Winter’s around the corner - and for many travellers that means booking a trip to South Korea and hitting the slopes.
Good news: Seoul sits within easy reach of several mountainous regions, so a snow day or quick weekend on the boards is totally doable.
This guide covers how to reach the main ski resorts near Seoul, what to expect on site, and smart prep for a smooth winter trip.
Why a Ski Trip from Seoul Is Worth It
Skiing is one of the easiest winter adventures you can have in Korea. Many resorts are an hour or less by shuttle, metro/ITX, or KTX, so a day trip is easy to plan.
Most resorts around the capital are beginner-friendly, with a vibe that ranges from K-pop-blasting night runs to mellow family hills.
Beyond skiing, many resorts feature sledging parks, ice skating, and even oncheon (Korean hot spring) spas for a relaxing soak afterward. Since Seoul itself rarely sees much snow, heading to the mountains is the best way to experience Korea’s winter magic.
Wanting to go snowboarding instead? Luckily for you, there are plenty of of options for snowboarding near Seoul.
Snowboarding is well catered for at most resorts, with terrain parks plus on-site rental shops for boards, boots and helmets (and lessons if you need them). The variety of terrain around Seoul makes it easy for both beginners and experienced riders to find suitable runs.
Add in comforting eats like tteokbokki (Korean spicy rice cakes) and steaming ramyeon (instant noodles), late-night karaoke, and a session at a jjimjilbang (Korean sauna), and you’ve got a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and cosy winter charm, all within easy reach of the capital.
When is Ski Season in South Korea?
The ski season in Korea runs from late November or early December to early March, with higher-altitude resorts in Gangwon-do sometimes staying open into April.
Most resorts open in early December by building a man-made base with snowmaking; natural snowfall in the mountains then tops it up, so by mid-winter the pistes are fully open.
For the most reliable conditions, aim for late December to February, when temperatures stay well below freezing and snow cover is consistent. January often brings the driest powder, especially around Pyeongchang. Early December can be patchy, while late February may see slushier afternoons.
Expect crowds during Christmas, New Year, and Lunar New Year holidays as locals love to ski then. It's best to aim for weekdays in January or early February for smaller crowds and smooth runs. Whatever your timing, layer up: mountain temps can drop to -10°C or lower, and always check your chosen resort’s exact opening dates before you go.
Which Resort Should You Pick?
Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick comparison of the best ski resorts near Seoul so you can find the one that suits your style, interests, and skill level.
Resort (Opening Season) | Highlights | Slopes / Lifts |
|---|---|---|
Yongpyong (Late Nov-Early Apr) | South Korea’s oldest and largest resort with long runs, a scenic gondola, and plenty of variety, though it gets crowded on weekends and feels a bit dated. | 28 / 14 |
Alpensia (Late Nov-Early Apr) | Olympic-level facilities with gentle slopes and beautiful scenery, ideal for beginners and families, but limited terrain for experts. | 6 / 3 |
Welli Hilli (Early Dec-Late Mar) | Known for its half-pipe, moguls, and modern setup. Great for boarders but has fewer beginner-friendly slopes. | 19 / 7 |
Vivaldi Park (Late Nov-Early Mar) | Super close to Seoul with a lively atmosphere and family attractions like Snowy Land. Expect weekend crowds. | 12 / 10 |
Elysian Gangchon (Early Dec-Mid-Mar) | Easily accessible by metro/ITX, offering relaxed slopes and convenient day-trip options, though the area’s quite small. | 10 / 6 |
Oak Valley (Early Dec-Mid-Mar) | Less crowded, family-friendly, and home to creative themed courses, but limited for expert skiers. | 9 / 5 |
High1 (Late Nov-Early Apr) | Panoramic mountain views and slopes for all levels across three peaks; long journey and pricier stays. | 20 / 7 |
Jisan Forest (Early Dec-Early Mar) | Closest to Seoul, perfect for quick day trips or night skiing. Small area but super convenient. | 7 / 5 |
Konjiam (Early Dec-Early Mar) | Streamlined with an app-based system, spa, and arboretum. Great for mid-level skiers, but fewer expert runs. | 9 / 5 |
Phoenix Pyeongchang (Late Nov-Early Apr) | Olympic-grade slopes and Extreme Park for snowboarders. Busy during peak season. | 21 / 8 |
Muju Deogyusan(Early Dec-Mid-Mar) | Scenic mountain runs with hot springs and Korea’s steepest slope; far from Seoul but worth it. | 6 / - |
O2 Ski Resort (Early Dec-Mid-Mar) | Peaceful, high-altitude slopes in Taebaek with crisp air and reliable natural snow. Smaller than the big-name resorts but offers steady snow quality and panoramic mountain views. | 9 / 3 |
Eden Valley (Busan)(Early Dec-Early Mar) | The only ski resort in Gyeongsang province. It's small but charming, perfect for locals or short winter trips. However, it's pretty far from Seoul. | 7 / 3 |
Now that you’ve got an overview of what each ski resort offers, let’s dive deeper into what makes skiing in Korea unique at each resort.
