Sorry for the long hiatus! It’s winter in Korea now and do you know their winter is actually pretty long? It stretches from December to mid March! Gee! Never experienced winter before? (Yes! There are countries which doesn’t experience four season – One of which is tropical sunny Singapore) Thinking of visiting Korea in winter? Korea temperature in December can hit −10 °C to −5 °C! Depending on when you are going there, you’ll need different types of winter wear.
Winter Wear in Korea
Check the weather forecast before preparing for your trip. If it says 2 °C to 10 °C, be prepared for something colder (just in case!). I’ve learnt this from an overseas trip to Shanghai, China. The weather forecast read 22 °C to 28 °C (normal cardigan/jacket will do) but the temperature turned out to be 18 °C! End up I had to get a fur jacket and jeans – overpriced and not exactly something that I like!
What to Wear During Winter in Korea?
Disclaimer: I’m someone who’s used to the hot humid Singapore weather of 28 °C. My optimal air-conditioner’s temperature is 25 °C and I need a thick jacket and jeans if it’s 19 °C. For someone who’s used to winter (from London or Melbourne), they can just walk out readily in a sleeved tee and shorts at 19 °C.
12 °C to 20 °C (Cooling, slightly chilly) – Late November to early December
I would define jacket as something that’s shorter (ends at waist/hips) and coat to be something like a dress (around knees). It’s really about personally preference. So… Winter coat or winter jacket? I’d prefer jacket as it’s easier to remove (usually) and easy to pair with knit skirt and warmers or jeans and booties but I like the stylish and chic look that comes with a smart winter coat. If you prefer leather and can withstand cold pretty well, opt for a chic leather jacket instead.
5 °C to 11 °C (Cold, almost freezing) - Mid December
Choose coat or jacket with cashmere wool/wool content or bomber style jacket. Your winter wear should be able to button or zip fully (won’t flap when you walk) so air can be trapped within your coat and keep you warm. To keep your neck warm, choose turtleneck that fits snugly at the neck area or fur warmer for a more fashionable option. You may want to get gloves or choose jacket/coat with deep narrow pockets so you can hide your hands in them.
-5 °C to 2 °C (It’s freezing…) - Late December and the typical weather in Korea in January
I can almost imagine an Eskimo in this weather. Visit your nearest winter wear specialty store and don’t get caught in the cold – It’s no joke!
What is one of the must-dos during winter in Korea? HOT SPRING!!! Nothing beats the hot spring to keep you warm and fuzzy. Here’s a list of hot spring in Korea from Wikipedia, enjoy!
Remember, for winter coat and winter jacket at great prices, visit Ministry of Retail.com, the Korean Fashion Online Store! Most winter wear can be purchased under S$100 whereas they cost at least twice-thrice as much in brick-and-mortar stores.
p.s: Just a gentle skincare tip. DON’T SKIP your sunscreen cream just because you don’t see the sun during winter time. UV rays are still present so you need the SPF protection. And… don’t forget your moisturizer, the weather tends to be cold and dry during winter in Korea. You might want to buy these essentials in Korea as Korean skincare products are well-known and very affordable!
