3 Budget Friendly Activities to Do in Seoul This Winter

So you’re looking for unique things to do in Seoul that won’t break the bank? Here are 3 super budget friendly activities to do in Seoul this winter that you won’t want to miss.

Seoul Lantern Festival

If you didn’t get to check out the Seoul Lantern Festival, you’re in luck because it’s been extended to Sunday January, 18th! Every winter since 2009, the Cheonggyecheon has hosted an array of beautiful lanterns to celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another. It blends art, culture, storytelling, and walk-around magic into one FREE open-air gallery you can enjoy with family, friends or as a cozy date night.

🗓 December 12, 2025 – January 18, 2026
⏰️ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
📍 Cheonggyecheon (Naver Map, Google Maps)
🎟 FREE

Ice Skating

Every winter, an ice skating rink is set up right outside of City Hall in Seoul. Skating at the Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink (서울광장 스케이트장) is one of the most anticipated activities of the season and rightfully so. For only 1,000 KRW you get ice skates and helmet rental along with one hour of skating time right in the middle of the city. So whether you choose to skate by the light of the winter sun or the glittering moon, you’re sure to have a magical time.

🗓 December 19, 2025 – February 8, 2026
⏰️ 10:00 am – 9:30 pm (Sunday – Friday), 10:00 am – 11:00 pm (Saturday)
📍 Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink (Naver Map, Google Maps)
🎟 1,000 KRW

Sledding

Did you know you can go sledding in Seoul and you don’t even have to wait for it to snow? Every year Yeoudio, Jamwon, and Ttukseom Hangang Parks each host two sledding slopes. For 6,000 KRW you get unlimited rides on the slopes (sled included). You also get access to the snow park where you can build snowmen, snow forts and have snowball fights and then warm yourself up with some hot fesh snacks at the food stall area. It’s the perfect way to spend a winters afternoon.