From Olympic-grade slopes and family-friendly snow parks to scenic gondola rides and peaceful mountain getaways, here’s a closer look at the some of the best ski resorts near Seoul - and what you can expect at each one.
The Best Ski Resorts Near Seoul
1. Mona Yongpyong Ski Resort (용평 리조트) - Best For Advanced Skiers
Photo: @gosy_gosy_ on Instagram
Ah, Mona Yongpyong Ski Resort (also known as YONGPYONG Resort) - the oldest and largest ski resort in South Korea - is perched 700 metres above sea level on Mount Balwangsan and is definitely a classic.
Fun fact: the resort has hosted major events like the World Cup Skiing Championships, the Winter Asian Games, and, more recently, the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.
Options for slopes range from the easy-going Mega Green route to the tricky Rainbow Paradise course - the second-longest slope in the country.
Plus, there’s plenty of snow to go around, with an annual snowfall of 250 cm and temperatures averaging -6 ℃.
But it’s not all about skiing.
If you’re not out on the slopes, why not hop on the Balwangsan cable car for stunning views of the Greater Kaeku Mountain Range as you ride up to the breathtaking summit of "Dragon Peak" at 1,458 metres?
At 7.4 kilometres, it’s actually one of the longest gondola courses in Asia.
For those of you feeling peckish, there’s a cosy steakhouse in a Swiss-style building and a Korean restaurant to take care of those cravings.
And if you’re a K-drama fan, you might recognise this spot from Goblin: The Lonely and Great God, where those iconic romantic scenes with Kim Shin (Gong Yoo) and Eun-Tak (Kim Go-eun) were filmed.
Location & Distance: 715 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea. About 200km from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: It’s about a 2.5-hour KTX ride from Seoul to Jinbu Station, and then just a short 20-minute shuttle to the resort. Either that, or you can book a private transfer from Seoul to Yongpyong.
Operating Hours: 9am-10pm, with select night skiing.
2. Alpensia Ski Resort (알펜시아리조트 스키장) - Best for First-Timers
No skiing bucket list is complete without trying an Olympic-level venue, and Alpensia Ski Resort delivers.
As the main stage for the 2018 Winter Olympics, this spot combines world-class facilities with that dreamy powder snow every skier loves.
While the slopes here are more on the gentle side, that’s what makes ski tours such a great choice for the whole family or first-timers.
And the views? Absolutely stunning - think sweeping vistas of snow-covered mountains.
New to winter sports? Ski and snowboard lessons are available, and there’s even a dedicated zone for snowboarders to practise. Not to mention the sledge field - it’s a blast for anyone looking for a bit of extra fun.
In terms of staying overnight, you’ve got plenty of options, like The Intercontinental Hotel, Holiday Inn Resort, or Holiday Inn & Suites, so you can turn your ski trip into a proper getaway.
