What is the weather like in South Korea during January?

South Korea experiences its coldest temperatures in January. Seoul sees temperatures between -7°C to 1°C while coastal Busan stays slightly warmer at 3-8°C. Mountain regions like Mount Seoraksan often drop below -10°C. Recent TourRadar travelers note "the cold weather made visiting attractions like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto even more magical with snow covering the ancient architecture." Hotels like the Four Points by Sheraton Josun in Seoul provide heated floors to combat the winter chill.

Which cities are best to visit in South Korea during January?

Seoul stands out with its winter activities and warm indoor spaces like Gwangjang Market and the National Museum. Busan offers a gentler winter climate perfect for exploring Gamcheon Culture Village and APEC House. The snow-covered historical sites of Gyeongju including Bulguksa Temple take on a different character in winter. Sokcho draws visitors to its hot springs and Seoraksan Mountain views. A recent visitor noted "The combination of Seoul's modern winter activities and Gyeongju's snowy historical sites made for an unforgettable January trip."

What are the best winter activities to do in South Korea during January?

Winter in South Korea opens up distinct experiences. Visitors can hike the snowy trails of Seoraksan Mountain explore the warm indoor spaces of Seoul's Gwangjang Market or relax in Cheoksan hot springs in Sokcho. Skiing near Seoul provides winter sports options while traditional hanok stays in Andong Hahoe Folk Village let guests experience heated ondol floors. The coastal Haedong Yonggungsa Temple shows a different side when covered in snow. A guest recently shared "The contrast of snow against traditional architecture created stunning photo opportunities."

Are there any special festivals or events in South Korea during January?

Winter festivals bring unique experiences to January visitors. The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival features ice fishing while the Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival showcases snow sculptures. Coffee enthusiasts gather at the Gangneung Coffee Festival. When Seollal (Lunar New Year) falls in January visitors can join traditional ceremonies and customs. As one traveler put it "Participating in the local winter festivals gave us an authentic insight into Korean culture that we wouldn't have experienced in other seasons."

Is January a good time for getting the best hotel deals in South Korea?

January offers lower rates during South Korea's off-peak tourism season. Premium properties like Fraser Place Namdaemun in Seoul and Ramada Encore in Busan reduce their prices with discounts reaching up to 30% below peak season rates. A recent guest observed "We got excellent value at high-end hotels during our January stay with rates much lower than spring or fall."

What are the best day trips from Seoul in January?

Winter day trips from Seoul reveal new perspectives. Options include viewing the DMZ in winter skiing at Yongpyong Resort or walking through snow-covered Nami Island. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress presents dramatic winter scenes while Icheon's hot springs provide warm refuge from the cold. A visitor recently shared "The DMZ tour was particularly impressive in winter with the stark landscape adding to the atmospheric experience."

