Top 4 most popular winter festivals in South Korea

Winter in South Korea is not only a season of white snow and warm fireplace gatherings, but also a time for a series of unique festivals that attract millions of tourists every year. These winter festivals in South Korea not only reflect traditional culture but also offer unique entertainment amidst the freezing cold.

Việt Nam•27/11/2024

Here are the top 4 winter festivals in South Korea that you can't miss on your trip to the land of kimchi.

1. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival – Challenging the Cold

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

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival , held in Gangwon-do Province, is considered one of the most famous winter festivals in South Korea . Held annually from January to mid-February, this event attracts millions of domestic and international visitors. The highlight of the festival is the experience of fishing for mountain trout (sancheoneo) on a river frozen to a depth of 30cm. This is a chance to challenge yourself and enjoy the true joys of winter.

Ice fishing: You'll be provided with a fishing rod and will test your patience as you wait for the salmon to bite.
Barehanded fishing: This is an exhilarating activity where you plunge into a freezing cold tank to catch agile salmon with your own hands.
Enjoy salmon on the spot: After catching the fish, you can bring it to the processing area to enjoy fresh sashimi or grilled salmon.

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

The best time to attend the Pyeongchang Salmon Festival is in early January, when the snow-covered landscape creates a dreamy scene. (Photo: Collected)

Located in Pyeongchang County, also in Gangwon-do Province, the Pyeongchang Salmon Festival is one of the oldest winter events in South Korea . Beyond its rich local culture, the festival offers a wide variety of delicious salmon dishes and unique entertainment activities.

Trout fishing: Similar to the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival, you'll have the chance to try trout fishing in a frozen lake at the Pyeongchang Trout Festival.
Mini-skiing and sledding: These are favorite activities for both adults and children, providing endless fun.
Enjoy salmon dishes: Food stalls at the Pyeongchang Salmon Festival serve a variety of tempting dishes such as grilled salmon, smoked salmon, or fresh raw salmon sashimi.

3. Pocheon Sanjeong Lake Ski Festival – An ideal playground for families.

Bring non-slip shoes and the warmest, most comfortable clothing for participating in activities at this winter festival in South Korea. (Photo: Collected)

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

Highlights of the Pocheon Sanjeong Lake Ski Festival:

Skiing on the lake: The frozen lake is meticulously prepared to ensure the safety of visitors participating in skiing activities.
Playing sleds and tug-of-war on the ice: This is an opportunity for the whole family to participate and enjoy some fun moments.
Enjoy the scenery and take photos: The snow-covered lake, combined with the surrounding mountains and forests, creates a dreamy setting, perfect for memorable photos.

4. Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival – A work of art from nature

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

Held in Chungcheongnam-do Province, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is a place where you can admire magical ice sculptures. Each year, the freezing temperatures cause the water from the fountains to freeze, creating giant ice blocks with unique shapes that have led many tourists on winter tours in Korea to exclaim, "When nature becomes an artist, no words can describe this beauty."

The ice sculptures at the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival are truly breathtaking. The festival also features dedicated areas for activities like building snowmen, ice skating, and tug-of-war. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture beautiful moments amidst this enchanting scenery. Note that temperatures in this area are very low, so be sure to dress warmly.

Each winter festival in Korea has its own unique charm, from the vibrant ice fishing festival to the artistic beauty of the Chilgapsan ice fountain... These are not only opportunities to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, but also to learn more about the traditional and modern culture of the Land of the Morning Calm. If you are planning a winter trip, don't miss these four winter festivals in Korea . Pack your bags, choose a pair of non-slip shoes, and enjoy the wonderful winter days!