Looking to make the most of February in Korea? Whether you're braving the winter chill or chasing cozy moments indoors, this guide is your ultimate companion for unforgettable experiences during this magical month!
Here’s what makes this guide a must-have for your February itinerary:
✅ Seasonal Highlights: Discover the unique charm of Korea in February, from snowy landscapes to Lunar New Year festivities.
✅ Top Winter Activities: Indulge in seasonal traditions, ice festivals, and scenic hikes perfect for the cooler weather.
✅ Local Eats: Warm up with hearty Korean winter dishes—complete with insider tips on where to find them.
✅ Easy Planning: Includes directions, recommendations, and tips to save you time and effort.
🎉 Why This Guide?
February in Korea is a month of beauty and wonder, and I’ve packed this guide with my favorite finds to help you experience it to the fullest. From frosty adventures to cultural must-dos, I’ll be your personal travel buddy, showing you the best this season has to offer.
🌏 Stress-Free Travel Planning
Why spend hours figuring it all out? This guide takes the guesswork out of your trip, giving you everything you need to hit the ground running.
✨ Yours for Free
Because great adventures shouldn’t come with a price tag, this guide is yours at no cost—just a little gift from me to help you create amazing February memories in Korea.
📥 Download Now
Start your journey to an unforgettable February in Korea. Your adventure awaits—grab your free guide today!
February in Korea is a month of contrasts, where the last days of winter meet the approaching spring. Whether you love cozy winter vibes or early springtime surprises, Korea has something magical waiting for you. Let me guide you through the best experiences to make your February unforgettable!
Embrace the Winter Wonderland
Hit the Slopes
February is peak season for skiing and snowboarding, with pristine powder blanketing Korea’s ski resorts. Here are a few top picks:
Vivaldi Park Ski World (Gangwon-do)
Perfect for beginners and families, with slopes for all levels and plenty of activities for non-skiers.
Located one hour and a half from Seoul, this Ski Resort is more for beginners and families and might be a bit boring for intermediate or advanced skiers. It offers one-day skiing and nighttime skiing (I tried it for the first time and was definitely had a different feel to ski in at night compared to Austrian Skiing resorts :D) I recommend booking a one day tour to the resort since it's hard to get there without a car.
Opening Times
Opening Date: December 5th (’24/’25 Season)
Operating Hours: Daytime 08:30-17:00 / Evening 18:30-22:30 / Nighttime 22:30-05:00
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Yongpyong Resort (Gangwon-do)
It is a world-class resort known for its Olympic-standard facilities and stunning views.
It takes 3 and a half hours to get here from Seoul. Make sure to book a tour or shuttle bus, and I recommend staying overnight to get more time on the slopes. There are slopes for all levels of skiers :)
Opening Times:
Opening Date: November 29th (Season 24/25)
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Phoenix Pyeongchang (Gangwon-do)
Famous for its snowboarding parks and cozy après-ski spots. This is where the Winter Olympics took place in 2018!
Phoenix Park Ski Resort is located in Pyeongchang which is only about 2 to 4 hours from Seoul. It was the filming location for the Korean Dramas Winter Sonata and Autumn in My Heart. It is best known for it's freestyle hills. It's fastest to get here by KTX to Pyeongchang Station or Shuttle Bus from Seoul.
Opening Times
Opening Date: November 29th (Season 24/25)
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Insider Tip
Book your gear and lessons in advance—resorts can get busy on weekends and often you can score great discounts!
Explore Ice Festivals
February is prime time for Korea’s famous ice festivals. Dive into a world of sparkling ice sculptures, frozen rivers, and winter fun. Don’t miss:
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival
Try your hand at ice fishing and grill your catch on the spot. There’s also sledding, ice skating, and beautiful light displays.
This place is always buzzing and has the trendiest street food items like lobster or strawberry mochi. These streets can get very full, so be aware of that. Prices are usually a bit higher than regular street food stands around subway stations. I recommend getting the unusual food items here and regular Korean street food items from regular street food stands.
Opening times:
Mon-Fri 16:00-23:00
Sat-Sun 14:00-23:00
Closest Subway Station:
Myeongdong Station Exit 6
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Bung-eo-ppang(Fish-shaped Pastry):
Perfect for snacking as you explore.
Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)
A nourishing dish to keep you energized in the cold.
This restaurant has one of the best Samgyetangs in Seoul. Must-try! It's located on the left side of Gyeongbukgung Palace in a beautifully renovated traditional Korean Hanok place.
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Makgeolli (Rice Wine)
This is my personal favorite Korean alcohol. Pair it with savory pancakes for a quintessential Korean winter meal.
If you’re craving space and tranquility, Seoul Forest is perfect. The cherry blossom paths here feel like a hidden oasis in the city. There’s even a deer park in the Seoul Forest's "Windy Hill" for some unexpected fun! The best spot for taking pictures is on top of the bridge that crosses the cherry blossoms-lined road.
Why I Love It: It’s spacious, family-friendly, and great for a laid-back picnic.
