Korea no longer need to quarantine when entering Korea. From June 1st, there is only a ‘recommended’ 5 day self-isolation period for infected travellers, but this is not enforced.

Complete the self-health check before or on arrival: From July 15th, 2023, travellers to Korea no longer need to complete a Q-Code self-health check or declare their health status on arrival.

Apply for a K-ETA or tourist visa before travelling: You need to apply for either a K-ETA or tourist visa for South Korea before flying to the country. Entry will be prohibited without the correct one. From April 1st, 2023 until December 31st, 2024, 22 countries are excluded from the K-ETA.

If you’re not sure which of these you need to apply for, more information is provided in the next section of this South Korea travel guide about the K-ETA and tourist visa for Korea.

K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation)

The K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation) is an online travel authorisation that visa-free foreign visitors aged 18 to 65 must obtain before entering the Korea for tourism, visiting relatives, participating in events or meetings, and for business purposes other than profitable activities.

Tourists from 112 eligible countries need to apply for a K-ETA before travelling to Korea and won’t be allowed to board a flight to Korea without it. The approval process isn’t difficult, but requires accommodation details, travel dates, and personal details such as passport number, etc.

The K-ETA is based on your nationality, not the country you’re travelling from. That means, if you require a tourist visa from your home country (e.g. the Philippines), but are travelling from a country that requires a K-ETA (e.g. the USA), you can’t use the K-ETA to travel to Korea.

Tourists should apply as far in advance as possible at the official K-ETA website. If you would like to know more about the K-ETA, check out my article explaining what is the K-ETA. The K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (about $9.00 USD). If you are charged more than this, you’re on the wrong site.

Official K-ETA website

Not sure if you need a K-ETA? Check out this infographic to find out.

Will The K-ETA End In The Future?

The K-ETA will continue for the indefinite future. It is not a pandemic-related travel restriction but a permanent feature that just happened to start in 2021. The Korean government have stated that the K-ETA will be ongoing and other countries and areas, such as the EU, are planning similar ETAs.

Update: In July 2023, the Korean government stopped requiring children 17 years and younger and adults 65 years and older to apply for a K-ETA. The validity period was also increased to 3 years.

Update: In April 2023, the Korean government suspended the K-ETA for travellers from 22 countries (listed previously). This is in an effort to reduce the burden on travellers visiting Korea during the ‘Visit Korea Years’ of 2023 and 2024. This lasts until December 2024, but could possibly go on longer.

Tourist Visas For South Korea

Tourists that aren’t from one of the 112 countries that require a K-ETA to travel to Korea will need to apply for a tourist visa. This includes nationals from countries such India, Indonesia, Pakistan, and the Philippines. Tourist visas are based on nationality (passport), not country of residence.

The process to apply for a tourist visa differs depending on the country and may be as simple as submitting an application at the Korean embassy in the country you live in. For other countries, it may be necessary to submit extra information like bank statements and a full itinerary.

If you need a tourist visa for South Korea, contact your nearest Korean embassy as soon as you can to start the process. Tourist visas may be rejected, delayed, or take longer than expected. For some countries, such as the Philippines, it is necessary to apply through a specialist visa agency.

Transit Tour Visas For South Korea

Visa-free entry for foreign transit passengers at Incheon Airport will resume from May 2023 after being suspended for 3 years during the pandemic. There are two types of visa-free transit entry methods for travellers to Korea, they differ in length, requirements, and eligibility.

The first type of visa-free entry for transit passengers is open to all travellers to Korea and allows entry for 3 days, as long as they take a transit tour from Incheon Airport. The second type of visa-free entry for transit passengers is available for 30 days, but only from travellers from 36 select countries.

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (3 Days)

From May 15, 2023, travellers from any country can travel from Incheon Airport to the Seoul Metropolitan area for up to 3 days, as long as they book at least 1 transit tour from Incheon Airport. If Korea is not their final destination, they’re free to explore more of Seoul after the tour.

There are a wide range of transit tours available from Incheon Airport, including cultural, historic, food, shopping, and entertainment tours. See the sights of Seoul’s most popular places in a few hours, or stay for longer and see more. You can find out more about transit tours from the Visit Korea website.

Requirements: To be eligible for a transit tour visa, travellers must:

• Have an onward flight to their home country or a 3rd country after Korea.
• Participate in a transit tour program by a designated travel agency.
• Stay within the Seoul Metropolitan area only.
• Have more than 2 hours between connecting flights.

Eligible countries: Visa-free entry with a transit tour is open to passengers of all countries, as long as they meet the above requirements.

Tip: If you have a transit tour in Korea, I recommend staying in Hongdae, as there is a direct train from Incheon Airport to Hongdae called the All-Stop Airport Line. Hongdae is also a really fun place where you can see lots of culture, try Korean dishes, and pack your suitcase with Korean souvenirs.

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (30 Days)

This will allow travellers from 36 countries to enter and stay in Korea for up to 30 days without a Korean visa. Travellers must be travelling to or from one of these 36 countries to be eligible to stay in Korea without a visa. This includes passengers who are not citizens of those countries.

Requirements: To be eligible for a visa-free entry as a transit passenger, travellers must:

• Hold an onward flight to any of the 36 countries mentioned below.
• Have no illegal stay records of any kind, nor have been denied entry to Korea.
• Not have exceeded a maximum of 3 days stay in any other transit airport.

Eligible countries: Travellers from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and 32 EU countries (see picture below) can stay for up to 30 days, as long as the above-mentioned requirements are met.

Why You Should Travel To Korea In 2024

There’s not enough space in this South Korea travel guide to write down all of the reasons why you should travel to South Korea. Korea is an under-appreciated gem that has so much to discover and experience that’s completely different from what you’ll find in other countries.

Much the way that Japan has a very distinct culture and history, Korea has lots of unique, appealing places to see, people to meet, history to learn about, and natural sights to appreciate. Many people only see a small slice of Korean culture and beauty through modern media, but there’s a lot more.

Here are some of the reasons you should travel to Korea:

• Delicious foods and tasty seasonal dishes.
• Four distinct seasons that offer a variety of views.
• Fascinating history to learn about and explore.
• Stunning mountains and beaches for outdoor lovers.
• Unique and unusual festivals throughout the year.
• Friendly locals and a safe country to travel around.
• Modern, high-tech cities that are clean and efficient.
• Welcoming Buddhist temples and temple stays.
• Cheaper than most other developed countries.
• A shopper’s paradise with many markets and malls.
• Korea really wants you to come and visit.

Korea wants you to visit so much that they declared 2023-2024 the Visit Korea Year. This two-year period, confusingly referred to as a single year, is set to feature loads of events and activities to draw tourists to Korea, and includes promotions for discounted flights, accommodation, and food.

Some of the events you can expect to see during the Visit Korea Year(s) include K-Pop concerts, e-sports competitions, food festivals, and cultural celebrations. There’ll be K-Cultural stars involved, too, including your favourite K-Pop and K-Drama stars. Get ready to travel to Korea soon!

Want to know what you can do in Korea that you can’t do in other countries? Check out these amazing unique Korean experiences that should definitely be on your Korean bucket list.

The Best Time To Visit Korea

The best time to visit Korea is in spring (late-March to May) or autumn (mid-September until mid-November). These seasons have the most comfortable weather, ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius, an average amount of rain, and also have the most festivals and events.

My favourite months to travel in Korea are April and October. Early-April is when cherry blossoms come out and the weather warms up enough to stop wearing a jacket. October in Korea is a beautiful month when autumn foliage sweeps across the country and the weather is warm and calm.

When you travel to Korea, the season you travel in can have a big impact on what you can see, eat, and do. This section of the South Korea travel guide is one of the most important and if you want to travel to Korea in the future, I recommend learning about Korea’s seasons before making plans.

What Can You See In Korea Each Season?

Although spring and autumn are undoubtedly the best time to visit Korea, there are plenty of reasons to visit in other seasons, too. Visitors to Korea who are restricted to travelling during certain times, such as during school or work holidays, needn’t be put off by travelling in summer or winter.

Here’s a summary of what you can see and do in each season in Korea:

Spring: Cherry Blossoms, Blooming Nature, Culture Festivals

Spring is an amazing season to travel in Korea as you can see colourful plum blossoms (Mar), cherry blossoms (Mar-Apr), and many other bright sights. The warm weather allows people go out more to enjoy cultural activities and spring festivals, such as the Lotus Lantern Festival and Jindo Sea-Parting Festival, and also trekking, hiking, and cycling. Spring is one of the most popular times to travel in Korea for locals, so expect places to be busy, especially around cherry blossom season.

Check out my cherry blossom guide for the best places to see cherry blossoms in Korea.

Summer: Beaches, Korean Desserts, Water Sports, Camping

Summer is a difficult season for travellers due to the high humidity and heat. June and July are rainy season in Korea and it may rain for days on end, causing people to change travel plans to indoor activities. In late July and August it gets very hot, which is good for going to the beach and enjoying water sports or water parks, which Korea has many of. Evening activities like hiking, drinking in rooftop bars, and visiting night markets are great ways to get out in summer when it’s not as hot.

Check out my guide to Korean summer activities for the best places to have fun during summer and rainy day activities in Busan in case the weather isn’t so good.

Autumn: Foliage, Festivals, Fresh Foods, Harvest Festivals

Autumn is another incredibly popular time to travel in Korea, especially in October when the autumn foliage is at its best. The foliage really brings everything to life, adding shades of colour to plain palace walls, mountains, and parks. The calm weather is warm with clear skies, making it perfect for going into nature to see the fresh fruits and other harvest goods, as well as join in harvest and cultural festivals. Enjoy local Korean dishes, fresh from the farm to your table.

Check out my guide to autumn foliage in Korea for the best places to see the leaves.

Winter: Snow, Winter Sports, Ice Fishing, Light Festivals

Winter in Korea is often neglected due to the cold weather, but is actually a very nice time to travel with delicious winter foods to try. It’s the driest time of year with blue skies making everything bright and beautiful. When it snows, sights look even more incredible. Jeju Island is a great place to visit during winter as it has fresh citrus and colourful camellia flowers to see. You can enjoy winter sports, festivals and activities, such as ice fishing, ice skating, sledding, and more.

Check out my guide to Korean winter activities for the best places to have fun during winter.

What Is The Weather Like In Korea?

The weather in Korea follows a similar pattern each year, spread over five distinct seasons. As well as spring, summer, autumn, and winter, Korea also has a rainy season, which starts around mid-June and finishes mid-July. It doesn’t constantly rain during rainy season, but may do for several days.

There’s always something to do in Korea, no matter what the season. Even rainy season in Korea is fine for travelling, as long as you plan lots of indoor activities and can be flexible with your schedule. Don’t let the weather in Korea put you off visiting, you’ll find plenty to do in each season.

Here’s a summary of the weather in Korea each season:

The graph below shows you the average temperature each month in Seoul. This is an average temperature, so some days will be much hotter and others much colder. I’ve experienced summer temperatures of over 35 degrees and winter nights of -20, so be prepared for both.

The table below shows the average rainfall for each month in Korea, based on records from climate-data.org. The summer months have the most, while winter in Korea is very dry. The rainfall in the winter months can turn to snow when it’s cold enough, too.

There will be more information about the sights, festivals, and events you can enjoy in Korea in later parts of this South Korea travel guide. Check them out for travel ideas for your trip to Korea.

How To Book Flights To Korea

Flying to Korea in 2024 is getting easier with more airlines offering direct or connecting flights to Korea and budget airlines adding more routes to Korea from other parts of Asia and as far away as the USA. There aren’t as many routes as there were in 2019, but they are returning month by month.

Booking a flight to Korea is one of the first things most people do and finding the right flight can really affect your travels. Choosing the right flight not only affects how much money you need to spend, but also when you’ll arrive, how you’ll get to your hotel, and where you’ll arrive in Korea.

Check out my guide to booking flights to Korea to discover the best ways to book a flight to Korea, including the best time to book (21 to 127 days before travel), where to get cheap flights, the various airlines that offer flights to Korea, and lots more.

Arriving At Incheon Airport

Most flights to Korea arrive at Incheon Airport, which is near Seoul. It takes about an hour to get to the centre of Seoul from Incheon Airport and there are various transportation options including a high-speed train, subway, limo buses, taxis, and private transfers.

The best option for transferring from Incheon Airport to your hotel is usually a limo bus as these run to popular areas of Seoul, such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Insadong. There’s also a direct train to Seoul Station and a subway that goes to Seoul Station via Hongdae.

Arriving during the daytime gives you the best options for getting from Incheon Airport into Seoul, while nighttime flights will leave you fewer options. There are a few night buses that run, but late arrivals will either need to stay at the airport or book a private transfer or taxi instead. More details about taking a taxi from Incheon Airport can be found in my guide to taxis in Korea.

If you want to book a private transfer direct to your hotel from Incheon Airport, contact Jerry Heng, a freelance driver. I want to recommend Jerry as he has years of experience organising airport pick-ups and drop-offs, as well as personalised tours around Korea. He’s also a friendly guy.

Recommended Flight Comparison Sites

I suggest checking at least one flight comparison website before booking any flights. You can alter the arrival and departure times, flight duration, choose direct or indirect flights, and sort by price to find the perfect flight for you. Skyscanner is my preferred comparison site, but they’re all useful.

Take time to change the dates and flight times to find the most suitable flights for you. Cheaper flights often have inconvenient arrival times, so you should decide whether it’s worth the hassle to save a bit of money. Sometimes spending more for the right flight is worth it, especially when time is limited.

I try to go for a balance of convenience and savings and avoid flights that arrive late at night or leave too early in the morning. These flights require you to book an extra night at the airport or make you lose time when you could be travelling and doing more interesting things.

Here are 4 of the best flight comparison sites for booking flights to Korea:

Skyscanner is one of the most popular flight aggregators and offers flights, hotels, and other travel bookings for all major destinations. Skyscanner shows airline environmental ratings and which flights are practical or difficult.

Skyscanner Flights

Expedia is a large US travel company that offers tours, flights, hotels, and other services around the world. You can book hotel and flights together, to save you time and effort when travelling. A good place to start your flight search.

Expedia Flights

Kayak is great for people looking for cheap flights to Korea. You can see price trends for your flight to Korea to see when the best prices are available. There are also lots of budget travel options on the site that can save you more.

Kayak Flights

WayAway is a flight comparison site for the modern generation, with Instagram tips & travel advice as well as a good selection of cheap flights. You can get cashback on bookings with their premium service.

Wayaway Flights

Where To Stay In Seoul

Incheon Airport is the main arrival destination for most travellers visiting Korea, with more than 71 million travellers passing through the airport in 2019, making it the world’s 14th busiest airport. It’s close to Seoul and has lots of transportation options to get into Korea’s capital.

Seoul is the first place people visit, not only because it’s close to Incheon Airport, but because it’s undeniably the heart and soul of Korea. The greater Seoul area includes about 50% of Korea’s population (25 million people) and is by far the biggest, most vibrant, and fun city in Korea.

To travel to Korea you need either a K-ETA or tourist visa. One of the requirements to apply for these is the address of the first place you’ll be staying in Korea. Therefore, you should book at least your first hotel in Korea so you can begin those applications. Seoul is an ideal first place to stay.

Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In Seoul

Deciding where to stay in Seoul can be difficult because there are so many unique neighbourhoods, each offering something interesting for travellers to experience. Knowing which has the best sights, entertainment, culture, shopping, transport, markets, restaurants, cafes, etc., is useful.

Seoul’s neighbourhoods typically contain a mixture of several of these elements and will appeal to different types of travellers. Below is a very rough guide for which neighbourhood each type of traveller might enjoy. Of course, there are plenty of other things to do in each area.

As you can see from the list above, both Hongdae and Myeongdong have a lot to offer and I would definitely recommend either of these neighbourhoods for first time travellers to Seoul. Even people who have travelled to Korea before will find lots of reasons to stay there. They’re where I usually stay.

I have detailed guides to hotels in the two best districts for staying in Seoul – Hongdae and Myeongdong. My guide to hotels in Hongdae includes a range of hotels for all types of travellers, while my guide to hotels in Myeongdong highlights Myeongdong’s best budget to mid-range hotels.

Each neighbourhood feels unique and offers something to discover, from traditional markets and eateries, modern Insta-worthy cafe districts, peaceful parks and lakes, world-class skyscrapers, and many fun activities. Wherever you choose to stay, you’re sure to find something you enjoy.

I’ve included the 8 best neighbourhoods in Seoul in this South Korea travel guide, along with a small summary about what you can expect in each area. These are the most popular areas for tourists to stay in, but certainly not the only places to stay. There are also links to hotels in these areas.

Here are the 8 best neighbourhoods in Seoul:

Myeongdong is arguably one of the best places to stay in Seoul for any traveller. It has the best range of budget and mid-range hotels in Seoul and is conveniently located for sights, activities, and public transport. It’s close to popular tourist sites, such as the N Seoul Tower and royal palaces. There are traditional markets and Myeongdong’s famous street food alley to check out. As Myeongdong is popular with tourists, you’ll find more people that can speak English and places to exchange money.

Hongdae is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Seoul and a must-see for any traveller to the city. This area has emerged as a creative hotbed for the latest Korean fashion, art, food, and culture, thanks to innovations from students of nearby universities. Youth culture is on display in Hongdae’s main and side streets, with boutique shops, trendy bars and cafes, inventive restaurants, street art, and live performances. If you want to see a vibrant, colourful side of Seoul, then Hongdae is the place for you.

Gangnam is an upscale area of Seoul that’s home to some of Korea’s biggest stars. This area was where K-Pop was invented, as can be seen by the golden Gangnam Style statue outside COEX Mall. Gangnam is a lot more than that, and is a powerful business area with Seoul’s best shopping and dining experiences, as well as some of the city’s finest cafes and bars. Gangnam has a host of upmarket hotels that provide outstanding luxury, but also has a selection of budget and mid-range hotels making it accessible for all travellers.

Jongno is the area north of Myeongdong that includes Insadong, Bukchon Hanok Village, Ikseongdong Hanok Village, Jogyesa Temple, 4 of Seoul’s royal palaces, the presidential Blue House, and lots more. This area is packed full of interesting sights and traditional restaurants and tea houses to explore. You can find a good range of hotels in Insadong, Seoul’s artistic area that is home to artists and tourist-friendly attractions. There are also guesthouses and apartments to rent in the residential areas of Jongno that offer a more homely stay.

Jamsil is an upmarket residential neigbourhood close to Gangnam that’s home to one of Korea’s largest companies, Lotte. You’ll find the Lotte World Tower, Lotte World Theme Park, and Lotte Aquarium in this area, as well as the beautiful Seokchon Lake and leafy Olympic Park. Jamsil is a great base for people visiting for cherry blossoms in spring as the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is one of Seoul’s best. There are lots of trendy cafes and bars near the lake and it’s a relaxed part of the city to stay in.

Dongdaemun is known for both its traditional markets, where you can buy a range of goods, as well as the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). The area is an unusual mix of traditional Seoul, with Gwangjang Market offering some of Seoul’s best Korean street food, and modern culture, displayed by the night markets and art installations at the DDP. There are lots of cheap eats and bargain markets and malls in this area, making it a great place to stay if you plan to do a lot of bargain shopping in Seoul.

Yongsan is the area encompassing the N Seoul Tower, the popular international area of Itaewon, the trendy hilltop area of Haebangchon (HBC), Seoul Station, the National Museum of Seoul, and many riverside parks. Yongsan has a busy train station with towering skyscrapers and hotels around it catering to business and luxury travellers, as well as shoppers. This quiet business and residential area has good transport links and fewer crowds than other parts of Seoul, as well as interesting cultural attractions.

Yeouido is a large island that rests in the Han River, overlooking Hongdae and Yongsan. It has some of the best parks in Seoul and is a popular place for locals to walk along the river on weekends and at night. These parks are home to Seoul’s biggest cherry blossom festivals, as well as summer night markets, fireworks performances, live music, and people enjoying life outside of work. Yeouido is the upmarket financial centre of Seoul, making it an ideal base for business, luxury, and family travellers.

Seoul’s neighbourhoods are informal designations, not necessarily the official district name. For example, Hongdae is a neighbourhood in the Mapo-gu district and Myeongdong a neighbourhood in the Jung-gu district. Whereas Jongno is both the neighbourhood and district name (Jongno-gu).

You might see some areas referred to differently. However, the terms I’ve used in this section are the names most commonly used to describe these areas by tourists and expats. Koreans will certainly know which area of Seoul you’re talking about when you use these names.

Learn more: If you want to know more about Seoul’s best districts and figure out where the best place to stay for your trip to Korea, then check out my detailed guide about where to stay in Seoul. It’s packed with useful info about each neighbourhood, hotel recommendations for different budgets, and tips about booking accommodation in Seoul. Also learn more about the Han River Boat Service launching in 2024 to connect Yeoudio, Jamsil and other riverside destinations.

Hotel Recommendations For Seoul

There are hundreds (maybe thousands) of hotels in Seoul to choose from ranging from multi-person dorm rooms to the height of luxury looking down over Seoul from a 5-star hotel room in the Lotte World Tower. Whatever your budget or requirements, there’ll be somewhere to stay in Seoul for you.

To save you time searching for the best places to stay in Seoul, I’ve created a list of the 9 best luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels in Seoul, as well as 6 long-stay serviced apartments. This list has been created based on customer reviews, location, facilities, amenities, reputation, and quality.

