Seoul in January 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving & Thriving in the K-Winter
- lewishooper1
- Jan 3
- 3 min read
If you’re planning to touch down in the K-capital, Seoul, this January, here is everything you need to know to stay warm, trendy, and ahead of the crowds. We have tech, food, and everything in between to make your stay an enjoyable one!
Smart Tech & Thermal Hacks
The weather in January is cold; in fact, it is one of the coldest months to travel to Korea. Staying warm is a must, and thanks to high-tech, heavy coats are slowly becoming a thing of the past, although they are needed for the time being.
The "Climate-Controlled" layer is a must-have! It not only lets you skip the bulk and opt for ultra-thin, graphene-lined thermals or USB-rechargeable heated vests, but it is now the gold standard for long walks through Gyeongbokgung or other tourist destinations in Seoul and throughout Korea.
App-Based Warmth is also possible, thanks to the 'Seoul Smart' app, which helps you locate the nearest "Warm Benches" and heated bus shelters—they are literal lifesavers during a sudden cold snap, and you will also notice the vast amount of indoor bus stops, which are a lifesaver from the wind.
The Skin Barrier Protocol is also needed to keep your skin hydrated, and the "dry-cold" is no joke. Visit an Olive Young branch immediately for a "Cica-barrier" cream in 2026 to keep your skin feeling great, as skincare is your first line of defense against the biting wind.
The Original Winter Favorites
Seoul street food is one of the best ways to keep warm this winter! In 2026, these classic staples are still lifesavers and a must-try during your trip to Seoul!
The "Boiling" Dinner: Nothing beats a stone pot of Kimchi Jjigae or Sundubu Jjigae. Served bubbling and spicy, these dishes provide immediate internal warmth that no jacket can match. Lewis Hooper from the Dojeon team finds these meals to be not only warming but also very affordable, while remaining classic at the same time.
Street-Side Comfort: On the corner of most streets, you’ll still find vendors selling Hotteok (sweet sugar pancakes) and Odeng (fish cake skewers in broth). In 2026, grabbing a cup of hot Odeng broth while roaming the streets is still the ultimate local hack for fighting the chill, and this is also a super local experience and way of life!
2026 Winter Bucket List places to visit
2026 is all about the latest trends, and café hopping is one of them! Seoul has thousands of cafes, and most of them offer a different experience. This winter, head to Bukchon Hanok Village to find a tea house with a courtyard view. Seeing the traditional black-tiled roofs covered in white snow while sipping hot Yuja-cha (citron tea) is the peak 2026 Seoul aesthetic, and a classic which our writer Lewis Hooper loves!
The indoor cultural side of Seoul is also a must on your trip! If the "burning cold" becomes too much, dive into Seoul’s world-class museums. The Seoul Museum of Art and the Seoul War Museum offer a perfect blend of modern digital exhibits and deep history, keeping you inspired and—most importantly—indoors, and at the same time allowing you to connect to the more historic side of Korea! Most of the museums are also free to enter, so it's a win-win!
Final Thoughts
January in Seoul is crisp, blue-skied, and undeniably beautiful and one of the cheapest times to travel to Korea. As long as you respect the cold and embrace the layers, you’ll find a side of the city that is quiet, romantic, and deeply authentic and less crowded compared to other times of the year! Seoul has so much to see and do during this time of year, and if you have not yet booked a ticket, we recommend that you do now!
Before you go, check out our related article;
Will you be traveling to Seoul this January? If so, then what will you be doing to keep warm?
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