Christmas & New Year Tours in South Korea
What if you explored Seoul's vibrant culture and history, visited UNESCO sites in Gongju and Jeonju, then discovered Gwangju's democratic heritage? South Korea's Golden Route takes eight days. Stroll through Busan's bustling markets, tour Olympic venues and Seoraksan Park. From capital Seoul to coastal Busan through UNESCO towns, you're getting Korea's historical sites, modern cities, and natural parks that show the country's incredible development and preserved traditions.
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Our tour, driver, and tour guide were excellent. We got to circumnavigate the entire country in about a week. The daily activities were fun and very interesting. I learned so much about the Korean history and culture. The tour guide, Dylan, went above and beyond to teach and assist us. He was very kind, caring and helpful. The hotels were top-notch and the bus was well-maintained. The days are long with a lot of ground to cover and many places to visit. I highly recommend this tour; it is best way for foreigners to travel South Korea.
Golden route by K-shuttleWell organised tour, excellent accommodation with exceptional guides.
Complete KoreaThe itinerary was good.. our guides.. Simon (Seoul to Busan), and Daren (Jeju) were both knowledgeable about South Korea that we have come to appreciate the country and its culture more. If not for the heat, one of us getting sick during the tour, and ending our tour with at least a ride to the airport in Jeju, this could have been a close to excellent tour. Simon and Daren… we can feel how much pride you have for your country and thank you for sharing your knowledge with us… you guys are an asset to Europamundo!
The Essence of Korea and Jeju Island
10 best Christmas & New Year South Korea tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaSouth Korea travel expert at TourRadar
- Golden route by K-shuttle
- Complete Korea
- Korea Express
- Tailor-Made 6 Days Best Korea Tour with 4-star Hotel, Daily Start (Private)
- South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N
- South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
- 9-Day Customized South Korea Private Fully Guided Tour, Daily Start & 4-star Hotel
- Perfection of Korea
- Discover South Korea in 11 Days: From Historic Temples to Majestic Mountains and Beaches
- 11-Days South Korea Explorer: Temples, Mountains & Coastal Highlights
Pyeongchang's Olympic venue and Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace shine in winter. Mt. Seorak National Park and traditional villages display seasonal magic. MayPlace Hotel Seoul and Ramada properties host December's festive Korean experiences.
Duration 8 days Destinations Seoul, Jeonju, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, Gyeongju, Pyeongchang, Sokcho Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator US Travel Korea From
- US$1,599
Complete Korea
“They made us feel part of a great family and made our stay unforgettable.”
ALEXANDERFONSECA, traveled in April
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Gimpo-si, Paju, Suwon, Jeonju, Damyang, Haeinsa, Busan, Seokguram, BulguksaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
- US$2,544
Duration 7 days Destinations Seoul, Paju, Suwon, Jeonju, Damyang, Haeinsa, Busan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
- US$2,071
Tailor-Made 6 Days Best Korea Tour with 4-star Hotel, Daily Start (Private)
“Tour guides in both Seoul & Busan where excelent, both very obliging & knowledgeable.”
Graeme, traveled in August
The illuminated Gyeongbokgung Palace and festive Myeongdong district showcase Seoul's winter beauty. Snow-covered DMZ observation points and Busan's cozy Jagalchi Market offer seasonal charm, with comfortable stays at Fraser Place Namdaemun.
Duration 6 days Destinations Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Agate Travel From
- US$2,499
South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N
“Excellent tour, highly recommend. Very educational as well!”
Michelle, traveled in June
Pyeongchang's Winter Olympics venue and snow-covered Mt. Seorak National Park showcase winter's beauty. Jeonju's traditional hanok village radiates festive charm, while UNESCO sites like Seokguram Grotto offer cultural richness. December brings special holiday moments.
Duration 5 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Buyeo, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, GyeongjuSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
- US$1,385
South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
“Fabulous well organised and thoughtfully designed tour to give a thorough experience of the different aspects of Korea's history, culture and nature.”
