Skiing in Korea – There’s no better way to spend the chilly winter months in the country!
As the days get cooler, and Koreaās ski season starts approaching, thereās excitement in the air.
The country provides several entertaining options to keep you occupied throughout the winter season, and one of them is skiing at some of the best ski resorts in Korea.
This guide details 12 of the best Korea ski resorts near Seoul and what to expect for your first time skiing in Korea.
I’ve also included tips on how to plan your ski trip, packing lists, and so much more!
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When to go Skiing in Korea
The winter season runs from late November until early April, making a ski trip one of the must-do activities on any South Korea winter itinerary.
Many of the ski resorts in Korea are open from the beginning of December until late March.
Peak ski time is during January and February when schools are on their winter break. It’s also coldest during this time, with a greater chance of snowfall – but this also means busier slopes!
Overview of best ski resorts in Korea
Here’s a summary of the best Korean ski resorts. I go into more details further in the post so you can choose which one is best for you.
| Resort | Slopes | Rating (/10) | Best tour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yongpyong Resort | 28 | 9 | Check prices |
| Vivaldi Park | 12 | 8 | Check prices |
| Oak Valley Resort | 9 | 8 | Check prices |
| Bears Town Resort | 11 | 8.5 | Check prices |
| High1 Ski Resort | 18 | 9 | Check prices |
| Elysian Resort | 8 | 8 | Check prices |
| Phoenix Park | 21 | 8.5 | Check prices |
| Alpensia Resort | 6 | 7.5 | Check prices |
| Jisan Forest | 7 | 8 | Check prices |
| Konjiam Resort | 11 | 8 | Tour not available |
| Welli Hilli Park | 19 | 8 | Check prices |
Planning Your Trip to Ski in Korea
You’re probably wondering, “Are there any ski resorts in Seoul?”
Unfortunately, there aren’t.
Most of the best Korea ski resorts are found within an hour or two of the capital city.
Doing a skiing day trip from Seoul will be easier on your pocket and also allow you to explore a variety of ski parks in Korea instead of just one.
Best Korea Ski Packages
I prefer to travel independently and avoid group tours if possible.
But when it comes to skiing in Korea, booking a tour through Klook or Trazy is the easiest, cheapest, and most convenient way to plan your trip.
Trust me on this one.
I personally booked all my ski tours through them as they are the most affordable and reliable tour operators in Korea.
Both Klook and Trazy offer massive discounts to foreigners. Just take a look at the affordable prices here!
You can customize your tour package depending on whether you’re looking for a return shuttle service, gear rentals, or an all-inclusive Korea ski package.
Skiing in Seoul
Many ski resorts near Seoul can be accessed via public transport or shuttles provided by the ski resort.
These often depart from the Myeongdong district of Seoul.
But most of the information online is in Korean, and it can be overwhelming. As a foreigner, you will struggle to plan your ski trip, so I highly recommend booking a tour instead.
Top 12 Best Korea Ski Resorts Near Seoul
Gangwon-do Province, in the east of Seoul, is home to the highest concentration of Korea skiing resorts. These can easily be accessed on a day trip from the capital.
However, as you venture further out of the city, you’ll find bigger ski resorts with better-quality snow and fewer crowds.
Here’s my list of the best places to go skiing in Korea!
Yongpyong Ski Resort: The Overall Best Ski Resort in Korea
- Distance from Seoul: 3 hours | 150 km
- Number of slopes: 28
- Best for: More experienced skiers and snowboarders
- Cons: Further from Seoul than most other ski resorts in Korea
- Best tour: 2 Day tour from Seoul
- Where to stay: Yongpyong Resort
What to Expect from Yongpyong Ski Resort
Yongpyong Ski Resort is arguably the best ski resort in Korea.
Not only was it home to the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, but it also has the longest slope in the country.
Yongpyong Ski Resort also receives the most snowfall.
The park allows for a fun day in the snow as it has a large variety of slopes and caters to all levels, from beginners to those who are more advanced.
Due to its prime location, it operates longer than most Korea ski resorts. (Late November until April)
Yongpyong ski packages
Vivaldi Park: Best Ski Resort near Seoul for Families
- Distance from Seoul: 2 hours | 90km
- Number of slopes: 12
- Best for: Couples, young adults, and families
- Cons: Crowded slopes on weekends
- Best tour: Vivaldi day trip
- Where to stay: Sono Felice Vivaldi Park
What To Expect from Vivaldi Park
Vivaldi Ski Park is the most visited ski park in Korea, but with that title comes the large crowds and queues on all slopes.
