You probably heard, that South Korea isn’t a country people would recommend during winter. And if you’re extremely sensitive to cold, then yep – that might be true.. But IF you’re looking for a winter wonderland with fun activities, amazing winter destinations and good winter street food, visiting South Korea in February 2024 is perfect for you!
Let’s find out what February in Korea is like and what things you can do in Seoul or outside the bigger cities during your stay.
How is February in South Korea?
February in South Korea brings occasional snowfall and frost, creating a picturesque winter scene in Seoul, while some southern regions like Jeju Island already experience the first spring vibes with blooming plum trees. In 2024 February also hosts the festive Lunar New Year (Seollal), bringing traditional celebrations and a vibrant cultural spirit to the country.
How’s the weather in February?
In February, South Korea experiences a winter climate with cool temperatures and occasional snowfall. The weather can vary across different regions of the country, but generally, temperatures hover between -3° to 5° Celsius (26° to 41° Fahrenheit). Seoul and other central and northern areas tend to be colder, while southern regions, such as Busan or Jeju Island, are relatively mild already.
What should I bring to Korea?
Now, onto the important stuff – what to pack. Even though it’s slowly getting warmer in comparison to January, I would still recommend to bring multiple layers, a thick winter jacket, gloves, scarves, and warm and comfortable footwear.
You can get hot packs at Daiso or Olive Young to keep you warm when staying outside and I recommend to also plan enough time for coffee or tea stops every now and then.
Are there public holidays in February?
In 2024 Seollal – Korean Lunar New Year – falls on February 10th. That means that some shops and sights could be closed from 9th to 11th due to the public holidays. Usually smaller businesses, family owned restaurants close on Seollal, but Convenience Stores, Malls and big food chains will stay open during the most important holiday. In the following years the Lunar New Year with its special festivities, family gatherings, and a unique cultural experience is in January.
General South Korea Travel Guide
In this South Korea Guide, I cover everything you need to know for an amazing South Korea trip (not related to a specific month) from Basic Information about the country, weather all around the year, Visa and Entry Requirements, best Korean SIM Cards, Transportation, Must Visit Spots and Recommended Activities in Korea.
What to do in Seoul in February?
As the weather can be freezing, I recommend you to plan a few more indoor options for your itinerary. So between the common sights in Seoul – which are mostly outdoors, but which you should definitely see – you can still have some time to heat up again when exploring museums, performances or other activities. And for people that are not bothered by the cold, I can highly recommend embracing the winter events the city of Seoul organized in different locations.
Attend special Winter Events in Seoul
The Seoul Winta Festa is a festival organized by the city of Seoul in multiple areas of the city including the Seoul Light Show at Gwanghwamun, the Ice Skating Rink in front of the City Hall or the Lantern Festival and Winter Market at Gwanghwamun Square. But there are some other Events happening in February which I shared here:
Han River Snow Slopes
📍Ttukseom, Jamwon, Yeouido Park
🗓️ ~ February 12th
⏱️ 9am – 5pm
City Hall Ice Skating
📍Seoul Plaza
🗓️ ~ February 11th
⏱️ 10am – 9:30pm
Bukhansan Winter Hike
📍Bukhansan National Park
🗓️ ~ March 3rd
⏱️ 11am-5pm
Book a tour >here
Lotte World 35th Anniversary
📍Lotte World Castle
🗓️ ~ February 25th
⏱️ 8:40pm
See the city from above
Perched atop Namsan Mountain in the heart of the city you can find the N Seoul Tower – often simply called Namsan Tower. Not only does it provide breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul’s sprawling cityscape, but it also offers cultural performances every day at 3 PM and has some great photospots like the lock filled walls of the viewing platform. You can buy tickets for the N Seoul tower’s observatory >here.
Another great place for awesome city views is the Lotte Tower’s Seoul Sky Observatory, located in the Jamsil district. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits before ascending to the rooftop observatory or even book the Sky Bridge Tour to have a walk outside on 555m height. Tickets for the Observatory can be booked in advance >here.
I can also recommend you to have a walk around the Seokchon Lakes and walk to the Lotte World Castle, which you actually can see without going into the amusement park itself.
A great way to see the city and South Korea’s beautiful nature is going on a hike to one of the many mountains inside and around Seoul. The most famous one is Bukhansan Mountain, right in the north of the city and often seen in the royal portraits of the kings. There is a guided tour available daily until March 3rd and the tour starts at 11am and ends around 5pm. Please be reminded that this is definitely not an easy hike people without any practice or with health concerns should climb.
You can book the guided tour >here.
Visit one of many museums
Another great way to deep dive into Korean Culture when it’s freezing cold outside are Seoul’s countless museums. Don’t worry.. in South Korea they’re usually not the boring outdated museums you might expect. Many of them are actually very modern, partly digital and often offer great tours and activities.