I live outside of Seoul, so often book hotels when I’m visiting Seoul for the weekend. I’ve stayed at quite a few of these, so can personally recommend them based on my own experience. I’ve had both good and bad hotel experiences in Seoul and only want to recommend the best to you.

Recommended Luxury Hotels

Seoul has some incredible luxury hotels to enjoy, each with a true 5-star service, excellent amenities, and delectable restaurants. Many of Seoul’s best luxury hotels are located in Gangnam, Seoul’s wealthiest district, where you can find top restaurants and designer brand shopping.

Recommended Mid-Range Hotels

If you want to experience a luxurious stay in Seoul without breaking the bank, then these mid-range hotels will be perfect for you. These unique, 4-star hotels are reasonably priced and provide stylish, comfortable rooms that you’ll sleep easily in after a busy day exploring Seoul.

Recommended Budget Hotels

Seoul has a wide range of excellent budget hotels with prices that might surprise you for a large city. These are some of my favourite places to stay in Seoul when I visit for the weekend and are popular with travellers due to their convenient location, facilities, and comfortable beds.

Recommended Serviced Apartments

If you plan to stay in Seoul for a month or more, these serviced apartments will provide you all the comforts of home with the benefits of staying at a hotel. These excellent serviced apartments come with cleaning services, health facilities, cooking facilities, and are value for money.

Cost To Travel In South Korea In 2024

This part of the South Korea travel guide will help you understand some of your expected costs to travel to Korea. The costs to travel to Korea include flights, accommodation, food, drinks, transportation, activities, sim cards, visas, souvenirs, travel insurance, and lots more.

The costs you will pay when you travel vary massively depending on what type of traveller you are and what style of travel you can afford. If you want 5-star luxury and fine-dining, your budget will be very different from someone eating ramyeon from 7-11 and staying in a budget guesthouse.

Therefore, I will try to provide expected costs for 3 different types of traveller – budget, mid-range, and luxury. These aren’t exact figures, but should give you a rough idea of how much you’ll spend.

Daily Costs To Travel In Korea

There are costs that you will pay each day when travelling in Korea that can be averaged out to give you a daily cost. Knowing these figures will help you plan your budget for Korea and to see where you can afford to spend more for the one-off costs to travel, which will be covered next.

The daily costs are accommodation, food & drinks, transportation, attractions & tours, and miscellaneous expenses that can pop up unexpectedly. These miscellaneous costs might include getting a street food snack, an unexpected entrance fee, or a few extra drinks in the evening.

Transportation will be covered later in this South Korea travel guide and there are some useful tips to reduce your transportation costs. You will also be able to see some of the best attractions, tours, and activities in Korea and you’ll be able to work out how much you’ll spend on those.

Here are the daily costs per person to travel in Korea:

Please note: These are costs per day, per person. Couples and families sharing a room will have lower costs as double rooms aren’t much more expensive than single rooms. Some days will be cheaper, some much more expensive, especially if you take day trips or visit premium attractions.

There are also one-off costs not included in these daily costs. These can be pre-travel costs, such as flights and a K-ETA or tourist visa (already covered), travel insurance, vaccinations, and such like. Pre-travel costs are different for each traveller and depend on your country of residence.

Other one-off costs during travel in Korea may include day tours, souvenirs, shopping, celebrations, medical costs, and expenses that you don’t normally pay each day. Again, these vary for each traveller and are difficult to calculate as people’s budgets are so different.

Is Korea A Cheap Country To Travel In?

Korea is relatively cheap country to visit, but certainly isn’t always a budget destination. The cost to travel to Korea has risen over the last few years and might be more expensive than you think, even if you’ve previously visited Korea. Flying to Korea is certainly more expensive now.

Food costs rose by 7.5% in 2022 alone and these costs have been passed on to restaurants, which now charge higher prices for meals. Transportation costs rose by about 20% in 2023 for buses and subways, although these are still relatively cheap compared to some countries.

Despite these price increases, travelling in Korea is still cheaper than travelling in most other high-income industrialised countries such as Japan, the USA, and Western Europe. If you’re from countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, or Malaysia, Korea may seem expensive.

City Passes That Save You Money In Seoul

There are a number of city passes that can save you money when visiting Seoul by offering free or discounted entry to some of the best attractions in the city for a single price. The original city pass for Seoul is the Discover Seoul Pass, but now there is also the Go City Pass and Klook Pass Seoul.

Here’s a summary of each of these Seoul city passes:

Discover Seoul Pass: Available in 24 | 48 | 72 hour periods, allows entry to top attractions in Seoul such as Lotte World Adventure, N Seoul Tower, COEX Aquarium, Alive Museum, Zoolung Zoolung, Sealala Sauna, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and more. Prices start at 50,000 KRW.

Go City Seoul Pass: Available as 1 – 5 day passes or a flexible pass for up to 7 attractions. Covers a wider amount of attractions than the DSP, including a DMZ Tour, Nanta Cookin’ Musical, Seoul Land, Seoul Pub Crawl, Seoul Ghost Tour, and more. Prices start at 68,000 KRW.

Klook Pass Seoul: Available for use 2 – 5 attractions, including Everland or Lotte World Adventure theme parks. The Klook Pass Seoul allows free entry to selected attractions within a 30 day period. Attractions include the N Seoul Tower and Lotte World Aquarium. Prices start at 44,000 KRW.

If you’d like to know more about these passes, be sure to check out my article about the Klook Pass Seoul, as well as my suggested Discover Seoul Pass itineraries. I’ll have a review article of the Go City Seoul Pass soon, too.

How To Save Money In Korea

There are always ways to save money and spend less in Korea. Budget options exist for travellers and you can travel in Korea for less than 150,000 KRW per day, even as little as 50,000 KRW per day. Here are some of the ways you can save money in Korea and travel more for less:

Eat like a local: Visit the traditional markets, food stalls, and traditional Korean restaurants. These are much cheaper than eating foreign foods in Korea. University areas are usually cheap, too.

Spend less on coffee: Coffee in Korea can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. A latte could cost you 5,000 KRW in a chain store, but there are cheap hole-in-the-wall cafes where it’s half that.

Shop in the markets: From designer goods (possibly fake) to souvenirs, the markets of Seoul and other cities usually have the best prices. Don’t be afraid to haggle.

Use public transport: Korea has a fantastic public transport network both in cities and between cities. Don’t waste money on taxis and private transfers when you can use a bus or subway.

Book everything online: You can find discounted entry and tour tickets online that are much cheaper than the regular price. Use Klook, Get Your Guide, and Viator for the best prices.

Stay in guesthouses and hostels: You can find rooms for as little as 10,000 KRW per night in shared dorms and 20,000 KRW in guesthouses. Book ahead to find the best prices.

Take advantage of free things: There are lots of places you can visit for free in Seoul and free services, such as walking tours in Seoul, 30-minute hanbok rentals, and even free entry to the palaces.

Get your tax back: Korea makes it really easy to recover tax you’ve paid when shopping. Stores in Seoul will process tax returns for you or you can claim a refund at the airport when you leave.

You will see tips and links in this South Korea travel guide that are designed to help you save money when you visit Korea. Booking tours, attractions, and sim cards in advance can save you a lot of money, as can using a T-Money card and Wise travel card. Keep reading for more money-saving tips.

Travel Money And Money Exchanges In Korea

If you follow the tips in this section of this South Korea travel guide, you can certainly save yourself a lot of money and avoid unnecessary fees when spending in Korea. Learn where and how to exchange money, how to avoid ATM and card fees, and how to get tax back before you leave.

Because this section covers a lot of the common questions people ask about travel money in Korea, it will be broken down into a question and answer format. This should make it easier for you to find the information you’re looking for and discover answers you didn’t know you were looking for.

Can You Use A Foreign Card In Korea?

Almost all foreign credit cards with Visa or Mastercard will be accepted in Korea and it is possible to use these cards to pay across the country. American Express is also accepted in popular tourist areas, but not as widely as Visa or Mastercard and may have problems outside of big cities.

Foreign debit cards should work if they use Visa or Mastercard, but there may be restrictions in place with your bank when using them abroad. It is recommended that you call your bank to check before travelling. For both credit and debit cards, check your bank for any fees you’ll pay overseas.

Can You Withdraw Cash From An ATM In Korea?

You can withdraw cash from ATMs in Korea using a debit card, but not all ATMs will accept international cards. Look for a sign saying ‘Global ATM’ or ‘Foreign Currency ATM’ to withdraw cash in Korea with a debit card. You can also withdraw cash using a credit card, but it’s more expensive.

Whether you use a debit or credit card, an ATM is likely to charge a fee to withdraw money using a foreign card. Your bank or credit card company may also charge a fee or give a bad exchange rate. These costs can add up a lot if you withdraw regularly, so try to make fewer withdrawals.

Learn more: Should you use cash or card when you visit Korea? This article about the how to pay in Korea has lots of useful information about payment methods in Korea, including alternatives to the usual mix of cash and a credit card.

How Can You Save Money When Paying By Card In Korea?

Instead of using a foreign debit or credit card in Korea, which might have expensive fees or not work in places, here are two better options. The first is the WOWPASS travel card, which offers tourist-friendly card services in Korea. The other is to apply for a travel card that can be used globally.

Both the WOWPASS and the two other travel cards offer the ability to pay by card in Korea and to withdraw cash in Korean won. They also offer better exchange rates than you’ll find in airport or local money exchanges in Korea. They each have some unique features, which will be illustrated below.

Pay Like A Local With WOWPASS

The WOWPASS is a new way to pay in Korea that combines the essential functions of a T-Money transportation card with the benefits of a local debit card. This is a prepaid card you can top up at more than 90 locations in KRW or your own currency. Just look for the bright orange WOW machines.

The T-Money function in the WOWPASS means it’s more useful than other travel cards as you don’t need to carry two separate cards when you travel. Please note, you still need to charge the T-Money balance of WOWPASS with cash, just like a regular T-Money card.

The WOWPASS travel card allows you to add up to 1,000,000 KRW to your card and can be used to pay for almost anything in Korea without any fees. The card is issued by a Korean company, so you can use it to withdraw cash at any WOWPASS machine located in Seoul & other cities in Korea.

Thanks to the user-friendly WOWPASS app, users can freeze or replace their card, check their spending, add funds, and check exchange rates. Because the WOWPASS isn’t tied to your home bank account, it also reduces the damage by card fraud, in case the worst was to happen.

As well as a regular WOWPASS, you can also reserve the All-In-One Airport Package, which includes the WOWPASS, 10,000 KRW T-Money balance, and a discounted Korean sim card. This is really useful for those who want to get connected and travelling as soon as they arrive in Korea. Get the WOWPASS app for Android or Apple.

Tip: Use the invitation code INMYKOR1 to get cashback on WOWPASS top-ups in foreign currency.

Overseas Travel Cards You Can Use In Korea

Overseas travel cards are another option for spending in Korea and I use them myself to spend money from my UK bank account in Korea, as well as when travelling in other countries. They’re really simple to use and are much cheaper than paying with my foreign card or exchanging money.

Two of the leading travel card companies are Wise and Revolut. I use both of these to pay for things in Korea and have written an article about how to use the Wise card in Korea. You can use them to pay for hotels, food, drinks, transportation, taxis, attractions, and lots more. They’re really useful.

Here’s a summary of the main features of these travel cards:

The Wise travel card allows you to easily transfer and convert money from your home bank account into dozens of other currencies and use this money to pay when you’re travelling. You only need to transfer as much as you plan to spend and can easily transfer back anything you haven’t. The exchange rate will be better than your bank or a money exchange offers, too.

A versatile, easy to use app breaks down what you’ve spent by category so you can track your travel spending. You can withdraw cash from ATMs, pay by QR code, use it for Google Pay, and pay by contactless. Even if you lose your card, you can still spend money. It’s also really safe as you can freeze your card, set spending limits, and limit how much money you transfer.

Wise Travel Card

The Revolut travel card can be used in Korea to pay for a wide range of goods and services without expensive fees for spending your home currency overseas. Unlike the Wise travel card, which lets you transfer money into different currencies and then spend in a local currency, such as Korean won, the Revolut travel card lets you pay fee-free with your home currency.

The Revolut travel card comes with an easy to use app that can be used to manage your money both at home and when travelling in Korea. You can check your spending with categories and reports and set budgets for your spending. The Revolut travel card also offers cashback in the US, stock and crypto investments, and the same security features as the Wise travel card.

Revolut Travel Card

Can You Use Apple Pay In Korea?

Apple Pay wasn’t previously available in Korea due to a lack of approval by Korea’s financial regulator. However, in February 2023, Apple Pay received approval to begin operating in Korea through the Hyundai Card Co., allowing payments with Apple devices from March 2023 onwards.

The Apple Pay payment system has been available in Korea since March 21st, 2023 and allows Apple Pay members to pay for goods and services at NFC-enabled payment terminals. However, on the launch date of Apple Pay, there were only 70,000 NFC-enabled payment terminals in Korea.

The lack of NFC-enabled payment terminals will be a big issue for Apple Pay users in Korea as there are around 2,900,000 shops in Korea and most won’t accept Apple Pay. Franchises like Starbucks can’t accept Apple Pay and it can’t be used to pay for public transport. You’ll need a T-Money card.

Samsung Pay, which uses MST technology, not NFC, currently dominates the Korean market. NFC-enabled terminals should grow, especially in tourist areas and city-centres from 2023 onwards. This will be good news for Google Pay, which also uses NFC technology and also isn’t in use in Korea yet.

Should You Exchange Money Before Travelling To Korea?

It is not necessary to exchange money into Korean won before travelling to Korea, but it can certainly be useful to have a small amount of money. Exchange rates for Korean won outside Korea may not be as good as within Korea and changing large amounts of cash before you travel isn’t essential.

It might be hard to get Korean won from your local bank or money exchange as it’s not one of the most commonly exchanged currencies. Therefore, you might find exchange rates less favourable and extra fees applied to exchange money. Using travel cards like Wise or Revolut is a better option.

Should You Change Money At Incheon Airport?

I’ve travelled around the world and always avoid exchanging money at the airport if I can help it. Airports often have the worst rates for money exchange as they know people need to get local cash, there aren’t many other options, and you need at least a bit of money to travel to your hotel.

Incheon Airport is an exception to this rule and I’ve compared travel exchange rates at several times when flying into and out of the airport. The foreign currency exchange rates at Incheon Airport aren’t that bad and are just slightly higher than what you’d find in Seoul. Not the best, but not bad.

There are also Global ATMs at Incheon Airport, so you can withdraw cash here. If you have a Wise or Revolut travel card, you can withdraw up to $200 fee-free from an ATM in Korea. However, Korean banks will charge a withdrawal fee (about 3,000 KRW), which applies to any foreign card used.

Where Can You Exchange Money In Seoul?

Seoul is the first destination for most travellers to Korea and if you want to save money on exchange rate fees, I recommend exchanging money in the capital. There are two main options for exchanging money easily and quickly in Seoul – WOW money exchange machines and money exchanges.

Here’s a summary about the two main ways to exchange money in Seoul:

The cheapest and most convenient option for exchanging money in Seoul is through a WOW money exchange machine. This automated machine gives the best exchange rates and can quickly and easily exchange foreign cash for Korean won. It doesn’t accept card payments, only cash. All you need to do is scan your passport and deposit your cash and it will convert it into Korean won immediately. There are dozens of these machines in Seoul, as well as in other cities like Busan and Daejeon.

The traditional way to exchange foreign currency in Seoul was through a money exchange. You can find these in Myeongdong, where many tourists stay and visit in Seoul. There are also money exchanges inside banks and in other tourist hotspots. These used to be the best place to exchange money, until the WOW money exchanges were introduced and travel cards like Wise and Revolut made it easier to use a card. If you want to use a money exchange in Seoul, Myeongdong is the best place to do it.

Can You Get Tax Back When Shopping In Korea?

Travellers to Korea can claim tax back on eligible purchases during their trip. This can be done immediately after you purchase an item (if the shop offers the service) or at Incheon Airport or other airports in Korea before you depart.

Instant tax refunds are available at certain locations in Seoul and other big cities. These are usually department stores and large chain stores. You are able to claim tax refunds for goods up to a total value of 2,500,000 KRW (incl. tax). There is a tax refund limit of 500,000 KRW per transaction.

2024 Tax Refund Changes: From 2024, the tax refund limits will be doubled, so you will be able to claim up to 5,000,000 KRW of tax back and claim up to 1,000,000 KRW back per transaction. Source: Korea Herald.

To claim a tax refund you need:

• To show your passport
• To be a tourist in Korea
• To spend between 30,000 to 300,000 KRW in one place
• To be leaving Korea within 3 months

Tax isn’t refundable on all purchases, so be sure to check when shopping. Tax refunds can also be claimed at the airport as long as you have the receipt and the goods you’ve purchased.

Mobile Phones And Internet In Korea

Staying connected to the Internet when visiting Korea is becoming more and more essential these days. Keeping your mobile phone, tablet, or computer connected to the web is useful not only to stay in touch with people back home, but also to help you save money and travel Korea more easily.

There are several options to stay connected in Korea when you travel. The main options for travellers are tourist SIM cards, either physical or eSIMs, portable WiFi routers, and relying on free WiFi provided in public places and hotels. All of these are good options, but there are other considerations, too.

This South Korea travel guide will cover the main differences between Korean SIM cards and portable WiFi routers and which will be most suitable for you. There are also details about why you might want a Korean phone number and which apps to use to help you travel in Korea.

Don’t forget, if you bring your phone or other mobile devices to Korea, you’ll need a travel adapter.

Should You Get A Korean SIM Card Or WiFi Router?

Both a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router will provide access to Korea’s high-speed mobile networks and keep you connected to the Internet. They provide a secure internet connection, but do so in a different way and with different available features. Find out about the best Korean SIM card for tourists in this SK SIM card review.

Here are the main features of Korean SIM cards and WiFi routers:

Costs: SIM cards and WiFi routers are similarly priced when using them for a two week period, but they are charged in different ways. SIM cards are fixed-price and can be bought for set time periods, whereas WiFi routers are charged daily. WiFi routers are cheaper in the short-term.

Ease of use: If you purchase or pre-order a SIM card or portable WiFi router at Incheon Airport, which I highly recommend, the staff will install or setup everything for you. Once they’re activated, it’s very simple to use either one. Cancelling and returning them at the airport is also easy for both.

Here are the reasons you should get a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router in Korea:

You should get a Korean SIM card when visiting Korea to get a Korean phone number. The benefits of having a Korean phone number are mainly to make calls and use Korean apps. SIM cards are also useful if you want a secure connection everywhere you go and plan to make calls or send texts. When you have a SIM card, you can tether your network connection to connect other devices you own. Korean phone coverage is amazing and you’ll get service everywhere. SIM cards don’t require you to carry any extra devices and are cheaper over the long-run than WiFi routers.

Korean Sim Card

You should get a portable WiFi router if you’re travelling in a group or as a family as you can connect multiple devices to one router. This is much cheaper than getting separate SIM cards for all travellers, but also requires people stay close together. WiFi routers are charged per day and if you need additional days, they’ll be automatically added and charged when you return the router. This means you’ll never have to worry about your service suddenly ending. The main downside to using a WiFi router is the lack of Korean phone number, but that might not be an issue if you don’t need one.

Korean WiFi router

Where Can You Get Korean SIM Cards Or WiFi Routers?

You can get a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router in several ways. The easiest way, and one that I definitely recommend, is to purchase online through a tour company such as Klook, Viator, or Get Your Guide, and get a SIM card at Incheon Airport or other entry point into Korea when you arrive..

The main reason I recommend this method is that you can guarantee you will get a SIM card or router and it will be waiting for you when you arrive. The collection desks at Incheon Airport are open 24-hours a day and they will help you install everything you need to get started immediately.

You can also get SIM cards and WiFi routers when you arrive at the airport and you should find similar rates. However, you won’t be guaranteed a device and you will need to pay in person. When you book online, you can pay in your home currency and avoid those issues.

I don’t recommend getting a SIM card or WiFi router in Seoul or other cities. It is possible, but you may run into language issues and find less tourist-friendly options. Phone shops outside the airport usually cater to Koreans, not tourists. Airport rentals are the easiest options for visitors to Korea.

What’s The Benefit Of A Korean Phone Number For Tourists?

There are two main benefits of having a Korean phone number for tourists. The first benefit is the ability to call people when you’re in Korea. This can be useful for making reservations, keeping in touch with people, and in case of emergencies.

The second benefit of having a Korean phone number is the ability to use Korean apps. It isn’t mandatory to have a Korean phone number to use Korean apps, but most won’t let you use their services unless you sign up with a phone number. Using Korean apps makes travelling easier.

A phone number is like a form of identity in Korea, which is why you need your passport to register a SIM card. Once you have a phone number, many more services are available, including food delivery, ordering taxis, making reservations (such as for the Busan Sky Capsule), and online messaging.

What Apps Do I Need For Travelling In Korea?

If you have a Korean phone number, you can use Korean apps. Even without a Korean number, you can still download these apps and use some of their services. Full features typically require a phone number though. There are other, non-Korean apps that will help you when travelling, too.

Here are the most useful apps to use when travelling in Korea:

Papago: This is the essential translation tool for visiting Korea. Papago’s translation services are the best and you can use the app to take pictures and translate Korean signs, menus, and other pictures.

Naver Maps: To find your way around Korea, use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps. Their systems are much more accurate in Korea than Google Maps. Use them to plan travel routes and transport times.

