Winter Essentials in Korea: A Guide for Foreigners and Expats
With the first snow just arriving in Korea, social media is buzzing with beautiful photos of snow-covered streets, but there’s no denying the cold that comes with it. For many foreigners and expats, experiencing a Korean winter can be both magical and challenging. Many clients and friends have shared stories of their first winter here—walking through the first snowfall is always breathtaking, but the biting cold can come as a surprise. Having the right winter essentials makes all the difference. Fortunately, Wonderful is here to make sure your winter preparation is smooth and stress-free! We've compiled a list of must-haves to help you stay comfortable, warm, and cozy all season long.
1. Heat Packs: Your Portable Warmth Solution
Heat packs are a lifesaver during the cold Korean winter. Small, portable, and incredibly convenient, these heat packs can be slipped into pockets, shoes, or even clothes, providing hours of warmth. Locals often slip one into their gloves before taking a stroll through Namsan Park during winter—it keeps fingers from freezing while enjoying the city views.
Most heat packs are air-activated and contain iron powder, which produces heat through oxidation. Once shaken or pressed, they warm up and last for several hours, making them perfect for outings during frosty mornings or evenings.
There are several types of heat packs available in Korea:
Disposable Heat Packs: These single-use packs are perfect for on-the-go warmth and can last for several hours. They’re air-activated and easy to use.
Reusable Gel Heat Packs: These contain a gel that can be reheated in the microwave or by boiling, making them a great eco-friendly option. Many people love using these at home after a long walk in the cold.
Electric Heat Packs: These battery-operated or plug-in devices are ideal for consistent heat indoors. They’re great for warming up a bed before settling in for the night.
You can find heat packs at convenience stores like GS25 and CU, at Daiso for affordable options, or through online retailers like Coupang and Gmarket.
Wonderful can help find the best heat packs available in Korea, whether you prefer the kind that slips into shoes, sticks to clothing, or fits snugly in coat pockets. They’re a winter essential that shouldn't be missed, and Wonderful ensures they are delivered right to your home or office, so you don't have to go out into the cold without them.
2. Draft Blockers: Keep the Cold Out
One of the biggest challenges during winter is keeping an apartment warm. Many clients living in older apartments have shared how they could feel the cold air sneaking in through every window and door. Draft blockers make a world of difference by sealing those gaps and keeping the warmth in.
Draft blockers are simple to install and can significantly lower heating bills by keeping the cold out. Here are some options available:
Door Draft Stoppers: Foam or fabric tubes placed at the bottom of doors can prevent cold air from entering. Some even have dual sides to cover both sides of the door, adding extra insulation.
Adhesive Weather Strips: These strips can be easily applied around door and window frames to seal any gaps. They come in different thicknesses to suit individual needs.
Window Insulation Film: A transparent film that adds an extra layer of insulation to windows. It’s easy to apply and helps reduce heat loss, especially in drafty apartments.
Silicone Door Seals: Flexible silicone strips that attach to door bottoms or window edges, providing an airtight seal to keep the warmth in.
Wonderful can help find and order these draft stoppers online, saving the trouble of navigating Korean shopping websites. Our agents can also help ensure you get just the right size and assist with installation if a handyman is needed.
3. Heat-Tech Clothing: Layers for Ultimate Warmth
Layering is key to surviving a Korean winter, and heat-tech clothing is the secret weapon that keeps everyone warm without the bulk. Many friends and clients agree that heat-tech clothing can be the difference between enjoying a winter stroll by the Han River or retreating indoors after just a few minutes.
Korea offers a wide range of warm underclothes, from thermal leggings to undershirts made from special fabrics designed to retain heat:
Uniqlo HEATTECH: Uniqlo's HEATTECH line is a popular choice. It comes in various levels of warmth, from basic to Ultra Warm, which is perfect for particularly freezing days. The fabric absorbs body moisture and converts it into heat, creating a cozy feeling.
SPAO Warm Tech: SPAO offers thermal innerwear that’s both affordable and effective. Their pieces are perfect for layering without feeling bulky.
BYC Body Heat: BYC's collection is ideal for keeping warm indoors. The tops and bottoms fit snugly under regular clothes, providing an extra layer of heat.
Whether thermal tights, tops, or full-body layers are needed, Wonderful can help choose the best heat-tech gear for the winter wardrobe, ensuring everyone stays toasty without sacrificing style.
