Pyeongchang Winter Trip from Seoul: Ski Resorts and Snow by KTX

Short answer: Pyeongchang, in Gangwon Province, is the easiest place to find real snow and big ski resorts near Seoul. It hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics. Take the KTX from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni to Jinbu (Odaesan) Station, roughly an hour and a half to two hours depending on the train. From there, a shuttle or short taxi ride takes you to Yongpyong or Alpensia. For Phoenix Pyeongchang, most visitors without a car take a seasonal shuttle bus straight from Seoul. The ski season usually runs from late November or December to March, depending on the weather. Check each resort's official site for opening dates, lift prices and shuttle timetables.

This guide explains which resort suits which traveller, how to get there without a car, what to rent and wear, and how to fit snow into a short Seoul trip.

The main ski resorts in Pyeongchang

Yongpyong Resort

Yongpyong is one of Korea's oldest and largest ski resorts. It hosted the alpine technical events in 2018. It has a wide range of slopes, from gentle beginner runs to long advanced courses, plus hotels, condos and restaurants. The resort runs a shuttle to KTX Jinbu Station, which makes it one of the easiest resorts to reach by train. Shuttle times change each season, so check the resort's website before you book your train.

Alpensia Resort

Alpensia sits close to Yongpyong and was built as a main Olympic venue. You can still see the ski jumping towers. Its ski area is smaller and quieter than Yongpyong's, which suits beginners and families who want shorter lift queues. It is also a pleasant place to stay if you just want snow, a warm hotel and a walk around the Olympic sites.

Phoenix Pyeongchang

Phoenix Pyeongchang (often called Phoenix Park) hosted the freestyle skiing and snowboard events. It is popular with snowboarders and younger crowds, and it has a lively feel at weekends. It is not near Jinbu Station, so most international visitors use one of the ski shuttle buses that run from central Seoul during the season. Some leave from places such as Hongdae, Myeongdong and Dongdaemun. These buses are sold by travel platforms and tour companies, and the trip usually takes around three hours each way, depending on traffic.

How to get to Pyeongchang from Seoul

By KTX train (best for Yongpyong and Alpensia)

Route: KTX trains on the Gangneung line stop at Jinbu (Odaesan). Some also stop at Pyeongchang Station. Departures leave from Seoul Station and Cheongnyangni, and some from other Seoul stations.
Booking: Buy tickets on the Korail website or the Korail Talk app, which have English versions. Winter weekends sell out, so book as soon as your plans are set.
From the station: Use the resort shuttle if its timetable fits your train, or take a taxi from the rank outside Jinbu Station. The taxi ride to Yongpyong or Alpensia is short.

By ski shuttle bus (best for Phoenix and for day trips)

Seasonal ski shuttles pick up in central Seoul in the morning and return in the evening. Some packages bundle the bus with lift passes and rental gear. It takes longer than the KTX, but you get a door-to-door ride with your gear and no transfer at a station.

By express bus or rental car

Intercity buses from Seoul run to Gangwon towns near the resorts. Driving is possible, but winter roads in the mountains can be icy and weekend traffic out of Seoul is heavy. If you are not used to snow driving, the train or a shuttle is the safer choice.

Day trip or overnight?

A day trip is doable. Many Seoul residents leave early, ski for most of the day and return in the evening. But for first-time visitors, one night in Pyeongchang is usually more relaxing. You avoid a very early start, can ski the next morning when slopes are quieter, and can enjoy an evening in the snow. If you have only one free day, a ski package with a shuttle bus is the least stressful option.

If you want snow scenery more than skiing, consider pairing Pyeongchang with the coast at Gangneung. It is further along the same KTX line and known for its beaches, coffee streets and sunrise views.

What to rent, wear and bring

Gear: Skis, boards, boots and helmets can be rented at the resorts or at rental shops nearby. Ski clothing is also commonly rented, which helps if you packed light.
Layers: Mountain temperatures in Gangwon can drop well below freezing, especially early in the morning and at night. Wear thermal layers, gloves, a hat and a neck warmer.
Lessons: Resorts and private schools offer lessons. Some instructors teach in English, but book ahead if you need an English-speaking instructor.
Lift passes: Resorts usually sell passes by time blocks, such as half-day, full day or night skiing. Night skiing is popular in Korea and can be a fun extra.

"Hot instant ramyeon at a ski lodge after your last run tastes twice as good. That's science." — Bori, POPORO CITY

When to go

December to February is the most reliable time for snow and for all slopes being open. Early December and March can have fewer open runs. The busiest times are weekends, Christmas, the New Year and the Lunar New Year holidays (Seollal). Weekdays in January are often the best balance of good snow and fewer people. Check resort websites for daily slope status before you go.

Not a skier? Many visitors still enjoy a snowy day in Gangwon with a sled area, a walk around the Olympic sites, or a warm cafe with mountain views. If you would rather stay near Seoul, our guide to Nami Island, Petite France and the Garden of Morning Calm covers easier day trips that also look lovely in winter. And when you get back to your hotel, our article on ondol floor heating explains why Korean rooms feel so warm.

Quick tips

Book KTX tickets early for winter weekends and holidays.
Check the resort shuttle timetable before choosing your train.
Go on a weekday if you can. Lift queues are much shorter.
Rent ski clothing at the resort if you do not want to pack it.
Bring sunglasses or goggles. Snow glare is strong on clear days.
Check official sites for opening dates, lift prices and slope status.

FAQ

Can I visit Pyeongchang as a day trip from Seoul?

Yes. The KTX makes it possible to ski for most of a day and return to Seoul in the evening. A ski shuttle package is the simplest option for a day trip, especially to Phoenix.

Which Pyeongchang resort is best for beginners?

All the main resorts have beginner slopes. Alpensia is smaller and calmer, which many beginners like. Yongpyong has more variety if your group has mixed levels.

When does the ski season start in Korea?

Resorts usually open in late November or December and close in March. The exact dates depend on the weather and snow-making, so check each resort's announcements.

Is there snow in Pyeongchang without skiing?

Pyeongchang is one of the snowiest areas in Korea in mid-winter, but natural snow is never guaranteed. The resorts make artificial snow for the slopes, so you will see snow there during the season.

Do I need a car to ski in Pyeongchang?

No. The KTX plus resort shuttles or taxis work well for Yongpyong and Alpensia. Seasonal buses from Seoul cover Phoenix and the other resorts.