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Surviving a Korean Winter: Must-Have Cold Weather Gear to Prepare from November

📌 Heads up before you read

The chill of winter 2024 might have arrived a bit later this year, but do not let your guard down! Korean winters are no joke—they can freeze you to the bone. 😮


If you are currently somewhere warm, just imagining Korea’s icy weather might be enough to make your teeth chatter. ❄️😭 (But don't worry, it's not as cold as a Russian winter 😂)


Whether you are planning to travel, study, work, or live in Korea, it is essential to gear up for the winter that kicks off in full force from November. Starting in late October, temperatures begin to drop little by little. By November, many mornings and evenings hover around freezing, making cold-weather essentials a must. Today, we are talking about some winter fashion items to help you stay cozy and stylish in Korea! 🧥✨


You can choose to pack these items before you come to Korea or shop for them after you arrive - whatever works best for you. 😊❄️

 

🔎 Table of Contents


Part 1: Must-Have Winter Fashion Items for Korean Winters

Part 2: Winter Items by Korean Regions

 
Winter in Korea

① 귀마개[gwi-ma-gae]: Earmuffs


Ears are one of the most sensitive areas to the cold. If you’re visiting chilly regions like Gangwon-do, there’s even a risk of frostbite on your ears. That’s why earmuffs are a winter essential in Korea.


From practical designs focused on warmth to adorable styles that add a touch of fashion, earmuffs let you stay cozy and stylish at the same time. In Korea, you can easily find them at shopping centers near subway stations or at various accessory shops. 🧸❄️

 

② 바라클라바[ba-ra-keul-ra-ba]: Balaclava


Korea’s winter wind is no joke—it’s sharp enough to feel like it’s freezing your skin on contact. On the coldest days, the wind can sting your face so much it feels like it’s cutting you with a knife. 😖 That’s why balaclavas have become a winter must-have in Korea.


Modern Korean balaclavas do more than just keep your head, neck, and even face warm—they’re also stylish! With so many unique designs, they’ve become a trendy fashion item too. 🎭✨

 

③ 마스크[ma-seu-keu]: Mask


A mask is an essential item to protect your face from the biting wind while keeping you warm. In colder regions like Seoul, Gyeonggi, or Gangwon-do, stepping out without one can leave you at risk of catching a cold. That’s why we highly recommend wearing a winter mask! 😷


In Korea, winter masks come in a variety of designs, doubling as a fashion statement. Made with functional materials, they are breathable and warm, making them a popular item during the winter season. ❄️

 

④ 목도리[mok-do-ri]: Scarf


Depending on the scarf you choose, it can be a simple cold-weather accessory or a full-on fashion statement. From cozy neck warmers to classic mufflers, there’s a wide range of options to suit your style. Just adding a scarf to a simple coat instantly levels up your look while keeping you snug. It’s the perfect way to stay warm and stylish during the winter! 🧣✨

 
Winter in Korea

⑤ 장갑[jang-gap]: Gloves


Touchscreen-compatible gloves are a top pick for winter in Korea, especially among younger people in their teens and twenties. From gloves that fully cover your fingers to ones with exposed fingertips for easier smartphone use, there’s a wide variety of styles available. These gloves have become an essential item because they keep your hands warm while letting you use your phone without taking them off. It’s a practical and stylish must-have! 🧤📱❄️

 

⑥ 핫팩[hat-paek]: Hot pack(s)


The unsung hero of Korean winters—hot packs. These come in two types: hand warmers and body adhesive packs. Use them to warm your hands in your pockets or stick them to your clothes to keep your body toasty. During winter, hot packs are sold at most Korean convenience stores at an affordable price, making them an easy and effective way to beat the cold. 🔥

 
Winter in Korea

⑦ 패딩[pae-ding]: Padded jacket, Puffer jacket


These jackets, the ultimate winter gear, are so popular in Korea that they’re often referred to as the 'winter uniform' for Koreans. With a variety of functional and stylish designs, there’s a jacket to suit everyone.


롱패딩[long-pae-ding]

Long padded/Puffer jacket

While long jackets remain a favorite, some fashion-conscious young Koreans prefer shorter styles, coining the phrase 얼죽숏[eol-juk-ssot], meaning "I’d rather freeze than not wear a short padded jacket." 🧥❄️


숏패딩[syot-pae-ding]

Short padded/Puffer jacket

Oversized short padded or puffer jackets are trending right now, making them a versatile piece for all kinds of outfits. Vibrant-colored short jackets are especially popular among younger people. 🧥✨

 

⑧ 부츠[bu-cheu]: Boots


Boots are a must-have for keeping your feet warm during winter. On snowy days, waterproof boots are perfect for stepping out without worrying about wet feet. Additionally, insulated and slip-resistant winter boots provide both practicality and style.


In regions where temperatures drop below freezing and icy roads are a daily challenge, it is especially important to choose boots with non-slip soles. These boots will keep you steady on slippery ice, ensuring your winter outings are both safer and cozier. 👢❄️

 

Wearing a balaclava can be uncomfortable if you frequently apply makeup. In such cases, many Koreans opt for cozy knit hats instead.


For Korean women who just cannot give up their skirts or dresses, fleece-lined leggings or stockings are a go-to during winter. These items not only keep you warm but also help maintain a sleek silhouette.

“Wearing short skirts in this freezing weather? Really?” Yes, absolutely! It is common to see people wearing short skirts even in the cold, so do not be surprised. 😮❄️

 

Winter Prep Done! 🎉

Korean winters may be freezing, but with the right preparation, you can even enjoy the cold. Embrace the charm of a Korean winter with warm and stylish cold-weather gear. We hope you stay cozy and fashionable this season with these must-have items. 🌨️✨


And remember, although Korea is a small country, it has distinct seasons and varying geographic features like mountains and coasts, which means winter temperatures can differ greatly depending on the region. Next time, we will share region-specific cold-weather recommendations. See you again soon! 👋❄️

 

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