Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, is a vibrant city with a thriving nightlife, a rich culinary scene, and a fascinating history. December is a magical time to visit Seoul, as the city is adorned with festive decorations and filled with the spirit of the holiday season. However, with temperatures dropping to an average of -1°C (30°F), it’s important to pack the right clothes to stay warm and stylish during your trip.
Must-Have Layers
Layering is key to staying comfortable in Seoul’s cold winter weather. Start with a base layer of moisture-wicking underwear to keep you dry. Then, add a mid-layer of insulation such as a fleece sweater or a thin down jacket. Finally, top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer, such as a parka or a wool coat.
Accessories to Keep You Cozy
Accessories can make all the difference in keeping you warm and stylish. A warm hat will keep your head and ears protected from the cold, while a scarf will keep your neck warm. Gloves are also essential to keep your hands from getting cold. For extra warmth, consider wearing a pair of thermal socks or leg warmers under your pants.
Stylish Footwear
Choosing the right footwear is also important for staying comfortable in Seoul’s winter weather. Opt for warm and waterproof boots or shoes with a good grip to navigate the icy streets. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, choose comfortable shoes with good arch support.
Daytime Outfits
During the day, you can dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable while exploring Seoul’s many attractions. Here are some outfit ideas:
- A mock turtleneck sweater with jeans and a parka
- A fleece-lined hoodie with leggings and a wool coat
- A button-down shirt with a cardigan and a faux fur vest
- A turtleneck dress with tights and knee-high boots
Evening Outfits
In the evening, you can dress up a bit more for dinner or a night out. Here are some outfit ideas:
- A velvet dress with heels and a faux fur stole
- A sequin top with a skirt and a blazer
- A fitted sweater with dress pants and ankle boots
- A jumpsuit with a statement necklace and heels
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing what to wear in Seoul in December:
- Dressing too lightly: It’s important to dress warmly in Seoul’s cold winter weather.
- Wearing uncomfortable shoes: Choose comfortable shoes with good support to avoid foot pain.
- Not layering: Layering is key to staying warm and comfortable in Seoul’s winter weather.
- Forgetting accessories: Accessories such as hats, scarves, and gloves can make all the difference in keeping you warm.
- Packing too much: Seoul is a very walkable city, so it’s important to pack light.
Seoul Fashion Trends
Seoul is a fashion-forward city, so you’ll see a variety of stylish outfits on the streets. Here are some of the current fashion trends in Seoul:
- Puffers: Puffer jackets and vests are a popular choice for keeping warm in Seoul’s winter weather.
- Oversized silhouettes: Oversized sweaters, coats, and dresses are another popular trend in Seoul.
- Athleisure: Athleisure wear, such as leggings, sweatshirts, and sneakers, is becoming increasingly popular in Seoul.
- Monochrome: Monochrome outfits, in colors such as black, white, and gray, are a chic and stylish choice for Seoul’s winter weather.
- Streetwear: Streetwear, such as hoodies, graphic tees, and sneakers, is a popular trend among young people in Seoul.
Shopping in Seoul
Seoul is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end boutiques to affordable street markets. Here are some of the best places to shop in Seoul:
- Myeongdong: Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district with a variety of shops, including cosmetics stores, clothing stores, and food stalls.
- Hongdae: Hongdae is a popular shopping district among young people, with a variety of shops selling unique and trendy items.
- Dongdaemun: Dongdaemun is a large shopping district with a variety of shops, including department stores, clothing stores, and electronics stores.
- Itaewon: Itaewon is a popular shopping district for foreigners, with a variety of shops selling international brands and souvenirs.
- Namdaemun: Namdaemun is a traditional market with a variety of stalls selling everything from food to clothing to souvenirs.
Weather in Seoul in December
December is a cold month in Seoul, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C (30°F) to 5°C (41°F). It’s important to pack warm clothing and accessories to stay comfortable during your trip.
Here is a table with average temperatures and precipitation in Seoul in December:
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Precipitation (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| December | -1°C (30°F) | 24.9 mm |
Packing Tips
Here are some packing tips for your trip to Seoul in December:
- Pack layers of clothing so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
- Include both warm and waterproof clothing and accessories.
- Pack comfortable shoes with good support.
- Consider packing a small umbrella in case of rain.
- Pack light, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking in Seoul.
Conclusion
Seoul is a beautiful city to visit in December, with festive decorations, a vibrant nightlife, and a rich culinary scene. By packing the right clothes and accessories, you can stay warm and stylish during your trip.
