South Korea

South Korea is home to several world-class ski resorts, including Yongpyong Ski Resort, Alpensia Ski Resort, and High1 Resort. These resorts offer a range of skiing and snowboarding experiences, from beginner slopes to challenging expert runs.

Yongpyong Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in South Korea, with over 30 slopes and numerous ski lifts. Alpensia Ski Resort is a popular destination for both skiing and snowboarding, offering a wide range of terrain for all skill levels. High1 Resort is known for its excellent snow quality and breathtaking views.

Yongpyong Ski Resort is renowned for its Olympic-class slopes, which have been used in several international skiing competitions. Alpensia Ski Resort hosted several events during the 2018 Winter Olympics, including the men’s and women’s downhill skiing events. High1 Resort is famous for its high-quality snow, which is made possible by the resort’s location in the Taebaek Mountains.

How Long is the Ski Season In South Korea?

The ski season in South Korea typically runs from late November to early April. However, the exact duration of the season can vary depending on the region and weather conditions. Ski resorts in northern areas, such as Yongpyong and Alpensia, often open earlier and close later than those in southern regions. Some resorts may also close temporarily during the season for maintenance or due to weather conditions. It’s always best to check with the individual ski resort for the most up-to-date information on their season dates.

What is the Snow Quality like in South Korea?

The snow quality in South Korea is generally considered to be very good, with dry, powdery snow that is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The quality of the snow can vary by region and weather conditions, but most ski resorts in South Korea receive abundant snowfall throughout the winter season.

The ski resorts in the northern regions, such as Yongpyong and Alpensia, tend to have better snow quality than those in the southern regions. The colder temperatures in the north allow for lighter, drier snow that is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. However, even the southern regions, such as Jeongseon and Muju, receive enough snowfall to provide good skiing and snowboarding experiences.

South Korea’s ski resorts are equipped with modern snow-making equipment to ensure that the slopes are always covered with fresh snow, even during warmer periods or times when natural snowfall is lacking. 

Overall, South Korea is known for having good snow quality, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

What are the Best Ski Regions in South Korea?

South Korea has several ski regions that are popular among skiers and snowboarders. Here are some of the best ski regions in South Korea:

1. Gangwon Province: Located in the northeastern part of South Korea, Gangwon Province is home to many of the country’s top ski resorts. The region receives heavy snowfall and has a long winter season, making it a prime destination for winter sports. Some of the top ski resorts in Gangwon Province include Yongpyong, Alpensia, and High1.
2. Gyeonggi Province: Situated near Seoul, Gyeonggi Province is home to several ski resorts that are easily accessible from the city. Some of the top ski resorts in Gyeonggi Province include Jisan Forest Resort, Elysian Gangchon, and Bears Town Ski Resort.
3. Jeongseon: Located in the eastern part of South Korea, Jeongseon is known for its scenic slopes and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The region has several ski resorts, including the Jeongseon Alpine Centre, which was used for the 2018 Winter Olympics.
4. Pyeongchang: Host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang is a popular ski destination in South Korea. The region has several ski resorts, including Alpensia and Yongpyong, which hosted several Olympic events.

Overall, Gangwon Province is considered the top ski region in South Korea due to its abundance of ski resorts, heavy snowfall, and long winter season. However, the other regions mentioned above also offer great skiing and snowboarding experiences.

What are the Ski Resorts like in South Korea?

Ski resorts in South Korea offer modern facilities and a wide range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable skiing and snowboarding experience. Here are some of the features you can expect to find at ski resorts in South Korea:

1. Slopes: South Korea’s ski resorts offer a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginner to advanced. Slopes are typically well-groomed and maintained to ensure optimal skiing and snowboarding conditions.
2. Lifts: Ski resorts in South Korea have modern chairlifts, gondolas, and other lift systems to transport skiers and snowboarders up the slopes quickly and efficiently. Some resorts also offer high-speed lifts to minimize wait times.
3. Snow-making: To ensure optimal skiing conditions, ski resorts in South Korea have state-of-the-art snow-making equipment to supplement natural snowfall. This allows ski resorts to maintain snow cover on the slopes throughout the season, even during periods of warmer weather.
4. Facilities: South Korea’s ski resorts offer a variety of facilities, including restaurants, cafes, ski rental shops, ski schools, and accommodations. Many ski resorts also have on-site spas, hot springs, and other amenities to help visitors relax after a day on the slopes.
5. Night skiing: Some ski resorts in South Korea offer night skiing, allowing visitors to ski or snowboard under the lights after dark.