Location & Distance: 325 Solbong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea. About 2.5 hours from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: It’s around a 2.5-hour KTX ride from Seoul to Jinbu Station, then just a quick 10 to 15-minute shuttle to the resort. Alternatively, you can arrange a private transfer from Seoul to Alpensia Ski Resort.
Operating Hours: 9am-9pm during peak season, including night skiing. During the off-season, the resort is open 10am-6pm.
3. Welli Hilli Ski Resort (웰리힐리파크 스노우파크) - Best for Snowboarders
Seoul already gets a pretty generous amount of annual snowfall.
But if you want to put all that snow to good use, Welli Hilli Ski Resort is definitely worth checking out, as it’s in a region known for heavy snow.
Located in Hoengseong County, Gangwon-do, near Sulibong Peak, Welli Hilli was the first ski resort in Asia to host the World Snowboard Championships back in 2009.
Fun fact: In 2018, while the Winter Olympics were happening in Pyeongchang, Welli Hilli Park hosted a robot skiing event with a USD 10,000 prize up for grabs.
Location & Distance: 451 Gowon-ro, Dunnae-myeon, Hoengseong-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea. Around 110km or 1.5 hours from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: Catch the KTX from Seoul to Dunnae Station in 1.5 hours, then hop on a shuttle to the resort. Alternatively, you can book a day tour from Seoul to Welli Hilli Ski Resort.
Operating Hours: 8:30am-5pm, with night skiing available.
4. Vivaldi Park Ski World Resort (비발디 파크 스키월드) - Best For Families With Kids
If you're a K-drama fan, Vivaldi Park Ski World will probably ring a bell - it’s where shows like That Winter, The Wind Blows and Running Man were filmed.
It’s no surprise that this spot is one of Korea’s most popular ski destinations, offering something for everyone from first-timers to thrill-seekers.
The atmosphere here is lively, with plenty of après-ski fun once you’re off the slopes.
As if you needed any more convincing, Nami Island is super close and even more beautiful in winter, so why not combine your ski day with a visit? If you’re planning a side trip, explore Nami Island winter activities for more ideas.
And if you’re bringing children, don’t worry - you can let them roam free at Snowy Land, a theme park with four sledging slopes.
Location & Distance: South Korea, Gangwon-do, Hongcheon-gun, Seo-myeon, Palbong-ri, 산310-4. About 80km or 1.5 hours from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: Vivaldi Park Ski World Resort is only 1.5 hours away by car or shuttle from Seoul, making it a super convenient choice for a quick day trip.
Operating Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm. Special night passes (6:30pm-10:30pm or 8:30pm-1am are available).
5. Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort (엘리시안 강촌 스키장) - Best For Beginners
For the ultimate year-round getaway, Elysian Gangchon is a fabulous ski resort near Seoul that’s sure to hit the spot.
Known for canyon-style slopes and big mountain views, Elysian balances excitement with easygoing laps.
Once you’ve had your fill of the snow, refuel at Wonder Burger for some comfort food, or warm up with a bowl of jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) or udon at Snow Garden.
If you’d like to mix in sightseeing, Nami Island is just a stone’s throw away. Make it a full day out with a Nami Island + Elysian Gangchon combo.
Location & Distance: 688 Bukhangangbyeon-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea. About 1.5 hours from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: It’s just a 1.5-hour ITX train ride from Seoul’s Yongsan Station to Baegyang-ri Station, followed by a short 5-minute shuttle to Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort.
Operating Hours: 9am-5pm on weekdays, 9am-4pm on weekends; some slopes open 24 hours.
6. Oak Valley Ski Resort (오크밸리 스키장) - Best For Variety Seekers
Tucked near an oak tree forest (hence the name), Oak Valley Snow Park is one of the most family-friendly ski resorts in Korea.
It’s smaller than some of the major resorts, but that’s part of its charm - the atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s especially great for snowboarders thanks to its creative themed courses like the Forest Fantasy Run and the Snow Safari Course.
Beginners can sign up for small-group lessons led by experienced instructors, while non-skiers can enjoy the Golf Village, which features a 9-hole public course and a members-only 54-hole course.