Kakao Taxi: Uber and Grab don’t really exist in Korea, so if you plan to take a taxi, you’ll need to use Kakao Taxi. Simple to use and takes the hassle out of trying to use Korean to give directions.

Kakao Talk: This is Korea’s most popular messaging app and is useful for keeping in touch with Korean friends, contacting businesses in Korea, and even calling abroad.

Seoul Subway: Use this app to travel around Seoul’s underground more easily. Plan your route, see when the next train is due to arrive, check connections, and see how late the trains run.

Korail Talk: This app allows you to book trains on Korea’s high-speed train network and regular train routes. This app has an English setting, so you can check train times and prices easily.

Coupang Eats: This is a food-delivery app that allows you to order almost anything edible and get it sent directly to you. You can even order convenience store goods. Useful for rainy days.

Mango Plate: Find restaurants in Korea with this app and discover the best places to go out and eat. You can also see restaurant details and get directions in Naver Maps and Kakao Maps.

WOWPASS: To use the WOWPASS to pay like a local in Korea and for T-Money functions, you’ll need the WOWPASS app. This will let you check your balances and spending and control your card.

Wise & Revolut: As mentioned in this South Korea travel guide, using a travel card to pay for items in Korea will save you money when you travel. If you use Wise or Revolut, make sure you have the app.

Klook: This company provides some of the best tours in Korea and if you make bookings through their website, you can easily manage them with the Klook app.

Intercity Bus by T-Money: This app is great for booking buses between cities in Korea. There is an English version that allows you to book tickets, check times, and see available seats.

These apps should be available on both Android and Apple. Some of these apps might default to Korean, but you should be able to change them to English in the side menu.

Is There Free WiFi In Korea?

Travellers in Korea have the option to not get a sim card or portable WiFi but still stay connected. This is thanks to the excellent Free Wifi in Korea that is provided in public transport, government buildings, restaurants, cafes, and many other places. This is mostly in the cities, however.

Hotels also provide free WiFi in most cities in Korea. If you plan to rely on free WiFi, I recommend using the hotel’s WiFi to plan routes, check opening times, and research places you want to visit. Take screenshots of these details so you can see them later, even if you don’t have Internet access.

The only warning I would give about relying on free WiFi when travelling in Korea is the increased use of mobile-dependent apps and passes in Korea. Physical tickets and passes are being phased out in favour of digital versions, which often need an active Internet connection to use.

I’ve noticed in recent years that services that impact travellers have moved to digital versions. This includes the T-Money card, Discover Seoul Pass, train and coach tickets, attraction tickets and event tickets. I believe that having a reliable net connection will be a must for most travellers soon.

Using Public Transport In Korea In 2024

This section of the South Korea travel guide looks at Korea’s public transport system and how to navigate it as a traveller. Korea has arguably one of the best public transport systems in the world. It’s cheap, well-connected, frequent, and runs on time. Other countries could learn a lot from Korea.

The great news for tourists is that Korea’s public transport is very foreigner friendly and information is provided in English in almost all places, as well as Chinese and Japanese in popular areas such as Seoul and Busan. Travelling by public transport in Korea is cheap, easy, and convenient.

How Much Does Public Transport Cost In Korea?

The cost of public transportation in Korea is fixed, no matter what day you purchase tickets on. If you buy one month in advance, or last minute, you will pay the same price for the journey. Journeys within a city are a single price and not dependent on how far you travel, unless you leave the city limits.

All journeys are single fares and you can’t buy return tickets. You will need to buy two singles when you want to travel somewhere and back again. The cost of a single fare depends on how you pay for the ticket – by cash or with a transportation card.

Here are the costs for public transport in Korea by payment method, type and user:

Please note: The cost of subway rides is set to rise to 1,400 / 1,500 KRW in October 2023. These prices will be adjusted when this occurs.

How Do You Pay For Public Transport In Korea?

The cost of public transport in Korea depends on whether you pay with a transportation card, such as T-Money, a Korea Tour Card, or Cashbee, or in cash. This applies to both subways and buses. If you use a transportation card, you should add credit to it, then touch it to the card reader at the subway or bus to pay.

To use cash to buy a subway ticket, you will need to buy a ticket at the station. For buses, you should pay the correct fare to the driver when boarding the bus. However, since 2022, buses across Korea have started to end the use of cash and some will insist on payment by transportation card only.

In the future, bus payments are expected to become simpler with fares deducted via bluetooth-enabled phones that have the relevant app downloaded. This system has already been in place in Gyeonggi Province since March 2022 and is likely to spread to more bus routes in the future.

I highly recommend getting a T-Money card when you travel to Korea. You can use it to pay for public transportation (at a discounted rate), and it will work almost everywhere in Korea. It can also be used to buy goods from shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s really convenient and a must-have for Korea.

Using T-Money To Pay For Public Transport In Korea

A T-Money card is the essential transportation card for using public transport in Korea. You can purchase one at Incheon Airport, subway and train stations, and convenience stores across Korea. The card can be used in many places. It never expires, so you can use it on different trips, too.

Here is how to use a T-Money card in Korea:

• Purchase a T-Money card (2,500 KRW)
• Add money to the card (cash top-up only)
• Enter the bus or subway station
• Tap the T-Money card against the card reader (see pic above)
• Tap the T-Money card again when you get off (for transfer discount)
• Recharge when necessary

I recommend adding about 10,000 KRW for each day you plan to travel in Korea. That means about 70,000 KRW for a week. You can add more money later if necessary. You can top up at convenience stores and transport stations. There is also an app version of T-Money, but the card version is better.

How Do You Use Trains In Korea?

The train network in Korea is divided into high-speed trains (KTX) and regular trains (ITX and Mugunghwa). The KTX network connects major cities in Korea and is convenient for travelling around Korea quickly and cheaply. The carriages are comfortable and come with modern facilities.

Unlike other forms of public transport in Korea, transportation cards like T-Money aren’t accepted for trains. You will need to buy a train ticket to travel and all tickets are single tickets. The price to buy a ticket doesn’t change and you can refund a ticket up to the last minute for only a small fee.

You can book tickets within 30 days of travel through the official Korail website or app, or at a train station in Korea. Unfortunately, buying a train ticket online in Korea can be difficult as Korean payment systems often reject cards issued outside of Korea. Buying in person is recommended.

How To Book Korean Rail Tickets Outside Of Korea

If you want to book Korean train tickets outside of Korea, you can do it online with Trip.com, which is Korail’s exclusive overseas distributor. The price is slightly higher (about 5%) than the price you’ll pay in Korea, but it will allow you to book tickets online and secure your seat in advance.

If you plan to travel on the main KTX route between Seoul and Busan, I highly recommend booking tickets in advance. There are three types of tickets available – first class, regular, and standing. The journey takes 2:34 and you don’t want to be standing for all that time. Book ahead for comfort.

Is The Korea Rail Pass Worth The Price?

The Korea Rail Pass is a good option for tourists who plan to travel long distances by train in Korea, such as between Seoul and Busan or Seoul and Jeonju. The pass has two main options – flexible and consecutive. These mean you can use it any time (flexible) or within consecutive days.

The flexible pass is more expensive, but offers more freedom to travel around Korea over a longer period. You can use the pass to only cover big journeys and won’t feel pressured to use it again until you’re ready. The extra cost is more than worth the inconvenience of having to rush travel plans.

Will you save money with the Korea Rail Pass? That depends on your travel plans, how often you’ll be travelling by train, and how many people are travelling. If there are 2 people or more, purchase the group saver pass and save 10,000 KRW each on the pass. Group tours make it better value.

The Korea Rail Pass does not allow you to ride on the subway for free, which would make it better value. It can also be complicated to reserve tickets online using the pass and buying tickets in the regular way is more convenient. Overall, the pass isn’t essential, but might save you money.

How Do You Use Taxis In Korea?

Taxis in Korea can be hailed from the street or called directly to you using apps such as Kakao Taxi. Companies like Uber and Grab don’t have a large presence in Korea and operate the same way as Kakao Taxi, by helping you find an official taxi driver. Private taxi services aren’t common.

The big issue facing the Korean taxi industry in 2024 is the lack of taxi drivers. This can make it hard to get a taxi, even when using an app like Kakao Taxi. Late night taxis are particularly difficult to find. Read this guide about how to use Kakao Taxi to help you learn how to call a taxi in Korea.

Taxi prices in Korea are reasonable, especially compared to countries like Japan and the UK. Although base taxi fares rose in 2023 to 4,800 KRW, the price is still low and relatively affordable to travel by taxi if you need to. It’s a good option if there are no direct public transport routes.

Taking a taxi to and from Incheon Airport is a convenient option if you have a lot of bags or you are travelling in a group. For solo travellers or couples, I would recommend using public transport or a limo bus, as it’s significantly cheaper and won’t take much longer than a taxi.

How Do You Use Intercity Buses In Korea?

Intercity buses in Korea operate in a similar way to trains. You can only book tickets within 30 days of travel and can only buy single tickets. Book tickets online through websites such as T-Money Bus or Bustago, through app versions of these sites, or at the bus terminal you will depart from.

You can’t walk onto intercity buses without a ticket, nor can you use transportation cards like T-Money to pay on entry. You will need to pay for and receive your ticket (physical or digital) before you can enter the bus. Ticket machines usually (but not always) have English options for buying tickets.

There are no return bus tickets in Korea and you can only buy tickets from your point of departure, unless you book online or via an app. If you’re travelling from Seoul to Gangneung, for example, you will need to buy a ticket in Seoul and then a ticket in Gangneung. You can’t buy both in Seoul.

How Can You Hire A Car In Korea?

Renting a car is a great way to see parts of Korea that aren’t covered by the train network and gives you the freedom to explore at your leisure. If you plan to travel to Jeju Island, which doesn’t have any trains, hiring a car will be a lot more convenient and is almost a must if you plan to travel inland.

Car rental in Korea isn’t that expensive and you can rent a modern car for as little as 75,000 KRW per day. I recommend booking car rentals through Klook, they will deal with the Korean car rental companies and reserve a car for you. This is easier than trying to do it in Korean.

To hire a car in Korea, you will need:

• Driver’s license (must have had it for at least 1 or 2 years)
• International Driving Permit (in some cases)
• Credit card (in the name of the main driver)
• Valid photo ID (passport)
• Printed voucher for rental (if booked online)

Here’s some more information about the International Driving Permit and rules you should follow when driving in Korea, such as the legal requirement to wear seatbelts, booster seats for under 6s, and not using your phone while driving. Be sure to read up on local rules before driving in Korea.

Best Places To Visit In Korea In 2024

The next few sections of this South Korea travel guide will help you figure out what you want to do and see on your travels. This first section will give you a brief introduction to the best places to visit in Korea, including the major cities, tourist hotspots, and unique areas that you’re sure to love.

Here are the best places to visit in Korea:

Seoul: Korea’s Capital

Seoul is Korea’s vibrant, bustling capital and truly a must-see for any first-time visitor to Korea. There is so much to see and do in Seoul that you could easily spend a week or more exploring the city and not get bored. You will find yourself falling in love with the city for different reasons. Maybe it’s the friendly people, the deliciously cheap street eats, the way things just work, the hidden murals on old buildings down side streets, the feeling of safety even in a big city, or the historic sights creeping out from modern buildings. Seoul includes everything Korea has to offer, plus a lot more you won’t find elsewhere.

What To See In Seoul

Here are 10 great places to visit in Seoul:

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
3. Myeongdong Street Markets
4. Lotte World Tower & Seokchon Lake
5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Markets
6. Yeouido Han River Park & Cruise
7. Secret Garden (Changdeokgung Palace)
8. N Seoul Tower & Namsan Mountain
9. COEX Mall & Bongeunsa Temple
10. Bukhansan National Park

Busan: Big Coastal City

While Seoul is a showcase of all things Korean, Busan is unashamedly its own city and a celebration of coastal life and local culture. Busan is famous for fresh seafood, traditional markets, great beaches, big festivals, movies, temples, and places to explore the coast. Beaches are popular places to visit in Busan, along with cliff-side walkways with views over the ocean. Central Busan is a lively spot with lots of entertainment and markets to enjoy, including a famous fish market where you can choose your own lunch and then eat it. Busan is spread out and deserves several days to explore it properly.

What To See In Busan

Here are 10 great places to visit in Busan:

1. Haeundae Beach & Beach Train
2. Jagalchi Fish Market
3. Gamcheon Culture Village
4. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
5. Songdo Beach & Cable Car
6. Huinnyeoul Culture Village
7. BIFF Square & Centum City Mall
8. Oryukdo Skywalk & Coastal Paths
9. Lotte World Busan
10. Busan X The Sky Observatory

Jeju Island: Natural Wonder

Jeju Island is a gorgeous island created from a volcano rising out of the ocean 2 million years ago. Today it’s one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of Nature and deservedly so. The lush island is packed with pine trees, tangerines, rolling hills and fields, cacti, and jet black volcanic rock tumbled all around. You can relax on a beach, go horse riding, explore ancient lava tubes, scuba dive, climb to the volcano’s peak, chill in a beach-side cafe, explore traditional markets, learn about local culture, and lots more. The island has two main cities, but the attractions are spread out along the coast.

What to See On Jeju Island

Here are 10 great places to visit on Jeju Island:

1. Hallasan Mountain (Volcano)
2. Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak
3. Hyeopjae & Hamdeok Beaches
4. Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market
5. Jeju Folk Village
6. Udo Island
7. Yakcheonsa Coastal Buddhist Temple
8. Jungmun Beach & Jusangjeolli Cliff
9. O’Sulloc Green Tea Museum
10. Cheonjiyeon & Jeongbang Waterfalls

Gyeongju: Historic Capital

Gyeongju, the former capital of the Shilla Kingdom in ancient Korea, is a true treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as local culture, history, and natural beauty. Described as an outdoor museum, you can see many of the big attractions in the Gyeongju Historic Area, including the 1,400 year Cheomseongdae Observatory. There’s so much to see in Gyeongju outside this area though, including the impressive Bulguksa Temple, one of the best Buddhist temples in Korea. There’s also the Bomun Lake Tourist District, a dreamy sight during cherry blossom season.

What To See In Gyeongju

Here are 10 great places to visit in Gyeongju:

1. Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Shrine
2. Cheomseongdae Observatory
3. Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
4. Yangdong Folk Village
5. Hwangnidangil Hanok Street
6. Daereungwon Tomb Complex
7. Bomun Lake Tourist Complex
8. Woljeonggyo Bridge
9. Gyeongju National Museum
10. Gyochon Traditional Hanok Village

Jeonju: Traditional Views & Food

Jeonju is the perfect destination for a day trip from Seoul and has most of its main attractions in one area of the city. What can you see in Jeonju? The main attraction is the gigantic Jeonju Hanok Village, featuring more than 700 traditional hanok houses. You can dress up in Korean hanbok, dine on Jeonju’s famous bibimbap in an old restaurant, and see how life in Korea used to be. There are plenty of other sights nearby, including a traditional market, pretty river, and the rather unusual Jaman Mural Village.

What To See In Jeonju

Here are 5 great places to visit in Jeonju:

1. Jeonju Hanok Village
2. Jeongdong Catholic Church
3. Gyeonggijeon Shrine
4. Nambu Traditional Market
5. Jaman Mural Village

Suwon: Fortress City

Suwon is another city close to Seoul that you can visit in a day and see many interesting and unique sights. The main draw of Suwon is the Hwaseong Fortress and the fortress walls, which are still intact and run for 6km around the city. Inside this fortress you’ll find lots of museums, historic buildings, parks, and activities, such as archery. There are often cultural festivals in this area, too. Surprisingly, Suwon is the best place to get KFC (Korean Fried Chicken). There’s a whole street dedicated to making it.

What to See In Suwon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Suwon:

1. Hwaseong Fortress & Fortress Walls
2. Hwaseong Haenggung & Haengridan Gil
3. Fried Chicken Street
4. Korean Folk Village
5. Gwanggyo Lake Park

Incheon: Modern City With Islands

Incheon is one of Korea’s largest cities, but is sadly ignored as it’s right next to Seoul and most people think it’s just there for the airport. That’s not true at all and there’s plenty to see and do in Incheon. Described as a futuristic city, Incheon is at the front of Korea’s push to become an ultra-modern country and nowhere shows that more than Songdo Central Park. The traditional side of Incheon is also worth exploring, including the Chinatown, which is home to Korea’s most popular student food – jajangmyeon. If you want to explore a lesser-seen side of Korea, check out the islands near Incheon to see ancient fortresses, temples, and charming sights.

What to See In Incheon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Incheon:

1. Songdo Central Park
2. Incheon Chinatown
3. Wolmido Island
4. Incheon Grand Park
5. Ganghwa Jeondeungsa Temple

Gapyeong County: Tourists Treats

Gapyeong County is a rural part of Korea just outside Seoul that is one of the most popular day trip destinations for visitors and locals alike. Inside Gapyeong County is the lovely Garden of Morning Calm, a beautiful sculpted garden that showcases traditional Korean buildings set amongst thousands of different plants and trees. There’s also Nami Island, an ever-popular attraction that has long tree-lined streets to explore, woodland animals, bike paths, and even a zip line to the island. You can also visit Petite France, a recreation of a French village, Gapyeong Rail Bike Park, and Cheongpyeong Lake, and many other attractions in Gapyeong.

What To See In Gapyeong

Here are 5 great places to visit in Gapyeong:

1. Nami Island
2. Garden of Morning Calm
3. Petite France
4. Gapyeong Rail Bike Park
5. Cheongpyeong Lake

North-East Coast: Amazing Beaches

The north-east coastal region of Korea, spreading between Sokcho and Gangneung, features some of Korea’s most popular summer seaside resorts and beaches. The wide, sandy beaches are perfect for water sports, working on your tan, and sitting at night listening to local musicians perform BTS covers and their own tunes. Sokcho deserves at least two days to explore, more if you plan to visit nearby Seoraksan National Park, one of Korea’s best places to see autumn foliage. Gangneung is where to see cherry blossoms in spring, sit and relax at a seaside cafe at Gangneung Coffee Street, and enjoy beach life.

What To See On The North-East

Here are 5 great places in north-east Korea:

1. Sokcho Beach
2. Gangneung Beach
3. Seoraksan National Park
4. Yangyang Surfyy Beach
5. Gangneung Coffee Street

East Coast: Harbour Cities

Ulsan and Pohang are two industrial cities that don’t get enough attention, but are ideal for a weekend visit once you’ve explored other top sights. These coastal cities both have good beaches, coastal walks, and green spots, including a pretty bamboo forest in Ulsan. In Pohang, you can see the dizzying Space Walk, which looks out over the city and ocean. There’s also a former Japanese district with old buildings, and the famous Homigot Sunrise Square where you can watch the first sunrise of the year. Ulsan is famous for whaling and visitors should check out the charming Jangsaengpo Whale Museum and Daewangam Park.

What To See On The East Coast

Here are 5 great places on Korea’s East Coast:

1. Yeongildae Beach & Space Walk
2. Ilsan Beach & Daewangam Park
3. Jangsaengpo Whale Museum
4. Homigot Sunrise Square
5. Taehwagang National Garden

South-West: Iconic Rural Destinations

South-west Korea is a long way from most travellers’ typical route, but this area is worth visiting if you have time. Gwangju, one of Korea’s largest cities, is hidden away down here and surrounded by natural beauty, including the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, Boseong Green Tea Fields, and Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve. If you plan to hire a car, these spots will show you a completely different side to Korea. Gwangju, too, which is a fun city and the birthplace of Korean democracy. Hidden in the far corner of Korea is Mokpo, a lovely coastal city that has a new cable car carrying you over the ocean.

What to See In The South-West

Here are 5 great places in south-west Korea:

1. Damyang Juknokwon Bamboo Forest
2. Boseong Green Tea Fields
3. Gwangju Culture Park & Penguin Village
4. Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve
5. Mokpo Marine Cable Car

South Coast Islands: Summer Getaways

Best explored during the hot summer months and early autumn, the south coast islands in Korea, which span from Busan to Mokpo, are where Koreans spend their summer holidays. The most popular destinations here are Geoje, Tongyeong, Yeosu, Namhae, and Goheung and each offers winding coastal paths, beaches, natural beauty, and fun summer activities. The best way to see these islands is with a rented car or by bike, riding around the coast visiting a few different beaches and attractions. Don’t expect too many cultural sights, instead you’ll find luges, gardens, water sports, and lots of fun.

What to See On The South Coast

Here are 5 great places on Korea’s South Coast:

1. Dolsan Park & Cable Car
2. Namhae Geumsan Boriam Hermitage
3. Hallyeohaesang National Park
4. Oedo-Botania Botanical Garden
5. Skyline Luge Tongyeong

As you can see, there are many great places to visit in Korea. Korea is truly a country of undiscovered wonders that people aren’t aware of. Seoul is an incredible place to visit, but there’s so much more to see. That’s why I try to include lesser-known places in this South Korea travel guide.

The list above covers a lot of the most popular or tour-worthy destinations in Korea, but there are still more places I could recommend, such as Andong (home to the mask dance festival), Gunsan (port town with a retro vibe), Daegu (big city with historic sights), Daejeon, and many more.

Besides cities and towns in Korea, there are also 18 national parks to explore, thousands of mountains, Buddhist temples, beaches, bike routes, campsites, and so much more. I’ll include a few of each of these in the next few sections of this South Korea travel guide.

Best Day Tours From Seoul In 2024

Taking a day tour while you’re staying in Seoul is a great way to see more of Korea’s top attractions without the hassle of moving hotels to somewhere new. The 10 day tours from Seoul below can all be done in a day or less and can even be combined with other activities in the same day.

