Seoul in Winter 2026: Complete Guide to Ice Skating and Activities

Winter in Seoul is a season of striking contrasts. While temperatures can drop significantly, the city comes alive with dazzling light festivals, steaming street food, and world-class ice skating rinks. If you are planning a trip between December 2025 and February 2026, you are in for a visually stunning experience, provided you are prepared for the chill. The air is crisp, the skies are often a brilliant piercing blue, and the snowy backdrop of Bukhansan Mountain framing the city offers photographers incredible opportunities.

The short answer: Seoul in winter (Dec-Feb) averages -6°C to 2°C, offering unique activities like outdoor skating for just ₩1,000, illuminations at Myeongdong, and ski trips just 60 minutes from the city center.

Weather Survival Guide: What to Expect in 2026

Before diving into the fun activities, it is crucial to understand the environment. Korean winters are dry and Siberian-cold. The wind chill is the primary factor that catches travelers off guard.

In January 2026, the average daily temperature in Seoul hovers around -2°C (28°F), but morning lows often plummet to -10°C (14°F) or lower. February begins to warm slightly, with averages moving up to 1°C (34°F), though late cold snaps are common.

The Essential Packing List

To enjoy walking 10,000+ steps a day (the Seoul average for tourists), you need the right gear. The local uniform is the "Long Padding" (long padded coat), which covers you from neck to ankles.

• Thermal Layers: Uniqlo Heattech or equivalent is mandatory.
• Hot Packs (Kairo): You can buy these at any convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) for about ₩1,000 each. Stick them to your undershirt or keep them in your pockets.
• Moisturizer: The air is extremely dry (often below 30% humidity). Your skin will crack without protection.

Ice Skating in Seoul: The 2026 Rink Guide

Ice skating is the quintessential Seoul winter activity. Whether you are looking for a romantic date spot or a budget-friendly family outing, the city offers distinct options.

1. Seoul Plaza Ice Rink (City Hall)

Located right in the heart of downtown, this is the most popular rink for a reason. In 2026, the city has maintained its commitment to accessibility with incredibly low prices. The backdrop of the modern City Hall glass wave against the old library building makes for iconic photos.

The rink operates on a time-slot system. Each session lasts one hour, followed by a 30-minute ice resurfacing break. The cost is an unbeatable ₩1,000 (approx. $0.75 USD), which includes skate rentals. Gloves are mandatory; if you forget them, you can buy a pair on-site for about ₩1,500.

2. Grand Hyatt Seoul Ice Rink

For a complete change of pace, head to Namsan. The Grand Hyatt transforms its outdoor pool into a stunning ice rink with panoramic views of the Han River and Gangnam skyline. This is the "K-Drama moment" spot.

In 2026, admission prices have adjusted slightly to ₩13,000 - ₩15,000 for entrance, with an additional ₩25,000 for skate rental. While a session here will cost you roughly ₩40,000 per person, the atmosphere—fairy lights, surrounding trees, and luxury service—is unmatched.

3. Lotte World Ice Rink

If the outdoor temperature is too brutal (below -15°C), head indoors to Lotte World in Jamsil. This massive indoor rink is located on the B3 floor and receives natural sunlight from the glass dome roof of the theme park above.

Winter Festivals and Illuminations

Seoul does not hibernate when the sun goes down; it lights up. The winter of 2025-2026 features expanded light displays that rival European Christmas markets.

Seoul Lantern Festival

Usually running from mid-December through late January, this festival transforms Gwanghwamun Square and the Cheonggyecheon Stream into a glowing gallery of massive paper lanterns. The 2026 theme focuses on "Futuristic Tradition," blending classic Hanok designs with LED technology. Walking the 1.5km course takes about 45 minutes and is completely free.

Department Store Light Wars

The battle for the best Christmas display between Shinsegae Department Store and Lotte Department Store in Myeongdong is legendary.

• Shinsegae (Main Branch): Famous for its massive media façade that covers the entire exterior wall. The 2026 show runs on a 3-minute loop from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
• Lotte (Main Branch): Features intricate window displays and a "Christmas Avenue" feel leading into the store.

Winter Eats: Street Food to Warm Your Soul

Korean winter street food is not just about sustenance; it is a survival mechanism against the cold. You will find vendors clustered near subway exits emitting steam that smells of toasted nuts and sweet dough.

Must-Try Winter Snacks

1. Bungeoppang (Carp Bread): Fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste or custard cream.
   • 2026 Price: ₩1,000 for 2 pieces (inflation has hit, it used to be 3 for ₩1,000).
2. Hotteok: Sweet pancakes filled with melted brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. Be careful—the filling is molten lava hot.
   • Price: ₩1,500 - ₩2,000 per piece.
3. Gun-goguma (Roasted Sweet Potatoes): Often sold from drum barrels. They are incredibly sweet and fluffy.
   • Price: ₩5,000 for a small bag.
4. Eomuk Tang (Fish Cake Soup): Skewered fish cakes in a spicy or mild radish/anchovy broth.
   • Price: ₩1,000 - ₩1,500 per skewer.
   • Pro Tip: The broth is free! Just grab a paper cup and ladle it out yourself while you eat.

If you are looking for a more sit-down experience, winter is the prime season for stews. For a deep dive into the best local dishes, read our guide to 50 must-try Korean foods.