If you’re planning to stay in Korea for the season, Oak Valley also offers a convenient season pass so you can make the most of your time on the slopes.
Location & Distance: 577-19 Pandae-ri, Jijeong-myeon, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea. About 130km from Seoul by car. (map)
How to Get There: Just a short 1.5-hour drive from Seoul, this premium ski resort is ideal for a ski day trip. Via public transport, it's about a 2.5-3 hour journey. To make it easier for you, consider booking a private tour from Seoul to Oak Valley Ski Resort.
Operating Hours: 8:30am-4:00pm; night skiing passes available.
7. High1 Resort (하이원리조트 스키장) - Best For Mixed-Skilled Groups
Who doesn't love a jaw-dropping panoramic view?
You'll get plenty of those at High1 Resort.
As its name suggests, this place is all about living the high life - quite literally. You’ll ski across three adjoining mountaintops: Valley Top, Mountain Hub, and Jijang Mountain Peak, with spectacular scenery all around.
One of the best things about High1 is how easy it is to ski with friends of all levels. The slopes are cleverly laid out so beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers can all ride close together without splitting up. You can also sign up for ski lessons if you're a total newbie.
And if you’re chasing a view to remember, take the gondola up to Baekunsan Peak and grab a seat at the 360-degree revolving restaurant - the panoramic views over Taebaeksan and Naejangsan are absolutely worth the ride.
Location & Distance: 265-1 High1-gil, Gohan-eup, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea. About 240km from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: From Seoul, you can get there in about 3 hours via KTX to Gohan Station, then just a quick 10-minute shuttle ride to High1 Resort.
Operating Hours: 8:30am-10:30pm.
8. Jisan Forest Ski Resort (지산 포레스트 리조트 스키장) - Best For Last-Minute Plans
Looking for a winter escape close to Seoul?
Jisan Forest Ski Resort will hit the spot.
Surrounded by snowy pine trees and peaceful scenery, it’s a cosy retreat that feels worlds away from the city while still being an easy day trip.
If you're travelling with family or just learning to ski, you’ll love the relaxed atmosphere and gentle slopes. You can even book a ski day tour from Seoul with basic lessons to get comfortable on the snow.
Seasoned skiers and snowboarders aren’t left out either - the resort’s snow-removal system keeps the slopes in top condition for smooth skiing.
It’s no wonder Jisan Forest has been ranked among the best ski resorts near Seoul, even earning a spot on Time Magazine’s Best of Asia list back in 2008.
And if you need a break from the slopes, Everland Theme Park is just a short ride away - perfect for adding some extra fun to your winter itinerary.
Location & Distance: 267 Jisan-ro, Majang-myeon, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. About 40km from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: The resort is a 40-minute drive from Seoul. Alternatively, you can book a day tour from Seoul to Jisan Forest Ski Resort.
Operating Hours: 7am-4am
9. Konjiam Ski Resort (곤지암 리조트) - Best For Intermediate Skiers
Like Jisan Ski Resort, Konjiam Ski Resort is an easy winter escape just outside Seoul - and the largest one on the city’s outskirts.
It’s a popular choice for day-trippers thanks to its modern facilities and efficient crowd management.
In fact, Konjiam’s app-based system makes the entire experience smoother - you can reserve lifts and sleds, rent gear, or book ski lessons right from your phone.
Most of the slopes here are ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers, so everyone can join in the fun without feeling out of their depth.
When you’ve had your fill of the snow, you can unwind at the resort’s arboretum or soak in the spa - the perfect way to end a day on the slopes.
Location & Distance: South Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Gwangju-si, Docheok-myeon, Docheogwit-ro, 278 KR. About 40km from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: Konjiam Ski Resort is a 40-minute drive from Seoul.
Operating Hours: 9am-2am on weekdays, 7am-2am on weekends and public holidays.
10. Phoenix Pyeongchang (휘닉스 스노우파크) - Best For Thrill Seekers
If you're after some serious skiing, Phoenix Pyeongchang is the place to be when visiting Bongpyeong - a must-add to any Korea ski resort bucket list.
