Top 4 most popular winter festivals in Korea

Below are the Top 4 winter festivals in Korea that you cannot miss on your journey to explore the land of kimchi.

1. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival – Challenge the Cold

Ice fishing - Where ice meets joy. (Photo: Collected)

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival , held in Gangwon-do Province, is considered one of the most famous winter festivals in Korea . Held annually from January to mid-February, the event attracts millions of domestic and foreign tourists. The highlight of the festival is the experience of fishing for mountain trout (sancheoneo) in the middle of a river frozen with up to 30cm of ice. This is an opportunity for you to challenge yourself and enjoy the true joy of winter.

Ice Fishing: You will be provided with fishing rods and your patience will be tested as you wait for the salmon to bite.
Bare-handed fishing: This is an exciting activity where you have to jump into the cold water to catch agile salmon with your own hands.
Enjoy salmon on the spot: After "hunting" the fish, you can bring them to the processing area to enjoy fresh sashimi or hot grill.

2. Pyeongchang Salmon Festival – Immerse yourself in the traditional festival atmosphere

The best time to attend the Pyeongchang Salmon Festival is in early January, when the snow covers the area creating a poetic scene. (Photo: Collected)

Located in Pyeongchang County, also in Gangwon-do Province, the Pyeongchang Salmon Festival is one of the oldest winter events in Korea . Not only is it rich in local culture, the festival is also a place where you can enjoy countless delicious salmon dishes and participate in unique entertainment activities.

Trout Fishing: Similar to the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival, you will have the chance to try trout fishing in a frozen lake at the Pyeongchang Trout Festival.
Mini skiing and sledding: This is a favorite activity of both adults and children, providing endless fun.
Enjoy salmon dishes: Food stalls at the Pyeongchang Salmon Festival serve a variety of delicious dishes such as grilled salmon, smoked salmon, or fresh salmon sashimi.

3. Pocheon Sanjeong Lake Ski Festival – Ideal playground for families

Bring along anti-slip shoes and the warmest and most comfortable clothes to participate in activities at this winter festival in Korea. (Photo: Collected)

Pocheon Sanjeong Lake, in Gyeonggi-do Province, is home to a winter ski festival popular with families and groups of young people. With its vast expanse, the frozen lake becomes an ideal playground for outdoor activities in the cold winter.

Highlights at Pocheon Sanjeong Lake Ski Festival:

Lake skiing: The frozen lake is carefully prepared to ensure the safety of visitors participating in skiing activities.
Sledding and Tug of War on Ice: This is an opportunity for the whole family to join in and enjoy some fun.
Sightseeing and photography: The snow-capped lake scene, combined with the surrounding mountains and forests, creates a poetic space, perfect for commemorative photos.

4. Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival – Artistic painting from nature

Activities such as skiing, ice skating, tobogganing, zip lining and salmon fishing are also available here. (Photo: Collected)

Held in Chungcheongnam-do Province, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is where you can admire magical ice works. Every year, the cold temperatures cause the water from the fountains to freeze, creating giant ice blocks with unique shapes that have made many tourists participating in winter tours in Korea exclaim, "When nature becomes an artist, there are no words to describe this beauty."

The ice art at the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival will leave you in awe. The festival also has a dedicated area for activities such as snowman making, ice skating and tug of war. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture beautiful moments amidst this sparkling scene. Note that the temperature in this area is very low, so you need to prepare warm clothes carefully.

Each winter festival in Korea has its own color, from the excitement of the ice fishing festival to the artistic beauty of the Chilgapsan ice fountain... This is not only an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, but also to learn more about the traditional and modern culture of the kimchi land. If you are planning a winter trip, do not miss these 4 winter festivals in Korea . Prepare your suitcase, choose a pair of non-slip shoes and enjoy the wonderful winter days!