I don’t want to include every day tour available in this South Korea travel guide as there isn’t enough room to talk about them all. If you want to find more day tours, I recommend looking at the options available through tour providers such as Klook, Viator, and Get Your Guide.

Please note: There are many day tours from Seoul and they come with various prices. I recommend avoiding the very cheapest as these will often waste your time by taking you to some overpriced gift shop area and pressuring you to buy souvenirs or rushing you through too many attractions.

Here are 10 great day tours from Seoul:

Why Visit The DMZ

The DMZ, the demilitarised zone between North & South Korea is a truly unique place to visit when you’re in Korea. There are several different locations to see in this area, each reflecting the bitter struggle between the two Korea’s in the ongoing Korean War. Some of the highlights are the 3rd Tunnel, Dora Observatory, Dorasan Station, Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, and the Imjingak Park. There’s also the Panmunjom Truce Village where you can walk into North Korea, but this is currently closed. Tours are required to travel to certain parts of the DMZ.

DMZ Tour

Why Visit Gapyeong County

Gapyeong County is home to Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, Petite France, Gapyeong Rail Bike Park, and several other fun attractions. Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm are the most popular and can both be visited in a day. You can witness beautiful scenes at these destinations, especially during cherry blossom season (April) and autumn foliage season (October). Tours from Seoul to Gapyeong County are convenient and can take you to multiple places in one day without the hassle of buses and finding your own way.

Gapyeong County Tour

Why Visit Hwaseong Fortress

Hwaseong Fortress and its fortress walls offer a unique chance to see what life was like in Korea 200 years ago. Not only can you walk the full length of the walls around the city, you can also try archery and other traditional activities in the fortress grounds. There are many museums, fortress buildings, and exhibitions showing how people lived in this period. You can also enjoy the beautiful ponds and streams that run through the palace with traditional Korean restaurants and cafes looking out over these areas.

Hwaseong Fortress TOur

Why Visit Korean Folk Village

Discover traditional Korean life at the Korean Folk Village in Yongin during a day trip from Seoul. Walk through dozens of recreated farm buildings, government offices, academies, shops, smiths, schools, and other traditional buildings from Korea’s past to get a feel for how people lived at this time. Actors dressed in traditional Joseon-era costumes bring the scenes to life. You can try fun activities, such as mask carving, horse riding, and archery. Witness exciting festivals and cultural performances, too.

Korean Folk Village Tour

Why Visit Jeonju Hanok Village

A day trip to the Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju is a great way to experience various traditional Korean cultural activities in a beautiful setting. This sprawling hanok village has over 700 traditional buildings for you to explore, dine in, or even stay in. Make sure you rent hanbok in Jeonju so you look like Korean royalty and make memorable photos during your trip. Whilst you’re in Jeonju Hanok Village, you can try local delights such as Jeonju bibimbap and PNB chocopies. Also check out the traditional Nambu Market and Jeongdong Catholic Church.

Jeonju Hanok Village Guide

Why Visit Alpaca World

When you travel to Korea, you may not think about seeing alpacas, which are from an entirely different continent. But Korea’s love of all things cute means that these furry friends have become very popular in Korea and have their own theme park a few hours from Seoul. There are dozens of cuddly alpacas to see, feed, and play with at Alpaca World, as well as hundreds of other cute critters such as ponies, rabbits, deer, goats, fennec foxes, and more. There are 17 separate areas to explore in Alpaca World and it’ll provide hours of fun for the whole family.

ALpaca World Tour

Why Visit Seoraksan

Seoraksan National Park on Korea’s east coast is a great day trip from Seoul for those who want to see mountain peaks, leafy valleys, stony rivers, and a gigantic Buddha. Even if you’re not a keen hiker, you can explore lots of the park’s valley pathways easily, or reach the top thanks to the convenient cable car. See the sights from the observatory and check out the small temple in the clouds. Make sure you try haemul pajeon (seafood pancake) and makgeolli (rice wine). It’s the traditional meal Koreans enjoy after hiking.

Seoraksan Tour

Why Visit Everland

Everland is Korea’s biggest theme park and is packed with attractions for everyone to enjoy. Thrill seekers will love the rollercoasters, such as T Express (the world’s 4th steepest rollercoaster) and many more exciting rides. Check out the Zootopia section to see wild animals and wild rides, or the Plantopia section for floral beauty, romantic walkways, and seasonal delights. There are plenty of attractions, cultural performances, entertainments, and seasonal events to keep you amused all day long.

Everland Theme Park Tour

Why Visit Danyang

A great way to see Korea’s countryside is with a day trip to Danyang to enjoy the rush of sailing over valleys and beside mountains while tandem paragliding. Feel the wind in your face and the sensation of riding the air currents as you pass over the many delightful views of Danyang. You can enjoy other activities in this area, such as the Mancheonha Skywalk, a clifftop lookout with incredible views, riding an alpine coaster, and zooming along a zip line. The perfect day tour from Seoul for thrill seekers.

Danyang Paragliding Tour

Why Visit Dae Jang Geum Park

Fans of Korean period dramas and movies will love a day trip to Dae Jang Geum Park in Yongin. This is the largest historical drama filming set in Korea and was used to film MBC productions such as ‘Wind in the Palace’ and ‘The Great Queen Seondeok’, as well as K-Pop videos including Daechwita by Suga from BTS. If you’re lucky, you may see filming going on here. But even if you don’t, it’s a fun place for those who want to learn more about Korea’s history and take some cool pictures in a real movie set.

Dae Jang Geum Park Tour

I’ve linked to tours provided by reliable tour companies in Korea. If you would rather book a tour through a local guide, contact Jerry Heng or Andrew Chung Hanbyul. They’re freelance guides with years of experience offering tours in Korea and both offer amazing service.

These places are accessible by public transport, but may take much longer than a tour would do, wasting your precious time. Check out my guide for getting to Nami Island to help you navigate Gapyeong County. For other destinations, I would recommend a tour – it’s more practical.

Best Sights To See In Korea In 2024

South Korea truly has something for everyone. There’s so much I want to include in this South Korea travel guide, which is why this section is full of different sights to see and explore. However, to keep things short and simple, I’ll just list them, not give full details about each one.

Whether you’re travelling to Korea to learn about Korean culture or history, to see Korea’s impressive landmarks, to enjoy family fun attractions, to hop from cafe to cafe, to immerse yourself in nature, or simply to eat and shop, then you’ll definitely find something for you in this section.

Famous Landmarks In Korea

Landmarks and iconic buildings are often top of a traveller’s bucket list for Korea as they provide great photo opportunities, showcase the best of the country, and offer fantastic views. Seoul has many top landmarks, but you can see plenty of other sights outside of the capital, too.

Here are 10 famous landmarks in Korea:

1. Lotte World Tower (Seoul)
2. N Seoul Tower (Seoul)
3. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (Seoul)
4. Cheonggyecheon Stream (Seoul)
5. DMZ Area (near Seoul)
6. Nami Island (Gapyeong County)
7. Gamcheon Culture Village (Busan)
8. Seongsan Ilchulbong (Jeju)
9. Homigot Sunrise Square (Pohang)
10. Banwol Purple Island (West Coast)

Historic Sights In Korea

Discover life in the Joseon period and before in Korea’s many captivating historic sights, including royal palaces, Buddhist temples, fortresses, and hanok villages. There are so many amazing historic sights to see in Korea, with each city having something to see.

Here are 10 historic sights in Korea:

1. Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
2. Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul)
3. The Secret Garden (Seoul)
4. Seoul Fortress Walls (Seoul)
5. Hwaseong Fortress (Suwon)
6. Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
7. Gyeongju Historic Area (Gyeongju)
8. Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
9. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (Busan)
10. Andong Hahoe Village (Andong)

Korean Modern Cultural Sights

Fans of BTS, K-Dramas, Korean movies, and modern Korean culture in general have a lot to see and do in Korea. As well as famous filming locations across the country, these modern cultural sights will entertain, inform, and provide great destinations to visit.

Here are 10 modern cultural sights in Korea:

1. Hallyu K Star Road (Seoul)
2. K-Style Hub (Seoul)
3. Hongik Uni. Station Area (Seoul)
4. COEX Artium (Seoul)
5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (Seoul)
6. Asia Culture Centre (Gwangju)
7. BIFF Square (Busan)
8. Dae Jang Geum Park (Yongin)
9. Sunshine Studio (Nonsan)
10. Kim Gwang-Seok Street (Daegu)

Family Fun Attractions In Korea

Families travelling to Korea have plenty of things to see and do and ways to enjoy spending time together. There’s no Disneyworld or Universal Studios in Korea, but there are plenty of great alternatives, as well as places for children to explore, learn, and discover.

Here are 10 family fun attractions in Korea:

1. Lotte World Adventure (Seoul)
2. Everland Theme Park (Yongin)
3. Seoul Grand Park & Zoo (Seoul)
4. Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze (Seoul)
5. Seoul Children’s Museum (Seoul)
6. Zoolung Zoolung (Seoul)
7. Sea Life Busan Aquarium (Busan)
8. Jeju Dinosaur Island (Jeju Island)
9. Alpaca World (Gangwon Province)
10. Skyline Luge & Lotte World (Busan)

Korean Museums & Galleries

Travellers to Korea who want to learn about Korea’s history, culture, and art will love Korea’s impressive museums and galleries. These are great places to visit when the weather is bad and you might be surprised at how much there is to learn about Korea’s past.

Here are 10 museums & galleries in Korea:

1. National Museum of Korea (Seoul)
2. War Memorial of Korea (Seoul)
3. Seoul Museum of Art (Seoul)
4. Seoul Museum of History (Seoul)
5. Seodaemun Prison Museum (Seoul)
6. Museum Kimchikan (Seoul)
7. National Folk Museum of Korea (Seoul)
8. Gyeongju National Museum (Gyeongju)
9. National Maritime Museum (Busan)
10. Daegu Art Museum (Daegu)

Cafe Areas In Korea

When you need a break from travelling in Korea, visit one of these cosy cafe areas and take time to relax and recharge. Although Korea was traditionally a tea drinking country, cafes are now everywhere and you’ll find photogenic cafes everywhere these days.

Here are 10 cafe areas to visit in Korea:

1. Ikseondong Hanok Village (Seoul)
2. Gyeongui Line Parks (Seoul)
3. Samcheondong Cafe Street (Seoul)
4. Sinsa-dong / Garosugil Road (Seoul)
5. Jukjeon Cafe Street (Seoul)
6. Jeonpo Cafe Street (Busan)
7. Haeridangil (Busan)
8. Hwangnidangil (Gyeongju)
9. Hwaseong Haenggung Area (Suwon)
10. Gangneung Coffee Street (Gangneung)

Korean Markets & Malls

If you want the best selection of street food, souvenirs, and bargain shopping options, be sure to visit Korea’s many traditional markets. It’s a cultural experience itself. Korea also has some of the world’s largest malls with a wide variety of Korean and international goods.

Here are 10 markets & malls in Korea:

1. Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
2. Dongaemun Market (Seoul)
3. Hongdae Shopping Street (Seoul)
4. Starfield COEX Mall (Seoul)
5. Jagalchi Fish Market (Busan)
6. Seomyeon Underground Mall (Busan)
7. Centum City Mall (Busan)
8. Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market (Jeju)
9. Nambu Market (Jeonju)
10. Paju Premium Outlets (Paju)

Korean Natural Wonders

Korea is a country covered in mountains, waterfalls, valleys, rice terraces, and beautiful natural sights. Make time to visit some of these natural wonders when you visit Korea and you’ll be amazed at the incredible views you can find. The national parks are truly breathtaking.

Here are 10 natural wonders to see in Korea:

1. Hallasan Mountain (Jeju)
2. Jirisan National Park (Southern Korea)
3. Seoraksan National Park (Gyeonggi)
4. Garden of Morning Calm (Gapyeong)
5. Juknokwon Bamboo Forest (Damyang)
6. Boseong Green Tea Fields (Boseong)
7. Udo Island (Jeju Island)
8. Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (Jeju)
9. Hyeopjae Beach (Jeju)
10. Suncheon Bay National Park (Suncheon)

These 100 ideas are just the tip of the iceberg for what you can enjoy when travelling to Korea. There’s so much more to discover and I recommend you add some time to your travel plans to explore without a plan. Sometimes the best travel memories come from unexpected discoveries.

Best Activities To Try In Korea In 2024

Often the most memorable moments when travelling come from the experiences we have, not just the places we visit. Visiting a palace is interesting, but visiting a palace while dressed in traditional Korean hanbok, pretending you’re Joseon-era royalty with your friends or family is much more fun.

This section of the South Korea travel guide offers 10 fun activities you can try when you visit Korea. These will give you a good introduction to Korean culture, food, history, and nature. If you want more ideas, check out my list of 50 unique Korean experiences you can only do in Korea.

One of the top experiences to try in Korea has to be wearing Korean hanbok. It is available for all members of the family (even pets) and you can rent hanbok near most palaces or hanok villages. The hanbok easily fit over your regular clothes and come in a variety of colourful or traditional designs. You can get hair styling, accessories, and even have a hanbok photoshoot. Rentals can be as short as one hour or up to a full day.

Travellers to Korea can’t say they’ve truly tried Korean cuisine until they’ve eaten Korean street food from a market stall or street vendor. There are many types of Korean street food to sample in Korea, such as savoury snacks like tteokbokki and eomuk, to sweet treats like hotteok and bungeo-ppang. Korean street food is cheap and delicious. It’s usually not that healthy, but always leaves you feeling great. Give it a try.

Experience life as a Korean would have in the Joseon-era with a night in a traditional hanok house. A hanok stay is very different from sleeping in a hotel and allows you to try a night on a futon (with underground heating keeping you warm in winter). Slide the doors aside in the morning and walk out onto the wooden decking to enjoy traditional Korean tea at a low table and the sight of the ornately decorated garden. Don’t forget to take your shoes off before you enter.

Seoul and other cities in Korea still have fortress walls you can walk or hike along that will offer incredible views of cities and mountains. As you walk along the fortress walls, you begin to imagine what life would have been like as a soldier keeping the city safe from invaders. Nowadays, you can enjoy exercise and sightseeing at the same time. Seoul’s fortress walls are a good place to start, but you can find fortress walls in many other places.

Visiting a Korean sauna might be a bit shocking for first-time travellers to Korea, but it’s a great way to relax and is especially good in winter. When you enter a Korean sauna, you should take off all your clothes, have a shower, and then enter one of the hot baths. Being naked in front of others can be scary for some, but you soon overcome that fear. Korean saunas sometimes have a communal resting area called a jjimjjilbang. These areas require pyjamas and offer snacks, drinks, and places to rest.

The Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism have set up a templestay program at dozens of temples across Korea where you spend a day or two at the temple and join in various activities. This is truly a unique experience that you should try in Korea as you get to see customs performed by the monks that aren’t normally shown to the public. You also get to stay overnight at the temple and experience a hanok stay at the same time. Guests can also eat healthy vegan temple food, learn a lot, and chat with the monks.

A noraebang is the Korean version of a karaoke room, but is more popular in Korea and is commonly visited by locals and tourists alike. This is a great place to visit in the evening after a big Korean bbq meal and a few drinks. Everyone can relax and belt out their favourite Korean or international tunes together (or alone), shake some tambourines in support, or just watch and enjoy the atmosphere with some drinks. You can find these in every town and city in Korea and they provide a cheap night of fun and drinks.

Open since 2020, the Sky Bridge at Lotte World Tower offers unbeatable views of Seoul and a nerve-racking trip above the city. Walk between the two towers at the top of the Lotte World Tower and peer down the 541 metre drop to the city streets below. It’s actually very safe and you’re strapped into a harness as you walk from one side to the other, but this definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re not sure you can handle the height, check out the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 117th floor instead.

Koreans love to drink coffee and also love cute, unusual things, which is probably why theme cafes have become so popular in Korea. Besides the many cat cafes, there are theme cafes where you can stroke sheep, pet dogs, and see other animals. There’s more to Korea’s theme cafes than just drinking coffee with animals, you can also try drinking from a toilet at the Poop Cafe, paint pictures, build lego, go camping, practice being a wizard, and more. Hongdae in Seoul is the best place to find theme cafes.

Although cafes are replacing Korean tea houses, Korea still grows and drinks lots of tea, especially green tea. You can visit these tea fields in areas such as Boseong and on Jeju Island, both of which have visitor centres and attractions to teach you about the wonderful world of Korean tea. The Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation in Boseong has lush green fields all year round and has been used as a filming location for several Korean shows. The O’sulloc Tea Museum on Jeju Island also has lovely views.

I recommend trying at least a few of these unique activities, they’ll really make your trip to Korea more memorable and offer insights into Korean culture and life. My advice is to be brave when visiting Korea and try new things, even if they seem a bit unusual at first. The same applies to Korean foods.

Best Korean Festivals To Join In 2024

There are dozens of festivals held in Korea each year celebrating the seasons, local products, traditions, culture, and often just for the sake of having fun. Visiting a festival in Korea will offer you a glimpse of how locals celebrate life, culture, and nature and let you join in the fun.

Whenever you visit Korea, there’ll be festivals going on. However, the biggest festivals occur in spring or autumn. As mentioned previously in this South Korea travel guide, these are the best seasons to visit Korea as the weather is pleasant and people are celebrating the end of summer or winter.

Cherry Blossom Festivals

The cherry blossom festivals in Korea occur in late March and early April and are some of the biggest festivals in Korea. People flock to forests, lakes, and rivers to see the pretty blossoms. The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival has over 2 million visitors each year, and even more people visit Seokchon Lake and Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. There are many festivals and tours to see cherry blossoms in Korea so you should be able to find a quiet place to enjoy the view.

Winter Light Festivals

During the cold, dark days of winter, attractions such as Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and Herb Island transform into sparkling winter wonderlands with millions of bright lights illuminating them. There are also winter illumination festivals in Korean cities, such as the Haeundae Lighting Festival in Busan, Cheonggyecheon Stream Winter Lights in Seoul, and the Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival. When it snows in Korea, these festivals look even more magical.

Summer Music Festivals

Summer in Korea is hot, but that doesn’t stop people enjoying day-long music festivals across the country. From chilled jazz festivals like the Seoul Jazz Festival, to action-packed concerts like Psy’s Summer Swag, there are music festivals to suit everyone. This is a popular summer activity in Korea, so be sure to book in advance for ticketed events. If you can’t get tickets, just go to a popular beach in the evening and you’ll usually find musicians performing.

New Year Festivals

There are various festivals in Korea to celebrate the solar new year. New Year’s Eve festivals involve a bell-ringing ceremony where a giant bell is rung at midnight to welcome in the new year. Fireworks festivals are common events in cities across Korea, starting at midnight, too. Koreans celebrate the start of the new year by visiting the East Coast to see the first sunrise of the year at places like Homigot Sunrise Square or Seongsan Ilchulbong on Jeju Island.

Buddha’s Birthday Festivals

Buddha’s Birthday is like Christmas for the Buddhist world, but celebrated very differently. It also falls on changing dates each year as it follows the lunar calendar, just like Korean New Year. Korean Buddhist temples across Korea will celebrate by putting up colourful lanterns and decorations for at least a month before the actual date. The biggest festival celebrating Buddha’s Birthday is the Yeon Deung Hoe Lantern Festival, which features thousands of lanterns and a lantern parade through central Seoul.

Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is one of Korea’s largest festivals and attracts visitors from around the world. Running for 2 weeks during rainy season, this is the best way to see a Korean festival even when the weather is bad. There’s a lot to see and do at this festival, including getting dirty in the mud with mud sports, mud wrestling, mud tug-of-war, and other mud-filled events. Boryeong is famous for the high-quality mud found in nearby waters and, by joining this festival, you’re getting a free mud facial.

Jinju Lantern Festival

The visually stunning Jinju Lantern Festival is held in October each year in Jinju City and runs for several weeks. During the day, watch cultural performances and enjoy exploring the central fortress grounds of Jinju. Once it gets dark, see the city transform as thousands of lanterns, some as big as trees, come to life. There are so many weird and wonderful lanterns to discover at this festival. You can also set your own lanterns to float down the river with your wish inside.

Andong Mask Dance Festival

The Andong Mask Dance Festival in Andong, home of the Andong Hahoe Village, is a great opportunity to witness traditional Korean dance and music performances. Not only can you see traditional Korean performances during this 4 day festival, there are also international performers displaying their own culture’s dancing. Get hands-on with traditional Korean culture at this festival. Explore Andong and learn about its contributions to Korea’s cultural development.

Goyang Flower Festival

The Goyang International Flower Festival runs twice per year, once in spring and once in autumn. It’s a beautiful celebration of floral beauty mixed with Korean cuteness and creativity. At this flower festival you can stroll through a maze of different displays, with each section focusing on certain flowers and plants. There are indoor displays with vividly coloured roses, nature-based outdoor photo zones, and the lovely Ilsan Lake Park in the background.

Baekje Culture Festival

The Baekje Culture Festival probably isn’t one that first-time travellers to Korea would know about. Held in Gongju and Buyeo, the two former capitals of the ancient Baekje Kingdom, this 10-day long festival held around Chuseok (Korean mid-autumn harvest festival), is packed with unique events and sights and is set in historic locations in each city. There’s local food to try, musical & cultural performances, fun photo zones, lantern displays, and much more.