As one of the host venues for the 2018 Winter Olympics, this resort is built for both thrill-seekers and casual skiers alike. Beginners and intermediates can find their rhythm here, while experts can take on some seriously steep runs.
For snowboarders, the Extreme Park is where the action happens - a full setup with a tabletop, half-pipe, and rails designed to Olympic standards.
Travelling with kids? The Snow Village is packed with family fun, from tube sledging to bobsleighing and snow slides.
And when it’s time to relax, head over to the Blue Canyon water park, open year-round with soothing hot springs - the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes.
Location & Distance: 174 Taegi-ro, Bongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea. About 150km from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: It’s about a 2-hour drive from Seoul by car or a quick ride on the high-speed KTX train. You can also book a Phoenix Pyeongchang ski day tour from Seoul for a simple, all-in day.
Operating Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm for day passes, 6:30pm-10:30pm for evening passes.
11. Muju Deogyusan Resort (무주덕유산리조트) - Best For Mountain Views
Sure, Deogyusan Ski Resort in Muju, Jeollabuk-do may be a bit of a drive from Seoul - just over three hours - but trust us, it’s absolutely worth the trip.
Set at the base of the stunning Deogyusan Mountains, this massive resort is where ski season truly comes alive. The scenery alone is worth the visit, with crisp mountain air and wide-open views stretching for miles.
For thrill-seekers, the slopes here don’t disappoint. There’s even a run that ranks among Korea’s longest, and the Raiders Slope - the steepest in the country - promises a serious rush for advanced skiers.
After a day of carving through powder, unwind at the outdoor hot springs - the perfect way to soothe tired muscles while soaking in the alpine views.
Location & Distance: Simgok-ri, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeonbuk State, South Korea. About 220km from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: Muju Deogyusan Resort is slightly over a three-hour drive from Seoul.
Operating Hours: 9am-4:30pm.
12. O2 Ski Resort (오투리조트 스키장) - Best For Peaceful Mountain Skiing
Tucked away in Taebaek, Gangwon-do, O2 Ski Resort is one of Korea’s highest-altitude ski spots - and one of its most underrated. With crisp mountain air, steady snowfall, and nine scenic slopes, it’s a great choice for skiers who prefer fewer crowds and a more local vibe.
Surrounded by the Taebaek Mountains, the resort offers beautiful panoramic views, especially from the top runs. It’s smaller than Pyeongchang’s mega resorts, but its quiet charm and reliable snow quality make it perfect for a peaceful winter escape.
Photo: @my._.z2 on Instagram
Location & Distance: 861 Taebaeksan-ro, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea. About 250km from Seoul. (map)
How to Get There: O2 Ski Resort is 3 hours away by KTX from Seoul to Taebaek Station, followed by a short taxi ride.
Operating Hours: 9am-10pm, with night skiing available.
13. Bonus: Busan Eden Valley Ski Resort (에덴밸리스키장 (에덴밸리리조트) - Best Hidden Gem
Of course, Eden Valley Ski Resort isn’t exactly around the corner from Seoul - it’s all the way down on the opposite end of the country in Busan, so it’s definitely not the closest ski spot to the capital.
But if you’re a ski enthusiast searching for a true winter playground, this resort should still be on your radar - it’s the only ski destination in the Gyeongsang region.
Tucked away on the scenic slopes of Mount Sinbulsan, Eden Valley is a hidden gem with a relaxed, local feel and seven diverse runs that cater to all skill levels. It’s smaller than the big-name resorts, but more than enough for anyone in Busan craving a proper dose of winter fun.
New to skiing or snowboarding? Skip the hassle and book a day tour from Busan - it usually covers equipment rental, lessons, and transport all in one go, so you can just show up and hit the snow.
Location & Distance: 1206 Eosil-ro, Wondong-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea. About 400km from Seoul or 1 hour from Busan. (map)
How to Get There: Eden Valley is just about an hour's drive from Busan, making it super easy to get to.
