Ski in South Korea: Olympic Standards with a Cheap Price Tag

By WanderingExcursions | Mar 28, 2019
Asia > South Korea

As most of the world is aware, the 2018 Winter Olympics was held in Pyeongchang, South Korea. What people don't know is, in comparison to quality and experience, South Korea is also the cheapest ski destination! So, fellow shredders and snow-bunnies take notes, cause the new winter hot spot isn't up the most secluded mountains of Europe and won't cost you quarter of a year's salary.

When Julian and I discovered that South Korea had over 12 legitimate ski resorts, we were eager to do do the research. Fortunate to have attended the Winter Olympics in Korea, we understood quickly why Pyeongchang was chosen. Four of some of best ski resorts in the country are found in the area: YongPyong, Phoenix Park, Jeongseon and Alpensia. They are all relatively close to one another, with the longest distance, being a 30 minute bus ride.

Pricing: $30 to $90 USD a day depending on season time, half/ full day pass and what you need to rent. This price usually includes lift tickets, skis/ board, boots, helmet, googles, jacket and ski pants

To get a feel of the best aspects of each one of these resorts, here is a brief break down.

YongPyong Ski Resort


Known for: The main venue of the 2018 Winter Olympics, The largest ski resort in South Korea, Awarded the "Best Ski Resort in South Korea" 4 years consecutively and A handful of Korean Drama were filmed here.

Slopes & Lifts: 13 ski lifts, 1 gondola (Asia's longest 7.4km) and 28 slopes of varying levels.

Highly Recommended for: Due to it's narrower slopes, it's a skiers of all levels paradise.

Olympic Event: The slalom and giant slalom events were held here.

Phoenix Park


Known for: Being the newest resort that opened in 2018, Extreme Park including a table top, round quarter and half pipe and 12 of the slopes are approved for international competitions which include expert ariel and mogul.

Slopes & Lifts: 8 lifts, 6 sun-kid lifts, 1 gondola and 21 slopes.

Highly Recommended for: Snowboarders due to the access of the Extreme Park but also great for skiers.

Olympic Event: Both Freestyle sking and snowboarding events! So get ready for some air!

Jeongseong Alpine Center


Known for: Being a smaller resort for higher level skiers and snowboarders.

Slopes & Lifts: 4 lifts

Highly Recommended for: With 40% of the runs for advanced/ expert ski/snowboarders, it's more catering towards intermediate levels and up.

Olympic Event: Super giant slalom and Downhill alpine skiing.

Alpensia


Known for: Premium resort accommodation, leisure activities and facilities for handicapped wheel chair access.

Slopes & Lifts: 6 slopes and 3 lifts

Highly Recommended for: Beginners due to it's separated "learning section". Great for families since Alpensia has a Spa, tennis court, a children's play ground and a coaster ride!

Olympic Event: Big air snowboarding, Ski jumping and Nordic combined.

Winter Snowboarding Snowboard Budget Olympics Ski Resort Snow Ski Asia South Korea

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Written by WanderingExcursions
Your Wandering Excursionists Crystle-Day and Julian here! We encourage laid back travel while promoting others to become "local" tourists in a country. Follow us, as we take on new challenges, venture into different worlds and attempt to get the most authentic experiences each location has to offer.

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