Six Must-Visit Hot Springs for Winter: From Snowy Seorak to Jeju’s Volcanic Baths

If you’re looking for a winter getaway that warms both body and mind, few options are as satisfying as a winter hot spring trip. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety has recently officially selected six “must-visit hot springs for winter”, unveiling some of Korea’s 대표 hot spring destinations where you can enjoy snow-covered mountains, coastal views, and volcanic landscapes.

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Common Selection Criteria for the Winter Hot Springs

The selected hot springs were chosen not just for bathing, but based on a comprehensive set of criteria:

• Winter-specific scenery such as snow-covered mountains, seas, and volcanic terrain
• High winter satisfaction, including outdoor open-air baths
• Excellent water quality, such as carbonated and sulfate-rich springs
• Extended-stay travel appeal linked with nearby attractions and traditional markets

Notably, these winter hot spring recommendations were made based on local government nominations and reviewed by the Korea Hot Spring Association and industry experts, ensuring a high level of credibility.

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① Pille Hot Spring (Inje, Gangwon)

Nestled deep in the valleys of Seoraksan, Pille Hot Spring is considered a classic destination for snowy winter bathing. Soaking in the hot spring while gazing at the snow-covered ridges of Seoraksan offers a level of healing rarely found in urban settings.

Nearby attractions include the Whispering Birch Forest, Gombaeryeong Ridge, the Secret Garden, and cultural sites such as the Manhae Literature Museum, making it easy to combine nature and culture.

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② Wonam Hot Spring (Goseong, Gangwon)

Wonam Hot Spring boasts a unique location with a direct view of Ulsanbawi Rock in Seoraksan. It is also close to Songjiho and Hwajinpo Lagoons—representative coastal lakes of the East Sea—allowing visitors to enjoy a winter landscape where freshwater and sea coexist.

When combined with security tourism sites such as the Unification Observatory, this destination offers a perfect blend of winter healing and experiential travel.

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③ Seolhae Hot Spring (Yangyang, Gangwon)

Located in the eastern forest zone of Seoraksan, Seolhae Hot Spring offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by gently flowing forested ridges.

Visitors can enjoy winter ocean scenery along the Yangyang Haeparang Trail, Dongho Beach, and Naksan Beach, as well as local flavors at the Yangyang Traditional Market.

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④ Mungyeong STX Hot Spring (Mungyeong, Gyeongbuk)

Set amid mountainous terrain where Songnisan and the Baekdudaegan mountain range converge, Mungyeong STX Hot Spring is ideal for combining winter hiking with hot spring relaxation.

Along with Mungyeong Saejae and Songnisan National Park, visitors can explore Gaeun Ajaegae Market and the Mungyeong Coal Museum to experience the region’s industrial and everyday history.

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⑤ Solsaem Hot Spring (Cheongsong, Gyeongbuk)

Located near Juwangsan National Park, Solsaem Hot Spring is famous for its mineral-rich sulfate spring water.

In addition to the winter scenery of Jusanji Pond and Jeolgol Valley, the Cheongsong Ice Climbing World Cup, held every January, adds a unique highlight to winter travel.

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⑥ Sagye Hot Spring (Seogwipo, Jeju)

Jeju’s first public hot spring, Sagye Hot Spring, is located near Sanbangsan Mountain and Yongmeori Coast, making it a unique winter destination where you can enjoy both volcanic landscapes and hot springs.

The lava plateaus along the Olle Trail, Andeok Valley, and Gunsan Oreum, together with camellia flower spots that peak through late January, complete the winter hot spring experience in Jeju.

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Who Should Consider a Winter Hot Spring Trip?

✔ Those who want to enjoy open-air baths amid snowy scenery
✔ Those seeking recovery from winter fatigue and a boost to immunity
✔ Those who want to enjoy hot springs, sightseeing, and local cuisine all in one trip

The Ministry plans to continue discovering and promoting domestic hot spring destinations by season in connection with regional tourism. This winter, consider a nearby hot spring getaway to restore warmth to both your body and mind.