Have a Selfcare-Day
Combine relaxation and cultural immersion by visiting a Jjimjilbang (찜질방) – a traditional Korean bathhouse. Upon entering, you’re enveloped in a world of soothing saunas, hot baths, and special treatments. The gentle heat of the Korean saunas, ranging from intense to mild, helps release tension and detoxify the body. After a leisurely soak in therapeutic mineral baths, you can indulge in a Korean body scrub that leaves your skin feeling soft and revitalized. Alternatively you can get a massage or one of Korea’s famous skin treatments in one of the great facilities below. This self-care day in Korea allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a wellness oasis steeped in Korean tradition.
Watch Performances
The “Nanta Cooking Show” and “Painter’s Show” are two captivating performances in Seoul. “Nanta” is a comedy combining cooking and drumming, while “Painters Show” blends live painting, multimedia art, and humor. Both shows offer unique, interactive experiences combined with some Korean cultural insights that entertain audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making them must-see attractions in Seoul.
You can also see the Musical “Cats” in Seoul at the moment until March 12th 2024.
Find tickets for the Painter’s Show >here.
Find tickets for Nanta Cooking Show >here.
Find tickets for the Cats Musical >here.
Take a cooking class
Korean cooking classes provide a hands-on experience in preparing traditional Seollal dishes like colorful rice cakes, Korea’s National dish Kimchi, or a whole set of meals like Bulgogi (marinated grilled meat) or Korean stews. Guided by expert instructors, participants not only learn the secrets of these time-honored recipes but also gain insight into the significance of each dish in Korean Cuisine. It’s a delightful opportunity to connect with the essence of Korean traditions and share in the joy of creating and savoring these delectable treats with loved ones.
Craft your own souvenirs
Instead of buying souvenirs I can highly recommend to try one of many special activities and experiences in South Korea. It’s not just great to make a very personal gift for yourself or your loved ones at home, but it’s also a perfect way to learn more about Korean Culture and connect with locals. You can usually book them in English,
Mother of Pearl
Make accessories with the Korean traditional Najeon Technique!
Perfume Making
Make your own Perfume step by step with English guidance!
Stone Stamp
Make your own traditional Korean stone stamp that was used to sign contracts!
Leather Goods
Make yourself a wallet, small glasses case or a leather hand bag!
Wooden Rings
Special rings made of wood for couples, solo travelers or friends!
Traditional Dyeing
Dye a scarf or tote bag with the traditional Jjokbit Color.
Find more in my FREE Experience Guide ↓
Where should I go for day or weekend trips in February?
My top recommendation for South Korea Travelers: Leave the big cities at least once during your stay! From breathtaking winter destinations over a full Ski or Snowboarding Trip to one of Korea’s great Ski Resorts or a day trip to a different city or place close to Seoul – there are many amazing organized group tours or winter destinations you can travel to by yourself.
Enjoy one of Korea’s Special Winter Destinations
If you’re looking for some fun winter related day- or weekend trips from Seoul, here are some great options. From Ice Valleys, over white birch forests, to frozen Lake Activities – there are many options in South Korea in case you want to escape the busy city of Seoul.
Hear a few options including organized tours. Alternatively you can of course organize it yourself!
Go Skiing or Snowboarding
What many people don’t know: South Korea offers amazing ski resorts with picturesque landscapes, providing an ideal setting for winter sports enthusiasts.
So even in South Korea you can fully embrace the winter wonderland by hitting the slopes for a thrilling skiing or snowboarding adventure. For a hassle-free experience, consider organized tours for example:
Trazy also offers this great tool to find the best Skiing Option for you:
Here the best option for a Ski Trip for female Solo Travelers
If you are a female solo traveler, exploring South Korea in February 2024, I have the perfect event for you: A Girls Trip with many other Solo Female Travelers to the Elysian Ski Resort!
The Startup NomadHer offers a platform for female Solo Travelers all over the world and organizes a lot of amazing travel camps in different places and with different topics and hosts.
It’s the perfect way to meet other like minded and inspiring women in a safe space, as the app needs your identification you can be sure to meet with trustworthy women and enjoy the adventure the fullest!
Explore other cities – One Day Trips
I think these days the Day Trip to Nami Island is the most popular one. Not just because of the K-Drama “Winter Sonata” but also because of its stunning nature and the unique views during every season of the year.
A visit to the Korean Folk Village and Suwon, just an hour away from Seoul, allows you to experience the Korean Folk Village and stroll along the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon.
For a more solemn experience, consider a visit to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), which takes approximately two hours to reach.
Explore other cities – Weekend Trips
If you want to spend a whole weekend elsewhere, why not go a bit further to the city of Gyeongju – often called the outdoor museum.
Consider a day trip to Jeonju and its famous Hanok Village. The area around the city is known for its picturesque landscapes especially during winter.
I know, I know.. It sounds a bit weird to recommend a beach trip in winter.. But honestly? I had an amazing time in Gangneung in February 2022 – my first Solo Trip in Korea. Gangneung is famous for coffee, sea views and great hikes!
I hope you now see that South Korea can be an amazing travel destination all around the year – even in the coldest winter months! If you come well prepared and are not afraid of the cold, this country actually offers a lot of great winter activities and destinations you can explore in February 2024!