Knowing when you plan to visit Korea will help you research what festivals are on and what the weather will be like. There are certainly a lot more than just the ones mentioned above, including some others mentioned previously in the seasons part of this South Korea travel guide.

I recommend using a tour company to see out of the way festivals like the Jinju Lantern Festival and the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival. These are often far from typical tourist destinations and can take hours to get to by public transport. Tours are worth the cost to save you time and avoid hassle.

Recommended Itinerary For Korea In 2024

In this section of this South Korea travel guide is my recommended first-timer itinerary for South Korea. This introduces you to two of Korea’s biggest cities, as well as a couple of day trips to highly rated destinations in Korea. There’s a mix of history, culture, nature, sights, and experiences.

This itinerary starts in Seoul as that’s where most people arrive to Korea after flying into Incheon Airport. If you arrive in Busan, you can change the route to start and end there instead. For travellers to Korea with only 2 or 3 days, I recommend using the first few days of this itinerary instead.

The itinerary lasts for one week, which isn’t enough time to see all of Korea, but enough time to get a feel for the country. If you have more time, use this itinerary and add in or replace extra destinations as you like. Jeju Island is certainly worth visiting if you have an extra 2 or 3 days.

Classic Sights Of Korea Itinerary

This itinerary covers a few must-see sights in Korea, including the two largest cities, the history city of Gyeongju, and some popular day trip destinations from Seoul.

Day 1: Arrive in Seoul and explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong Art Street, Jogyesa Temple, and Cheonggyecheon Stream. Get dinner at the Jonggak Avenue of Youth for authentic Korean food that’s better than the touristy places in Myeongdong.

Day 2: Learn about Korean history at the War Memorial of Korea or National Museum of Korea, explore Seoul’s traditional Gwangjang market in Dongdaemun, take the cable car to the N Seoul Tower for sunset & night views, then head down to Itaewon or Myeongdong for dinner & drinks.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Gapyeong and visit Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gapyeong Rail Bike Park. Return to Seoul for dinner and rooftop drinks in Myeongdong and then walk along the fortress walls from Dongdaemun Station if the weather is good.

Day 4: Take the KTX to Busan, drop your bags, and take the subway to Nampo-dong for Jagalchi Fish Market, Bosu-dong Book Alley, and traditional sights. Take a taxi to Huinnyeoul Culture Village. End the day in Haeundae for evening dinner & drinks and a walk along the beach at night.

Day 5: Take the bus to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, then a taxi to Songjeong Beach. Relax in a beachside cafe, then take the Haeundae Beach Train to Cheongsapo, change to the Sky Capsule, and end up in Haeundae. Take a bus to Gamcheon Culture Village and get dinner at Songdo Beach.

Day 6: Take a day trip from Busan to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Gyeongju. Visit the Gyeongju Historic Area, then Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village for traditional food and sights of Woljeonggyo Bridge. See tranquil night views of Wolji Pond before getting dinner at Hwangnidangil.

Day 7: Head back to Seoul on the KTX for a final day of shopping and sightseeing in Hongdae. Walk along the Gyeongui Line Forest Park or Book Street or visit a theme cafe. Take the subway directly to Incheon Airport from Hongdae or spend a night here and check out the lively night scene.

Please note: I recommend trying not to cram too much into your itinerary. You may want to see as much as possible, but people often end up rushing past sights and not appreciating them. Plan for less and see more if you have time. It gives you a chance to be spontaneous.

To plan a realistic itinerary for South Korea, it is important to factor in transportation, meal breaks, and rest times. Use Naver Maps to plan your route and work out travel times. A short journey on the map might take much longer if there’s no direct route. Also consider breaks if you plan to walk a lot.

Cultural Issues When Visiting Korea

The next few sections of this South Korea travel guide will provide answers to some of the most common questions first-time travellers to Korea have in regards to cultural, language, and safety issues. Korea is a culturally unique country with customs and traditions you might not be aware of.

Korea is a society that places a strong emphasis on social image, respect for others, and social harmony. This means Koreans will often try to avoid conflict, especially in public. To show respect for Korean culture and to avoid being rude, try to respect social harmony and always avoid conflict.

If you follow these tips, you’ll find it easier to avoid accidentally upsetting someone in Korea. There’s far too much to cover in this South Korea travel guide, so if you’d like to know more, check out my detailed guide to Korean etiquette and culture, it’s packed with tips and insights to understand Korea.

What is considered rude in Korea? It is considered rude to point with one finger or with chopsticks, give and receive with one hand, cross your legs when sitting, and to walk inside with your shoes on. Things considered rude in other countries such as swearing and spitting are also rude in Korea.

What is considered unlucky in Korea? It is considered unlucky to write someone’s name in red ink and to stand chopsticks upright in rice. Both are used in rituals for deceased people. The number 4 is also unlucky as the word is the same as the word for ‘death’.

Do you need to tip in Korea? It’s not necessary to tip in Korea and most restaurants and cafes won’t expect or allow you to tip. There is no service charge added to bills in Korea, with the exception of some upmarket restaurants, bars, and hotels in touristy areas of Seoul. Tipping guides is okay.

Do you need to take off shoes when going inside? If you enter someone’s house in Korea, you should take off your shoes. This rule also applies to temples, traditional restaurants, and other places in traditional buildings. Most cafes, shops, and restaurants won’t ask you to take off your shoes.

When should you use two hands in Korea? You should use two hands when giving and receiving things in Korea, such as money, a gift, a business card, or food. When you shake hands, use both hands, not just one. The same applies to pouring drinks, both pouring and holding a glass.

Do I have to act like a Korean in Korea? You don’t have to follow Korean customs and traditions when you visit Korea. You are a guest in the country and Koreans won’t expect you to know every rule. However, showing cultural awareness in Korea will help you make friends and impress locals.

The best tip for being culturally sensitive in Korea is to first consider all the things that you’d consider rude in your own country – spitting, swearing, shouting, physical violence, etc. Show the same acts of kindness you’d show at home – help others, give up your seat for those in need, be polite, etc.

Furthermore, remember that social harmony is really important in Korea and try not to cause a scene. Keep your voice down in public, don’t talk or act aggressively, be polite, and don’t force things when people are reluctant. Koreans may feel obliged to do things, even when they don’t want to.

Language Issues When Travelling Korea

Language issues can be a big concern for first-time travellers to Korea as Korean is a very different language from English and has a unique alphabet. Korean is also one of the most difficult languages to learn for English speakers, ranked alongside Japanese, Chinese, and Arabic.

However, as a tourist to Korea, you don’t need to worry about mastering the language. English is used for signs and announcements in most places that you’ll need it, such as on public transport, at the airport, at attractions & tourist sites, on menus, and most other places. It’s common across Korea.

If there is a sign or notice that isn’t in Korean, I recommend using the Papago app to take translate it. Use the image translation function in the app to scan the sign and Papago will translate it into English for you. It’s really convenient and the way I translate things I can’t read in Korean.

Do Korean People Speak English?

Speaking in English to Korean people is different from being able to read and translate signs. English is taught from elementary school until the end of high school. That doesn’t mean everyone will remember it, but there’s a good chance some people will know English, especially younger Koreans.

It is best to ask if someone speaks English before trying to have a conversation. You can do this in Korean by asking “영어 할 수 있어요?” (Yong-oh hal su iss-o-yo?) or just ask it in English. Tour guides and people in the tourism industry will probably be able to speak English, but it’s not guaranteed.

Shyness is an issue in Korea and locals may be reluctant to speak English at first for fear of making a mistake. As an English teacher in Korea, I know that Korean students are usually quite competent in English, but lack confidence to use it. Be patient and encouraging when talking in English.

Although some Koreans may be too shy to use English, other people may be enthusiastic about speaking English to you and want to practice it. I’ve been asked random questions in English by strangers in the street in Korea who want to practice English and find out about my life.

Should You Learn Korean Before Visiting Korea?

If you do want to learn some Korean before you travel, I recommend you start by learning the Korean alphabet, or at least learning some basic Korean travel phrases. Knowing how to introduce yourself, discuss prices, ask for directions, and ask for help will make your trip to Korea a lot easier.

You can learn Korean online through courses such as 90 Day Korean and Korean Class 101, or with self-study textbooks like the excellent Talk To Me In Korean series. There are lots of resources on YouTube, too. I particularly like Learn Korean with GO! Korean Billy as he explains things clearly.

Another way to prepare to move to Korea is to read some Korean novels in English. Although these books won’t teach you any Korean, they’ll offer up valuable insights into Korean culture, both traditional and hidden under the surface. Literature is a good way to gain an understanding of a culture.

A warning about Konglish: Although Korea uses English in many useful ways, there’s also a lot of Konglish. The sign above is a good example of random English words being used to look cool, but ending up being confusing. There’s a lot of this in Korea and it’s mostly harmless, so don’t worry.

Health And Safety Issues In Korea

First-time travellers to Korea may be worried about health and hygiene issues, such as if certain foods are available and if they’re safe to eat. Other issues include vaccinations, personal safety, and how easy it is to contact emergency services. These issues are addressed below.

Is Korean Street Food Safe To Eat?

Korean street food is generally safe to eat and won’t give you any health issues unless you have an intolerance to the food. Korean street food can be spicy or contain a lot of salt, be aware of your own personal tolerances and dietary requirements before trying it.

Also be careful when ordering food with meat or seafood and check that it is cooked thoroughly. Korean street food that has been left out for a long time is more likely to cause food poisoning problems, so ask for freshly cooked food if you’re concerned.

Is It Easy To Find Vegan-Friendly Food In Korea?

There are many vegan-friendly Korean dishes, such as gimbap, japchae, pajeon, bibimbap, ramyeon, and tteokbokki. However, some restaurants may use non vegan-friendly ingredients when preparing these foods, so be careful. Kimchi isn’t vegan-friendly due to its seafood ingredients & sauces.

Vegetarianism and veganism aren’t common in Korea with fewer people following these diets than in countries such as the USA or UK. Vegetarians in Korea account for 3% of the population, while vegans in Korea are only 0.2% of the population as of 2022. The UK is 10% and 2% respectively.

However, the number of vegan-friendly restaurants and bakeries is increasing each year in Korea, especially in areas such as Hongdae and Itaewon. Korean Buddhist temple food is vegan-friendly and a good option for vegans who want to enjoy vegan food while learning about local Korean culture.

If you’re concerned about accidentally ordering non vegan-friendly food, or want to know how to tell someone about food allergies or requirements, check out my guide to Korean phrases for ordering food. This has a whole section about special requests when ordering food in Korean.

Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Korea?

Korean tap water is potable and safe to drink. Korea ranks 23rd for water hygiene, which is above the USA, Canada, and Australia. However, many Koreans don’t drink tap water, preferring to use water purifiers and bottled water instead, claiming that tap water smells strange or water pipes are bad.

Personally, I don’t like drinking tap water in Korea as it tastes a bit stale, but it’s perfectly fine to drink and doesn’t cause any problems. Bottled water is very cheap in Korea and costs 600 KRW for a 500ml bottle from a convenience store. Buying water from a supermarket is a cheaper option though.

Do You Need Any Vaccinations To Travel To South Korea?

There are no mandatory vaccinations required to travel to Korea, but it is suggested you should have at least routine vaccinations such as tetanus, MMR, and polio. Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis vaccinations are also recommended.

Is Korea Friendly To Tourists?

Korea is generally friendly and welcoming to tourists. The Korean government spends a lot of money and effort to promote Korean tourism to the world and there are many incentives to bring people to the country. Korean people are also mostly polite and welcoming, especially in the tourism sector.

Is Korea A Dangerous Country To Travel In?

South Korea is a safe country to travel in and the crime rate in Korea is low, comparable to Norway or the Netherlands. Public crimes, such as theft and assault, are rare. Pickpocketing and purse snatching aren’t common and unattended goods are generally left alone or reported to the police.

How safe is Korea? I regularly see people leave their phone or handbag on a cafe table to reserve it before going up to order a drink. People even leave their laptops open while they pop out for lunch or go to the toilet. Stealing disturbs social harmony and is one of the reasons it’s rare in Korea.

Physical violence is also rare, but still occurs in Korea, as it does in all countries. This is most often found in areas with lots of bars and when people are drunk. However, visiting bars in Korea is a lot safer than I’ve experienced in other countries and trouble is not common, even in busy places.

How Do You Contact Tourist Information Services In Korea?

Call 1330 in Korea to contact the Travel Helpline. The Korean Travel Helpline provides the following services free of charge to tourists in Korea.

• Tourist Information: Find out about attractions, opening hours, prices, and other information.
• Tourist Interpretation: Access travel information in several languages.
• Tourist Complaints: Report rip-offs and problems you encounter when travelling in Korea.
• Tourist Police: Report minor crimes in English and other languanges.

There are tourist police patrolling the streets of Seoul, dressed in purple uniforms as shown in the picture above. In popular tourist locations like Myeongdong and Bukchon Hanok Village, you’ll also find friendly tourist information staff dressed in red shirts with matching red cowboy hats.

What Should You Do If You Have An Emergency In Korea?

If you need to report a fire or medical emergency in Korea, you should call 119 from any phone. To contact the police in Korea, call 112. You will need to select an option to report an emergency in English or another language. It may take some time to be redirected to an English speaker.

• 119 – Medical Emergency & Fire Rescue
• 112 – Police

When you use medical services in Korea, you have to pay the cost of treatment, but there is no fee for the ambulance ride as this is covered by the Korean government. Travel insurance should cover the cost of medical bills, so if you’re worried about a large medical bill, insurance is recommended.

Fortunately, the cost of treatment in Korea is quite reasonable and Korea has advanced medical facilities, which is why it’s a popular medical tourism destination. Many people travel to Korea for minor and major surgery, including laser eye surgery, cosmetic surgery, and internal medicine.

Is Air Pollution A Problem In Korea?

Air pollution is an issue in Korea, especially in spring & summer. Winds blow yellow dust from Central Asia, field burning spreads fumes across Asia, and fossil-fuel burning contributes to higher levels of air pollution. Some days there’ll be very low visibility and health risks for people with lung problems.

My Personal Travel Tips For Korea

This South Korea travel guide is a collection of information I’ve researched and learned since moving to Korea in 2015 and blogging about Korean travel since 2019. I hope the provided information and insights are useful and assist you plan your dream first-time, or even tenth-time, trip to Korea.

This section includes my personal tips that didn’t really fit anywhere else and reflections built from travelling all over Korea in all seasons. These are tips I would offer to first-time travellers to Korea and people who might have some worries about visiting the Land of Morning Calm. I hope they help.

The Real Korea Isn’t What You See On TV

Korea is a developed country that went from being a 3rd world country in the mid 20th Century to a high-tech country in a short time. Despite the many high-rises and modern K-Pop stars, there are still shadows of the former Korea seen in both run-down slums and people with ‘traditional’ values.

The image created by selective K-Culture can distort people’s reality when dreaming of a trip to Korea in the same way Korean people can suffer from Paris Syndrome when visiting France. There are many wonderful things about Korea, but don’t travel thinking that everything is as shown on TV.

Be Prepared For Culture Shock

One of the best things about travelling is seeing a country and people that act and behave differently to how you do in your own country. This is known as culture shock and can be both a blessing and a challenge for first-time travellers to Korea. Things you might be used to can be different in Korea.

Some examples of culture shock in Korea include the way age determines hierarchy in Korea and how older people can be rather pushy, especially on the subway. Younger people also typically don’t question the decisions of older people in Korea as it is considered rude and disrespectful.

Less extreme cultural differences that might confuse some first-time visitors to Korea include having to shout to call someone to take your order in a Korean restaurant or not giving a tip. Koreans might similarly look at you strangely if you do something culturally different, such as walking while drinking.

Don’t Overpack When You Travel To Korea

First-time travellers to Korea may be worried about visiting a country like Korea without taking everything they need from home, even the kitchen sink. My advice is to pack as light as possible and leave yourself some space in your suitcase. There are two reasons for this.

1. You can buy most things you need in Korea. This includes sun cream, heat packs, clothes, shoes, cosmetics, travel accessories, etc. They’re also probably cheaper in Korea, too.
2. You will want to take home lots of things. From weird Korean snacks to beautiful hand-crafted pottery and woodwork, there are so many things to buy in Korea.

(1) The only exception is if you might have a problem finding correct-fitting items. Korean shoes and clothes are slightly smaller than what you’d find in Western countries and the sizes are also differently labelled. I’m a medium in the UK but a large (sometimes XL!) in Korea. Be careful when shopping.

(2) It’s hard to fit everything you buy in Korea into an already full suitcase. Fortunately, you can buy extra suitcases at low prices. Check out Namdaemun Market for cheap luggage options, as well as shops like the one pictured below (this is in Busan) in places like Hongdae and Dongdaemun.

Electricity In South Korea

Be careful with electric items when travelling to Korea. Korea uses type C and F plugs, which are used in Europe, Russia, and other parts of Asia. The standard voltage is 220V with 60Hz frequency. Anything designed for a standard voltage between 220V and 240V should be fine in Korea.

Laptops, mobile phones, and other portable devices will be fine when you travel in Korea as long as you use a travel adapter with a USB or socket connection. Hairdryers, shavers, curlers, and similar devices might have problems charging in Korea and run out of power very soon. My shaver did.

Go With The Flow And Go Quickly

Korea is a very busy country and you might hear people mutter ‘빨리빨리’ (ppalli ppalli) if you walk slowly, especially in the subway. Koreans work long hours and are eager to get home or go out for dinner. Don’t take it personally if people push past you and don’t feel like you have to rush.

Know Where To Throw Away Rubbish

It can be difficult to find a bin to throw away rubbish in Korea, even in urban areas. The best place to dispose of rubbish in Korea is at a convenience store. You can find recycling and trash bins in these shops. If you go hiking or explore the countryside, expect to carry your rubbish home with you.

South Korea Travel Guide FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about this South Korea travel guide, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

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Discover all of the best things to see, do, eat, and enjoy during winter in Korea this year. Try out ice fishing from a frozen river. Play in the snow, go hiking, or do winter sports in Korea’s many mountains. Then sit back and relax with a bowl of hot, spicy Korean winter food.

This article will provide you with lots of essential information about what to wear and pack for your trip to Korea, special holidays during winter in Korea, and tips to help you get the most out of this cold season. Start planning your snowy winter trip to Korea right now.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What’s In This Winter in Korea Guide

There are many awesome things to do in Korea during winter, which means that this is quite a long article. To make it easier to find what you’re interested in, click the links below to jump straight to that section, or read on to discover all the amazing things that winter in Korea has to offer you.

Winter Activities In Korea

Not sure what to during winter in Korea? Want to know what Korean winter activities you can try when you travel? Here are some of my favourite winter activities to experience in Korea that will give you a memorable journey, show you snowy sights, and keep you warm during the cold days.

You can experience several of these activities in one day. One idea for you is to start a wintry theme park, seeing snowy sights and ice sculptures, then go skating on ice before heading indoors to soak in a steamy sauna. That’s certainly how I love to spend the cold days in winter when it’s freezing.

Visit A Wintry Theme Park

Korea’s theme parks are fun places to visit during winter as they hold winter or Christmas-themed parades, events and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Take in the festive sights and winter activities at each one, such as winter sledding, snowball fights, and illuminations.

Here are some of the best theme parks to check out for wintry fun when you visit Korea:

• Everland Resort
• Lotte World Adventure Seoul
• One Mount Snow Park Seoul
• Lotte World Busan

Warm Up At A Korean Sauna

There’s nothing better on a winter’s day in Korea than sitting in a hot, steaming pool or sauna, letting the warmth return to your bones. Korean saunas, known as jjimjilbang in Korean, are very popular in winter to escape the cold.

There are 2 places in a Korean sauna. The first is the bathing area, where you sit naked with people of the same gender. The second is a communal room where everyone can meet wearing pyjamas, relax, and sleep.

Want to visit an outdoor hot spring in Korea? Visit Onyang Hot Springs in Asan City, the oldest hot springs in Korea, used by locals for over 600 years to take away the winter chills. Prefer luxurious pampering in Seoul? Try the O Hui and Whoo Spa for an indulgent spa care package.

Try Ice Skating In Seoul

Ice skating is a popular Korean winter activity and there are ice skating facilities in major cities across Korea, such as in Seoul, Busan, Incheon, and Daejeon. Ice skating rinks appear in December and stay open until February.

You can find ice skating rinks both indoors and outdoors. The outdoor rinks, such as the one outside Seoul City Hall (Seoul Plaza Ice Rink), is a great place to try skating or to watch others sliding around on a sunny winter’s day. I love visiting ice rinks for the atmosphere and to experience a ride on the ice.

Want to try ice skating in Korea? The good news is you don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment, you can rent it all at the skate rink. Here are some of the best ice skating rinks in Korea. These places are suitable for families and first time skaters.

• Mokdong Ice Rink in Seoul
• Lotte World Ice Rink in Seoul
• Grand Hyatt Ice Rink in Seoul
• Yeouido Hangang Park Ice Skating Rink in Seoul
• Seonhak International Ice Rink in Incheon
• Shinsegae Centum City Rink in Busan
• Daejeon Expo Plaza in Daejeon

Han River Park Sledding

After 3 years of absence, the sledding slopes have returned to Seoul and the Han River at Ttukseom Hangang Park. This is a family-friendly winter activity in Korea that everyone can enjoy. Grab a sled or rubber tube and zoom down the icy slope towards the river.

There is also a winter sledding park at Jamwon Hangang Park. As well as regular slopes, this park has slopes for younger fun-lovers and is designed for children under the age of 6. Perfect for introducing your children to winter sports. If you’re visiting Korea with children, definitely check out one of Seoul’s sledding parks.

