Compare the climate averages
These are 1991–2020 climate averages, not a forecast for your visit. The daily high and low columns average many days over that period; they are not limits on how hot or cold a particular day can become. Precipitation is the average monthly total.
| City | Monthly mean (°C) | Average daily high (°C) | Average daily low (°C) | Average high–low difference (°C) | Monthly precipitation (mm) | Relative humidity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Busan (부산) | 5.8 | 10.4 | 2.0 | 8.4° | 33.8 | 48.1% |
| Daegu (대구) | 3.0 | 7.9 | −1.2 | 9.1° | Not available in this dataset | Not available in this dataset |
| Gangneung (강릉) | 3.3 | 7.7 | −0.5 | 8.2° | 36.9 | 45.6% |
| Gyeongju (경주) | 1.9 | 7.7 | −3.2 | 10.9° | 24.4 | 56.3% |
| Incheon (인천) | 0.7 | 4.5 | −2.7 | 7.2° | 22.3 | 61.8% |
| Jeju (제주) | 8.3 | 11.0 | 5.6 | 5.4° | 55.6 | 64.1% |
| Seoul (서울) | 0.2 | 4.2 | −3.4 | 7.6° | 22.6 | 57.8% |
| Sokcho (속초) | 2.5 | 6.6 | −1.5 | 8.1° | 40.1 | 47.9% |
Source: Korea Meteorological Administration, 1991–2020 climate normals. A missing value means it is unavailable in the dataset used here, not that the city has no rain or that no other climate record exists. The selected table does not cover every Korean city.
Dress for both low temperatures and wind
December is a winter month, with freezing nights common in Seoul and inland areas. Coastal Busan and low-lying Jeju are generally milder, but they are not immune to cold weather, and mountain conditions are different.
Use both the forecast temperature and wind information. A warm insulated layer and a wind-resistant outer layer serve different purposes; neither should be dismissed as unnecessary simply because the other is present.
Wear gloves, a hat and comfortable shoes with good grip. Heated interiors may feel much warmer, so choose layers you can adjust.
Do not plan on guaranteed snow
Seoul's average December precipitation is relatively low, but it can still snow or become icy. A snowy palace scene depends on the actual weather, not just the month.
Rain, snow and freezing surfaces can also vary within a region. Check conditions before a mountain or coastal trip, and follow trail closures and transport notices.
Low monthly rainfall is not a reason to ignore a wet-weather forecast for your visit.
Check Christmas opening and booking arrangements
Christmas Day, 25 December, is a public holiday. In 2026 it falls on a Friday, creating a three-day weekend; in 2027 it falls on a Saturday, with a substitute holiday on 27 December.
Government services may close, while many shops, restaurants and attractions operate with their own schedules. Some dining and entertainment venues are busy on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so reserve an important meal rather than assuming a table will be available.
People celebrate in different ways. Do not assume every business remains open or every Korean treats Christmas as the same kind of occasion.
Look up winter lights and year-end events
Seoul Winter Festa and other seasonal programmes may include light installations, markets, skating and New Year's Eve activities. Check the current organiser's schedule for locations, hours, tickets and crowd restrictions.
The Seoul Lantern Festival is one possible evening outing, but its exact route and dates vary by edition. Do not carry forward an old daily lighting time without checking.
If you want to watch the first sunrise of the new year on the east coast, plan the accommodation and transport for 31 December as well as 1 January. Reserve when the relevant booking window opens.
Confirm ski facilities before travelling
Resorts such as Yongpyong and High1 publish their own operating notices. A season-opening announcement does not establish that every slope, lift or lesson is available immediately.
Check the facilities suitable for your ability and the cancellation conditions before paying. Snowmaking and weather can affect the start of the season.
Plan outdoor time around the shorter day
Schedule longer walks or hikes with enough daylight for a safe return. City attractions may offer evening access, but that is different from a mountain route remaining suitable after dark.
Keep indoor activities available during very cold or unsettled weather. Lip balm and moisturiser may help with dry skin, and a light bag for removed layers can make moving between indoors and outdoors easier.
