Things to Do in Jeju in December

December Weather in Jeju

19°C (66°F) High Temp

10°C (50°F) Low Temp

60mm (2.4 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect hiking weather - cool temperatures between 10-19°C (50-66°F) make Hallasan summit attempts comfortable without the summer heat exhaustion risk
Crystal clear skies for photography - December has the year's lowest humidity at 65% and minimal haze, offering stunning views of Mount Hallasan and coastal cliffs
Off-season pricing - accommodation costs drop 30-40% compared to summer peak, and popular attractions like Seongsan Ilchulbong have manageable crowds
Ideal conditions for hot springs and spas - the cool air makes outdoor onsen experiences at places like Maze Land area particularly enjoyable

Considerations

Strong winter winds averaging 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph) can make coastal activities like Udo ferry rides choppy and some hiking trails temporarily close
Limited daylight hours with sunset around 5:30pm restricts sightseeing time and some attractions close earlier
Unpredictable ferry schedules to nearby islands due to rough seas - cancellation rates increase 40% in December

Best Activities in December

Hallasan National Park Winter Hiking

December offers the best hiking conditions of the year with cool, crisp air perfect for the 9km (5.6-mile) Seongpanak trail to the summit. No summer heat stress, fewer crowds, and occasional frost creates magical winter landscapes. The 1,947m (6,388ft) summit provides unobstructed views on clear December days.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required for trails, but check weather conditions daily. Start early (7am) due to shorter daylight. Expect 6-8 hours round trip. Trail difficulty increases with wind - have backup indoor plans.

Jeju Coastal Cliff Walking Tours

Cool December temperatures make the dramatic coastal walks at Seongsan Ilchulbong and Seopjikoji incredibly comfortable. The low humidity provides exceptional visibility for sunrise viewing and photography. Wind can be strong but creates dramatic wave action perfect for photos.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, guided tours typically ₩35,000-50,000 ($26-37). Book sunrise tours 2-3 days ahead through licensed operators. Check wind conditions - tours may modify routes for safety.

Traditional Jeju Hot Spring Experiences

December's cool air makes outdoor hot spring pools and jjimjilbangs extraordinarily relaxing. The contrast between cool air and warm mineral water is perfect. Many facilities offer special winter treatments using local ingredients like green tea and volcanic clay.

Booking Tip: Day passes typically ₩15,000-25,000 ($11-19). Peak times are evenings after 6pm. Book spa treatments 1-2 days ahead. Look for facilities with both indoor and outdoor pools to maximize the seasonal experience.

Jeju Folk Village Cultural Tours

Cool weather makes exploring traditional thatched-roof villages comfortable for extended periods. December often features traditional winter preparation activities and seasonal craft demonstrations. The low tourist season means more authentic interactions with local artisans.

Booking Tip: Entry typically ₩11,000-15,000 ($8-11) for adults. Cultural experience programs cost ₩25,000-40,000 ($19-30). Book hands-on activities through the visitor center. Allow 3-4 hours for full experience.

Manjanggul Cave Underground Exploration

The cave's consistent 11-13°C (52-55°F) temperature feels comfortable in December's cool weather. No summer heat shock when entering/exiting. December's lower visitor numbers mean you can explore the 1km (0.6-mile) accessible section without crowds blocking photo opportunities of the lava formations.

Booking Tip: Entry ₩2,000 ($1.50) for adults. Open 9am-6pm but last entry 5:20pm. No advance booking needed but arrive early for best lighting conditions. Wear non-slip shoes - surfaces can be damp.

Jeju Olle Trail Winter Walking

December provides ideal conditions for the coastal Olle walking trails with cool temperatures and dramatic winter seascapes. Trails 7 and 10 offer spectacular clifftop views without summer heat exhaustion. The seasonal wind creates stunning wave action photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Trails are free and self-guided. Download official Olle app for GPS navigation. Each trail takes 3-6 hours. Pack windproof layers and check weather - some coastal sections may close in high winds. Trail passport stamps available at checkpoints.

December Events & Festivals

Mid to Late December

Jeju Fire Festival

Annual winter celebration featuring traditional fire ceremonies, local food stalls, and cultural performances. The cool December weather makes gathering around ceremonial fires particularly atmospheric and meaningful.

Throughout December

Winter Illumination at Camellia Hill

Extensive light displays throughout the botanical gardens showcasing winter camellias in bloom. The cool evening air makes walking through the illuminated gardens comfortable for extended periods.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Windproof outer layer - December winds average 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph) especially on coastal areas and Hallasan trails

Layering system: base layer, fleece/sweater, windproof jacket for temperature range of 10-19°C (50-66°F)

Waterproof hiking boots with good grip - trails can be wet from 8 rainy days and morning frost

Warm hat and gloves for early morning hiking starts and summit attempts where temperatures drop further

Lightweight rain jacket - December showers are brief but frequent, lasting 30-45 minutes

Sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index 3 but reflection off volcanic rock increases exposure

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains batteries faster during long hiking days

Cash in small bills - many traditional villages and rural attractions don't accept cards

Thermal base layer for hot spring visits - outdoor pools require changing in cool air

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support for uneven volcanic terrain and Olle trails

Insider Knowledge

Local ajummas (older women) start selling hot roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes from street carts in December - they know the best windproof spots near major attractions

Book accommodations in Seogwipo over Jeju City in December - the southern location is more sheltered from northern winter winds and closer to hiking trailheads

Jeju's December tangerines are at peak ripeness - buy directly from roadside farms for ₩3,000-5,000 ($2-4) per bag, much cheaper than tourist shops

Ferry services to Udo and Chuja islands operate on reduced schedules in December due to rough seas - always check morning conditions and have mainland backup plans

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating wind chill on coastal areas - the 'feels like' temperature can be 5-8°C (9-14°F) lower than actual temperature near cliffs and beaches

Planning too many outdoor activities after 4pm - December darkness arrives quickly and many hiking trails and outdoor attractions close or become unsafe

Assuming summer ferry schedules apply - December weather causes frequent cancellations to outer islands, stranding tourists or disrupting itineraries