Wondering what to expect during December in South Korea? Let’s take a look at the rhythm of life as the winter starts to settle in.
Gimjang Season Ends
Different communities and families may have their gimjang (kimjang) activities in early December since the cold weather makes the perfect kimchi-making weather. South of Seoul began hosting a gimjang for international residents in 2022 to help our community also prepare for the winter months.
Houses Get Winterized
In December people turn on their floor heat, maybe add bubble wrap to the windows, etc. During this time all residents need to make sure their pipes won’t freeze and their bodies will stay warm at home throughout the cold winter months. New arrivals in Korea will want to make sure they stay on top of winterizing their homes along with everyone else.
Hikers Remain Active
Even with the cold weather setting in, many hikers continue their mountain adventures. They trade in their warm weather gear for winter-ready clothes that protect against the cold winds and allow for plenty of wicking. In fact, South of Seoul has a hiking list with recommendations for what National Parks to visit in December and other winter months.
Organized Events Slow Down
With the onset of cold weather, residents of South Korea start staying home more. Organizations rush to finish out their calendar year and event planning begins to die down.
The Winter Lights Begin
As winter sets in, winter lights go up across South Korea. Malls from Seoul to Busan will have huge light displays and cities will also turn on their holiday lights. These displays may run until March since they often represent the winter spirit rather than just Christmas.
Increased Snow Fall
By December, snow can start showing up regularly in the northern areas of Korea. Snow often occurs for a few hours and then goes away quickly during December if you live in the South or on the west coast. Different parts of Korea experience winter and snowfall very differently so we can’t say exactly what will happen in December.
Ski Season Begins
In mid-December ski and snowboard resorts across South Korea begin making snow. The early season begins in December. In My Korea shared this ski information for 2022.
Additionally, many international residents find skiing and snowboarding in South Korea both affordable and accessible. In fact, many tour companies offer discounted daily and weekend trips to the international community.
Beautiful Time to Visit the Coast
The beaches in Korea are gorgeous in the winter. Are they cold? Yes, they are. They are also deeply beautiful and romantic. Dress warm and go beach combing. It’s wonderful. Do not miss the stunning winter coastline. It’s a whole cultural experience that you need to enjoy while you live in Korea.
Winter Street Food Season
December marks the exciting start of Korean street food season when it gets cold enough for more egg bread, sweet potatoes, and hotteok. We all look forward for to the premium versions of these foods that often only come around once the cold weather hits.
Christmas Romance
The cold weather in December makes Christmas the perfect dating holiday for non-religious couples. Unlike many western countries, Christmas in Korea doesn’t focus heavily on families. Instead, it’s a day for couples to go out to dinner and celebrate their love – much like Valentine’s Day.
Each year the commercialization of Christmas increases. Malls, cafes, and restaurants now decorate for the holidays with greater enthusiasm and the decorations may stay in place until as late as March.
University Vacation Time
In mid-December, Universities across South Korea finish their fall semester and go on winter break. During this time, international university professors working in Korea often leave to visit home or travel abroad.
Seasonal Depression
During winter some people may feel seasonal depression. Such winter depression may feel stronger in Korea for many international residents due to culture shock, lack of a strong social support system, and other factors. Remember that South Korea does have English language mental health support organizations. It’s smart and healthy to seek support when you need it.
Time for Building Community
With many people staying home more, December makes the perfect time for having friends over for game nights, holiday meals, book clubs, cooking together, etc. Many people are looking for connection community and support. Take advantage of winter for making friends and learning new things.
ESL /EFL Hiring Season in Full Swing
With the school year coming to an end and winter vacation just around the corner, many schools will start hiring their ESL/EFL teachers for the coming school year.
Founded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul’s information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.
Blogs published under the authorship of “South of Seoul” include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences.