Closest Subway Station:
Seoul Forest Station Exit 4
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Warm Up in a Jjimjilbang
There’s no better way to beat the February chill than in a traditional Korean bathhouse. Relax in hot baths, enjoy a sauna, and try a Korean body scrub for the ultimate pampering experience. Popular options include:
Dragon Hill Spa (Seoul)
A luxurious jjimjilbang with a variety of themed rooms.
February is an off-peak travel season for many attractions, so it’s the perfect time to explore Korea’s cultural treasures without the usual crowds. Must-visit spots:
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Stroll through the majestic grounds and enjoy unobstructed views.
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty's main palace. The Palace is free on the last Wednesday of each month because it's Culture Day and on some public holidays. Every day (except Tuesdays when the palace is closed) you can enjoy the Changing of the Guards at 10am and 2pm. If you rent a Hanbok (Korean traditional gown) you are also able to enter the palace for free.
Opening times:
November-February 09:00-17:00 (Last admission 16:00)
March-May & September-October 09:00-18:00 (Last admission 17:00)
June-August 09:00-18:30 (Last admission 17:30)
Fee
Adult ₩3,000
Closest Subway Station:
Anguk Station Exit 4
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Namsangol Hanok Village
Experience traditional Korean architecture and winter events.
Namsangol Hanok Village is often given a miss, particularly by foreign tourists for the more popular Bukchon Hanok Village or even Insadong. However, a trip to Namsangol Hanok Village, with easy walking distance from Myeongdong Station will prove to be a rewarding one for its scenic surrounding and cultural heritage. It's nice place to get away from the tourist crowds and the best thing: It's for free! You can play some fun traditional Korean games here.
Opening times:
April-October 09:00-21:00
November-March 09:00-20:00
* Traditional garden open 24 hr
*Closed on Mondays
Fee
Free
Closest Subway Station:
Chungmuro Station Exit 4 (120m)
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Insadong
Shop for unique crafts and souvenirs while sipping on hot herbal tea.
Experience the heart of Korean culture on Insadong Street. This bustling thoroughfare is a feast for the senses, brimming with art galleries, traditional restaurants, and charming teahouses.
Admire the beautiful Hangeul script adorning storefronts, a unique touch that sets Insadong apart. Unlike the more intimate Ikseon-dong, Insadong offers a wider, more open atmosphere.
In the evenings and weekends, the street comes alive with the sounds of street performers, creating an unforgettable experience.
Tip: Visit the Ssamjigil-Shopping Center located along the street. It hosts cute handmade souvenirs and on top is the popular Poop Cafe.
Opening times:
Depends on the stores along the street
Closest Subway Station:
Anguk Station Exit 6
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Witness Stunning Winter Views
For breathtaking winter scenery, these destinations are a must:
Nami Island
A snowy wonderland with picture-perfect tree-lined paths.
A picturesque escape, Nami Island is known for its tree-lined paths, seasonal beauty, and romantic vibes. Pair this with The Garden of Morning Calm, a stunning botanical garden perfect for leisurely strolls and jaw-dropping photos.
Tip
While most visitors focus on the main paths of Nami Island, rent a bike and explore the quieter corners where you’ll find peaceful picnic spots and fewer crowds.
Getting There
Take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station, then hop on the Gapyeong Shuttle Bus.
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Seoraksan National Park
Hike or take a cable car for panoramic views of snow-covered peaks.
Garden of Morning Calm, a stunning botanical garden perfect for leisurely strolls and jaw-dropping photos. Lights up after the sun sets!
Getting There
Take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station, then hop on the Gapyeong Shuttle Bus.
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Capture the Magic
Winter in Korea offers unique photography opportunities. Whether it’s a serene sunrise over a snow-covered Hanok village or the vibrant glow of lanterns at a night festival, keep your camera ready to capture the charm of February.
Plan Ahead for Cherry Blossom Season
February is a great time to start planning your cherry blossom trip. Check bloom forecasts, book accommodations early, and download my Cherry Blossom Guide for insider tips and hidden gems.
Thank you for exploring February in Korea with me! If you found this guide helpful and want to show your support, consider leaving a tip. Every little bit helps me create more content to inspire your adventures. 😊
Be sure to check out my profile on Thatch for more travel guides and insider tips. Happy travels!
Hi, I’m Melissa! 🌏I’m an expat living in Seoul, South Korea for over four years. My journey started with a semester abroad during my Master’s Degree in International Tourism, and I never looked back. Korea’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and endless hidden gems have captured my heart, and now I’m here to help you explore it like a local!
Why trust me with your Korean adventure?
- With a Master’s in International Tourism, I’ve honed my skills in itinerary planning and destination research.
- I’ve spent years exploring Korea’s cities, islands, restaurants, cafes, and festivals, uncovering insider tips you won’t find in standard guides.
- My travel style is all about immersion—whether it’s trying local street food, wandering through random subway stops, or discovering hidden alleys full of surprises.
What sets my guides apart? Each guide includes:
- Personal notes and recommendations based on firsthand experience.
- Interactive maps for seamless navigation.
- Essential details like opening times, directions, fares, and even Naver Map links to make traveling in Korea a breeze (since Google Maps isn’t reliable here).
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to discover more, my guides are crafted to give you an authentic and stress-free experience. Let’s explore Korea together and create unforgettable memories! 🌍🗼️