Overall, ski resorts in South Korea are well-equipped and offer a wide range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable skiing and snowboarding experience.

Where are the Best Places to Stay when Skiing in South Korea?

South Korea’s ski resorts offer a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the types of accommodation you can expect to find at ski resorts in South Korea:

Hotels: 

Many ski resorts in South Korea have on-site hotels, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly options. These hotels typically offer comfortable rooms, restaurants, and other amenities.

Condominiums: 

Some ski resorts offer condominium-style accommodations that are ideal for families or groups. These units typically have multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living area.

Guesthouses: 

There are also guest houses near many ski resorts in South Korea. These are often budget-friendly options that offer simple rooms and basic amenities.

Pension Houses: 

These are private homes that have been converted into small, family-run inns. They offer a more intimate and personal experience than hotels or guesthouses.

Hostels: 

For budget travellers, hostels are a good option. They offer dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Here are ten recommended places to stay at or near the ski resorts in South Korea:

1. InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort: A luxurious hotel located in the Alpensia ski resort.
2. Holiday Inn Resort Alpensia Pyeongchang: A family-friendly hotel located in the Alpensia ski resort.
3. Yongpyong Resort Dragon Valley Hotel: A hotel located in the Yongpyong ski resort, offering a range of room types.
4. High1 Resort: A large ski resort with several accommodation options, including hotels, condominiums, and guesthouses.
5. Phoenix Park Resort Hotel: A hotel located in the Phoenix Park ski resort, offering ski-in/ski-out access.
6. Hanwha Resort Pyeongchang: A family-friendly resort located near the Yongpyong ski resort, offering a range of accommodation options.
7. Vivaldi Park Ocean World Hotel: A hotel located in the Vivaldi Park ski resort, offering access to a water park.
8. Goodstay Elf Spa Resort: A budget-friendly option located near the Alpensia ski resort, offering basic accommodations and a hot spring spa.
9. Oak Valley Resort: A large resort located near the Yongpyong ski resort, offering a range of accommodations and facilities.
10. Muju Deogyusan Resort: A ski resort located in a national park, offering a range of accommodations and winter activities.

Where are the Best Places to Eat when Skiing in South Korea?

When it comes to food, South Korea’s ski regions have something for everyone. You can indulge in hearty stews and hotpots, grilled meats and seafood, or satisfy your sweet tooth with Korean desserts. Many restaurants and cafes feature locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods, adding an authentic touch to your dining experience.

From budget-friendly food stalls and street vendors to high-end restaurants with panoramic views of the mountains, you’ll find a wide range of dining options at South Korea’s ski resorts. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with a group of friends, there are dining spots to suit all occasions.

Here are ten recommended restaurants to eat at when skiing in South Korea

Popular Bars and Entertainment Venues when Skiing in South Korea

Other Things To Do When Skiing in South Korea

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, South Korea’s ski regions offer a range of other activities and tourist attractions, including:

1. Ice fishing: Visitors can try their hand at ice fishing at some of South Korea’s ski resorts, such as the High1 ski resort.
2. Snow tubing: Many ski resorts offer snow tubing, a fun activity for visitors of all ages.
3. Nami Island: Located near the Chuncheon-si ski region, Nami Island is a popular tourist attraction known for its scenic beauty and cultural experiences.

How to Get to South Korea

Getting to South Korea from popular inbound tourist destinations is relatively easy, with many flights connecting major cities around the world. The two main international airports in South Korea are Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP).

From the United States, there are direct flights to Incheon International Airport from cities such as Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle. Airlines such as Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and Delta Airlines offer regular flights to South Korea.

From Europe, major airlines such as British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France offer direct flights to Incheon International Airport from cities such as London, Frankfurt, and Paris.

From Australia, direct flights to Incheon International Airport are available from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane with airlines such as Korean Air and Qantas.

Once you arrive at Incheon or Gimpo airport, there are several transportation options available to get to your ski resort destination. These include taking a taxi, hiring a private transfer, or using public transportation such as buses or trains. Some ski resorts may also offer shuttle services from the airport to their location.

South Korea is easily accessible from major cities around the world, with regular flights to Incheon and Gimpo International Airports. Once you arrive, there are several transportation options available to get to your ski resort destination.

Overall, South Korea is a great destination for skiing or snowboarding, offering a unique combination of beautiful scenery, world-class ski resorts, cultural experiences, and affordability. Add it to your bucket list, you will be stoked you did!