Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips 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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Franz • traveled in February, 2026
We had such a good time travelling together with Justin, our tour guide. He has a good sense of humour and makes our trip enjoyable. Although a small group, we bond with each other in no time, enjoying each other’s company. We really cover a lot within five days. hectic but worth.
South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N - R
Randy • traveled in June, 2026
Tour was okay. Improvements could be made for the English speaking participants. It is not the best tour for English speaking people. Everything is in Spanish, so the few English speaking people are always in the back of the bus and sitting in the back of the room as the tour is in Spanish only. Spanish speaker will speak for 1/2 hour about the tour and then the English version is 5 minutes. We have no idea what we just saw or drove by on the bus. After all the Spanish people are sitting in the restaurant or bus, the English people are told they can then find seats in the back or find whatever is available. Not good for English speaking people as they have no idea where to go or what to do until the Spanish travelers are taken care of. It kinda sucked, as we spent the same amount of money but got second class service from the tour guides. I will re-think any tours we take with Tourrader or Europamundo. I sent 2 emails about missed tours at the beginning that were closed and we were given alternative tour to the DMZ. We were not happy about that and with no response from Tourradar except to contact Europamundo, who just ignored our emails/request. Not good in email communication except by phone or online, which is not easy when traveling. Still no response to our request online. Both do not do emails except advertisements. Not good..
The Essence of Korea and Jeju Island - S
Susanne • traveled in May, 2026
We enjoyed our trip very much with our tour guide Justin Choi. He gave us a good history of each adventure and instruction of where to meet up if we are left to wonder off to explore for ourselves, places to explore and try local foods. The only thing I would like to add is to have an extra hour for us to do a bit of look around and little shopping, especially when the site is big with lots of shops and restaurants. Overall, it is a wonderful experience. Oh, almost forgot to mention the little history/culture book that was provided by our tour guide Justin was wonderful and interesting. Great experience! :)
South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
10 best Christmas & New Year South Korea tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaSouth Korea travel expert at TourRadar
- South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N
- The Essence of Korea and Jeju Island
- South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
- Perfection of Korea
- 【South Korea】10 Days Scenic South Korea with Hanbok Royal Cuisine Experience Tour Packages
- Tailor-Made 6 Days Best Korea Tour with 4-star Hotel, Daily Start (Private)
- 9-Day Customized South Korea Private Fully Guided Tour, Daily Start & 4-star Hotel
- Discover South Korea in 11 Days: From Historic Temples to Majestic Mountains and Beaches
- 11-Days South Korea Explorer: Temples, Mountains & Coastal Highlights
- Complete Korea
South Korea Circle Adventure 5D/4N
28 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I absolutely loved my tour so much I want to do it again.”
Netxy, 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
The Essence of Korea and Jeju Island
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Very interesting with a touching history.”
Janet, traveled in August
The festive season brings you to Seoul's illuminated Deoksugung Palace and busy Myeongdong district during Christmas and New Year. You'll feel the holiday warmth while visiting the UNESCO-listed Changdeokgung Palace and watching traditional ceremonies at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Head south to taste Makgeolli rice liquor at a local distillery, try rice cooked in bamboo stalks at Damyang, and learn traditional sauce-making at Sunchang Gochujang Village, creating holiday memories with Korean culture and festive spirit.
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Paju, Suwon, Jeonju, Damyang, Haeinsa, Busan, Jeju-do Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
- US$2,818
South Korea Golden Route 8D/7N
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Information was given out for planning estimating times for each activity with our guide having a good idea of how long it should take.”
Lynda, traveled in October
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
Perfection of Korea
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“He speaks English well, a good historian of South Korean history like historical places we went to.”
AMY, traveled in April
Korea's winter unveils illuminated Bulguksa Temple and snow-covered Mt. Seoraksan. Seasonal festivals light up Gamcheon Culture Village, while Grand Hyatt Jeju provides luxury comfort. Traditional New Year customs come alive with expert guides.
Duration 9 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Buyeo, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, Jeju-doSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator US Travel Korea From
- US$3,299
【South Korea】10 Days Scenic South Korea with Hanbok Royal Cuisine Experience Tour Packages
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I would highly recommend this tour and Andy as a tourguide!”
Tamara, traveled in December
Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace hosts Royal Guard ceremonies and festive Hanjeongsik feasts in traditional Hanbok. Winter views stretch from Seorak National Park's cable car to Busan's illuminated Jagalchi district markets.
Duration 10 days Destinations Seoul, Gongju, Jeonju, Gwangju, Yeosu, Busan, Gyeongju, Andong, Wonju Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Delightful Travel From
- US$2,829
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
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$3,968You save $541
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips 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."