Donāt say I didnāt warn you!
What makes Vivaldi such a great ski resort in South Korea is its close proximity to Seoul. It also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, which are constantly upgraded.
Each slope at Vivaldi Park is identified by a funky slope name, such as Jazz, Reggae, and Techno. Accompanying each of these slopes is music that is played throughout the course, related to the name.
If you’re searching for where to ski in Korea with children, Vivaldi is a great choice. It has a family-friendly snow zone, Snowyland, which will keep your kids busy for hours on end.
Click here to book your Snowyland tickets.
I visited Vivaldi at the beginning of December, hoping for less crowded slopes, and I suggest you do the same.
Vivaldi Park ski packages
- 1 Day Ski Package from Seoul
- Vivaldi Park Snowyland (The kids will love this tour)
- Vivaldi Ski Lift Pass and Equipment Rental
- Seoul to Vivaldi Shuttle Bus
Oak Valley Ski Resort
- Distance from Seoul: Under 2 hours | 100km
- Number of slopes: 9
- Best for: Beginners learning to ski in Korea, foreigner-friendly
- Cons: Limited slope variety for those with more experience
- Best tour: Day trip from Seoul
What to expect from Oak Valley
Oak Valley Ski Resort is a less commercial ski park compared to other South Korea ski resorts.
It prides itself on being a premium ski park for the whole family and lives up to this reputation with great facilities and signage in both Korean and English.
The beginner slopes are long and wide, and itās a great place to try your hand at snowboarding.
Hereās my detailed guide to Oak Valley, including my thoughts on how it compares to other ski resorts in Korea.
Oak Valley Ski packages
- Oak Valley Ski Day Tour (Including round-trip transfer, lift pass, and ski equipment)
- Private Shuttle from Seoul to Oak Valley
High1 Ski Resort: The Best Korea Ski Resort For Beginners
- Location from Seoul: 3 hours | 170km
- Best tour: 2 Day Ski Package
- Number of slopes: 18
- Best for: Skiers and snowboarders of all levels, great for the whole family
- Cons: Longer drive from Seoul than most other ski resorts in Korea
- Where to stay: High1 Grand Hotel
What to expect from High 1 Ski Resort
High1 Ski Resort is another one of the best ski resorts in Korea. It’s only matched by Yongpyong in terms of its size and slope variety.
With long, wide slopes, itās perfect for the whole family and is a great place for beginners learning how to ski.
Because of the size of the ski park, the slopes are not as crowded, and there are very few queues for the ski lifts.
I spent 2 days at the resort, and hereās my detailed travel guide to skiing at High 1.
High1 Ski packages
Elysian Gangchon: Closest Korea Ski Resort to Seoul
- Location from Seoul: 1.5 hours | 60km
- Number of Slopes: 8
- Best for: Beginners, those wanting to visit Nami Island
- Cons: Small ski park, gets crowded and busy
- Best tour: Elysian day trip from Seoul
What to expect from Elysian Ski Resort
Elysian Ski Resort is great for beginners looking to learn how to ski in Korea.
Itās easy to access using the Seoul subway, and you can pair it with a trip to Nami Island and the Gangchon Railbike, which are both nearby.
The slopes at Elysian Ski Resort arenāt too long, and the park is pretty small, so itās not recommended for more advanced skiers.
Elysian Ski Resort packages
Bears Town Ski Resort: Best Ski Resort near Seoul
- Location from Seoul: 1.5 hours | 50km
- Best tour: 1 Day Ski Package
- Number of slopes: 11
- Best for: Beginners and more advanced snowboarders, a quick day trip from Seoul
- Cons: Limited number of slopes
2023 Update: Bears Town Ski Resort is temporarily closed for the 2023 Korea ski season.
What to expect from Bears Town Ski Resort
Bears Town Ski Resort is one of the lesser-known parks in Korea. But itās also one of the closest ski resorts to Seoul.
I spent a day here, and it was one of my favorite ski resorts in Korea.
In my opinion, Bears Town is perfect for beginners as the slopes are long and wide, with a gradual incline. This makes it a great place for those learning to ski or snowboard near Seoul.
