Korea is an easy and affordable place to try skiing or snowboarding. Several resorts are within a day trip of Seoul, there are shuttle buses from the city, and the bigger resorts rent everything you need and have English-speaking staff. Whether you are a beginner or want a few days on the slopes, this guide covers when to go, which resort suits you and how to get there.
When is ski season in Korea?
The season usually runs from early December to early March, depending on the weather and the resort. Most slopes rely partly on artificial snow, so they open as soon as it is cold enough. January usually has the best conditions. Check each resort's website for its opening date and which slopes are open.
The main ski resorts
Close to Seoul: easy day trips
- Konjiam Resort (Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do): about 40 minutes to an hour from southern Seoul. Modern and well run, it limits the number of skiers per day and sells lift tickets by the hour, which suits a short session.
- Elysian Gangchon (Chuncheon): reachable by train from Seoul, with a short walk or shuttle from the station. Compact and good for beginners.
- Vivaldi Park (Hongcheon): about 1.5 hours from Seoul and one of the most popular resorts, with plenty of beginner slopes and a sledding area for children. It is very busy at weekends.
Gangwon's big resorts: worth an overnight stay
- Yongpyong Resort (Pyeongchang): Korea's largest and best-known resort, which hosted events at the 2018 Winter Olympics. Take the KTX to Jinbu Station, about 1.5 to 2 hours from Seoul, then a resort shuttle.
- High1 Resort (Jeongseon): long runs high in the mountains, about 3 hours from Seoul.
- Phoenix Pyeongchang: a large resort that hosted freestyle and snowboard events at the 2018 Olympics.
Getting there
- Ski shuttle tours: several companies run day packages from Seoul, with pick-ups in areas such as Hongdae, Myeongdong and Gangnam, usually leaving early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. Many include rental and lift tickets. Book a week or two ahead for weekends.
- Resort shuttle buses: most resorts run their own buses from Seoul and other cities in season, booked on their websites.
- Train: the KTX to Pyeongchang (Jinbu Station) and the ITX train towards Chuncheon reach some resorts with a short connection.
Renting gear and taking lessons
- All the main resorts rent skis, snowboards, boots and poles. Ski wear, helmets and goggles are usually available too, at the resort or at rental shops nearby.
- Bring gloves, warm base layers and socks; they are rarely included in rental.
- The larger resorts offer lessons, and some have English-speaking instructors. Book in advance, especially at weekends.
- If you take a shuttle tour, rental is often included or offered near the resort, which saves carrying gear on the bus.
Tips for a good day on the slopes
- Go on a weekday if you can. Weekend lift queues at popular resorts can be long.
- Night skiing is common in Korea and often quieter. Many resorts keep slopes lit into the evening.
- Book accommodation early for January and February weekends, especially around the Gangwon resorts.
- Dress for wind chill with a windproof outer layer; mountain temperatures can be far below Seoul's.
- Warm up afterwards in a resort spa or a jjimjilbang.
Planning the rest of your winter trip? See our guide to visiting Korea in winter.
FAQ
Can beginners ski in Korea?
Yes. Every major resort has beginner slopes, rental and lessons, and the resorts near Seoul are especially easy for a first try.
What is the closest ski resort to Seoul?
Konjiam Resort, about 40 minutes to an hour from southern Seoul, is the closest major resort. Elysian Gangchon and Vivaldi Park are also easy day trips.
Do I need to bring my own ski gear?
No. You can rent skis, snowboards, boots and usually clothing at the resort. Bring your own gloves and warm layers.
