When winter settles over Korea, the atmosphere shifts in a noticeable and beautiful way. Streets glow with holiday lights, the air turns crisp, and both mountains and city centers take on a new kind of winter energy. For international residents living here, the winter season in Korea offers more than cold weather. It opens the door to activities, food, and cultural moments that might create lasting memories during your stay. And so, I would like to recommend some winter activities for you and your families. Mountains of Joy: Skiing and Snowboarding If you are interested in experiencing Korea’s winter sports culture, the mountains offer several well-known ski and snowboard resorts. Below are two popular destinations that many residents find enjoyable for both day trips and weekend outings. Yongpyong Resort (용평리조트) Address: 강원도 평창군 대관령면 올림픽로 715Yongpyong Resort remains one of Korea’s most popular winter destinations, with long slopes, reliable snow, and mountain views. Its 2018 Winter Olympics history adds to its appeal, offering many levels of ski and snowboard runs for both beginners and experienced riders. Vivaldi Park Ski World (비발디파크 스키월드) Address: 강원도 홍천군 서면 한치골길 262Vivaldi Park is great for families, groups, and casual visitors. With ski slopes, night skiing, rentals, and easy access via shuttle from Seoul, it’s a convenient and fun option if you want a less intense but still enjoyable winter outing. City Ice Rinks and Cozy Winter Vibes If you prefer staying closer to the city, several winter skating rinks offer an easy and enjoyable way to experience the season. The options below may work well for short outings or casual winter activities. I am an ice skater so this is where I spend a lot of my time in the winter. Seoul Plaza Ice Rink (서울광장 아이스링크) Address: 서울특별시 중구 세종대로 110 (광화문 / Seoul Plaza)   In downtown Seoul, the seasonal rink at Seoul Plaza becomes a festive winter hub. Skating under warm lights, with music and holiday atmosphere, makes for a relaxed, fun way to experience winter without traveling far. Lotte World Ice Rink (롯데월드 아이스링크) Address: 서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 240 (잠실동, 롯데월드 어드벤처)  Located within the indoor theme-park complex of Lotte World, this ice rink is a comfortable option when you want to avoid cold weather or travel time. It’s easy to reach by public transport and great for casual skating, especially on weekends or rainy days. Snow Play and Simple Joy For those interested in winter activities that do not require skiing or skating skills, Korea also offers more relaxed, fun options suitable for various ages. One of the most popular is snow tubing. Everland Snow Buster (에버랜드 스노우버스터) Address: 경기도 용인시 처인구 포곡읍 에버랜드로 199Snow Buster at Everland Resort allows visitors to enjoy snow tubing down smooth lanes. It tends to be a good choice for families or groups looking for lighthearted winter fun. Quiet Trails and Winter Nature If you are hoping for a slower, peaceful winter experience, Korea’s snowy trails and highland paths offer a chance to enjoy calm scenery and fresh mountain air. One well-known winter area is Daegwallyeong. Daegwallyeong (대관령) Snowy Walks & Nature Trails Address: 강원특별자치도 평창군 대관령면 대관령로 83 Daegwallyeong’s snow-covered hills and quiet forest paths may appeal to those who enjoy walking, photography, or simply stepping away from busy routines. Before You Go Before heading out for a winter activity in Korea, it may help to keep a few practical points in mind: Conclusion Winter in Korea brings a variety of experiences, from sparkling city nights and lively ski slopes to quiet snowy forests and shared laughter on the ice. For international residents, it’s a chance to explore and enjoy Korea from a local’s perspective. Whether you go skiing, skating, tubing, or just enjoy a peaceful walk through snowy scenery — it’s a season that can surprise you with warmth, joy, and memories worth keeping. About the “Shared Voices” Initiative South of Seoul volunteers collaborate with Korean public schools to provide students meaningful opportunities to expand their English communication experience while sharing their world views with the international community in Korea. Through guided projects, students in Korean classrooms use digital and creative tools to express themselves in English, building confidence in their communication skills. At the same time, they learn to approach writing with empathy. They participate in guided discussions that consider different perspectives, practicing cultural awareness, and developing a deeper understanding of how their words can connect communities across borders. It’s important to know that schools in South Korea are becoming increasingly diverse, this includes the students who participate in South of Seoul programs like “Shared Voices.” Eunseon JeongEunseon Jung is a student passionate about adaptive and inclusive sports. Through her writing, she aims to show how movement can bridge differences and make the world more open to everyone. She hopes to study Physical Education and inspire others to find confidence through sports.

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