Gangwon-do is the heart of winter sports in Korea, home to the country’s most well-known ski resorts.
Every winter, skiers and snowboarders from Korea and abroad visit this region for its reliable snow conditions and well-developed resort infrastructure.

With a wide range of slopes and modern facilities, Gangwon-do offers an environment where beginners, families, and experienced riders can all enjoy winter sports comfortably.
Beyond skiing, the region also combines resort-style accommodation and seasonal winter activities, making it Korea’s most complete winter travel destination.

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Recommended Ski Resorts in Gangwon-do (Traveler & International Visitor 기준)

🥇 Phoenix Snow Park

Phoenix Snow Park gained international recognition as a venue for snowboarding and freestyle skiing during the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

The resort features a well-balanced layout that suits beginners through intermediate riders, with intuitive slopes and smooth lift connections.
Its ski-in/ski-out resort design makes movement easy, and the overall atmosphere feels modern and energetic.

Best for:
First-time visitors to Korean ski resorts, younger travelers, and international guests looking for a smooth introduction to winter sports in Korea.

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🥈 High1 Resort

Located in Jeongseon, High1 Resort sits at a higher elevation than many other Korean ski resorts, resulting in good snow quality throughout the season.

The slopes are long and open, offering wide views of the surrounding mountains.
Night skiing is also popular here, and the resort features additional facilities such as a casino, spa, and indoor leisure areas.

Best for:
Travelers who value snow quality, scenic views, and a relaxed resort-style experience.

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🥉 Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort

Elysian Gangchon is known for its excellent accessibility from Seoul, making it ideal for short trips.
Although smaller in scale, the slopes are well maintained and easy to navigate.

The simple layout makes this resort especially suitable for beginners and first-time skiers, and nearby attractions such as Nami Island allow easy itinerary combinations.

Best for:
Day trips, short stays, and travelers who want to try skiing without a long journey.

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Vivaldi Park Ski World

Vivaldi Park Ski World is known for its lively resort atmosphere and night skiing.
With a variety of slopes and extensive dining and accommodation options, it is popular with families and group travelers.

Best for:
Family trips, night skiing, and travelers who want skiing combined with resort entertainment.

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Yongpyong Resort

Yongpyong Resort is one of Korea’s oldest and most established ski resorts.
Rather than focusing on size alone, it is best known for its stable operations and beginner- and family-friendly environment.

With a high proportion of beginner and intermediate slopes, along with well-organized ski lessons and resort accommodations, it remains a solid choice for family winter trips.

Best for:
Families, beginners, and travelers seeking a classic and reliable Korean ski resort experience.

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How to Choose the Right Ski Resort

• First time skiing in Korea → Phoenix Snow Park
• Snow quality & mountain views → High1 Resort
• Easy access & short trips → Elysian Gangchon
• Family trips & night skiing → Vivaldi Park
• Beginner-friendly resort stay → Yongpyong Resort

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Tips for Visiting Ski Resorts in Gangwon-do

• Weekdays are much less crowded than weekends during peak season
• Check official resort websites for lift ticket discounts, rental packages, and accommodation deals
• Most major resorts offer hotels, condominiums, and nearby pensions for convenient stays

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Winter Activities Beyond Skiing

Gangwon-do offers much more than skiing alone.
Visitors can enjoy sledding, ice fishing, hot springs, and winter hiking, making it an excellent destination even for non-skiers traveling with family or friends.

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Final Thoughts

Gangwon-do is the region where Korea’s winter feels most complete.
With its combination of skiing, natural landscapes, resort comfort, and seasonal activities, it remains the top winter destination for international travelers, families, and beginners alike.