Sample Korean Strawberries

Winter in Korea is when some of the best fresh fruit is available, including Jeju Island’s hallabong oranges and sweet strawberries. These juicy fruits grow in Korea from mid-December until early March and you’ll find them for sale in markets and shops. There are also a few places in Seoul that offer strawberry buffets with unlimited strawberry-based desserts and treats.

Want to pick strawberries in Korea? A more fun options it to pick your own strawberries at a strawberry farm in Korea. Why not book a day tour that includes strawberry picking as an extra to visiting another site? Visit Pocheon Art Valley in winter to harvest fresh strawberries from the wide fruit fields or this winter-only tour that includes the Garden of Morning Calm, too.

Experience Korean Coffee Culture

Korea, like me, is addicted to coffee. There are more than 75,000 coffee shops in the country and over 18,000 in Seoul alone. Winter is a great time to visit Seoul’s hot cafes, found in quiet back streets or in popular hanok villages, such as Bukchon Hanok Village.

If you want to experience Korean coffee culture outside of Seoul, be sure to visit Gangneung on the east coast, home to the Gangneung Coffee Street and Gangneung Coffee Festival. Enjoy a hot coffee, watch the waves, and stay out of the cold. Jeju Island also has great cafes which are perfect for cold-weather cafe hopping.

Besides coffee culture, you can also enjoy traditional Korean tea culture in Seoul and other places. Korean tea houses feature wooden floors and furniture, delicate and healthy teas, and a serene atmosphere to contemplate what Korean winter activities to enjoy next.

Take A Walk In The Snow

A free activity that everyone can enjoy during winter in Korea is a walk in the streets when snow falls. Korea’s cities can be drab during the day, but come alive with neon lights at night. During snowy days, which are more dark than light, seeing snow-covered streets and shining lights is a real treat.

You should definitely take a walk around Seoul and other historic cities, such as Gyeongju or Andong. Winter walks are especially rewarding as you can see fortress walls, palace grounds, hanok houses, and curved rooftops covered in snow when it’s cold enough.

Want to explore Seoul on foot? Check out these city walking trails in Seoul that you can enjoy in winter or any other time of year, all for free. It’s really the best way to see a city and get some exercise.

Here are some videos showing what Seoul looks like when it snows.

Ski Resorts And Winter Sports 2024

Fans of winter sports, or those who want to learn, will find plenty of places to ski and snowboard in Korea’s many mountains. The majority of Korea’s ski resorts are located between Seoul and the east coast in Gyeongi and Gangwon Provinces.

This is one of the most popular winter activities in Korea, so expect ski resorts to be busy on weekends. The weekdays can be quieter and provide a better ski or snowboard experience.

Ski Resorts In Korea 2024

There are 14 major ski resorts in Korea that open between December and February or March each year. The opening times of these ski resorts vary depending on their location, the onset of winter, and their elevation. The start of ski season in Korea is December and the end is February.

The first ski resorts in Korea open in early December and can be found in the northern part of Korea and around Seoul. The last ski resort to open for the season is Eden Valley, which is much further south, close to Busan. This opens around mid to late December each year.

The full list of opening dates for Korean ski resorts this winter can be seen below.

There are several family-friendly ski resorts in Korea that provide not only good ski facilities, they also have a range of other winter activities for the whole family to enjoy. The best ski resorts for families are Jisan Forest, Elysian Gangchon, Yongpyong, and Vivaldi Park.

Ski Resort Tours & Packages

Driving is the most convenient way to get to Korea’s ski resorts. If you rent a car in Korea, you can drive to the ski resorts in an hour or two from Seoul. Some ski resorts can also be accessed by a shuttle or tour bus from Seoul or nearby towns. Only drive if you’re comfortable driving in snow though.

One of the easiest ways to get to a Korean ski resort without public transport or hired car, is to book a ski-resort tour. There are many tour options available, from one-day trips to ski or play in the snow, to multi-day trips that include accommodation and equipment rental. I’ve added tours for you below.

An overnight stay is a good option for those who want to experience a sunrise in the snowy peaks and typically comes with all the necessary parts of the trip included, such as transportation, ski rentals, and accommodation. If you’ve never seen a mountain sunrise, I highly recommend it!

Here are some of the best ski resorts in Korea for winter snow sports and tour options for each. As these are located high up in the snowy mountains, with limited public access, tours are generally the best option to get to ski resorts, which is why I’ve added a couple of options for each location.

High 1 Ski Resort: This massive ski resort is one of the most exciting places to ski in Korea and comes with world-class skiing facilities. High 1 features 18 ski slopes covering 21km of snow-filled mountain paths that are suitable for any level, from beginners to experts.

Vivaldi Park Ski Resort: The most popular ski resort in Korea, with state of the art facilities and amazing courses. There are 12 slopes and 10 lifts here, with something suitable for any level, as well as Snowy Land – a family-fun play area to mess around in the snow.

Jisan Forest Ski Resort: Feauturing a range of slopes from beginner to advancd, Jisan Forest is a compact ski resort nestled in forested slopes that also has a snow sleigh park to play in and teaching area for people interested in learning to ski for the first time.

Alpensia Ski Resort: One of the main resorts used for the 2018 Winter Olympics, Alpensia Ski Resort offers a range of winter activities for levels of all ages. There are 6 courses for various skill levels.

Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort: The lovely Elysian Gangchon Resort offers skiing, snowboard, and snow sledding. You can also hike around the area and see the beautiful snow-covered Korean nature.

Yongpyong Ski Resort: Another resort used for the 2018 Winter Olympics. This is a large ski resort that has 28 slopes to choose from. Very popular with ski and snowboarding enthusiasts.

Eden Valley: Looking to ski close to Busan? This ski resort on the slopes of Sinbulsan Mountain has 7 slopes for different levels and has a ski school for those looking to learn to ski or board.

There are plenty of ski tours and day trips to ski resorts available. If you want to check out a different ski resort or package, these companies have a wide range of ski tours for you.

Winter Festivals In Korea 2024

I love travelling in Korea as it’s a country that has many wonderful festivals throughout the year, and winter is certainly no exception. Discover sparkling illuminations and glowing lanterns, see icy sculptures and snowy landscapes, and try your hand at winter activities in Korea such as ice fishing, sledding, listening to temple bells ringing on New Year’s Eve, and watching the first sunrise of the year.

Here are some of the different types of winter festivals you can experience in Korea, as well as some of the best of each type. For a more detailed list of what’s on, check out my guide to the best Korean winter festivals, which include lots more incredible winter festivals to check out.

Winter Illumination Festivals 2024

Once it’s dark, dazzling displays can be found at winter illumination festivals, such as at Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul or Haeundae Beach in Busan. The best places to see winter lights are usually outside the cities, in areas of natural beauty that transform into winter wonderlands. The sight of millions of lights provides a truly extraordinary experience.

Here are some of the most popular winter illumination festivals in Korea this winter.

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations 2024

Herb Island Light Festival 2024

Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival 2023-2024

Jeju Light Garden Festival 2024

Ice Fishing Festivals 2024

Several towns across Korea take advantage of the frozen rivers to put on winter ice fishing festivals. Grab a small fishing rod and bag, drop it into the ice, and then catch your lunch. There are many other activities, such as tubing, catching fish with your hands, and sledging. Furthermore, you can usually find snow & ice sculptures on display. My article about the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival will give you a taste of what’s on offer at these awesome winter festivals.

Here are three of the biggest ice fishing festivals in Korea this winter.

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival 2024

Pyeongchang Trout Fishing Festival 2024

Inje Ice Fishing Festival 2024

Snow & Ice Festivals 2024

With the cold winter weather comes frozen rivers, snowfall, and wintry festivals to enjoy. Gangwon Province in Korea’s north-east is one of the best places for winter festivals as it’s the coldest part of Korea. At these festivals, you can see sculptures, icy waterfalls, snowy scenes, and winter lights. There’s also winter activities such as sledding and skiing. My article about the Chilgapsan festival will show you the beautiful snowy scenes you can expect at a Korean winter festival.

Here are three of the most popular snow festivals in Korea this winter.

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024

Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival 2024

Daegwallyeong Snowflake Festival 2024

New Year’s Eve Festivals

New Year’s Eve in Korea is celebrated in two different ways. The first is the traditional Korean way, where people come together to listen to the ringing of a giant bell to signal New Year at midnight. The other way to welcome to New Year is to watch fireworks displays light up the night sky. You can see fireworks displays across Korea for New Year’s Eve.

To celebrate New Year’s Eve in Korea in the traditional way, head to Bosingak Pavilion in central Seoul to see watch the giant bell ring in 2024. For fireworks performances, these can be seen at Lotte World Tower, along the Han River by Yeouido Park, and near City Hall Station.

Most large cities in Korea will have some official and unofficial fireworks celebrations for New Year’s Eve. It’s common to see fireworks being launched at beaches, too.

You can watch the 2022 New Year’s Eve fireworks at Lotte World Tower in the video below.

New Year’s Day Festivals

After celebrating New Year’s Eve at midnight, there are further New Year’s Day festivals held in Korea to welcome in the new year ahead. A popular tradition for New Year’s Day is to watch the first sunrise of the year on the east coast. There are New Year’s Day festivals in coastal towns to watch the sunrise, eat rice cake soup, and contemplate life.

Here are the best New Year’s Day festivals to see the first sunrise of the year in Korea.

Homigot New Year Sunrise Festival: Famous for being the easternmost point of Korea, therefore the first place to see the sunrise, this is the biggest sunrise festival in Korea. See the giant hand statue rising from the water and enjoy a range of festival stalls and activities.

Address in Korean:
경북 포항시 남구 호미곶면 대보리

Seongsan New Year Sunrise Festival: Located on Jeju Island’s easternmost point, this sunrise spot has been a place of celebration since the 13th Century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is certainly a unique place to watch the sun rise in the New Year

Address in Korean:
제주 서귀포시 성산읍 성산리 78

Gyeongpo & Jeongdongjin Sunrise Festivals: These two sunrise festivals, located around Gangneung in the north-east, are both convenient festivals to witness if you’re staying in Seoul. Party all night and watch the sunrise before enjoying festival food and events.

Address in Korean:
강원도 강릉시 안현동 산1

Winter Sightseeing In Korea

Winter in Korea is as good a time to go sightseeing as any other time of year. Actually, it might be even better than in summer as the winter weather is dry and there are more blue skies. If the snow falls in winter, it’s even better and can look truly magical, creating beautiful photo opportunities.

Unfortunately, many trees and plants die off during autumn and don’t return until spring, which makes sightseeing in places of natural beauty less colourful. However, these places adapt to winter with light displays and other attractions that make up for the lack of nature.

What are the best places to go sightseeing in Korea during winter? There are plenty of places to see. These are popular places that you can visit all year round, with some additional features during winter that make them worth the trip, especially if there has been a recent snowfall.

Seoul’s Royal Palaces

Seoul’s royal palaces, such as the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace, are impressive any time of year and should be on any Korean bucket list for travellers to Korea. When it snows, the curved palace rooftops catch the snow, creating a white crown for the colourfully decorated walls. Frozen ponds, palace walls, and falling snow provide the perfect background for a hanbok photoshoot.

How to get there: Take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Palace Station and use exit 5. The other royal palaces are within 20-30 minutes of Gyeongbokgung Palace by foot.

Address in Korean:
서울 종로구 효자로 12

Garden of Morning Calm

The winter illuminations at the Garden of Morning Calm are some of the best in Korea and visiting here during winter is just as fun as in any other season. Best viewed at night, this carefully crafted garden leads you down winding trails past hanok houses, sparkling ponds, and round pagodas. A truly wonderful day out from Seoul.

How to get there: You can get to the Garden of Morning Calm from Seoul by train (from Cheongpyeong Station), by bus (from Cheongpyeong Terminal), with the Gapyeong City Tour Bus, or with a guided tour.

Address in Korean:
경기 가평군 상면 수목원로 432

Want to take a tour to the Garden of Morning Calm? Garden of Morning Calm tours from Seoul are very reasonably priced and usually include a trip to Nami Island and other nearby attractions, including Alpaca World, Petite France or the Gangchon Railbike.

Jogyesa Buddhist Temple

Korea is blessed with hundreds of Buddhist temples that are open all year round. These can be found in cities, such as Jogyesa Temple in Seoul, in national parks, such as Beopjusa Temple in Songnisan, and even along the coast, such as Busan’s famous Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Visit in winter to see snowy temple scenes and monks in mufflers.

How to get there: Take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Palace Station and use exit 5. The other royal palaces are within 20-30 minutes of Gyeongbokgung Palace by foot.

Address in Korean:
서울 종로구 우정국로 55

Lotte World Tower

The Lotte World Tower is a great place in Seoul to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks, but is also worth visiting any other day during winter. As winter has more sunny days than other seasons, you’re more likely to get clear views from the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 117th floor of the tower. The tower lights up each night and is best seen from Seokchon Lake.

How to get there: Take the subway to Jamsil Station. The Lotte World Tower can be accessed from the subway station. Follow the signs to get directly into the tower.

Address in Korean:
서울 송파구 올림픽로 300

Wondaeri Birch Forest

Discover a winter wonderland at Wondaeri Birch Forest in Gangwon Province. A day trip out from Seoul, this place is home to 700,000 silver birch trees and provides a lovely scene for a snowy hike through silvery trees. There are many trekking paths to explore in this tranquil forest and photo-worthy spots to enjoy the Korean winter scenery.

How to get there: Take the intercity bus from Dong-Seoul Bus Terminal to Inje Intercity Bus Terminal. Transfer to a local bus or take a taxi (20,000 KRW). I recommend taking a taxi as there are only 3 buses per day stopping at the forest.

Address in Korean:
강원 인제군 인제읍 자작나무숲길 760

Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm

The Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm is a perfect place to explore Korea’s winter scenery on a snowy day. Visit ‘The Alps of Korea’ and gaze at the fields and surrounding forests blanketed in snow whilst trying to find camouflaged sheep. Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm is close to Gangneung, a city with many seaside cafes to stay warm in during winter.

How to get there: Take an intercity bus from Dong-Seoul Bus Terminal to Hoenggye Bus Terminal. Take the red shuttle bus going to the farm or take a taxi (10,000 KRW).

Address in Korean:
평창군 대관령면 대관령마루길 483-32

Gamcheon Culture Village

Busan’s colourfully painted Gamcheon Culture Village is a unique destination on Korea’s south coast that features murals, painted buildings, fun statues, and lots of photo spots. Wind your way through the hillside streets, taking it all in. Visit during December to see the Gamcheon House Lantern Exhibition, which makes it even more mesmerising.

How to get there: From Busan Station, take a subway or bus to Jagalchi Market Station and then transfer to green minibus 1-1, 2, or 2-2. This will stop outside the entrance to Gamcheon Culture Village.

Address in Korean:
부산 사하구 감천동 9-53

Want a tour of Gamcheon Culture Village? Day tours of Busan will take you to the Gamcheon Culture Village and other hot spots in Busan all in one day. This is useful as many of Busan’s best sights are spread out across the city and can take a long time to see by bus or train.

Jeju Island

Want to escape the freezing cold of Seoul but still have the chance to see snowy scenes during winter in Korea? Then visiting Jeju Island in winter is a great option. Explore sandy beaches one day, then climb the snow-capped peak of Korea’s largest mountain – Hallasan. Jeju also has great cafes, delicious food, and a unique culture.

How to get there: You can access Jeju from airports across Korea, including Gimpo Airport in Seoul. Check Skyscanner for the best prices. Flights last about 30-40 minutes.

Korean Winter Weather 2024

Here’s a brief overview of Korea’s winter weather. Please note, these figures apply to Seoul. Weather further south of Seoul, such as Jeju Island, can be different (i.e. warmer).

Temperature: Korean winters are cold and dry with short days. The coldest month is January, where temperatures in Seoul rarely get above freezing and can go as low as -20 Celsius at night. November and March aren’t as cold as December to February, which have temperatures below zero most of the day, but these months can be cold enough for snow.

Clear Skies: Winter in Korea is sunny. Almost 50% of the days during the Korean winter are clear and sunny, making it a good time to travel in Korea as you’ve got a good chance to see blue skies without clouds. Only October has more sunshine than the winter months in Korea.

Rainfall: December to February are the driest months in Korea and there is around 10% chance of precipitation in Seoul during January (July has almost 50%). Precipitation includes both rain and snow, meaning an even lower chance to see rain during winter.

Snowfall: The chance to see snow in Seoul is highest during January, with December and February both having similar average snowfalls. Snowfall peaks early January in Seoul, but there can be heavier and longer snowfalls at higher elevations, such as the national parks.

Want to know where to see snow in Korea this winter? Check out this guide to all the best places to see snow in Korea, packed full of pictures, tips, and advice. There’s so many beautiful places to see snow in Seoul and across Korea, especially in the national parks.

Source: Weather Spark

Korean Public Holidays In Winter 2024

There are several holidays in Korea during winter – Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Seollal (Korean Lunar New Year). These public holidays are important to consider when travelling to Korea as they can affect what’s open and when public transport runs.

Christmas Day: Christmas Day (December 25th) is a public holiday in Korea, but the celebrations for this date are much smaller than you’d find in other Christian countries. In Korea, couples tend to go out together to enjoy a meal out for Christmas Day.

New Year’s Day: New Year’s Eve (December 31st) and New Year’s Day (January 1st) are celebrated in Korea, even though the Lunar New Year is also celebrated. Koreans typically visit the east coast on New Year’s Day to see the first sunrise of the new (solar) year.

Seollal: Seollal, also known as Korean Lunar New Year, is one of the biggest public holidays in Korea. Lasting for 3 days, Koreans travel across the country, returning to their hometowns to spend time with their family and visit their ancestral graves to clean and look after them.

Because Seollal follows the lunar calendar, the actual dates change each year. Also, when the main date lands on a Sunday, there can be an additional day off. Below is a table of the Seollal dates for the next 4 years.

Public Transport: Local buses in Korea run a reduced schedule on Sundays and public holidays. Travel in Korea during the Seollal holiday can be difficult as tickets are booked up for trains and buses as soon as they’re available. Roads will also be very busy.

Tip: I recommend staying in Seoul or another big city during Seollal. You’re more likely to find places that are still open and you can also enjoy free entry to Seoul’s royal palaces. There are often cultural performances on during these holidays, too.

Korean Winter Foods

What should you eat in Korea during winter? What’s the best Korean winter dishes to try in Seoul? There are loads of incredible Korean winter foods that will warm you up and give you energy for a busy day of winter sightseeing and activities.

Korean winter foods can be categorised as street foods, little bites that you can grab on street corners, and winter dishes, big broths and meals that are shared together on a cold day. There are a wide range of both for you to try this winter.

Korean winter street food tends to be sweet or spicy and a guilty snack while you’re outside. Winter meals range from healthy hot dishes, to bubbling pans full of delicious goodies. Here are 5 of the best Korean winter dishes you can eat when it’s cold outside.

These 5 winter dishes are just a sampler of the varied menu of warming snacks and meals you can discover in Korea this winter. To find more delicious delights, check out my article about the best Korean winter foods. It’s a must read and shows you the amazing treats you must try.

Hotteok: Korean Sweet Pancakes

Walk along a busy street in Korea during winter and you’ll probably find a hotteok seller flipping and pressing down the balls of sticky dough filled with sweet syrup, cinnamon, and crunchy nuts that become hotteok. The combo of fried, sweet, crunchy goodness in a hotteok, along with the warmth it gives you as you gingerly hold it, really gives you a boost.

Name in Korean:
호떡

Bungeo-Ppang: Goldfish Bread

A popular Korean winter food for amongst locals and tourists alike, this cute goldfish bread is baked in a fish-shaped mould to give it its distinctive shape. This treat not only looks great, it tastes great. Stuffed with sweet red-beans, common in Korean baked goods, this fish is a classic Korean winter snack. Crispy outside, sweet and delicious inside.

Name in Korean:
붕어빵

Tteok-Bokki: Spicy Fried Rice Cakes

Tteok-bokki is a blend of steamed and sliced rice cakes (tteok 떡), fish cakes (odeng 오뎅), and scallions in a sweet and spicy sauce with plenty of chili paste. Eat it fresh from the market vendors at traditional Korean markets, or sit in for a meal with extras. This spicy, salty mishmash of classic Korean ingredients is perfect as a snack or meal.

Name in Korean:
떡볶이

Kimchi-Jjigae: Kimchi Stew

Kimchi-jjigae is mix of cabbage kimchi, tofu, cellophane noodles, pork, and vegetables, with rice and extra side dishes, often served in a large bowl for two or more people. When the kimchi is sautéed, it releases all its flavour into the stew, creating a hearty broth. Best eaten by putting all the ingredients on a spoon and dipping it in the broth.

Name in Korean:
김치 찌개

Dolsot Bibimbap: Stone Bowl Mixed Rice

The winter version of one of Korea’s most famous foods – bibimbap. Whereas regular bibimbap is served cold, this hot stone bowl version really mixes things up. Instead of a fried egg, a raw egg is dropped on top and mixed together with the rice, vegetables, sauces, etc. This creates a kind of egg fried rice that is both delicious and healthy.

Name in Korean:
돌솥 비빔밥

Winter Hiking In Korea

One of the most popular winter activities in Korea is hiking in Korea’s national parks. More than 70% of Korea is mountainous, meaning there’s always a peak to be climbed close to wherever you are staying.

