If you’re spending winter in Seoul, there’s one seasonal experience that locals and visitors alike look forward to every year: the Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink right in front of City Hall. Affordable, atmospheric, and incredibly central, this open-air rink has quietly become one of Seoul’s most beloved winter traditions—and it’s back again this season.
A Classic Seoul Winter Experience, Right in the City Center
The Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink opens for its 19th winter season on December 19, transforming the plaza in front of Seoul City Hall into a lively winter playground. The rink will be open for 52 days, until February 8, making it a perfect stop whether you’re visiting Seoul for a short trip or spending the entire winter here. Few cities offer ice skating in such a dramatic urban setting, with historic buildings, modern offices, and festive lights all around you.
Skating for Just 1,000 Won
One of the most surprising things for first-time visitors is the price. Since its opening in 2004, the admission fee has remained just 1,000 KRW, including skate rental. In a city where winter activities can add up quickly, this makes Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink one of the most budget-friendly experiences you’ll find. The rink operates from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM, and stays open even later—until 11:00 PM on Saturdays and public holidays.
This Year’s Theme: “Wintering”
For this season, the rink is designed around the theme “Wintering,” focusing on warmth and brightness despite the cold weather. The plaza is wrapped in a glowing diamond-shaped ring of soft yellow lights, creating a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere that feels especially magical after sunset. Even if you don’t skate, it’s worth visiting just to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Opening Ceremony and Special Guests
The opening ceremony on December 19 at 5:00 PM will feature a percussion performance, a celebratory figure skating show, and appearances by notable guests—including Cha Jun-hwan, Korea’s star figure skater, and Shim Suk-hee, a short-track speed skating legend and Olympic Gold Medalist preparing for the upcoming Winter Olympics. It’s a rare chance to see top Korean winter sports athletes up close in a casual, public setting.
More Than Skating: Winter Programs at Seoul Plaza
Skating is only part of the experience. From January 31 to February 7, visitors can explore interactive promotion booths for luge and bobsleigh, two Winter Olympic sports that many people have never seen in person. You’ll be able to view real equipment and learn how these high-speed sports work.
The plaza also hosts a Local Market Zone, expanded from last year’s direct farmers’ market. Vendors from Gunsan City in Jeollabuk-do will sell local agricultural products, snacks, and comfort food—perfect for warming up after skating.
Things to Know Before You Go
Because it’s an outdoor rink, operations may pause due to heavy snow, rain, or poor air quality, so it’s a good idea to check the official Seoul city website before heading over. Dress warmly, wear gloves, and plan to arrive a bit early during peak evening hours, especially on weekends.
Why Ice Skating in the heart of Seoul is a Worthwhile Experience
The Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink captures something very special about winter in Seoul: it’s communal, affordable, and right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a confident skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, this is one of those seasonal experiences that helps you understand how Seoul celebrates winter—together, outdoors, and with a surprising amount of charm.
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