Discover the captivating annual winter festivals in South Korea this January 2024. Immerse yourself in the excitement of these events, showcasing traditional activities, and attracting visitors from around the world. Join us as we take a closer look at some of the major winter festivals happening across the country this month.
Cultural and Tourist Festivals Calendar in South Korea – January 2024
Festival Calendar in January 2024
Seoul Lantern Festival & Gwanghwamun Square Market: A Dazzling Display
Prepare to be enchanted by the internationally renowned Seoul Lantern Festival, an enchanting nighttime event. After its recent renovations, the festival has found its new home in Gwanghwamun Square. This year’s festivities coincide with the Christmas market for small merchants, creating a vibrant fusion of lights and a delightful array of seasonal offerings. Experience the breathtaking beauty of approximately 30,000 lanterns illuminating the winter nightscape while you peruse the Gwanghwamun Square Market, where you’ll find exquisite handicrafts, seasonal items, and tantalizing food and beverages.
- Date: December 15 – January 21
- Venue: Gwanghwamun Square
- More info: https://www.stolantern.com
Pyeongchang Trout Festival
Discover the Pyeongchang Trout Festival, held in the largest trout-producing area in South Korea. Engage in ice fishing, try barehanded fishing, and enjoy sledding and other entertaining activities. The festival is located near Alpensia Ski Resort and Yongpyong Ski Resort.
- Date: December 30 – January 29
- Venue: Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province
- More info: https://www.festival700.or.kr
Haeundae Light Festival
Join the festivities at the 10th Haeundae Light Festival, one of the most prominent winter season events at Haeundae Beach in the port city of Busan. Marvel at the light sculptures lining a 1.4-kilometer section connecting Haeundae Beach to Haeundae Oncheon-gil. Enjoy short videos created by renowned Korean media artists, displayed on a 40-meter screen at the event plaza.
- Date: December 20 – January 31
- Venue: Haeundae Beach and Haeundae Square, Busan
- More info: https://www.haeundae.go.kr/tour/index.do?menuCd=DOM_000000309006000000
Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival: Frosty Fun for Everyone
Embark on a winter wonderland adventure at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. Explore the frozen Hwacheon Stream, the serene source of the North Han River. Engage in many stimulating activities, including under-ice fishing for mountain trout, catching trout with your bare hands, ice sledding, snow sledding, and thrilling bobsledding rides.
- Date: January 6 – 28
- Venue: Hwacheon, Gangwon Province
- More info: http://www.narafestival.com
Yeongdong Dried Persimmon Festival: A Delight for the Senses
Satiate your taste buds with the delectable flavors of Yeongdong’s dried persimmons, fondly called “gotgam” in Korean. Experience the exceptional quality of these dried persimmons while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Yeongdong County, known for its persimmon cultivation and traditional Korean music. Learn about the intricate process of making “gotgam,” and indulge in discounted products while savoring the enchanting sounds of traditional Korean music.
- Date: January 19-21
- Venue: Areas of Hasang Parking Lot in Yeongdong, North Chungchong Province
- More info: http://www.ydfesta.com
Mount Taebaek Snow Festival: A Feast for the Senses
Experience the magic of the Mount Taebaek Snow Festival, nestled 800 meters above sea level in the scenic Taebaek Mountain highlands. Delight in a snow sculpture competition showcasing the talents of college students, engage in exhilarating snowball fights, try snow rafting, and enjoy sensational concerts and fireworks displays. Be captivated by the extraordinary snow sculptures gracing the event.
- Date: January 27 – 31
- Venue: Mount Taebaek National Park in Taebaek, Gangwon Province
- More info: https://www.tbsnow.co.kr
Daegwallyeong Snow Festival: A Winter Wonderland
Bundle up and head to Daegwallyeong in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, for the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival. Enjoy various delightful activities, including snowman-making, ice sculptures, snow sculptures, ice slides, ice sledding, and traditional winter games. Marvel at the mesmerizing snow and ice sculptures gracefully displayed amidst the snow-covered hills.
- Date: January 27 – February 11
- Venue: Daegwallyeong in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province
- More info: http://www.snowfestival.net
Make the most of your January in South Korea by attending these incredible annual winter festivals.
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