Weather in South Korea in February

The weather in South Korea in February remains wintry, though slightly warmer than the lows of January. Snow still blankets mountainous regions, and ski resorts are in full swing, but in Seoul, it’s still relatively quiet when it comes to tourism. In the capital city, daytime highs average 25°F to 41°F (-4°C to 5°C), with chilly winds and occasional snow flurries. The skies are generally clear, offering good visibility for sightseeing. February in South Korea is also a festive time. For example, Lunar New Year often falls this month, bringing cultural performances and traditional foods. If you are looking to enjoy some of the outdoor festivities, wear insulated layers and prepare for brisk evenings. Overall, although still off-season, February is a great time for winter sports lovers and travelers seeking fewer crowds.

South Korea in February at a glance

The weather in South Korea in February is still wintry but a touch milder than January. Snow sticks around in the mountains and winter festivities continue across cities and the countryside.

• In Seoul, temperatures hover between 25°F and 41°F (-4°C to 5°C). Down in the south, places like Busan reach 34°F to 50°F (1°C to 10°C). Jeju Island stays on the milder side, averaging in the region of 36°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C).
• Ski season is still going strong, especially early in the month before spring starts to stir.
• If Lunar New Year lands in February, expect celebrations at palaces, temples, and public spaces.
• Flights and hotel prices tend to stay low, with plenty of good deals around, apart from the vacation period when domestic travel picks up.
• Cities are calm and easy to get around, while ski resorts are buzzing with visitors from near and far.
• When the weather is chilly outside, there’s no better way to warm up than at a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant.

Is February a good time to visit South Korea?

Yes. February in South Korea is your last chance to soak up the winter season, with snow-dusted mountains and a laid-back vibe in the cities. If Lunar New Year falls during the month, you’ll catch some of the country’s most important traditions in full swing.

The ski scene is still alive and kicking, with spots like Pyeongchang and Yongpyong drawing visitors for one last run before the season winds down. In Seoul, expect temperatures between 25°F and 41°F (-4°C to 5°C), while the southern coast and Jeju are just a bit warmer.

It’s a quiet time for general tourism, which means you can explore museums, palaces and cultural sites without the usual crowds. Just bundle up and watch out for icy patches underfoot.

Seollal (Korean New Year) brings a festive mood and traditional performances but also a few closures here and there, so it’s worth checking ahead.

If you don’t mind the chill and want a peaceful, off-season adventure, February offers great value, authentic experiences and some of the most scenic winter moments of the year. It’s also a smart pick when figuring out the best time to visit South Korea, especially for those after a quieter South Korea itinerary packed with winter charm.

Average daily temperatures in February

South Korea stays in winter mode through February, although things start to thaw just a little as the days go by.

In Seoul, daytime highs reach about 41°F (5°C) with lows around 25°F (-4°C). Snow is still on the cards, especially early in the month, and the wind can make things feel even colder.

Central cities like Suwon and Daejeon follow a similar pattern, with highs around 42°F (6°C) and lows near 26°F (-3°C). It’s mostly dry with lots of sunny days, even if the air stays chilly.

Further south, places like Busan and Gwangju get a bit of a head start on spring. You’ll see highs near 48°F (9°C) and lows around freezing. Jeju Island keeps things milder, with daily temps ranging from 37°F to 50°F (3°C to 10°C).

Mountain areas in Gangwon-do are still the coldest, regularly dipping below 20°F (-6°C) at night. Despite the cold, the clear skies and snow-covered views make it a beautiful time to explore, whether you’re out on the slopes or taking a slow wander through the city.

What about the crowd and cost?

February is part of South Korea’s off-season for most destinations. That means quiet streets, shorter waits at tourist spots and great hotel deals in the cities. It’s a solid month for anyone planning a trip to South Korea on a budget or looking for a calm break.

Ski resorts are still going strong though, especially at weekends, so those areas can be busy and a bit pricier. If Seollal lands in February, expect a few busy days as people travel for family gatherings. Trains, buses and hotels book up fast and prices climb during the vacation. Outside of that, it's smooth sailing and easy on the wallet.

Things to do in South Korea in February

February is winter’s last hurrah. It’s a peaceful, rewarding time for snow lovers, culture seekers and anyone who enjoys a slower pace — especially if you’re exploring some of the best places to visit in South Korea.

Enjoy the slopes one last time

Ski resorts like High1 and Phoenix Park are still open and running strong. February’s the last real chance to get on the snow before spring arrives. You’ll find fewer people on the slopes and better deals on places to stay.

Take a scenic coastal trip to Busan

Busan is lovely in winter. It’s quieter, which means you can enjoy the beaches, seafood markets and café-lined coast without the summer hustle. Haeundae and Gwangalli are great for peaceful seaside walks — and a reminder that even in the colder months, there are plenty of things to do in South Korea.

Explore Gyeongju’s cultural heritage

Often called Korea’s open-air museum, Gyeongju is packed with ancient tombs, pagodas and temples. It has a calm, mystical feel in winter and it’s a great time to visit without the crowds.

Relax in a hot spring resort

There’s nothing like soaking in a hot spring while snow falls around you. Head to places like Asan or Seorak Waterpia for an outdoor bath that feels both relaxing and a little magical.

Savor warming Korean winter foods

This is the peak season for hearty Korean dishes. Try a steaming bowl of gamjatang (pork bone stew), sundubu jjigae (spicy tofu stew) or grilled mackerel from a street vendor. Don’t skip the eomuk (fish cakes) either, especially on a cold day.

Festivals and events in South Korea in February

February brings a mix of winter charm and traditional culture. Whether you’re into festivals or just want to enjoy the season’s atmosphere, there’s plenty going on.

• Seollal (Lunar New Year): One of the biggest vacations in Korea, Seollal is all about family, tradition and food. You’ll see locals playing folk games, wearing hanbok and eating tteokguk (rice cake soup). Palaces and folk villages often host performances and cultural activities too.
• Pyeongchang Trout Festival: This alpine town puts on a wintery show with ice fishing, snow rafting and plenty of fresh trout cooked on the spot. It’s a quieter alternative to some of the bigger festivals.
• Gwangyang Maehwa Festival (early blooms): In warmer years, the first plum blossoms start to appear in the south. If you’re lucky with timing, you might catch the very start of spring in bloom in Gwangyang, complete with flower festivals and photo ops.
• Lighting and snow sculpture exhibitions: Many of January’s displays carry on into early February. Think glowing yards, twinkling trees and snow sculptures you can admire in peace with fewer people around.