In spring, admire cherry blossoms; in autumn, enjoy maple and ginkgo foliage. Beyond flower viewing, an important winter activity is skiing!\nIf you’ve never been skiing in Korea, you definitely shouldn’t miss it. When is the best time to ski? How do you choose a ski resort? How many days should you plan for your ski trip?\nTravel expert Xiaotong has all the answers for you. After reading this, you can easily pick the right ski resort, book your flights and accommodation right away, and head to Korea to compose your own winter love story!\nBefore we dive into the ski resorts, let Xiaotong first give you an overview of ski resorts in Korea.\n\n
Overview of Ski Resorts in Korea\n\n
Peak Ski Season:\n\n
Mid-December to end of February\n\n
Ski Resort Opening Times:\n\n
Most open from late November to early December and close around early March of the following year\n\n
Ski Areas:\n\n
Mainly concentrated in Gangwon Province and the suburbs of Seoul\n\n
Gangwon Province\n\n
World-class Yongpyong Resort Ski Area\n\n
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Known as the Alps of Korea, Yongpyong Resort was established in 1975 and is the oldest and most premium ski resort in Korea. It boasts 28 slopes and 14 cable car lines, and has hosted numerous world-class events.\nYongpyong features world-class ski runs—even the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics wanted to come here!\nIt also has Korea’s longest ski run, abundant snowfall, and offers the ultimate skiing experience that skiing enthusiasts simply can’t miss!\nThe proximity of accommodations to the ski area is another advantage of Yongpyong Resort.\nPlus, Korean dramas such as “Goblin” (also known as “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God”) and “Winter Sonata” were filmed here—perfect for anyone looking to collect Korean drama filming locations!\n\n
| Difficulty Level\n\n | Family-friendly Facilities\n\n | Night Skiing\n\n |
| Suitable for Expert Skiers\n\n | Snow Tubing\n\n | 21:00~00:30 |
Address:\n\n
715 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea (Daegwallyeong-myeon)\n\n
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Phoenix Park Ski Resort\n\n
Phoenix Park Ski Resort utilizes the mountain’s terrain to offer an extremely large-scale facility with 21 runs, ranging from beginner to competitive levels. From the top, you can enjoy views of the entire mountain range.\nBeginners don’t need to worry—there are also professional ski lessons here—but it’s even more recommended for expert skiers!\nIt also hosted the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics—aren’t you excited to experience it yourself?\n\n
Additionally, snowboarders will love it here too. Phoenix Park Ski Resort has many snowboarding facilities and is even known as the Snowboard Park!\n\n
| Difficulty Level\n\n | Family-friendly Facilities\n\n | Night Skiing / Late-night Skiing\n\n |
| Runs for all levels, from beginner to competitive The average distribution of ski runs |
Snow tubes, children's playroom, kids' ski lessons |
Nighttime: 18:30~22:30 |
Address:
174 Taegi-ro, Pongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do
??? ??? ??? ??? 174
Hotel Alpensia Ski Resort
Nestled within the mountain forests of Gangwon-do, Hotel Alpensia Ski Resort features a rather European-style architectural design. The resort campus is fully equipped with amenities such as restaurants, tennis courts, playgrounds, and a golf course — so even after you’ve had your fill of skiing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Though not very large in scale, it still boasts 9 ski runs, ranging from beginner to intermediate and advanced levels. Even first-timers need not worry — this is a great place for you too.
? Professional skiers and ski enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out — the resort also features a special obstacle zone to make your skiing experience even more fun.
| Difficulty level | Family-friendly facilities | Night skiing / late-night skiing |
|
Beginner, intermediate, advanced |
Snow tubes |
Nighttime: 18:30~24:00 |
Address:
66 Oak Valley 1-gil, Jeonjeon-dong, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do
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Excellent snow quality Alpensia Resort Ski Slope
Located at an altitude of 700 meters, Alpensia offers top-quality snow due to its high elevation and provides stunning panoramic views of the Daegwallyeong area. It was also the main venue for major events during the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics, including ski jumping, cross-country skiing, and bobsleigh. In addition, the hotel facilities here are outstanding. Although there are only 6 ski runs, it’s perfect for a family getaway — stay for a fun two-day-one-night trip and enjoy quality time together.
| Difficulty level | Family-friendly facilities | Night skiing |
| Beginner, intermediate Family skiing, snowboarders |
Snow tubes (dedicated sledding slope) | 18:30~22:00 |
Address:
325 Suribong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do (Daegwallyeong-myeon)
??? ??? ???? ??? 325 (????)
★ Recommended Attractions: Seoraksan Mountain, Gyeongpodae, Goblin’s Euntaegu Beach
South Korea’s Top Three Ski Resorts – HIGH 1 Ski Resort
As one of South Korea’s top three ski resorts, HIGH 1 not only strives for the highest skiing quality but also emphasizes ecological conservation, preserving forests and rivers in their natural state. From the top of the resort, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Jiri and the Taebaek Mountain Range. The resort features 18 slopes for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers, along with many beginner-friendly runs, often chosen as a training ground for national athletes. Another highlight of HIGH 1 Ski Resort is its massive casino—the largest in South Korea—where you can try your luck in the evening after skiing, experiencing a gaming culture unique to Korea.
? Especially recommended for nature lovers
| Difficulty Level | Family Facilities | Night Skiing |
| Well-Maintained Slopes Suitable for Beginners, Intermediates, and Advanced Skiers |
Snow Tubing | 18:00 ~ 22:00 |
Address:
500 High 1-gil, Goheung-eup, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do (Goheung-eup)
??? ??? ??? ???? 500 (???)