Read More: A Day At Bears Town Ski Resort in Korea
Phoenix Ski Park: The Best Place to Go Snowboarding in Korea
- Distance from Seoul: 2.5 hours | 150km
- Number of slopes: 21
- Best for: Freestyle snowboarding
- Cons: Slightly further from Seoul than other Korea ski resorts
What to expect from Phoenix Ski Resort
Phoenix Ski Park is another top ski park in Korea, located near Yongpyong Ski Resort in Gangwon Province. Spread over two peaks, it offers a wide variety of slopes and top-class facilities, including a 5-star hotel.
Phoenix was home to freestyle skiing and snowboarding events in the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics and has made a name for itself as a snowboarding hotspot in Korea.
It sits at a lower elevation than Yongpyong and High1, and so the park relies heavily on artificial snow.
Phoenix tour packages
Alpensia Ski Resort
- Distance from Seoul: 3 hours | 150km
- Number of slopes: 6
- Best for: Beginners as itās less crowded than Yongpyong and Phoenix Ski Park
- Cons: Only 6 slopes available so not very attractive for advanced skiers
- Best tour: 2 Day Alpensia Ski Tour
What to expect from Alpensia Ski Resort
Located a stoneās throw away from Yongpyong Ski Resort, Alpensia was home to the ski jump event during the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.
Itās quite a bit smaller than its neighbor, Yongpyong (which is my favorite Korea ski resort), but still offers top-class facilities.
If youāre planning on spending the weekend in Pyeongchang, itās best to pair a trip to Alpensia Ski Resort with Yongpyong Ski Resort.
Alpensia ski resort packages
Jisan Forest Ski Resort
- Location from Seoul: 1 hour | 56km
- Number of slopes: 7
- Best for: Beginners, close to Everland
- Cons: Busy on weekends, small ski park
- Best tour: Jisan day trip from Seoul
What to expect from Jisan Ski Resort
Jisan Ski Resort is another one of the most popular ski resorts near Seoul, as it’s a quick drive from the capital city
It gets quite busy over the weekend and is recommended for those who are learning to ski, as the park is rather small.
You can also pair a trip to Jisan Ski Resort with Everland as they are not too far from each other.
Jisan Ski Resort Packages
Welli Hill Snow Park
- Distance from Seoul: 2 hours | 100 km
- Number of slopes: 19
- Best for: epic freestyle hill for advanced skiers
- Cons: Downhill skiing is not as impressive as other Seoul ski resorts
- Best tour: Welli Hilli ski trip from Seoul
What to exect from Welli Hilli Park
Welli Hilli Snow Park attracts snowboarders thanks to its famous halfpipe.
It’s located near Oak Valley Ski Park and is one of biggest ski resorts in Korea.
Welli Hilli Ski Packages
Konjiam: Another Top Ski Resort near Seoul
- Distance from Seoul: Less than an hour | 40km
- Number of slopes: 11
- Best for: a quick trip from Seoul
- Cons: Small ski park with mostly artificial snow
What to expect from Konjiam Resort
If you’re looking to go skiing near Seoul, Konjiam is the perfect getaway as it’s a 45-minute drive.
The resort offers 11 superb slopes but the unique selling point is the number of skiers permitted.
At a limit of 7 000 visitors per day, Konjiam Resort doesn’t get too crowded.
Click here to book your private car charter to Konjiam Ski Resort near Seoul.
Muju Deogyusan Ski Resort: Best skiing south of Seoul
- Distance from Seoul: 3 hours | 200km
- Number of slopes: 22
- Longest slope length: 4 300m
- Best for: People living south of Seoul
- Cons: If youāre coming from Seoul, itās a far drive and Yongpyong and High1 are better options
What to expect from Muju Ski Resort
Muju is a great option for those living south of Seoul. Itās one of the 3 biggest ski resorts in Korea, alongside High1 and Yongpyong.
Unfortunately, it’s not one of the closest ski resorts to Seoul, and hence it’s ranked 12 on my list of best ski resorts near Seoul.
Because it lies towards the center of the country where itās slightly warmer, Muju relies heavily on artificial snow and it can get quite icy in parts.
Tips for visiting Korea Ski Resorts
- The winters in Korea are harsh and freezing cold. Make sure you come prepared and include lots of warm clothes in your Korea packing list.
- There are lockers available at the ski resort to keep your valuables safe.
- Take cash or your bank card with you on the slopes as there are restaurants and cafes throughout the park.
- If youāre joining a ski tour, donāt be late as they will leave without you!
