What Should I Pack for Korea in Winter?
A Local Korean Woman’s Practical Guide
If you’re visiting Korea between December and February, you’re in for a chilly but magical experience. Winter here isn’t just cold — it’s crisp, clear, and full of seasonal charm, from snowy temple grounds to festive ice rinks. But to enjoy all of this without turning into a portable icicle, packing right matters.
As someone who lives through Korean winters every year, let me walk you through what to pack — from clothing essentials to unexpected items that will make your trip comfortable, stylish, and worry-free.
Understanding Korean Winter Weather
First, a quick preview of what to expect:
- Temperatures typically range from −7°C to 5°C (20°F to mid-40s°F) in most cities
- Northern and mountain areas (e.g., Seoraksan) can dip below −10°C (14°F)
- Seoul, Busan, and coastal regions are windy and dry
- Snow varies year to year — some winters are snowy, some just brisk and clear
Korean winter is cold and dry — not the damp chill you might experience elsewhere — so insulation and wind protection matter more than you think.
1. Warm Outer Layers: Your First Line of Defense
Heavy Winter Coat
A good insulated parka or down coat is the centerpiece of your winter packing list. Locals wear coats with:
- Hood (fur-trimmed if possible for extra warmth)
- Wind-resistant shell
- Down or synthetic insulation
Make sure it reaches at least mid-thigh — it makes a big difference in retaining warmth during city walks or bus station waits.
Thermal Layers
Korean winters are all about layering:
- Thermal tops and bottoms (base layer)
- Lightweight fleece or wool mid-layer
- Winter coat on top
If you usually get cold easily, thermal leggings or long underwear are a must.
2. Warm Accessories: Don’t Underestimate the Little Things
Hat, Scarf, and Gloves
Heat escapes through extremities. A knit hat, thick scarf, and insulated gloves will up your comfort dramatically. Locals frequently wear:
- Ear-covering beanies
- Cashmere or wool scarves
- Touchscreen-friendly gloves (so you can use your phone without freezing your fingers)
Socks and Footwear
Cold feet spoil any adventure. Pack:
- Wool or thermal socks
- Waterproof or insulated boots
Many streets in winter can be icy or slushy, so good traction matters.
3. Practical Clothing Items for Daily Life
Comfortable Pants
Jeans are okay, but in cold weather, consider:
- Fleece-lined leggings or pants
- Wool trousers
- Layers beneath regular pants
Indoor Wear
Korean indoor spaces (cafés, shops, museums) are very well heated. Your strategy will often be:
- Wear layers
- Peel them off indoors
- Put them back on outdoors
Light layers that are easy to remove and put back on are ideal.
4. Weather-Ready Gear You Might Not Think Of
Hand Warmers
In Korea, locals carry instant hand warmers (핫팩) in winter — tiny disposable pockets you stick inside gloves or pockets. They make standing outdoors for photos or waiting at bus stops much more bearable.
Lip Balm & Moisturizer
The air is dry. A hydrating lip balm, face cream, and hand lotion will make a huge difference in your comfort (and help prevent cracked skin).
Sunglasses
Winter sun is bright, and the glare from snow or clear skies can be sharp. A lightweight pair of sunglasses is surprisingly useful.
5. Electronics and Travel Essentials
Portable Charger
You’ll be using maps, translation apps, and photos — a power bank will keep you going even on long days.
Universal Adapter
Korea uses 220V with Type F outlets (same as much of Europe). Pack an adapter if your devices differ.
Local SIM or Portable Wi-Fi
Keeping connected helps with navigation (Kakao Maps, Naver Maps), weather checks, and instant translations.
6. Seasonal Clothing for Special Activities
If You’re Skiing or Snowboarding
Korea has excellent winter resorts like Yongpyong, Vivaldi Park, and Alpensia. For snow sports you’ll want:
- Waterproof ski jacket and pants
- Ski gloves
- Neck gaiter or balaclava
- Ski goggles
Many resorts rent gear, but if you know you’ll hit the slopes, bringing some essentials from home saves rental hassles.
For Ice Skating and Outdoor Events
Pack:
- Warm socks (more than one pair)
- Gloves with grip
- Extra layers
Even iceskating rinks in city parks are better enjoyed with plenty of insulation.
7. Stylish But Functional Options (A Local Preference)
Korean winter fashion blends function and style. You’ll see a lot of:
- Long padded coats
- Turtlenecks
- Knitwear
- Trendy boots
If you want to blend in or take fashion-forward photos, pick warm layers that also match your style — winter selfies on Bukchon Hanok Village alleys or Namsan Tower views deserve to look good.
8. Health & Safety Pack Items
Winter colds happen. Pack:
- Tissues (many public restrooms don’t stock them)
- Hand sanitizer
- Basic cold medicine
- Any prescription meds (with labels)
Being prepared saves more than comfort — it keeps your trip on track.
9. Seasonal Experiences Worth Packing For
What makes Korean winter memorable aren’t just the cold days — it’s the experiences:
- Ice skating in Seoul Plaza or Olympic Park
- Winter illuminations and Christmas markets
- Hotteok and roasted chestnut stalls on chilly evenings
- Spa and jjimjilbang (Korean sauna) visits when you really want to warm up
Packing well lets you enjoy all of these without discomfort.
10. A Quick Packing Checklist
Here’s the local-recommended winter packing list:
Clothing
jacket coat, thermal base layers, warm sweaters, wool or fleece pants, waterproof boots
Accessories
hat beanie, scarf, insulated gloves, wool socks
Skincare
lip balm, moisturizer, sunscreen (yes, winter sun reflects!)
Tech & Essentials
portable charger, universal adapter, local SIM/portable Wi-Fi, reusable water bottle
Extras
hand warmers, tissues, cold medicine, sunglass
Local Reflection: Why Korean Winter Is Worth It
Korean winters are unique — they’re cold, yes, but they’re also crisp, bright, and full of seasonal pleasures you don’t get in other places. From snow-dusted palace gardens to steaming bowls of spicy tteokbokki enjoyed on a cold street corner, the season has soul.
The key to enjoying winter here is being prepared. Koreans don’t let cold stop them — we layer, we jacket up, and we face the weather with hot drinks and warm hearts. Once you pack right, you’ll find winter in Korea isn’t just tolerable — it’s outright memorable.