Operating Hours: 9:30am-5pm.
Essential Things to Know Before You Go Skiing in Korea
Photo: @makeafterglow on Instagram
Before strapping on your skis or snowboard, here are some essential tips and things to know:
Gear rental is easy: Every resort rents skis, boards, clothing, and helmets at fair prices. Just bring gloves as they’re often not included. If you don't want to rent certain items, you can always bring your own gear for comfort and convenience.
Transport is straightforward: Resorts have direct shuttles or train access, so getting there is simple even without a car.
Timing matters: Weekdays mean quieter slopes and cheaper tickets. Night skiing is a great way to skip daytime crowds.
Language isn’t a barrier: Resorts are used to foreign visitors, and English-speaking instructors are available, though you likely need to explicitly ask for one in your booking.
Make sure to pre-book: It's important to pre-book your spot, especially on weekends since it gets crowded. Check lift-pass prices and night skiing times. Note that weekday evenings are quieter.
Stay safe and warm: Wear a helmet, layer up, and keep coins handy for lockers.
Check Weather Forecasts: Use the Snow Forecast or Korea Meteorological Administration websites to plan for ideal conditions.
Après-ski perks: End your day the Korean way with a jjimjilbang soak, late-night ramyeon (instant noodles), or a hot drink by the fire pit.
What to Pack When Visiting Ski Resorts in Korea
Photo: @black.nadia on Instagram
Don't worry if you forget something - ski shops at the resorts have everything you need. There are also plenty of places to purchase these items across the country.
Item | Description | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
Thick Socks | Bring an extra pair for after skiing; they may get wet. Have several pairs for warmth. | Decathlon, Amazon, ABC Mart, Lotte Mart |
Scarf or Buff | Keeps your neck and face warm in cold, windy weather. | Uniqlo, The North Face, MUSINSA, E-Mart |
Beanie or Warm Hat | Keeps your head toasty; choose one that fits under a helmet. | Columbia, Patagonia, TopTen Mall, Lotte Department Store |
Sunglasses or Goggles | Goggles are ideal for skiing; sunglasses work off the slopes. | Oakley, Smith Optics, Hi-Mart, Galleria Duty Free |
Thermal Underwear | Wear under your ski clothes for all-day warmth. | Uniqlo HEATTECH, Under Armour, Uniqlo Korea, SPAO |
Gloves | Bring high-quality gloves for warmth and protection. | REI, Burton, The North Face Korea, Descente |
Extra Clothes | Change into dry clothes after skiing for comfort. | H&M, GAP, Zara Korea, Lotte Outlet |
Hot Packs | Keep hands and feet warm in freezing weather. | Amazon, Daiso Global, Daiso Korea, CU Convenience Store |
Lip Balm & Sunscreen | Protects skin from strong sun and wind reflection off the snow. | Nivea, Neutrogena, Olive Young, Innisfree |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there ski resorts near Seoul that are beginner- friendly?
Yes. Most resorts offer gentle green runs, English-friendly lessons, and easy rentals, so first-timers can learn quickly without travelling far.
What is the easiest ski resort to get to from Seoul?
Jisan Forest Resort is the closest ski resort to Seoul, located just a 40-minute drive from the capital city. It’s the perfect destination for those short on time but still wanting to enjoy a skiing experience. With its convenient location, Jisan Forest Ski Resort is a popular choice for families and those looking for a day trip or weekend getaway from Seoul. It is also the closest ski resort to the city.
When does it snow in Korea?
The snow season in Korea typically spans from December to March, turning the country into a snowy paradise. It's a fantastic time to soak in the serene winter vibes without the usual spring crowds. If you're a fan of winter sports, you’re in luck! Gyeonggi-do Province and Gangwon-do get lots of snow each year, making them perfect spots for skiing and snowboarding.
More Ways to Experience Winter in Korea:
There are plenty of cool things to do in Seoul and the rest of the country during winter, but if you're looking for more inspiration and ideas, don't worry; browse the best winter activities in South Korea.