- If youāve never been skiing or snowboarding, you can book an hour lesson with an English-speaking instructor.
Skiing Near Seoul, Korea: The Reality
Korea has stepped up its game since hosting the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Since then, the country has been put on the map as one of the leading ski destinations in Asia.
It’s a great place for beginners to learn how to ski before heading to the bigger (and better) slopes of Japan, Europe, or America.
But you need to manage your expectations before visiting these ski resorts near Seoul. If you’re an advanced skier, you may be disappointed.
Here’s what to expect when skiing in South Korea for the first time.
1. Snow quality of Korea skiing resorts
Unfortunately, the quality of snow in Korea is nothing compared to that of Europe, the USA, and Japan.
Despite what you may read, there isnāt much natural snow!
The slopes are mostly made of artificial snow, and they can get icy in some areas.
Donāt get me wrong, if youāve never skied before, you’ll love it here. But if you’re an experienced skier, you would have seen better elsewhere!
2. Slope variety
Koreaās ski resorts are much smaller than what you may be used to, so donāt expect long runs. There also isn’t much variety, so you might get bored after a day or two.
This is why I donāt recommend that you base yourself at one ski resort in Korea for the duration of your stay. Instead, visit at least 3 of the below ski resorts near Seoul and do day trips to each of them.
Read More: The Ultimate 7 Day Seoul itinerary
3. Crowds of ski resorts near Seoul
Skiing is one of the most popular winter activities in Korea.
Come the weekend, everyone (and their dog) heads to the countryside to spend the day on the slopes. If youāre going skiing in Korea on a weekend, be prepared for queues at the ski lifts and crowded slopes.
To avoid this, try to go skiing during the week or even on a Sunday when itās quieter.
4. Efficiency
Everything in Korea operates like clockwork. Itās one of the many things I love about living here!
And this filters through to all aspects of the country, including the ski resorts in Seoul.
Fast, high-tech lifts, large gondolas, safety crew patrolling the slopes. This means you won’t have to wait in long queues (unless it’s super crowded).
5. Food and Restaurants
Most restaurants at ski resorts in South Korea offer a mixture of western and Korean food. But the western food choices are often limited so be prepared to eat bibimbap for breakfast, as I did!
Also, if you’re backpacking Korea and you just want to enjoy a few drinks on the slopes (as is common in Europe), think again.
There aren’t any outdoor bars with music, and the vibe isnāt much to write home about. Hence, itās best to spend the day on the slopes and head back to Seoul after.
What to Pack When Visiting Ski Resorts in Korea
If you don’t have the below items, don’t stress! There are ski shops at the resorts where you can buy everything you need.
- Thick socks (bring a pair for after as they will get wet)
- Scarf or buff
- Beanie or warm hat
- Sunglasses or goggles (Check if your tour operator can provide goggles)
- Thermal underwear to wear beneath your ski clothes
- Gloves (you can purchase these at the resorts)
- Extra pair of clothes to change into after
- Hot packs
- Lip balm and sunscreen
What Ski Tour Operators Will Provide
Be sure to check with your tour operator that the below is included in your ski package.
If you’re planning your trip independently, it’s best to hire the below equipment from a ski shop en route to the resort.
- Waterproof ski jacket and pants
- Ski boots
- Helmet (confirm this with your tour operator)
- Ski poles
- Skiās or snowboard
- Ski passes
Does Korea have good skiing?
There are lots of great places to go skiing in Korea. But it’s not the best skiing in the world and is better suited for beginners.
Is skiing expensive in Korea?
No, skiing is not expensive in Korea. A day tour costs on average $80 per person (90 000 KRW), which includes return transfers, lift passes, and equipment rental.
Where is the best skiing in Korea?
Yongpyong Ski Resort is regarded as the best place to ski in Korea. But there are many other places to ski near Seoul, including Oak Valley and Bears Town Ski Resort.
Where to stay in Seoul
The most central district is Myeongdong. It’s a convenient place to stay as ski tours from Seoul offer pick-ups in Myeongdong.
If youāre backpacking Seoul, Oyo Hostel Myeongdong 5 is a hit with budget travelers. Itās a brand new hostel situated in the center of Myeongdong, with an epic rooftop area offering great views of the Myeongdong skyline.
Traveling on a mid-range budget? Hotel Thomas is great value for money, given its modern features and the fact that itās just a short walk from the subway line.
