Discover Korea’s Best Winter Festivals for 2025 – Lights, Ice, and Warm Memories Await
“Winter is not a season, it's a celebration.”
Winter in Korea isn't just about chilly air and snowflakes — it’s the season to create heartwarming memories through dazzling lights, frozen adventures, and cultural traditions. Whether you're strolling under sparkling lanterns in Seoul, ice fishing in Gangwon-do, roasting chestnuts in Chungcheong-do, or soaking in the warm beauty of Jeju Island, there’s a winter festival for everyone.
Here’s your complete guide to Korea’s top regional winter festivals for the 2025 season — perfect for families, couples, and friends looking for a magical getaway.
🌟 Lights, Culture & Winter Charm in Seoul and Surrounding Areas
1. Seoul Lantern Festival – Jongno-gu, Seoul
🗓 Dec 13, 2024 – Jan 31, 2025
Walk along the iconic Cheonggyecheon Stream under glowing traditional and modern lanterns. A perfect winter stroll destination for couples and families alike.2. Uiwang Wangsong Lake Winter Festival – Uiwang, Gyeonggi-do
🗓 Dec 27, 2024 – Jan 19, 2025
Enjoy ice activities and winter camping near the lake. The festival includes traditional games, food markets, and family-friendly experiences.3. Garden of Morning Calm Light Festival – Gapyeong, Gyeonggi-do
🗓 Dec 6, 2024 – Mar 16, 2025
This botanical garden transforms into a fairy tale of lights under the winter night sky — one of Korea’s top spots for “Instagrammable” photos.
❄️ Frozen Fun in Gangwon-do
1. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival – Hwacheon-gun
🗓 Jan 11 – Feb 2, 2025
Korea’s most famous winter festival, where you can go ice fishing, sledding, and even catch fish with your bare hands! Grill your catch on-site for a delicious reward.2. Pyeongchang Trout Festival – Pyeongchang-gun
🗓 Jan 3 – Feb 2, 2025
Nestled in pristine nature, this festival features ice fishing, cooking trout dishes, and various winter games on the frozen rivers.3. Hantan River Ice Trekking Festival – Cheorwon-gun
🗓 Jan 11 – Jan 19, 2025
Trek across the frozen Hantan River and admire scenic winter cliffs. A must for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
🔥 Cozy Traditions in Chungcheong-do
1. Winter Gongju Roasted Chestnut Festival – Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do
🗓 Jan 16 – Jan 20, 2025
Celebrate Korea’s traditional winter snack — roasted chestnuts — with open fires, food stalls, and cultural performances.
💡 Romance and Family Fun in Gyeongsang-do
1. Cheongdo Provence Light Festival – Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
🗓 Nov 1, 2024 – Feb 10, 2025
Immerse yourself in romantic lighting displays inspired by the French countryside — ideal for a dreamy winter date.2. Yeongyang Frozen Winter Festival – Yeongyang-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
🗓 Jan 3 – Jan 19, 2025
This local favorite offers traditional winter games, sledding, and ice slides perfect for kids and families.
🌌 Lights in Nature in Jeolla-do
1. Suncheon Bay Garden Starlight Festival – Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do
🗓 Every December to February
See Korea’s most beautiful garden lit up with thousands of lights, turning nature into a living artwork of starlight and wonder.
🌺 Warm Winter Vibes in Jeju Island
1. Manor Blanc Camellia & Citrus Festival – Seogwipo-si
🗓 Dec 5, 2024 – Jan 31, 2025
Enjoy blooming camellia flowers and hands-on tangerine-picking experiences — the ultimate tropical winter escape in Korea.2. 981 Lucky New Year! – Jeju-si
🗓 Jan 1 – Feb 2, 2025
Celebrate the New Year with local crafts, cultural events, and fun games that highlight Jeju’s unique charm and community.
✈️ Why Visit Korea in Winter?
From icy adventures to lantern-lit romance, Korea’s winter festivals are perfect for those looking to embrace the cold with joy. With regional charm, local food, and one-of-a-kind activities, these festivals are more than events — they’re unforgettable moments waiting to be made.
Whether you want to catch fish on frozen rivers or sip warm tea under camellia trees, 2025 is the year to explore Korea’s winter wonders. So bundle up, gather your loved ones, and start planning a season filled with lights, laughter, and lasting memories.
Ready to make winter unforgettable? Follow our blog for more travel ideas, tips, and the latest festival news across Korea.