South Korea Tours in January 2027

10 best South Korea trips in January 2027

View Map
In-depth Cultural
Complete Korea
5.0 (1 traveler review)
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Seoul, Paju, Suwon, Jeonju, Damyang, Haeinsa, Busan,Seokguram,Bulguksa,Gyeongju,Daegu,Andong,Hahoe+6 more
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Operated in
English
Operator
Europamundo
From
US$2,544per person
Price based on Private Double Room
3 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
17 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
View tour
View Map
In-depth Cultural
Korean World Heritage Adventure 11D/10N
4.3 (11 traveler reviews)
"The accommodations were great, and the tours were informative and fun."
Rafe, traveled in March
Duration
11 days
Destinations
Seoul, Jeju-do, Busan, Daegu, Gangneung
Age Range
Ages 10+
Operated in
English
Operator
Bamba Travel
From
US$4,515per person
Price based on Private Double Room
3 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
10 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
View tour
View Map
In-depth Cultural
LUXURY CLASSIC SOUTH KOREA TOUR
4.2 (5 traveler reviews)
"Everything was exceptionally well organized and ran seamlessly from start to finish. The cherry blossoms in full bloom made the experience even more special."
Joanne, traveled in April
Duration
11 days
Destinations
Seoul, Jeju-do, Andong, Gyeongju, Bulguksa, Seokguram, Busan
Age Range
Ages 35+
Operated in
English
Operator
Tweet World Travel
From
US$7,055per person
Price based on Private Double Room
View tour
View Map
Explorer
South Korea Adventure
5.0 (1 traveler review)
"The South Korea trip was amazing, our group was the first group to do the tour and it was seamless from start to finish."
jennifer, traveled in March
Duration
10 days
Destinations
Seoul, Jeonju, Busan, Gyeongju
Age Range
Ages 18-49
Operated in
English
Operator
INTRO Travel
From
US$2,174per person
Price based on Shared Room
13 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
View tour
View Map
Explorer
South Korea Highlights
4.9 (7 traveler reviews)
"Great itinerary allowing to see different parts of the country. Yong made sure to provide plenty of options and opportunities to sample the local cuisine."
Kornelia, traveled in August
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Seoul, Sokcho, Seoraksan National Park, Andong, Hahoe,Busan+1 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
10% Off
From $3,396
US$3,057per person
Price based on Private Double Room
16 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
View tour
View Map
Active
South Korea Western Adventure 3D/2N
4.9 (5 traveler reviews)
"The accommodations were fantastic and the tours were well-planned and informative."
Johanne, traveled in March
Duration
3 days
Destinations
Seoul, Gongju, Buyeo, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju,Busan+1 more
Age Range
Ages 10+
Operated in
English
Operator
Bamba Travel
10% Off
From
US$1,047per person
Price based on Private Double Room
3 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
10 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
View tour
View Map
In-depth Cultural
South Korea Past and Present
5.0 (1 traveler review)
"Our days were filled with great, educational itineraries. They were tolerant with us, knowledgeable, helpful, personable."
Julia, traveled in September
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Seoul, Daegu, Haeinsa, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju-do
Age Range
Ages 35+
Operated in
English
Operator
Tweet World Travel
10% Off
From
US$4,930per person
Price based on Private Double Room
18 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
View tour
$South Korea\'s Best: 9-Day Tour from Seoul to Jeju(Private Custom) Tour$
$South Korea\'s Best: 9-Day Tour from Seoul to Jeju(Private Custom) - 6 destinations$
View Map
In-depth Cultural
South Korea's Best: 9-Day Tour from Seoul to Jeju(Private Custom)
4.8 (5 traveler reviews)
"The itinerary was excellent. Couldn't ask for better guides."
Lance, traveled in October
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Seoul, Andong, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju-do
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Operated in
English
Operator
Odynovo
10% Off
From $4,505
US$4,055per person
Price based on Private Double Room
4 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
5 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
- Booking needs min. 2 travelers
View tour
View Map
Explorer
9-Day Customized South Korea Private Fully Guided Tour, Daily Start & 4-star Hotel
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Seoul, Gongju, Daejeon, Jeonju, Jeju-do, Busan
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Operated in
English
Operator
Agate Travel
10% Off
From
US$4,509per person
Price based on Private Double Room
1 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
2 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
View tour
View Map
Explorer
Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island
3.0 (1 traveler review)
Duration
6 days
Destinations
Seoul, Busan, Jeju-do
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Operated in
English
Operator
Europamundo
10% Off
From
US$1,959per person
Price based on Private Double Room
20 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
View tour
View Map
In-depth Cultural
Korea Express
4.1 (39 traveler reviews)
"The sights and choices of events were excellent. The meals at lunch and breakfast were excellent."
Jeanne, traveled in January
Duration
7 days
Destinations
Seoul, Paju, Suwon, Jeonju, Damyang, Haeinsa, Busan
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Operated in
English
Operator
Europamundo
10% Off
From
US$2,071per person
Price based on Private Double Room
3 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
17 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
View tour
View Map
Explorer
6 Days of Culinary Culture & Korean Heritage - Private Tour (Seoul/Jeonju/Gwangju/Suncheon)
5.0 (1 traveler review)
"The 6-day experience trip in Korea was extremely wonderful and impressive. Highly recommend everyone to experience it!"
Sullenger, traveled in February
Duration
6 days
Destinations
Incheon, Seoul, Jeonju, Jangseong-gun, Gwangju, Suncheon,Boseong+1 more
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Operated in
English, German,French,Spanish,Dutch+3 more
Operator
Realistic Asia
5% Off
From $1,063
US$1,010per person
+$1,000 local payments
Price based on Private Double Room
1 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
2 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
View tour
View Map
In-depth Cultural
Best of South Korea
4.9 (43 traveler reviews)
"Accommodation was pleasant, food wonderful, atmosphere fantastic!"
Nicola, traveled in April
Duration
8 days
Destinations
Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan
Age Range
Ages 12+
Country Region
Gyeongnam
Operated in
English
Operator
G Adventures
15% Off
From $3,349
US$2,847per person
Price based on Private Double Room
8 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
15 Jan, 2027
10+ spaces left
View tour
View Map
Explorer
11 Day Amazing South Korea (Private Guide No Group) Family Tour Customizable
4.0 (1 traveler review)
Duration
11 days
Destinations
Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju-do
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Country Region
Gyeongnam
Operated in
English
Operator
UME Travel Co. Ltd
25% Off
From $6,120
US$4,590per person
Price based on Private Double Room
1 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
2 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
- Booking needs min. 2 travelers
View tour
View Map
Explorer
Ultimate Korea: Seoul, Gyeongju & Busan (Private Customize)
4.5 (6 traveler reviews)
"Amazing - highly recommend."
Clare, traveled in March
Duration
7 days
Destinations
Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Country Region
Gyeongnam
Operated in
English
Operator
Odynovo
10% Off
From $3,668
US$3,301per person
Price based on Private Double Room
6 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
7 Jan, 2027
10 spaces left
- Booking needs min. 2 travelers
View tour