Checked against public weather sources · Updated Nov 8, 2026
AI-generated image.
Short answer: Korean winters are cold and dry. In Seoul, average highs are around 1 to 4°C (34 to 39°F) and lows around -5 to -7°C (19 to 23°F) from December to February, and cold snaps can push mornings below -12°C (10°F). Wind off the Han River makes it feel colder. Pack a long padded coat, thermal base layers, a hat, gloves and lip balm, and you will be comfortable.
Is it colder than people expect? Usually yes. Seoul sits at about the same latitude as Washington, D.C., but winter air from Siberia makes it colder and windier, especially in January.
Seoul winter weather by month
| Month | Average high | Average low | What it feels like |
|---|---|---|---|
| December | About 3°C (37°F) | About -5°C (23°F) | Cold, dry, first snow possible |
| January | About 1°C (34°F) | About -7°C (19°F) | Coldest month, frequent cold waves |
| February | About 4°C (39°F) | About -5°C (23°F) | Still cold, milder by late month |
Approximate 1991–2020 averages for Seoul. Busan and Jeju are several degrees warmer; Gangwon-do mountains (Pyeongchang, Seoraksan) are much colder and snowier.
What to wear: a simple layering guide
- Base layer: thermal top and leggings (Koreans call them naebok, 내복). Uniqlo HeatTech is sold everywhere in Korea.
- Middle layer: a sweater, fleece or light down vest.
- Outer layer: a knee-length padded coat (long padding, 롱패딩). It is the unofficial winter uniform in Korea, and you can buy one locally at SPAO, Uniqlo or outlet malls.
- Accessories: a beanie, warm gloves (touchscreen ones help with maps), a scarf or neck warmer, and thick socks.
- Shoes: waterproof sneakers or boots with grip. Sidewalks and subway stairs get icy after snow.
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7 cold-weather tips locals use
- Hand warmers (핫팩): sold at every convenience store for about ₩1,000 to ₩2,000. Put one in your coat pocket.
- Check the "feels like" temperature: Korean weather apps (Naver Weather, KMA) show 체감온도, which matters more than the actual number on windy days.
- Watch for cold wave alerts: a cold wave advisory (한파주의보) is issued when morning lows are expected to stay at or below -12°C for two days or more. You may get an emergency text alert on your phone.
- Dry air: indoor heating makes the air very dry. Bring lip balm and hand cream, and use a humidifier if you live here.
- Fine dust days: some winter days have high fine dust (미세먼지). Check the air quality and wear a KF94 mask on "bad" days.
- Indoors is warm: subways, cafés and homes are heated, so wear layers you can take off. Many restaurants have floor heating.
- Plan for short days: the sun sets around 5:15 to 5:30 p.m. in December, so schedule outdoor sightseeing early.
Best winter things to do
- Ski resorts in Gangwon-do, about 2 to 3 hours from Seoul, open from December.
- Festivals: Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and Pyeongchang Trout Festival usually run in January.
- Warm indoor spots: jjimjilbang (Korean saunas), museums and covered markets.
- Street food: hotteok, bungeoppang and fish cake soup taste best in the cold.
Frequently asked questions
Does it snow in Seoul?
Yes, but usually a few light snowfalls each winter rather than deep snow. Heavy snow is more common in Gangwon-do.
Is December or January better for a trip?
December is a little milder and has Christmas lights and year-end events. January is the coldest but best for skiing and ice festivals.
Can I buy winter clothes after I arrive?
Yes. Padded coats, thermals and hand warmers are easy to find and often cheaper in Korea, especially during winter sales.
Living here this winter? Read our guides to cutting your heating bill and the T-money card for getting around. Visiting? See the best SIM and eSIM options.
Last checked: November 8, 2026, against Korea Meteorological Administration guidance and published climate averages. Check the KMA or Naver Weather forecast before you travel.
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