Lynne, traveled in April
Korean winter traditions come alive at Gyeongbokgung Palace and snowy Seoraksan National Park. Pyeongchang's Winter Olympic venues and Jeonju's Hanok Village showcase seasonal beauty. December travelers enjoy comfortable accommodations with daily breakfast.
Duration 8 days Destinations Incheon, Seoul, Gongju, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, GyeongjuSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Bamba Travel From
- US$2,095
9-Day Customized South Korea Private Fully Guided Tour, Daily Start & 4-star Hotel
“We loved the personal care and the organization.”
Karen, traveled in September
Duration 9 days Destinations Incheon, Seoul, Gongju, Daejeon, Jinan, Jeonju, Jeju-do, Busan, Insadong Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Agate Travel From $4,509
12% off- US$3,968
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours in South Korea
What are the highlight attractions to visit in South Korea during Christmas and New Year?
South Korea transforms during the winter holidays with several notable attractions. The Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul takes on a new character with traditional holiday lighting while Everland theme park runs its Christmas Fantasy events. The Four Points by Sheraton Josun puts visitors right next to Seoul's biggest Christmas market in Myeongdong. Food enthusiasts can explore Busan's Jagalchi Market which serves special New Year seafood dishes. As shared by a TourRadar traveler: "The holiday decorations at Bulguksa Temple were absolutely breathtaking combining traditional Korean architecture with festive lights."
What's the weather like in South Korea during Christmas and New Year?
Winter brings cold dry conditions to South Korea. Seoul temperatures typically range from -7°C to 3°C while Busan stays a bit milder at 0°C to 8°C. Snow is common in higher elevations like Mount Seorak National Park and around the DMZ creating winter photo opportunities. Many visitors appreciate hotels like the Grand Hyatt Jeju that provide warm indoor spaces. One TourRadar traveler noted: "The snowy scenery at Bulguksa Temple during New Year's was magical though you definitely need to pack proper winter gear."
What traditional Korean holiday foods should I try during Christmas and New Year?
Holiday dining in South Korea centers around meaningful dishes. Tteokguk (rice cake soup) serves as a traditional New Year's Day meal believed to bring good fortune. Korean BBQ (bulgogi) features prominently in year-end gatherings. Visitors can find holiday seafood specialties at Busan's Jagalchi Market or sample festive street food at Seoul's Gwangjang Market. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The New Year's Eve special dinner at Four Points by Sheraton Josun was amazing featuring both traditional Korean and festive international dishes."
What type of accommodation can I expect on a Christmas and New Year tour in South Korea?
Accommodations range from high-end properties like the Grand Hyatt Jeju to well-located options such as the Four Points by Sheraton Josun in Seoul. Some tours include stays at historic venues like the Commodore Hotel Gyeongju which offers special holiday packages. Most hotels feature ondol heated floors for winter comfort. According to one TourRadar traveler: "The Royal Hotel Myeongdong's Christmas decorations and holiday atmosphere were spectacular making our stay extra special."
Are there any special New Year traditions I should be aware of in South Korea?
New Year celebrations in South Korea blend ancient customs with modern festivities. Many people practice Seongwha watching the year's first sunrise at spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace. The traditional bell-ringing ceremony at Jogyesa Temple draws crowds while families gather to make tteokguk and play traditional games. A TourRadar traveler reported: "Participating in the midnight bell-ringing ceremony at Bosingak Pavilion was the highlight of our New Year's experience in Seoul."
What are the best shopping opportunities during Christmas and New Year in South Korea?
Holiday shopping centers around festive markets and retail districts. Myeongdong's Christmas market near the Metro Hotel sells seasonal items and Korean cosmetics. The Dongdaemun Design Plaza hosts evening markets while Namdaemun offers New Year specialties. Busan shoppers can explore holiday deals at Jagalchi Market and BIFF Square. One TourRadar traveler noted: "The Christmas shopping at Myeongdong was incredible with amazing holiday deals and festive atmosphere."