As the winter season approaches, many travelers start to wonder whether December is a good time to visit Seoul. The capital city of South Korea is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and modern attractions, but the winter weather can be quite harsh. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Seoul in December and help you decide whether it’s the right time for your trip.
Weather in December
December is one of the coldest months in Seoul, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F). The city experiences a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, and December is no exception. The coldest month of the year, January, usually sees temperatures drop to as low as -10°C (14°F), but December is still quite chilly.
However, the cold weather doesn’t mean that Seoul is completely devoid of sunshine. December still gets around 1 hour and 30 minutes of direct sunlight per day, making it possible to enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions during the day. The sun rises around 7:30 am and sets around 4:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore the city.
Pros of Visiting Seoul in December
Despite the cold weather, December has its own set of advantages that make it a great time to visit Seoul. Here are a few reasons why:
Less Crowded
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Seoul in December is that the city is less crowded. The peak tourist season usually ends in November, and the winter season hasn’t yet begun, making it a great time to explore popular attractions without the crowds.
This is especially true for popular shopping districts like Myeong-dong and Hongdae, which can get very crowded during the summer months. In December, you can enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience and take your time to browse through the various stores and markets.
Winter Festivals and Events
December is a great time to experience Seoul’s winter festivals and events. The city hosts various winter festivals, including the Seoul Winter Festival, which features ice skating, snow sledding, and hot chocolate. You can also enjoy the festive atmosphere at the Seoul Christmas Market, which offers a variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs.
The city also hosts various cultural events, including traditional Korean performances, concerts, and exhibitions. These events are a great way to experience Korean culture and learn more about the country’s rich history and traditions. (See Also: Is November a Good Time to Visit Cabo San Lucas – Warm Winter Escape)
Winter Fashion
December is a great time to experience Seoul’s winter fashion. The city’s fashion scene is known for its trendy and stylish clothing, and winter is no exception. You can see locals and tourists alike dressing up in their warmest and most stylish winter outfits, from fur-lined coats to warm and cozy sweaters.
Seoul’s shopping districts are also a great place to find unique and stylish winter clothing, from designer brands to local boutiques. You can find everything from warm hats and gloves to stylish scarves and coats.
Cons of Visiting Seoul in December
While December has its advantages, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are a few things to consider:
Cold Weather
The biggest con of visiting Seoul in December is the cold weather. Temperatures can drop to as low as -10°C (14°F), making it essential to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.
The cold weather can also make it uncomfortable to explore the city on foot, especially in the mornings and evenings. You may want to consider using public transportation or taxis to get around the city.
Short Days
December is one of the shortest months of the year, with the sun setting around 4:30 pm. This can make it difficult to plan your day, especially if you’re used to longer days.
However, this can also be an opportunity to explore the city’s nightlife, which is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. You can enjoy a drink or two at a rooftop bar, watch a traditional Korean performance, or explore the city’s many night markets. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Universal Studios Los Angeles – Uncrowded Thrills)
What to Pack
Packing the right clothing is essential when visiting Seoul in December. Here are a few essentials to include in your luggage:
- A heavy coat or parka
- Warm gloves
- A hat and scarf
- Warm socks and underwear
- Insulated boots
- A warm and cozy sweater
You should also consider packing layers, as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. A good rule of thumb is to dress in layers, starting with a base layer of thermal underwear, followed by a sweater or fleece, and finally a coat or jacket.
Conclusion
December can be a great time to visit Seoul, despite the cold weather. The city’s winter festivals and events, less crowded streets, and stylish winter fashion make it a unique and exciting time to explore the city. However, it’s essential to pack warm clothing and plan your day accordingly to make the most of your trip.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions, Seoul is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, fashion, food, or entertainment, Seoul is a city that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Recap
Here’s a recap of the key points to consider when deciding whether December is a good time to visit Seoul:
- The weather in December is cold, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F)
- The city is less crowded, making it a great time to explore popular attractions
- Seoul hosts various winter festivals and events, including the Seoul Winter Festival and the Seoul Christmas Market
- The city’s fashion scene is known for its trendy and stylish clothing, and winter is no exception
- Packing warm clothing is essential, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat
- Planning your day accordingly is essential, especially with the short days
FAQs
What is the best way to get around Seoul in December?
The best way to get around Seoul in December is to use public transportation, such as the subway or bus. The city’s public transportation system is efficient and convenient, and you can easily get around the city without having to worry about the cold weather. (See Also: When Is the Best Time to Visit Jamaica – A Tropical Paradise)
What are some must-try winter foods in Seoul?
Some must-try winter foods in Seoul include hotteok, a sweet pancake-like dessert filled with honey and cinnamon, and yukgaejang, a spicy beef stew that warms the soul. You can also try some of the city’s famous hot chocolate, which is a popular winter treat.
What are some of the best winter festivals in Seoul?
Some of the best winter festivals in Seoul include the Seoul Winter Festival, which features ice skating, snow sledding, and hot chocolate, and the Seoul Christmas Market, which offers a variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs. You can also check out the city’s many traditional Korean festivals, such as the Boryeong Mud Festival and the Jeju Island Winter Festival.
What are some of the best winter fashion trends in Seoul?
Some of the best winter fashion trends in Seoul include fur-lined coats, warm and cozy sweaters, and stylish scarves and hats. You can also find unique and stylish winter clothing at the city’s many shopping districts, from designer brands to local boutiques.
What are some of the best winter activities to do in Seoul?
Some of the best winter activities to do in Seoul include ice skating, snow sledding, and hot chocolate tasting. You can also explore the city’s many museums and galleries, which often feature winter-themed exhibitions and events.