Indoor Escapes: Jjimjilbang Culture

When the wind chill hits -15°C, there is no better place to be than a Jjimjilbang (Korean Spa). These are large, gender-segregated bathhouses with unisex common areas featuring heated floors, saunas, and sleeping mats.

Top Recommendation for 2026: Aquafield

While traditional spots like Dragon Hill Spa have faced closures or renovations, Aquafield (locations in Hanam and Goyang Starfield malls) represents the modern, luxury evolution of the Jjimjilbang.

• Entrance Fee: Approx. ₩23,000 for 6 hours.
• Features: Infinity pools (additional cost), cypress wood sauna rooms, media art rooms, and relaxation recliners.

Skiing and Snowboarding Day Trips

Seoul is surrounded by mountains, making day trips to ski resorts incredibly easy. You do not need to rent a car; most resorts offer shuttle bus services from major subway stations (Hongik Univ., Myeongdong, Gangnam).

Vivaldi Park Ski World

The most popular option for foreigners due to its proximity (1.5 hours) and English-friendly services.

• Lift Pass (4 hours): Approx. ₩70,000 - ₩80,000.
• Equipment Rental: ₩30,000.
• Snowy Land: A dedicated sledding park perfect for those who don't ski.

Elysian Gangchon

The only resort accessible by the Seoul Subway system (ITX-Cheongchun train to Baegyang-ri Station). It is smaller but less crowded on weekdays.

• Travel Time: 1 hour from Yongsan Station.
• Best for: Beginners and short trips.

24-Hour Winter Itinerary: "Fire and Ice"

If you only have one day to experience the best of Seoul's winter in 2026, follow this route to maximize your time. For a more general day plan, check our 24-hour Seoul itinerary guide.

09:00 AM: Gyeongbokgung Palace Visit early. The stark contrast of the colorful Dancheong (painting) on the palace eaves against white snow is breathtaking.

• Cost: ₩3,000 (Free if wearing Hanbok).
• Warm-up: Visit the National Palace Museum (free and indoors) located inside the grounds if you get too cold.

12:00 PM: Samgyetang Lunch Eat Ginseng Chicken Soup at Tosokchon (near the palace). The boiling hot broth is traditionally a summer dish, but it is perfect for winter energy.

• Cost: ₩20,000.

02:00 PM: Tea in Insadong Walk to Insadong and duck into a traditional tea house (Chatjib). Order Omija-cha (five-flavor berry tea) or Jujube tea.

• Cost: ₩8,000 - ₩10,000 per tea.

05:00 PM: Sunset Skating Head to Seoul Plaza for a skating session as the city lights turn on.

• Cost: ₩1,000.

07:00 PM: Myeongdong Street Food & Shopping Walk from City Hall to Myeongdong. Enjoy the Christmas lights at Shinsegae, then eat your way through the street stalls. Stop by Olive Young for skincare shopping.

• Cost: ₩20,000 for food.

09:00 PM: N Seoul Tower Take the cable car up Namsan Mountain. The winter air offers the clearest visibility of the year—you can see all the way to Incheon on a good night.

• Cost: ₩15,000 (Cable car round trip).

Shopping and K-Beauty in Winter

Winter is a major shopping season in Korea. The "Korea Grand Sale" usually targets tourists in January and February, offering discounts on flights, hotels, and shopping.

However, the dry weather means your shopping list should prioritize skincare. Korean barrier creams (look for "Ceramide" or "Panthenol") are world-class. If you are struggling with the harsh weather effects on your skin, you might want to visit a clinic. Read about the best skin clinics in Gangnam for quick hydration treatments.

Where to Buy Winter Gear

If you arrived underpacked, head to:

1. Hongdae: For trendy, affordable coats (₩50,000 - ₩100,000).
2. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) Markets: For wholesale prices on scarves and gloves.
3. The North Face / Discovery: If you want the premium "branded" long padding that locals wear (₩300,000+).

Practical Logistics for Winter 2026

Transportation

Public transport is your best friend. The subway seats are heated—a small luxury you will appreciate immensely.

• Subway Fare: Base fare is ₩1,400 (using T-money card).
• Taxis: Hailing a taxi on the street in winter is difficult, especially during evening rush hour or if it is snowing. Download Kakao T or Uber (works as UT in Korea).

Slippery Streets

Seoul is hilly. When it snows, the hills in neighborhoods like Itaewon, Hannam-dong, or Bukchon Hanok Village become treacherous slides.

• Wear: Boots with good grip (lug soles). Uggs are warm but slippery; ensure they have traction.
• Watch: Look for "Yeom-hwa-kal-syum" (Calcium Chloride) bags—white pellets sprinkled on roads to melt ice.

Conclusion

Visiting Seoul in winter requires preparation, but the rewards are unique. The city is less crowded than during the cherry blossom season, the air is cleaner than in spring, and the mix of hyper-modern comforts (heated subway seats, blazing fast Wi-Fi) with traditional winter activities creates an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you are gliding across the ice for less than a dollar or warming your hands on a hot Hotteok, Seoul in 2026 is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored.

To make your trip even smoother, consider exploring some indoor cultural activities. You might enjoy finding a quiet spot in one of the best coffee shops in Seoul to watch the snow fall while sipping a flat white. Stay warm and enjoy your journey!