Inside the borders of Seoul is Bukhansan National Park, a great place for a day trip to go winter hiking from Korea’s capital. I recommend hiking to Baegundae Peak for the best views of snowy Seoul.

The best national parks for snow hiking in South Korea are the tallest mountains as these see more snowfall and the snow on top stays for longer. The three highest mountain ranges in South Korea are Hallasan on Jeju Island, Jirisan, and Seoraksan.

There are also other national parks that have unique features that make them great for snow hiking. Here are 5 of the best national parks for winter hiking in Korea.

Hallasan National Park

The tallest mountain in South Korea is located on Jeju Island, a semi-tropical island south of the mainland that is more often associated with palm trees than snowy peaks. However, due to its height, Hallasan sees a lot of snow each year and is a great place for winter hiking. Hiking Hallasan in winter is very popular and reservations are required.

How to get there: To get to the Gwaneumsa Course start point, take bus 281 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Seogwipo) for 25 mins and get off at Jeju University. Then, take the bus 475 for 15 minutes. Get off at the entrance of the Gwaneumsa Trail.

Address in Korean:
제주특별자치도 제주시 1100로 2070-61

Deogyusan National Park

Deogyusan National Park in central Korea provides a long hike through snow-covered valleys and past temples before ascending quickly to a peak with distant views all around. The peak connects to the Muju Deogyusan ski resort, which offers an easy way down via cable car, as well as a shortcut to the top if you want the views without hiking.

How to get there: Take a bus to Gucheon-dong bus stop from Daejeon and follow the hiking trail to the peak. Free shuttle buses run from the Muju Deogyusan ski resort to Muju. You can get to other cities from Muju Intercity Bus Terminal.

Address in Korean:
전라북도 무주군 설천면 구천동1로

Seoraksan National Park

One of the most beautiful national parks in Korea, Seoraksan is most popular in autumn, for fall foliage, and winter, for winter hiking. Wooded valleys, icy streams, and frozen peaks can be accessed through the various hiking courses here. There’s also a cable car that will take you to a smaller peak, complete with a Korean temple and views of the coast.

How to get there: There are tours from Seoul that will take you directly to the main entrance of the national park. To get there by public transport from Seoul, take an intercity bus to Sokcho, then change to local bus 7 or 7-1 to the park entrance.

Address in Korean:
강원도 속초시 설악산로 833 KR

Jirisan National Park

The highest peak on mainland Korea, Jirisan offers the chance to stay overnight at a mountain shelter and enjoy a short sunrise hike to the peak for breathtaking views. Winter hiking in the foothills and mountains of Jirisan provides the chance to see snowy-rivers, frozen waterfalls, and maybe an Asiatic bear, although it will probably be hibernating.

How to get there: Jirisan National Park is Korea’s largest national park and has many entrances and trails. Take an intercity bus to nearby towns, such as Namwon, Gurye, or Hadong, then transfer to local buses to reach the various park entrances.

Address in Korean:
경상남도 하동군 화개면 대성리

Staying at Jirisan National Park: If you want to book an overnight shelter at Jirisan or other parks, use the KNPS reservation site. There are several guesthouses and hotels in Jirisan, too, which are great for overnight hiking in winter.

Sobaeksan National Park

Sobaeksan, known as the ‘backbone of Korea’, is the 3rd largest national park in Korea. It’s home to a wide variety of animals, including wid boars, deers, and chipmunks. Sobaeksan is famous for winter hiking in Korea as it provides long views over cloudy peaks as you ascend the main peaks and is considered the most beautiful park to see snow.

How to get there: Sobaeksan is not an easy park to reach as it’s not close to any major cities. One option to get to Sobaeksan is to take a train to Jecheon or Yeongju, then take a train to Huibangsa Station and taxi to the park entrance.

Address in Korean:
충청북도 단양군 단양읍

Want to see how beautiful winter hiking in Korea can be? Check out this video of a snowy hike through Sobaeksan during winter.

Winter Hiking Essentials

Want to go hiking in Korea during winter safely? Here are a few essentials that you’ll need to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Korea’s snowy mountain peaks. You can bring these items with you or buy them when in Korea.

Hiking Boots: A sturdy pair of hiking boots are a must for winter hiking in Korea. You will be crossing rocky, snowy, and icy terrain and you can sprain your ankle or slip over easily if you wear the wrong shoes. Also, hiking boots are usually waterproof and will keep your feet warm.

Hiking Socks: Woollen hiking socks are good, but a couple of pairs of regular socks will do, too. These will stop your boots slipping and also stop your toes from getting too cold.

Thermal Inner Wear: If it’s windy, the cold will seep into your legs and arms very easily. Thermal inner wear (t-shirt and leggings) will keep your body warm and protected. Not essential, but very useful even when walking outside at night.

Wind-resistant Hiking Jacket: You can wear as many fleeces, t-shirts, or jumpers as you like, but a good jacket is the key to staying warm. Ideally water and wind-resistant, a hiking jacket will keep you warm without being too heavy.

Hat, Gloves, and Neck-warmer: I wouldn’t travel in winter without these anyway, but they’re essential while hiking in winter. The temperature will be below zero and you should cover up as much as possible.

Hiking Poles: These adjustable hiking sticks will give you extra balance and help you get up and down rocky paths more easily. They’re also useful for checking how deep the snow is. Not essential (I don’t use them), but useful.

Crampons (Ice Cleats): Crampons are metal spikes that go on the bottom of your shoes and stop you falling over on ice or snow. You basically can’t hike in winter without them.

Heat Packs: Heat packs either stick to your body/in your shoes, or go in your pocket to keep your hands warm. If you’re not used to the cold weather, I recommend both.

Food & Water: There aren’t many places to buy food or water after the park entrances, so make sure you stock up before hiking. Bring food for lunch, snacks, and at least 1 litre of water. I recommend a bottle of Powerade, it really helps when hiking.

Seasonal Korean Hiking Guide: Want to hike go hiking in Korea during winter or other seasons but not sure what to do? Then check out my seasonal guide to hiking in Korea with information about what to expect in each season, how to prepare, and which mountains to hike.

How To Survive Korean Winter

Winter in Korea is dry and cold and for travellers not used to such extreme weather, visiting Korea in winter can be a shock. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to prepare for the worst of the winter weather to keep you warm and safe.

The main things to be aware of are wearing the right clothes and bringing sun and skin care. I’ll explain these two issues in more detail in the next section. For now, here are a few of my best Korean winter survival tips, built up from years of living in Korea and enduring the cold.

Drink more water: The cold weather makes you less thirsty and encourages you to eat more salty hot foods. Combined, these can lead to dehydration and a day in bed, which is not fun (trust me!). Drink lots of water, especially if you’re hiking.

Watch out for ice: If it snowed or rained recently, pavements, roads and walkways can be slippery. If you’re hiking, definitely bring crampons. It’s easy to slip and hurt yourself.

Use heat packs: Grab a pocket warmer or heat pack and keep them in your bag in your pocket to warm your hands up when outside. Your fingers can go numb very quickly.

Be prepared to sweat on buses: Korean buses are notoriously hot during winter. Heating is usually turned up to max and if you’re wearing winter clothing, be prepared to sweat a lot.

Bring a tumbler: If you’re out walking and want to keep your drinks hot and fresh, and not add more pollution to the world, bring a tumbler or buy one. Starbucks has tumblers with cool Korean designs.

What To Wear In Winter

Winter in Korea is cold and you should definitely pack clothes that will keep you warm and protected. Hats, gloves, and a scarf will help keep you insulated and a thick jacket is a must for January and February, as well as something to keep your arms and legs warm.

Many Koreans wear padded down jackets with lighter clothes underneath. These keep you really warm and can be easily removed when you move inside. Fleeces and thermal layers can help, too. Uniqlo’s heat-tech range is a good example of winter-ready clothing.

If you plan to go hiking, bring some appropriate hiking boots that can handle snow, such as these North Face hiking boots (I use a similar pair). These are great even if you don’t plan to go hiking as they’re comfortable for walking around all day and will keep your feet dry.

Travelling from a country without many winter clothes or forgot to pack some winter essentials? Don’t worry. There are plenty of places to buy winter clothes in Korea, including Uniqlo, hiking stores, department stores, shopping centres, and traditional markets.

What To Pack For Winter

Besides warm winter clothes, here are a few more essential items to pack for your trip to Korea. Again, these items can be bought in Korea, but if you prefer certain brands or have allergies, it might be best to bring your own, especially for skin care.

Sun Care: It’s easy to forget about sun protection during winter as you don’t feel hot, but it’s still important. Korean winters are sunny and you’ll need sun cream and sunglasses with you. Sunglasses are essential if you’re hiking in snow or outside a lot. The sun reflects strongly from white snow and can be blinding.

Skin Care: Winter in Korea is very dry and your skin will dry out quickly. I find that hotels lack moisture and get really dry at night. Using hand and face moisturiser daily will stop your skin drying out. I use Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy, it’s good for sensitive skin. Lip balm is also recommended.

Heat: Your hands can get cold in winter, even with gloves on. I recommend bringing hand warmers for your pockets and feet. This is useful if you normally get cold fingers and toes during winter. Thermal under layers are also useful for keeping you warm during cold days.

Visiting Korea In Other Seasons

Korea is an amazing country to visit any time of year and undoubtedly has four very distinct seasons with lots of other activities, sights, foods, and festivals waiting for you in each one. If you plan to travel at any other time of year, here are some of the things you can expect.

Spring in Korea is a time for Korean cherry blossoms and Korean spring festivals that celebrate the return of nature. The weather is warm, making it one of the best times to visit Korea. Visit the mountains in spring for good hiking and to see the celebrations for Buddha’s Birthday.

Summer in Korea is really hot, making it perfect for indulging in sweet Korean summer dishes. There are lots of fun summer activities to enjoy, such as water sports, camping, and beach trips. It’s also wet, so these indoor activities in Seoul will help you plan for the worst.

Autumn in Korea is all about the incredible Korean autumn foliage, where you can see golden gingko leaves and multi-coloured maple leaves turning from green to gold and red. There are also loads of harvest and cultural festivals to enjoy and amazing weather.

Winter In Korea FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about winter in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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This guide will tell you where to see cherry blossoms in Korea and includes the official 2024 Korean cherry blossom forecast to help you plan your trips during Korea’s prettiest season. There are cherry blossom forecast dates for the whole of Korea, from Seoul to Jeju Island.

Discover incredible cherry blossom festivals, viewing spots, and unique events across Korea and how to get there. As well as knowing where to see cherry blossoms in Korea in 2024, you’ll find my own travel tips & insights and useful information to help you travel Korea.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why See Cherry Blossoms In Korea?

Why should you visit Korea to see cherry blossoms this spring? Well, simply put, there’re amazing and give you the chance to see pretty spring blossoms when the weather is warm and the seasons are changing. They’re also all over the country, from city streets to winding around mountains on long, pink paths, which means that you can’t miss them. You’ll find incredible cherry blossom sights in Korea.

Leaping out in pinky-white waves across Korea, heralding the start of spring, the blossoms are the perfect antidote to the cold, dark winter that grips Korea for several months beforehand, and marks the start of warmer weather and prettier sights all round. When you visit Korea during cherry blossom season, you will see for yourself why Koreans and tourists alike love celebrating cherry blossom season.

My Favourite Cherry Blossom Spots In Korea

My personal favourite places to see cherry blossoms in Korea are:

These places all have cherry blossom festivals where you can not only take in the pinky-white petals, you can also enjoy festival activities and other natural or cultural sights nearby. When can you see cherry blossoms in Korea? The next section will show you the Korean cherry blossom forecast for 2024 for the best dates for blossom watching.

South Korean Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024

Cherry blossoms in Korea come out from mid March until early April. The first blossoms of the cherry blossom season in Korea always start in the south on Jeju Island and slowly work their way up towards Seoul, entering full bloom by early April. Thanks to the way cherry blossoms slowly work their way up through the country means you can see several cherry blossoms sights around the country.

Update: The 2024 South Korea cherry blossom forecast is now available and the dates of the first cherry blossoms in South Korea are March 19th on Jeju Island, March 20th in Jinhae, March 27th in Seoul, and April 4th in Chuncheon Province, which is close to where Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm are located. The peak blossom dates are 4 to 7 days after the first blooms.

Source: Weatheri website and Naver News

The start date is when 20% of the blossoms are out and the peak blossom date is when 90% of the blossoms have appeared. Therefore, I recommend visiting each location 1 or 2 days before the peak blossom dates for the best chance of stunning cherry blossom views in Korea. You should see at least 70-80% of the blossoms on display.

Please note: the Korean cherry blossom dates can change due to unforeseen weather conditions. Heavy rains, frost, or strong winds can cause the cherry blossoms to drop from the trees earlier than expected.

Below you can find the Korean cherry blossom start and peak dates for various locations in 2024 and the yearly average peak blossom dates. Yet again, the Korean cherry blossom forecast shows earlier blossoming date than average in most areas of Korea. This is likely due to a warmer February than usual in Korea, even though January saw quite a lot of snow and cold temperatures.

Available Cherry Blossom Tours

This article introduces the best cherry blossom spots across Korea, starting with Seoul and working down across the country, including the best festivals. If you’re interested in booking a cherry blossom tour, here are some of the best tours available this spring 2024.

Top 5 Cherry Blossom Tours from Seoul:

Top 3 Cherry Blossom Tours from Busan:

Top 3Cherry Blossom Tours on Jeju Island:

If you’re visiting Korea in mid-March, which is a bit early for cherry blossoms, you can still see the beautiful plum blossoms, which are known in Korea as maehwa.

• Gwangyang Maehwa & Jeonju Hanok Village Tour from Seoul – witness the birth of spring with the first blossoms of the year – maehwa plum blossoms.

Not sure where to go and whether you need a cherry blossom tour in Korea or not? Keep reading to find out about everything to do with cherry blossoms in Korea this spring.

Cherry Blossom Festivals In Korea

The best way to see cherry blossoms in Korea is by attending a cherry blossom festival. These festivals go all out and have a lot of other attractions besides the colourful blossoms. You can find food trucks, cultural performances, games, and even live music at these festivals. Read on to find out the best cherry blossom festivals in Korea.

Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

More than 2 million people visit the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival each year, making it the biggest cherry blossom festival in Korea. People flock to Jinhae to see the blossoms create a magnificent painting of colours, with lines of trees painting pinky-white stripes across the city. Visitors to the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival can also see cultural performances, walk along romantic riverside walkways, try delicious street foods, and take pictures with the colourful street murals.

When: March 25 – April 5 2024

Address in Korean: 경상남도 창원시 창원시 진해구 여명로

How to get there: To get to the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival, take a bus from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal directly to Jinhae. The festival is held throughout the city. The trip takes four hours and costs around W27,000.

Tour options: Tours to Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival are available from Seoul and Busan.

Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is a free festival at the butterfly-like lake that sits below Lotte World Tower. The wings of the lake are lined with hundreds of cherry trees that explode with colour at the start of April. Visit on a sunny day to get views of the angelic blossoms reflected on the lake’s surface and falling from the heavens above. It gets very crowded during cherry blossom season, but fortunately there are many places to take pretty cherry blossom selfies.

When: April 1 – April 4 2024

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 송파구 잠실6동

How to get there: To get to the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, take the subway to Jamsil Subway Station (Lines 2 & 8) and go out exit 2 or 3. The lake is visible in front of you.

Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival 2024

Yeouido Island is a popular destination in Seoul where locals flock to enjoy being outdoors on the weekends, drinking a Cass and eating ramyeon while sitting along the Han River’s grassy banks. During April, thousands of people swarm the scenic streets of Yeouiseo-ro Road to experience the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival.In this colourful festival you’ll not only find cherry blossoms, but also azaleas, forsythia, royal azaleas, and other spring flowers all in full bloom. Stay for the night-time light show, where flowers are lit up as a backdrop to street performances and art exhibitions.

When: March 29 – April 2 2024

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의서로

How to get there: To get to the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, take the subway to either National Assembly Subway Station (Line 9) or Yeouinaru Subway Station (Line 5) and follow the signs to the festival.

Tour options: There is a cherry blossom tour from Klook that will take you to 3 of the hottest cherry blossom spots in Seoul, including this location. The locations change depending on which site has the best blossoms in bloom.

Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

Head to Gyeongpodae Lake in the beautiful coastal city of Gangneung to combine cherry blossoms with beaches. Gaze at the cherry blossoms floating on trees above you and blowing down to the lake’s waters when a sea breeze blows through the trees. With over 4km of trees to walk through, this is certainly a lovely way to spend a warm spring day. Check out the pavilion for romantic views that are best shared with a loved on. There are lots of fun games and activities to enjoy, as well as unique festival foods, such as flower pancakes.

When: March 29 – April 4 2024

Address in Korean: 강원도 강릉시 초당동 459-2

How to get there: Take a train or bus from Seoul to Gangneung City. From Gangneung Intercity/Express Bus Terminal, take Bus 202 and get off at Gyeongpodae Lake.

Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

At the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival you can find streets full of cherry blossom goods, arts and craft stalls, and festival food stalls, all overlooked by the cloudy cherry blossoms. This is the most popular cherry blossom festival on Jeju Island and a perfect place for blossom viewing.

Jeju is home to a special type of cherry blossom, the King cherry blossom. These trees are said to be the original Korean cherry trees and the best of all the cherry blossoms in Korea. The blossoms are larger than other types of cherry trees in Korea. Like a pink sponge, more a full flower than a simple blossom.

When: March 22 – March 24 2024

Address in Korean: 삼도일동 721-14번지 제주시 제주특별자치도 KR

How to get there: Take bus 122 from Jeju Airport to Jeju Bus Terminal. Walk north along the river for 10 minutes or take a taxi there in less than 10 minutes. You can also see the cherry blossoms at Jangjeon-ri in Aewol and outside Jeju National University.

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival is your chance to view cherry blossoms growing around ancient Korean architecture in the historic city of Gyeongju. You’ll find the most incredible views of traditional Korea. At this festival you’ll have the chance to enjoy various activities, such as face painting, traditional games, live music, a cherry blossom shower, and tours around the city. The Bomun Lake Tourist Area offers the chance to see cherry blossom reflections while riding rollercoasters, sitting by the lake, or enjoying coffee from a lakeside cafe.

When: March 27 – Mar 31 2024

Address in Korean: 경상북도 경주시 보문로 446 (Bomun Lake)

How to get there: Take an intercity bus from Busan Sasang Bus Terminal to the Gyeongju Bus Terminal. From there, follow the main road towards the historic central area or take a taxi to Bomun Lake Tourist Area.

Tour Options: book a private taxi tours of Gyeongju to see cherry blossoms and other sights. As Gyeongju’s main sights are quite spread out, this can be a time-saving and hassle-free option.

Hwagae Market Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

Located near Jirisan National Park in southern Korea is one of the most magical cherry blossom festivals in Korea – the Hwagae Market Cherry Blossom Festival. What makes this so spectacular is the landscape, set in the Korean countryside for a very different view of cherry blossoms surrounded by nature. The main draw to the area is the ‘marriage road‘, which is rumoured to guarantee a long and happy life together if couples walk down it holding hands. When the sun hits the towering cherry blossoms from above, they cast a romantic pink glow on the road below.

When: March 22 – March 24 2024

Address in Korean: 경상남도 하동군 화개면 쌍계로 15

How to get there: Take the intercity bus from Nambu Bus Terminal (Seoul) to Hwagae City. Get off at Hwagaejangteo Market and walk to the temple from Hwagae following the river.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Seoul

Seoul is the most popular tourist destination in Korea and this bustling capital city has so many great sights to offer. There are countless places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul – in parks, along rivers, and amongst historic buildings.

The following locations offer the chance to not only take pictures with the cherry blossoms, but also to see pretty natural, historic and traditional Korean sights. When visiting Seoul for cherry blossoms, you get to enjoy the sights with extra colour. Here are my recommendations for the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul.

Seoul’s Royal Palaces & Secret Garden

Seoul’s royal palaces are the perfect traditional Korean backdrop to the natural beauty of cherry blossoms. The central lake at the heart of Gyeongbokgung in particular has spectacular views with cherry trees running along the edge and is very popular during cherry blossom season. The Secret Garden, located inside Changdeokgung Palace, is a restricted royal garden area that showcases some of the finest natural sights in Korea and is less packed with photographers due to the limited number of people who can visit each day.

How to get there: The royal palaces (and nearest subway) are Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbokgung Station), Changdeokgung (Anguk Station), Changgyeonggung (Anguk Station), Deoksugung (City Hall Station), and Gyeonghuigung (Gwanghwamun Station).

Opening Times:
Gyeongbokgung – closed Tuesday
Other palaces – closed Monday

Cherry Blossom Viewing With Hanbok: If you plan to visit Seoul’s royal palaces, I recommend renting traditional Korean hanbok. Not only will you look beautiful, you can gain free entry to the palaces. Hanbok rental starts from as little as ₩10,000 and will give you the perfect clothes for a cherry blossom photo shoot in Seoul.

Seoul Grand Park

Located in southern Seoul, Seoul Grand Park is a family-friendly area surrounded by woody hills and nature, making it a great place for views of cherry blossoms. The park includes Seoul Land amusement park, Seoul Zoo, a healing forest, theme park, and more. Stroll along the wide lake, join the festival activities, watch cultural activities, and more. To enjoy the cherry blossoms fully, grab some snacks and coffee from the vendors near the subway station and find a peaceful place to sit and take in the views.

