Korea Ice Skating Rinks — Top Places to Skate in Korea This Winter

 





Are you dreaming of gliding across ice under twinkling lights while visiting Korea this winter? Whether you’re an expat, traveller, or local looking for a fun outing — ice skating in Korea is a magical way to enjoy the season. In this post, we’ll walk you through some of the best ice skating rinks you can visit in Korea (especially around Seoul), from cozy indoor rinks to seasonal outdoor ones. Let’s lace up! ❄️

🏙️ Why Ice Skating in Korea Is a Must-Do Experience

Winter in Korea brings more than just snowy streets — it brings a lively ice-skating culture. For many locals and expats alike, skating becomes a festive tradition: a chance to enjoy winter outdoors, hang out with friends, or go on an affordable date. Rinks range from indoor year-round venues to seasonal open-air rinks in the heart of the city. The variety and accessibility make “ice skating in Korea” a great addition to any winter itinerary.

✨ Top Ice Skating Rinks in/near Seoul You Should Check Out

Here are several highly recommended ice skating rinks — each with its own vibe and advantages. I’ve grouped them by what kind of experience you might be looking for: all-year consistent skating, seasonal charm, or sports-level training.

🏠 Indoor & Year-Round Rinks — Great for Consistent Skating

  • Lotte World Indoor Ice Skating Rink — Located inside the huge amusement park in Jamsil, this rink stays open all year long. It’s ideal if you want a comfortable, weather-proof skating session. The glass dome lets in natural light while you skate. Perfect for casual skating with friends or family. (Many choose this for rainy days or mild winters.) 
  • Mokdong Ice Rink — A larger, regulation-style rink often used for figure skating or hockey training, but also open to the public. Good for more serious skaters or those who want a spacious indoor rink. 










🌃 Seasonal Outdoor & Unique Ice Rinks — For Winter Atmosphere

  • Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink — Right in front of City Hall, this rink operates roughly from December to February. For around ₩1,000 per hour (including skate rental), it’s one of the most affordable ways to skate in Seoul. There’s a beginner rink, a more advanced rink, skate/helmet rentals, and even seasonal events or decorations. A fun choice if you want to skate in the middle of the city. 
  • Grand Hyatt Seoul Ice Rink — For a cozy, romantic skating experience, this rink inside the Grand Hyatt hotel area transforms one of their pools or outdoor spaces into a winter rink. With holiday-style lighting and a charming vibe, it’s perfect for couples or a special winter outing. 
  • Olympic Park Ice Skating Rink — An outdoor rink inside the wide green spaces of Olympic Park. You get open-air skating, a relaxed atmosphere, and the chance to combine skating with a park stroll — a refreshing break from city bustle. 

🏅 For Sports & Training or More Serious Skating

  • Taereung International Skating Rink — A 400 m long-track rink used for speed skating and competitions, but also occasionally open to the public. Good if you want a more “athletic” skating experience or are curious about long-track skating. 

🧭 How to Choose the Right Ice Rink for You

  • Looking for a safe, easy, and travel-friendly experience? → Choose indoor rinks like Lotte World or Mokdong. They’re weatherproof and convenient if you have unpredictable travel schedules.
  • Want to enjoy winter in a festive or romantic atmosphere? → Seasonal outdoor rinks such as Seoul Plaza, Grand Hyatt, or Olympic Park give a magical vibe with lights, cityscape, or park surroundings.
  • Are you a serious skater or curious about speed skating? → Rinks like Taereung or Mokdong give a sportier, more structured skating environment.
  • Budget matters? → Outdoor seasonal rinks tend to be the cheapest (Seoul Plaza at ~₩1,000/hr), while indoor and hotel-based rinks are more costly but offer more comfort and convenience.

✅ Pro Tips for Ice Skating in Korea for Foreigners

  • Always check the opening season for seasonal rinks. Most outdoor rinks operate from late December through February. Occasionally high fine-dust levels can cause unexpected closures.
  • Bring warm clothes and gloves (some rinks rent gloves or helmets, but it’s safer to bring your own).
  • For crowded weekend slots, especially at popular rinks like Seoul Plaza or Lotte World — go early or arrive mid-week for a more relaxed experience.
  • If you’re a beginner, start at the small/novice rink (many rinks separate novice and advanced zones) — plenty of families and first-timers go there. Don’t be shy! 🙂
  • Combine skating with nearby attractions — many rinks are close to tourist spots, cafés, or shopping areas, so you can turn your skating session into a full winter day outing.

🌨️ Sample Winter Day Itinerary: Skating + Sightseeing

Here’s how you could spend a winter day in Seoul combining ice skating with sightseeing:

  1. Morning: Head to Seoul Plaza — start skating early (avoiding crowds), enjoy the city-center vibe. After skating, grab a warm tteokbokki or hot drink nearby.
  2. Late morning to early afternoon: Walk around nearby areas — maybe visit museums, cafés or do some shopping.
  3. Afternoon: Take subway to Lotte World — go indoor skating at the rink under the glass dome, enjoy the amusement park or have lunch nearby.
  4. Evening: Have dinner in Jamsil, then maybe relax — or if you’re up for more skating, head to Grand Hyatt Seoul for a romantic nighttime skate under lights.

💬 Conclusion

If you’re visiting Korea during the winter, ice skating is one of those simple yet magical experiences you shouldn’t miss. Whether you prefer indoor comfort or outdoor winter charm, there’s a rink for every mood and skill level. From an affordable skate at Seoul Plaza to a dreamy date at Grand Hyatt, or a full-day outing at Lotte World — “ice skating in Korea” offers a unique way to enjoy the season. So lace up, feel the chill, and glide away under Seoul’s lights or winter sky. 😊

Thinking about booking a rink or need help picking one based on your travel dates? Feel free to ask me — I’d love to help you plan your perfect skating outing in Korea!

Because weather and skating-rink availability can vary depending on environment and region, treat this post as a helpful guide and double-check official info before you go. 🛷

About Hello Korea: We provide information about traveling and living in Korea from a foreigner's perspective. If you have any questions or inquiries, contact us at hello.korea.blog@gmail.com

Privacy Policy: All personal information will be used solely for the purposes of this blog and will not be used for any other reason. Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is based on personal experience and publicly available sources. Actual experiences may differ depending on environment and region.





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