If youāre looking for a luxurious place to stay in Seoul, Lotte Hotel should be top of your list. With large, impeccably furnished rooms and gorgeous views, you canāt go wrong with a stay here. Not to mention that itās well placed for exploring the best that Seoul has to offer.
Overall Thoughts on the Best Korea Ski Resorts Near Seoul in 2024
Before I moved to Korea, I knew little about the country. But after each and every day, I fell more in love with what it has to offer.
No, I wouldn’t come to Korea just to ski! But by spending a few days on the slopes, eating the delicious food (Korean BBQ is my favorite), exploring Seoul, checking out Jeju Island (The so-called “Hawaii of Korea”), and getting to know the Korean culture, you’ll make it a trip to remember!
Looking for more Korea travel information? Check out my other posts!
- The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Bukhansan Mountain in Seoul
- Jimjilbangs in Korea: 10 Things You Need To Know About Korean Saunas
- 24 Strange Things About Life In Korea
- Why Gangchon Rail Bike Is A Must Do
- Getting Lasek/Lasik In Korea
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This was such a thorough blog post! It told me everything I needed to know and, even though I am not going there any time soon, it really peaked my interest and made me excited to see some of these awesome places! I loved how you broke each ski resort down and provided extensive details about them. This post would be so helpful for anyone who is looking for a specific style of resort, whether it’s for their family or for a party weekend. Great post! Can’t wait to read more!
Hi Kristine, thanks for the great feedback. Korea also surprised me as I didn’t realize just how beautiful the country was until I moved there. Hoping this post helps those planning there winter vacations!
This is a great post! I am planning a ski trip to Korea this December (22nd December to 29th December). We are thinking of visiting a few ski resorts (alpensia, yongpyong, high 1 are in our minds now), but hope we don’t have to travel back to Seoul each time to get to another resort as the travel between the resorts doesn’t seem to be very convenient online. I’m wondering what will be the best route and how to travel between the resorts, would love to hear your advice! Thanks in advance.
Hi there,
Unfortunately it will be challenging to navigate this itinerary through online tours if you cannot speak Korean or read hangul. But for sure, you don’t want to go back to Seoul every time as it is a far drive, and all 3 resorts are on the east of Korea. It’s easy to get from Yongpyong to Alpensia as they are only 15 minutes from each other (and you can use public transport). If you are renting a car and planning your trip independently, you could also visit High1. I recommend you first visit Yongpyong and Alpensia and then drive south to High1 before returning to Seoul. Remember to take your passport to the ski resort and ask for the foreigner discounts.
Have a great trip!
Carryn
I read about all and like very much.
Now I will plan go to Korea for skiing and see sighting.
And enjoy the snow fall.
Very much excited.
Hi Aslam, enjoy your trip. Korea is a beautiful place to visit in winter.
Hi Carryn,
You have a wonderful blog, very insightful, thank you.
My name is Astrid. I might be visiting Seoul this coming December and planning to go skiing. I am looking for the best snow (definitely non artificial), since we live in Jakarta, Indonesia, we want to experience real snow. Is Yong Pyong, Alpensia and High 1 would be good options? I am checking hotels, Yong Pyong seems to be busy on the date that I want.
Would you suggest my best options if Yong Pyong not available?
Thank you Carryn.
Warm regards,
Astrid
Hi Astrid,
Thanks for reaching out. If you’re looking for real snow, January and February are colder months and have higher chance of snow fall. But this is also not guaranteed. I visited a few ski parks in Korea in December and they’re definitely worth a visit, even if there isn’t much snow. I would recommend High1 Resort – you can read my guide here. It has a higher elevation and is a big ski park. I spent a night here and had 2 days on the slopes. There’s great variety and the ski park has an awesome atmosphere.
Happy travels!
Carryn
Hello Carryn, thanks so much for your posts on the various ski resorts.
My family is planning to do a ski/snowboard trip again (previous 2 times were both at Phoenix Park before Covid) but we could only travel/arrive Seoul on 11/Mar/23 late nite. Do you know if Alpensia/Yongpyong Ski resort would still be in operation till 15/Mar as I could not find any online info regarding the end season dates (only see expected opening dates during early Dec 2022).
And also would you recommend Alpensia or Yongpyong if both are in operation? My husband and 2 late-adolescents will be snowboarding with some experience while i am a bad/totally beginner skier who doesnt hv confidence at slopes on my own.