★ Recommended Attractions: Little France Village, Gwangyang Railway, Fairy Tale Swiss Village
Gyeonggi-do
Easily accessible by subway or bus, this ski resort allows for a day trip without cutting too much into your Seoul itinerary. Enjoy skiing, sightseeing, shopping, and great food all in one trip.
Konjiam Resort
Just a 40-minute drive from Seoul, the resort offers facilities such as a spa, jjimjilbang (Korean sauna), and indoor pool to help you unwind after skiing, elevating your overall vacation experience. While there’s no Chinese instruction, there are English-speaking instructors with moderate to fluent proficiency, known for their fun and engaging teaching style that kids especially love. Konjiam Resort also hosts seasonal events like Christmas and New Year celebrations, where you might even ski with Santa Claus and enjoy fireworks.
| Difficulty Level | Family Facilities | Night Skiing |
| Over 70% Designed for Beginners, Intermediates, and Children |
Snow Tubing | 19:00～04:00 |
Address: 278 Ducheosang-ro, Duchon-myeon, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
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Jisan Forest Ski Resort
Want to ski but also explore Seoul, yet your schedule is too packed? No worries — Chisan Forest Ski Resort is your best bet. Just a 40-minute drive away, you can easily make a day trip. With affordable prices and well-equipped facilities, it’s now the top choice for Korean office workers looking to unwind with night skiing. Plus, it features a sun-kid lift, making it easy for kids and beginners to move around the slopes.
| Difficulty Level | Family Facilities | Night Skiing / Late-Night Skiing |
| Great for Beginners | Sleds, dedicated slopes for young children Children’s Dedicated Elevator Lift |
Night: 18:30–23:00 |
Address:
267, Jisan-myeon, Maryang-myeon, Ichon-si, Gyeonggi-do (Maryang-myeon)
??? ??? ??? ??? 267 (???)
Yangji PINE Resort Ski Slope
Just a 40-minute drive from Seoul, though close to the city, it’s nestled on Doocho Mountain and surrounded by pine forests, offering an urban escape like a hidden paradise. Yangji boasts the latest skiing equipment and eight ski runs, ranging from gentle slopes to steep ones. As a year-round resort, Yangji also offers diverse leisure and entertainment options such as bowling, indoor pools, and forest golf courses for the ultimate experience.
?The most challenging course, the Challenge Slope, is the designated slope for the annual National Alpine Skiing Competition — highly recommended for advanced skiers looking for a thrill.
?Snowboard enthusiasts, take note: Yangji invites professional snowboarders for lessons and performances every year.
| Difficulty Level | Family Facilities | Night Skiing / Late-Night Skiing |
| Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced | Sleds | 18:30-23:00 |
Address:
112, Nampyeong-ro, Yangji-myeon, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do (Yangji-myeon)
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Bearstown Resort Ski Slope
No preparation needed to ski? Bearstown Ski Slope is the pioneer in ski equipment rentals. Though not a large resort, it has 10 ski runs (including 1 pro run, 2 advanced runs, 2 mid-advanced runs, 2 intermediate runs, and 3 beginner runs), all certified by the International Ski Federation (FIS)!
Its two biggest highlights are:
First, a 400-meter-long sledding slope where even non-skiers, especially kids, can enjoy winter fun on sleds — a huge hit with Korean family travelers.
Second, a beginner-friendly plaza-style ski run that lets even absolute beginners learn to ski with ease.
| Difficulty Level | Family Facilities | Night Skiing / Late-Night Skiing |
| Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Expert Levels | Snow Tubs, Plaza-Type Slopes Ice & Snow Park (Snow Igloo + Sled Area) |
Nighttime: 18:30–24:00 |
Address: 27, Ganghwa-ro 2536beon-gil, Naechon-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do (Naechon-myeon)
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Skiing Safety Tips
After checking out these ski resort recommendations, are you excited and ready to hit the slopes? Have fun, but make sure you get home safely—and don’t forget these important reminders, especially if you’re a beginner skier. These tips will help you get the hang of skiing in no time.
Essential Gear Is a Must
While you can rent full ski outfits at the resort, it’s better to wear warm, waterproof clothing underneath. Also bring your own hat and gloves. Don’t skip renting gear just to save money—it’s not worth the risk of costly injury-related medical bills.
Go with a Professional Instructor
Falling on snow may not feel painful, but it can actually be quite dangerous and lead to injuries. Beginners with no experience are advised to ski with a professional instructor to learn proper techniques and start your skiing journey safely.
Warm Up First
Warming up before exercising is essential. In cold environments, your body and muscles become stiffer, increasing the risk of injury.
Fall Sideways
Remember to fall sideways instead of sitting straight down on your butt. Snow may seem soft, but it can actually be quite hard—and landing directly on your lower back can easily cause injury.
Protect from Sun and Stay Hydrated
Even though winter sunlight isn’t very hot, don’t forget sunscreen. Snow acts like a reflector, bouncing sunlight and UV rays onto your skin, which can damage it without you realizing. Protect your skin to avoid harm.
Bring Extra Clothes
Although you’ll have outer gear, snow can melt and seep through, wetting your clothes. Make sure to pack an extra set to stay warm and dry.
Now that you’ve read all this, are you tempted to book your flight and head straight to Korea for some skiing? This winter, may everyone become a pro skier. And hey, while in Korea, there’s more to do than just ski.
Text by Katrina.C | Tripresso Travel Editorial Team