4. Beanies and Gloves: Essential Accessories
Keeping the head and hands warm is crucial during the winter months. Many clients have shared stories of how their ears ached from the cold after a short walk to the store without a beanie. A good beanie can prevent a significant amount of heat loss from the head. For those worried about beanies being itchy, opt for ones made from merino wool, cashmere, or acrylic blends. These materials are soft, breathable, and less likely to cause irritation compared to traditional wool. Look for beanies labeled as hypoallergenic or with a fleece lining for added comfort. And don’t forget gloves! Whether looking for stylish leather gloves or cozy knitted ones, keeping hands warm makes winter outings much more enjoyable. Wonderful can help find the perfect accessories to complete a winter look.
5. Electric Heaters: Keep Your Space Cozy
Not all homes in Korea have ondol (underfloor heating), which can leave an apartment feeling chilly, especially in older buildings. Electric heaters are a fantastic way to keep the space warm and comfortable.
Here are some types of electric heaters to consider:
Ceramic Heaters: These are popular for their quick heating capabilities and energy efficiency. They work well in medium-sized rooms and heat up quickly, which is perfect for cold mornings.
Oil-Filled Radiators: These heaters provide consistent, long-lasting warmth. Many clients prefer using them in bedrooms—they’re safe, as they don’t have exposed heating elements, and they keep the room warm throughout the night.
Infrared Heaters: These heaters emit infrared radiation that directly warms objects and people rather than just the air. They’re highly energy-efficient and great for spot heating.
Fan Heaters: Compact and portable, fan heaters are perfect for small spaces or for moving around the apartment as needed.
How to Choose the Correct Size: To choose the right heater, consider the size of the room to be heated. A good rule of thumb is to use 10 watts of heating power per square foot. For example, for a small room (up to 150 square feet), a heater with 1,500 watts should be sufficient. For larger rooms, multiple heaters or a more powerful unit may be needed.
Wonderful can help find a reliable electric heater that suits the home and budget, handling all the details so that everyone can enjoy a cozy, warm space without the fuss.
6. Indoor Plant Lights: Healthy Plants, Even in Winter
Winter doesn’t just affect people—it affects plants too! For those who love having greenery at home but worry about the lack of sunlight, indoor plant lights are a great solution. Friends and clients with small herb gardens on their windowsills have found that a plant light makes all the difference in keeping them thriving during the winter months.
These lights mimic natural sunlight, ensuring plants stay healthy even during the darker months. Many indoor plant lights in Korea use LED technology, which can include UV (ultraviolet) light components. UV light helps promote photosynthesis and healthy growth, keeping plants vibrant all year long.
Wonderful can assist in finding the right lights for an indoor garden and have them delivered quickly.
7. Moisturizers: Combat Dry Winter Skin
Cold air brings dry skin, which means a good moisturizer is a must-have for winter. Many clients have mentioned how Korean winters can be harsh on the skin—dry, chapped hands are no fun! Body lotions, hand creams, and facial moisturizers will keep skin hydrated and protected.
Korea is known for its incredible skincare products, and here are some top moisturizers to keep skin healthy during the colder months:
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream: This cream strengthens the skin barrier and provides deep hydration, making it ideal for combating dry winter skin.
Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer: Infused with hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer helps maintain moisture balance and keeps skin feeling soft.
Whether a rich body lotion or a light facial moisturizer is needed, Wonderful can help find the perfect product to keep skin happy all winter long.
Wonderful Makes Winter Shopping Easy
Winter in Korea can be beautiful, but it can also be challenging if not prepared. From heat packs to electric heaters and cozy accessories, Wonderful is here to make winter comfortable and enjoyable. Let us handle the shopping, delivery, and all the little details, so that staying warm is easy and stress-free. We are the best on-demand English-speaking virtual assistant service in South Korea. Serving the expat community for nearly 10 years we've maintained the highest customer ratings on both Google and Facebook.
Don't let language barriers or unfamiliar surroundings hold you back from exploring South Korea's hidden treasures. Let Wonderful be your guide to a seamless and unforgettable adventure.
Regarding our pricing, we charge for the time taken working on your request by the minute, for as low as 1250 KRW per minute, depending on your preferred pricing package. If interested in our service, you can reach us on Facebook, Kakao Talk, WhatsApp, Instagram or Email.
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