Have been searching for such dates to no avail. Hope to be able to obtain some advices from you.
Thanking you in advance!
Hi Irene, Yongpyong generally stays open later than other ski resorts in Korea – previously they were operational until April. But I can’t see any tours available from after 11 March. I recommend that you contact the ski resort directly to confirm. You’ll be traveling outside of the peak period so if they are open, you won’t struggle to get a ticket. I also believe that Yongpyong is a bigger ski park and may be better suited to your family, so if it’s open, I recommend going there (instead of Phoenix). Have a great trip!
Dear Carryn
My family is planning to travel to Korea in end December 2022 for a ski holiday and so glad to chance upon your informative blog! All of us are absolute beginners and we were wondering if we should do a day trip or 2D1N trip instead to have a better experience. The day trip looks like it’s pretty rushed.
Which ski resort in your opinion would be perfect for absolute beginners? We were considering a resort near to Seoul such as Jisan, do u think it’s a good choice? Does Jisan have mostly real or artificial snow? However I’ve been looking around and don’t seem to find many operators with a 2D1N trip to Jisan. Any suggestions?
Hi Vivien, I think you’ll enjoy Vivaldi Park! It’s close to Seoul and you can book an overnight tour here.
I did a day trip to Vivaldi park and really enjoyed it. They have fun music on all the slopes and it’s a great place to learn how to ski. My Vivali post will give you more info on my experience. Unfortunately, most ski parks in Korea will have artificial snow.
Have fun!
Carryn
Hi Carryn, first up – thank you : your blog is an amazing resource for South Korea travel!
I am (quite last minute, spontaneously booked trip) try to puzzle out a 7 day itinerary for my trip to Seoul including around 2 / 2.5 days of skiing…which is in 2 weeks time already – 10th to 18th February so also overlapping lunar new year š
Would be great if you could let me know based on your experience if this would be doable :
– I have a full 7 days in Seoul , will stay in Myeongdong
– Question 1 :Considering doing within that time either a long day trip up to Yongpyong and back for 1 day, or possibly stay 1 night up there (2 days skiing) OR…interested if you think it would be better to just hit the resorts for 2 / 2.5 days skiing that are nearer by to Seoul? (note I am an intermediate to advanced level skier)
The balance of my time I will stay in Seoul lapping up everything to do there š
-Question 2 : I am super interested to join one of the DMZ tours from Seoul as well (probably the half day one), any tips there…I am struggling to find online whether it is open for tours at the moment?
Thanks a lot for the help
Kiwi living in SG
Hey Craig,
Glad you found my blog helpful!
Yes, I think staying in Myeongdong is a good idea. It’s a central location, close to the subway and most tours depart from Myeongdong. Insadong is close by if you want to stay somewhere that’s less touristy and a bit more traditional.
Considering you’re a an advanced skier, you might find that one day on the slopes is enough. The parks are a lot smaller and the runs are pretty short (compared to Europe/Japan) – so you might get bored, even at High1 and YongPyong! With this in mind, you should consider one day of skiing (maybe somewhere closer to Seoul like this tour to Oak Valley) and 6 of exploring Seoul and other day trips. You can also do one ski day trip at the start of your holiday and if you want to do more, you can book a second trip. But also keep in mind that Lunar New Year is a busy time for local travel so you’ll need to book all tours ahead of time on those dates. If you still want to do 2 days of skiing, definitely go to YongPyong and spend the night there. It’s bigger than Oak Valley but still nothing like the type of slopes you might be used to. Only visiting YongPyong for one day will a lot of time in the car!
The DMZ tours are still running but the JSA part (blue buildings where the 2 Koreas meet) is often closed due to tensions between the North and South. This is most likely the case. But it’s still worth visiting the DMZ! While the JSA was a highlight for me (unfortunately you’ll miss this), the 3rd Infiltration tunnel and Dora Observatory are also amazing experiences. This DMZ tour includes both of these.
Here’s my 7 day Seoul itinerary that you might be interested in. Give yourself enough time to explore the streets on Hongdae and the palaces in Jongno-gu.I also loved Bukhansan National park and there are some great hikes here – but not advisable if it’s snowing or icy! You should also consider a day trip to Nami Island and the Gangchon Railbike.
Enjoy your trip to Korea. Be sure to eat lots of Korean BBQ’s and Dakgalbi – and beware of the Soju hangovers!
Carryn