13 Inspirational Photos of Winter in South Korea

“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if we seek them with our eyes open.” – Jawaharal Nehru

Dancing snowflakes above Korean traditional palaces, the white rolling hills of snow, and the snow-capped mountains. Yes, this beautiful winter wonderland we’re speaking of is South Korea.

Here are 10 inspiring photos that’ll make you yearn to travel to South Korea this winter.

1. Winter sunset over the snow-covered temple in Korea

Despite the fast-paced environment and great advancements in technology, Korea has managed to maintain the balance between rapid urbanization and cultural traditions. That’s why you’ll be able to find hundreds of these centuries-old Buddhist architectures nestled up in the mountains.

2. Winter memories at Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

Every winter, Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival takes place at the magical Alps Village in Cheongyang. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a frozen kingdom with massive ice fountains, ice sculptures, igloos, and more! Enjoy all kinds of winter activities at a charming village that literally transforms into a winter wonderland every winter.

2023 Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival at Cheongyang Alps Village – from Seoul (~Feb 28)

3. A special winter fun day at Eobi Ice Valley

Eobi Ice Valley is a new rising tourist destination known for its magnificent frozen waterfall in Gapyeong. You can easily go there from Seoul in a day and stop by nearby popular destinations, such as Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike.

4. A winter fairytale at Wondae-ri Birch Forest

Step into a winter fairytale at Wondae-ri Birch Forest and In-je Maebawi Icewall! On this tour, you will hike along a scenic hiking course and immerse in the tranquil forest with the tall white bark birch trees rising magnificently towards the blue sky.

Wondae-ri Birch Forest & In-je Maebawi Icewall Winter Hiking – from Seoul (~Feb 28)

5. Winter wonderland in Mt. Deogyusan

A popular destination for its picturesque views and hidden temples, Mt Deokgyusan transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Winter. Ride the gondola up to Seolchunbong, the second-highest peak there, or hike up the mountains to enjoy the stunning scenery unfolding before your very eyes.

Mt. Deogyusan & Maisan Winter Wonderland 1-Day Tour

6. Nami Island completely covered with snow

Take a stroll down Metasequoia Lane lined on both sides with these impressive deciduous trees donned in crystalline white snow. Ever since it was featured in the hit K-drama ‘Winter Sonata’, Nami Island has become a go-to destination in the Winter. Star in your own romantic K-drama at Nami Island!

7. The calm, serene hills of Pyeongchang

Pyeongchang is one of the most well-known destinations in Gangwon-do ever since the Winter Olympics. However, Pyeongchang has so much more to offer its guests in the Winter than just snow-topped hills – one of them being the Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival. Already into its 14th year running, the Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival (December 30th, 2022~January 29th, 2023) will definitely be a treat for the whole family with ice skating, bobsleigh riding, and even barehand fishing!

8. The fantastic view from above Yongpyong Ski Resort

You can’t have Winter in Korea without its awesome resorts. Make the most out of Winter in Korea by going to Yongpyong Ski Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Korea. With an average annual snowfall of about 250mm, many flocks to Yongpyong Ski Resort to get the best skiing/snowboarding experience!

Find out more about Yongpyong Ski Resort here.

9. Winter in Hangyeryeong, Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is most likely on everyone’s must-visit list. Home to the third-highest mountain in Korea, it is an all-time favorite destination for many hikers throughout the four seasons. Blessed with blankets of snow and exquisite views of Nature, spending a day at Seoraksan during the Winter will definitely be an unforgettable experience!

10. Enjoying the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is another one of Korea’s go-to Winter festivals. Selected as one of the 7 Winter Wonders of the World by CNN, the festival has a lot to offer everyone from those looking for an action-packed experience to even those looking to chill. Who needs fishing rods anymore when you can go barehand fishing instead?

Read more about the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival here.

2023 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival: Shuttle Bus Package (Jan 7~29)

11. High atop a hill, a sheep farm in Daegwallyeong

This picturesque view of hills blanketed in a cover of white snow with a sheep farm perched just on top is certainly a sight to see. Take a peaceful walk around the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm and take in the grandiose scenery of Nature unfolding before your very eyes. Even get the chance to feed the cute fluffy sheep on the farm and enjoy their company!

Reserve Your Seats on the Seoraksan National Park Private Tour

12. A winter hiking trail in Mt Halla, Jeju Island

Mt Halla is, of course, one of the more prominent destinations to visit in Jeju Island, especially in Winter. Though a hike up this sky-piercing snowy mountain should definitely be on your bucket list, Jeju Island offers many more sights and attractions to see and visit. A stroll through Camellia Hill, with the Queen of Winter Flowers blossoming in crimson pink, is certainly going to be an Instagram-worthy experience!

Find out more about Jeju Island here.

13. Take a walk in the Garden of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm is an all-time favorite destination for many throughout the year. From its beautiful cherry blossoms in Spring to the crimson yellow leaves in Autumn, this garden is somewhat of a utopia. What’s more, with Winter comes its own charms, especially with the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival starting in December. Take a walk through the garden lit in an array of colorful, dazzling lights!

Did you enjoy the photos? Now, if you want to visit South Korea, this is the perfect time for you.

Check out Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop to check out lots of fun and exciting things to do in Korea and places to visit!

[Photo Credits]

Yong Pyong Resort Official Website
Gangwon Province Official Website
Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch Official Website

2 thoughts on “13 Inspirational Photos of Winter in South Korea”

tm.lennon says:
October 11, 2016 at 1:35 pm
where is that place in pic no.1?
1. gotrazy says:
  October 11, 2016 at 2:07 pm
  Hello, it’s Sujongsa Temple in Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi Province. Hope this info helps! 🙂