Korea is getting a hefty helping of snow today. The long-awaited winter wonderland is finally here for everyone to enjoy. I can smell the sweet potatoes and roasting chestnuts in the air. Warm red gloves covering my sensitive hands, snowflakes in my hair, and a cozy night watching Harry Potter as snow falls gently in the window -the perfect snow day. BUT.. Korean snow days aren’t just fun and games. Here are some Korean snow day essentials you care going to need to survive.
Even if winter is a beautiful season for some of us, we must admit that sometimes it is very difficult to deal with it. If you are a cold-sensitive person like me, you may need extra care during winter. In Korea, the winter season can be harsh, especially in the northern part of the country. Usually, Korean winter lasts from November till March, bringing strong winds from Russia and average temperatures of –5 C. Depending on the region, you may be able to see heavy snowfall. So, in order to stay warm and safe this winter, I made a list of Korean snow day essentials that I am going to share with you all today.
Humidifier
First of all, I highly recommend you buy a mini humidifier from Art Box or Daiso. The extra dry air during winter can seriously irritate your eyes, sinuses, and throat. It may worsen your allergies or give you headaches. My humidifier is my little friend who takes care of me whenever I feel under the weather. I bought mine for only 9,900 won from Art Box. You can also order one online from websites like Coupang or GS Market. Don’t forget, stay hydrated and moisturized!
Eye Drops
In addition to a mini humidifier, some eye drops in your bag will come in handy during the harsh winter season in Korea, especially on a windy day. I don’t wear glasses, but I use my computer a lot. Plus, I read a lot. My eyes are very sensitive and tend to get itchy easily during windy winter days. Thankfully, I can use the eye drops I bought from a pharmacy without a prescription. They keep my eyes clean and moisturized during snowy, windy winter days.
Hot packs
I simply love hot packs. Hot packs in my hands, hot packs in my coat, hot packs in my shoes – everywhere. Because I’m very sensitive to cold weather, hot packs are a blessing during winter. Fortunately, in Korea you can buy them from almost any store for only 1,000 won each. How do they work? Inside of a hot pack, you will find a mixture of metallic particles that start to produce heat when air comes in contact with them. It’s not magic. It’s science haha
Long Padding
I bet you have already seen many Korean students wearing long padding coats. It makes them look like a caterpillar struggling to cross the street. Despite the awkwardness, long padding coats are a God-given blessing during the winter. It keeps you warm and protected from the wind. Even if some long padding coats may be a little bit pricey, they are worth the money.
Tumbler
Having your own tumbler filled with hot coffee or tea is mandatory for Korean snow days. Plus, it’s eco-friendly. Instead of using paper cups or plastic bottles all the time, investing in a quality tumbler is a better option. Every day before attending classes I take my time to prepare myself honey ginger tea in my favorite tumbler and take it with me wherever I go.
Snow Duck Maker
In Korea, making snow ducks is an essential snow day activity. They sell molds along the street that you can use to press snow into the shape of ducks. The trend caught on last year. However, this year you can find snow molds in a variety of shapes. Bears, hearts, start – even dinosaurs. Nothing is more satisfying than throwing a snow duck at your friend hehe.
If you need more tips on surviving Korea’s harsh winters, >>Click Here<< for a Brazilian’s guide to winter in Korea.