Address in Korean: 경기도 과천시 막계동 267-1

How to get there: Take the subway to Seoul Grand Park Station and go out exit 2. The main park is in front of you, as well as convenience stores, cafes, and street vendors.

Tour options: There is a cherry blossom tour from Klook that will take you to 3 of the hottest cherry blossom spots in Seoul, including this location. The locations change depending on which site has the best blossoms in bloom.

Seokchon Lake Area

As mentioned previously, the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul. Walk around the tree-lined pathways that surround the lake, taking in the views over the water and overhead as you go. Head to the Seoul Sky Observatory in Lotte World Tower and see the lake from above, or visit Lotte World Magic Island, which looks out over the lake. For more cherry blossom views, head east to the nearby Olympic Park for beautiful blossoms and walking paths.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 송파구 잠실6동

How to get there: To get to the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, take the subway to Jamsil Subway Station (Lines 2 & 8) and go out exit 2 or 3. The lake is visible in front of you.

N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

The N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower) in central Seoul has dozens of cherry blossom trees at the peak and on the road leading up to it. Walk up the path and see cherry blossoms above or ride the Nasman Cable Car and see them passing by below. You can see the whole city from here, as well as the towering mountains of Bukhansan National Park in the north. I recommend taking the cable car to the top just before sunrise, checking out the views and other attractions, and then walking down the hill at night when the lights come on.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 용산구 남산공원길 105

How to get there: There are several ways to get to the N Seoul Tower, including on foot, by cable car, bus, or car. The most scenic way is by cable car. Walking takes about 30 minutes from Myeongdong Station and involves an uphill ascent (paved).

Tip: You can save money on entrance fees and attractions at the tower by booking online, which also avoids long queues and gives you more time to see snowy sights in Seoul.

Yeouido Hangang (Han River) Park

There’s more to the Yeouido Han River area than just the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival. Featuring long, green river banks, you have lots of space to explore and enjoy cherry blossoms away from the crowds. Walk along the river, or sit and have a picnic. The best views are from Yeouido Hangang Park, which you can find outside Yeouinaru Station. You can rent bikes from here, as well as tents, lawn mats, and buy a range of essential cherry blossom viewing supplies.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330

How to get there: Take the subway to Yeouinaru Station (Line 5) and use exit 2 or 3. The park spreads along the river.

Han River Cruise From Yeouido: After a busy day strolling under cherry blossom trees, relax and see the colourful bridges and sights of Seoul from the comfort of a cruise along the Han River.

Seoul Forest Park

Seoul Forest is Korea’s answer to Central Park in New York and makes you feel like you’re not in a city any more. Packed full of parks for children of all sizes, petting zoos, deer, and plenty of places to be in nature, this is the perfect place for cherry blossom viewing in Seoul. Entrance is free and is likely to be less busy than some of the other top cherry blossom spots in Seoul. Head to the far side of the park for raised walkways that give you views of the park, walking through the trees, with sights of the Han River in the background.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 성동구 뚝섬로 273

How to get there: Take the subway to Seoul Forest Station (Bundang Line) and use exit 3. You’ll probably have to transfer at Wangsimni Station if you’re coming from central Seoul.

Kyung hee University Campus

The Kyung Hee University campus provides a peaceful environment for students and visitors and is packed with ponds, parks, and relaxing pathways, as well as millions of cherry blossoms. The impressive neo-classical architecture provides an interesting backdrop to the blossoms, as do the students’ creative works that are on display.Take a walk through the grounds, along the ponds, and feel at ease in this pleasant surrounding. Once you’ve finished, you’ll find lots of nice cafes and restaurants to eat at outside. The top of the College of Fine Arts building offers 360 degree views of the area.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 동대문구 경희대로 26

How to get there: Take the subway to Hoegi Station (Line 1) and use exit 1. Follow the signs towards Kyung Hee University and look for the small hill in the background. The campus is located below that.

Seoul National Cemetery

Spring is a symbol of birth and regrowth and what better place to witness this than at a cemetery? Set in beautiful grounds, over slowly sloping hills, and packed with cherry trees, the Seoul National Cemetery is a remarkable place to visit any time of year. The cherry blossoms, perhaps in keeping with the setting, are weeping trees, with thick branches full of cherry blossoms, falling down towards the ground. After you’ve finished exploring the Seoul National Cemetery, find out more about Korea’s history at the nearby National Museum of Korea and War Memorial of Korea.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 동작구 현충로 210

How to get there: Take the subway to Dongjak Station (Lines 4 & 9) and use exit 6 or 7.

Ganghwa Sanseong Fortress & Goryeogung Palace

Travel to the beautiful Ganghwa Island to discover cherry blossoms blooming amongst the historic fortress walls and buildings of the ancient Ganghwa Sanseong Fortress and Goryeogung Palace. Cherry blossoms straddle the pathways around this area, creating an umbrella of blossoms for you to enjoy. This was an important location during the Goryeo Dynasty, which ran from the 10th to 14th Centuries. Learn about the how the soldiers in this area defended Korea from Mongolian invaders for decades while you appreciate the views.

Address in Korean: 인천광역시 강화군 불은면 중앙로 602-14

How to get there: Take the 3000 bus from Hongdae to Ganghwa Terminal and then take a taxi to the fortress. It’s only a short ride and shouldn’t cost more than a few thousand won.

Tour options: There is a tour to Ganghwa Island to see cherry blossoms and enjoy other activities available from Klook.

Nami Island & Garden Of Morning Calm

Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm are close to Seoul and are both full of nature and great for cherry blossom viewing in spring. They are both in Gapyeong County and can be accessed on a single day trip, either with a tour or by local transport. Nami Island features tree-lined streets, woodland animals, cafes, and cultural attractions. The Garden of Morning Calm is the best sculpted garden in all of Korea and offers views of Korean pagodas surrounded by cherry trees. Both can be seen in a day.

Address in Korean: 강원도 춘천시 남산면 남이섬길 1 (Nami Island), 경기도 가평군 상면 수목원로 432 (Garden of Morning Calm)

How to get there: Take the ITX train from Yongsan Station (Seoul) to Gapyeong Station, then take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus to Nami Island. For other transport options, check out the guide in the article about how to get to Nami Island From Seoul.

Tour options: There are plenty of tour options to take you to these locations and other sights in Gapyeong with a day tour departing from Seoul. Check out Klook, Trazy, and Get Your Guide for their various packages.

Less Visited Cherry Blossom Spots In Seoul

Looking for some less crowded areas in Seoul to see cherry blossoms away from the main festivals and throngs of people? Then check out these more peaceful areas of Seoul which still have many cherry blossom tree-lined streets to enjoy but aren’t yet as crowded.

Seongnaecheonduk-gil: Part of the Songpa Trail in the Jamsil area of Seoul, this waterside walkway starts north of Jamsillaru Station and takes you down a narrow lane starting at the Asan Medical Center and splits on the other side of Olympic Park. This area is also a great place for autumn foliage spots and Olympic Park is a lovely place to visit for a summer picnic or stroll on a sunny day.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 송파구 풍납2동 416-1 성내천길 다리

Walkerhill Street: Starting from the top of Achasan (a small hill) and leading down to the shores of the Han River, this 800 meter walkway stretches from the Achasan Mountain Ecological Park to the Walkerhill Hotel & Resort and passes under beautiful blossoms, considered one of the best sites in Seoul to see cherry blossoms, but not as busy as it’s a bit further out from the centre than other spots.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 광진구 광장동 370

Yeonhee Forest Shelter: Explore one of Seoul’s lesser-known mountain parks and see cherry blossoms at the Yeonhee Forest Shelter along the Ansan Jarak-gil walking trail in Ansan Mountain. This trail goes along leafy lanes and up the shallow slopes of Ansan Mountain (it’s not a mountain), offering views of blossoms, metasequoia trees, tulips, magnolias, and Korean forsythias near and far.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 서대문구 연희동 산2-128

Hwarangdae Railyway Park: Located in a northern part of Seoul near the old Hwarangdae Station in Nowon-gu, the Hwarangdae Railway Park is now an urban park that combines historic steam trains and trams from as far back as the 1890s with spectacular spring cherry blossom displays. There’s a peaceful cafe to relax in, old trains to sit in, and the colourful Nowon Light Garden to see at night.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 노원구 공릉2동 29-4

Gyeonggui Forest Line Park & Donggyo-ro 41 Gil: Check out the parallel streets of the Forest Line Park and Donggyo-ro 41 in Hongdae’s Yeonnam-dong area (near Hongik Uni Station) to see tree-lined pathways covering an abandoned railway track and blossom filled walking streets packed with boutique shops, bars, and lots of dessert cafes. Trendy blossom views with tasty treats together.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 마포구 동교동 147-89

Where To See Cherry Blossoms On Jeju Island

Spring comes early to Jeju Island and the King Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the first and most colourful of the spring cherry blossom events. The big blossoms offer lots of photo opportunities, but are not the only thing to see on Jeju Island in spring.

Jeju Island, known as one of the New 7 Wonders Of Nature, has a reputation for incredible natural beauty, which can certainly be seen if you visit Noksan-ro. This area features long, winding roads that are lined with vibrant displays of yellow and pink together from the cherry blossoms and canola flowers.

This area is very popular with cyclists and bikers in spring. Drive or bike around to the south coast and cruise along endless lanes of yellow and pink. Hikers can check out cherry blossoms and other spring flowers from the slopes of Hallasan Mountain. The volcanic mother to Jeju Island has some wonderful trails to explore and you’ll see cherry blossoms along the way.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Gyeongju

In Gyeongju City, witness the cherry blossoms blooming among old hanok buildings and above ancient tombs, the way they would have hundreds of years ago. This is definitely one of the best cities to see cherry blossoms in Korea and a really simple day trip from Busan.

You’ll find the best views in the Gyeongju Historic Area. Highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site include Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory (built in 675), Gyochon Traditional Village, and Woljeonggyo Bridge, a stunning bridge that looks like a palace wall.

Besides the colourful sights at the Gyeongju Historic Area, you can also find cherry blossoms at the Bomun Lake Tourist Complex to the south. One of my favourite sights here is the massive Hwangnyongwon (a 9-story golden tower), as well as the lake itself.

If you’ve an extra day in Gyeongju, then definitely visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto located in the mountains outside the city. Bulguksa is one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in Korea and hosts six National treasures of South Korea.

How to get there: Take an intercity bus from Busan Sasang Bus Terminal to Gyeongju Bus Terminal. Follow the main road towards the historic central area or take a taxi to Bomun Lake Tourist Area.

Taxi Tours Of Gyeongju: Gyeongju’s attractions are in several areas, including the Gyeongju Historic Area, Bomun Lake, and Bulguksa Temple. It can take a long time to get between these areas so an easier way to see the sights is with a Private Taxi Tour of Gyeongju.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Busan

All major cities in Korea have parks, rivers, or even mountains that provide great cherry blossom views, and Busan is no exception. There are plenty of places to see cherry blossoms in Busan, both in the city streets and in the nearby mountains around Busan.

These are 3 of the best places to see Busan’s cherry blossoms:

Oncheon Stream Park

With other 1,300 cherry trees lining the banks of the Oncheon Stream, this pleasant location is perfect in spring. A place for local residents to walk, run, and ride, this busy park is a prime location for cherry blossom viewing in Busan. Not only can you see cherry blossoms along the river, you’ll also find rows of bright yellow canola plants. There are small cafes and restaurants along the river, great for watching the night lights illuminate the delicate blossoms.

Address in Korean: 부산광역시 연제구 연산동

How to get there: There are multiple subway stations that lead out to the Oncheon Stream. The closest to Oncheon Stream Park is Dongnae Station. Use exit 2 and walk south towards the stream. The park is to the east (turn left at the river).

Samnak Ecological Park

The Samnak Ecological Park walkway, named one of the 100 most beautiful places in Korea, hosts a large number of cherry blossom trees that come to life in early April each year. With more than 1,200 trees blooming at the same time, you can see tunnels of pinky-white petals like in the picture above. You’ll also find dozens of other blooming plants, wetland birds, and tall flame grass along the Nakdonggang River banks. Rent a bike and explore this area at your own leisure or bring some lunch to have a picnic in the park in the warm spring weather.

Address in Korean: 부산광역시 사상구 삼락동 686

How to get there: Take the subway to Sasang Station and use exit 3. The park is directly ahead following the road straight. The Busan Seobu Intercity Bus Terminal is also in this area, which makes it a good place to visit for a day trip from other cities.

Dalmaji Hill & Dalmaji-Gil Road

Dalmaji Hill is perfect for quiet strolls away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Haeundae Beach. The area is famous for cafe lovers and artists and features markets, galleries, and cosy places to sit and relax. You can walk from Haeundae Beach, but it’s quite far. A better option is to ride the Haeundae Beach Train from Mipo.

In April, the hilly Dalmaji-Gil Road is crowded with cherry trees, creating an intimate forest of blossoms, adding to the area’s own beauty. From atop the hill enjoy breathtaking views of the coast. The area is a favourite with local artists and there are several galleries in the area. On weekends there are art markets at the Haeweoljeong Pavilion square.

Address in Korean: 부산광역시 해운대구 중2동 1488-1

How to get there: Take bus 1003 from Haeundae Beach or bus 39 | 100 | 141 | 200 from Haeundae Traditional Market to Dalmaji Hill and explore on foot. The Haeundae Beach Train stops here, too.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Daejeon

Daejeon isn’t on most people’s radar when they travel, but it’s a lovely city and certainly comes to life during cherry blossom season. I know, I’ve lived in Daejeon since 2015. There are several great places to view cherry blossoms in Daejeon, including at KAIST University, along the Gapcheon River, and in nearby Gyeryongsan National Park.

The KAIST University campus is reminiscent of a K-Drama filming location and is an ideal place to sit on the grass and enjoy the warm weather while viewing the blossoms. There are various cafes and restaurants to get food and drinks on the campus, and you can even order food to be delivered directly to you while you sit on the grass.

Outside the KAIST University campus is the Gapcheon River, which runs through the central area of Daejeon and is lined with many cherry trees and yellow canola plants. The riverside is a wide public space with parks, bridges, and walkways for people to walk at their leisure. The area near Expo Bridge and Hanbat Arboretum is especially nice.

For cherry blossom festivals near Daejeon, visit Donghaksa Temple in Gyeryongsan National Park. The cherry blossom festival at Donghaksa Temple runs for two weeks in early April and features traditional festival events, such as trot singing, performances, and games. You can also see blossoms falling upon the temple buildings and stone walls.

Address in Korean: 충청남도 공주시 반포면 동학사1로 462 (Donghaksa Temple), 대전광역시 유성구 구성동 (KAIST), 대전광역시 유성구 도룡동 (Expo Bridge)

How to get to Daejeon from Seoul: Take the KTX train to Daejeon Station, then change to the subway. For KAIST University get off at Wolpyeong Station. For Expo Bridge get off at Government Complex Station and walk north.

How to get to Donghaksa Temple: Take bus 107 from central Daejeon and get off at the final stop. Follow the main street to get to the park entrance and Donghaksa Temple.

Where To See King Cherry Blossoms In Korea

King cherry blossoms, which are bigger, brighter, and more pinky than regular Korean cherry blossoms, come from Jeju Island and have spread to a few locations across Korea. These are some of the most photogenic cherry blossoms and, in my opinion, look the best.

Where can you find King cherry blossoms? Apart from Jeju Island, the home to King cherry blossoms, here are a few of the best locations to see King cherry blossoms on the Korean mainland.

• Seosan Gaesimsa Temple
• Seosan Munsusa Temple
• Cheonan Gakwonsa Temple
• Songnisan Beopjusa Temple
• Wansan Flower Garden
• Jeonju Hanok Village

You can find them at other locations, typically at temples and gardens. I can highly recommend Beopjusa Temple, which is where a lot of the King cherry blossom pics for this article come from. It’s not only lovely for cherry blossom viewing, it’s also a very beautiful temple set in the foothills of Songnisan National Park.

When do King cherry blossoms come out in Korea? They’re actually later than the regular cherry blossoms, so if you’re visiting Korea after the main blossoms, you can still see them. King cherry blossoms usually bloom between the last week of April and the first week of May, depending on which part of the country you’re in.

Tour options: Here are some tours you can take that will show you these gorgeous King cherry blossoms.

• Seoul King Cherry Blossom Tour
• King Cherry Blossom Day Trip From Seoul
• King Cherry Blossom Tour From Busan

You can also make your own way to places in Seoul, Busan, and other cities on foot. I recommend downloading Naver Maps and using it to help plan your route.

Tips For Seeing Cherry Blossoms In Korea

Cherry blossom season in Korea is one of the busiest times to travel as local and tourists alike are eager to get the best views. Here are 5 tips that will help you travel more easily and let you make the most of your time in Korea.

1: Book ahead. If you plan to travel and need a hotel or tour, book ahead and make sure you can get a seat or room. I recommend booking tours at least in January or February. Trains can only be booked 30 days in advance.

2: Check the weather. Spring weather in Korea can be unpredictable. Keep an eye on forecasts and be flexible if you can. If it’s raining, check out some alternative indoor activities you can enjoy and adjust plans to be outside when it’s dry.

3: Wrap up warm. Winter winds and chills can persist during Korean cherry blossom season. Bring a jacket and warm clothes, just in case. This is especially important if you’re going to visit a national park.

4: Try unique tastes. Cherry blossom season in Korea brings with it some interesting foods and drinks. Give them a try while they’re available. You’ll mostly find these at festivals, such as the cherry blossom festival in Jinhae.

5: Walk a lot. Put on your walking boots, and explore as much as possible. City streets, riverside pathways, forest trails – experience them all. There are many streets lined with cherry blossoms that won’t be listed here and yet provide photogenic views.

Check out these Korean travel essentials to find more great tips for travelling in Korea.

Weather During Cherry Blossom Season

The weather during cherry blossom season in Korea is cool, with temperatures around 10 – 15 degrees Celsius during the day, rising to 20 degrees on a sunny day. The weather is mild, with clear or cloudy skies and a slight chance of rain. Jeju and the south coast will be warmer than Seoul by a few degrees. Spring starts two weeks earlier in Korea’s southern regions, which is why cherry blossoms in Korea bloom at different times. See the Korean cherry blossom forecast for exact dates.

Tours To See Cherry Blossoms In Korea In 2024

Travellers visiting Korea in spring have various options to see cherry blossoms. Those in major cities such as Seoul and Busan can easily reach popular cherry blossom sights by public transport or by walking around on foot. However, some of the best places to see cherry blossom in Korea are outside big cities and to get to these places, a day trip (or weekend away) is the best option.

Here are 5 of the best day trips to see cherry blossoms in Korea:

1: Jinhae in Changwon City (Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival)

2: Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

3: Jirisan National Park (Hwagae Festival & Gurye Sansuyu Festival.)

4: Gangneung City (Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival)

5: Gyeongju City

You can visit these places by public transport if you’re comfortable with the Korean public transportation system, or book a day tour from a reputable company. Tour companies in Korea that offer cherry blossom tours include Klook, Trazy, and Get Your Guide. Please note, these tours are seasonal and usually available to book from January onwards. If there are no tours available now, check again closer to spring.

Where To Stay To See Cherry Blossoms In Korea

Although some of the best cherry blossom sights in Korea are in the countryside, I’d recommend staying in larger cities like Seoul and Busan and then travelling out for day trips to see cherry blossoms. Hotels in smaller areas like Jinhae and Gyeongju are likely to be more expensive, as well as booked out in advance. You’ll get better deals and more options staying in Seoul or Busan. However, the prices in these cities can be high during cherry blossom season, too.

Book ahead to avoid disappointment and higher prices.

Seoul: Hotels in Myeongdong offer convenient access to N Seoul Tower and royal palaces. Hotels in Hongdae are ideal for visiting Yeouido and Han River parks. Hotels in Gangnam provide easy access to Seokchon Lake and the Lotte World Tower.

Busan: For hotels in Busan, stay in Haeundae or Seomyeon are generally the most convenient for travelling around Busan. Both areas are connected to the subway system and have good bus connections, too.

Jeju Island: For hotels on Jeju Island, stay in either Jeju City or Seogwipo City. Jeju City is closer to the cherry blossom festival, but Seogwipo is closer to nature and has some of the best walking trails along the coast.

Visiting Korea In Other Seasons

Korea is an amazing country to visit any time of year and undoubtedly has four very distinct seasons with lots of other activities, sights, foods, and festivals waiting for you in each one. Therefore, don’t forget to check out my other awesome seasonal guides for Korea to make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip to Korea whenever you travel. Be sure to check out the best spring festivals in Korea, too.

Summer: A hot and rainy time of year, but perfect for getting out to enjoy the best Korean summer activities, such as water sports, camping by the beach, summer festivals, eating yummy Korean summer foods, and getting a tan. If the rain is too heavy, there are plenty of indoor activities in Seoul where you can stay dry and still have fun.

Autumn: Like spring, autumn is all about nature and the change of seasons represented by the fall foliage. There are many places to see autumn leaves in Korea, including golden gingko leaves and multi-coloured maple leaves, which change from green to gold to red.

Winter: After the beauty of the fall foliage and the rains of summer, winter is the complete opposite – snowy white and extremely dry. Winter has very little rain, which makes it perfect for exploring outside and enjoying one of the many winter activities in Korea. Just make sure you wrap up warm! If you’re visiting Korea in winter, I highly recommend check out my Jeju Island winter itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about seeing cherry blossoms in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.