Muju Deukyusan Resort
Winter is here! That means hibernation for some, but those looking for snow and thrills can travel to Muju Deukyusan Resort in North Jeolla Province. The resort boasts lengthy, enjoyable slopes for all levels, as well as restaurants, markets, a noraebang, an arcade, a ping-pong and billiards hall, an Internet café, a shopping center and an open-air spa adjacent to the slopes. This is a great way to experience one of the best winter sporting resorts that Korea has to offer without having to travel across the country. 
“Muju’s got some of the longest and friendliest slopes in Korea. It’s my top pick because of the range of different slopes available and the amount of time you can spend on a single run,” said Sean D’Angelo. D’Angelo has been to Muju several times and is currently planning another trip.
Jessica Kerlas, who skied at Muju last season, reported that Muju is also a great place for enthusiasts of all levels, be they expert skies and snowboarders or beginners. “I found skiing in Korea to be much easier than in Italy, and I have heard that it is also easier than most places in the US [like Colorado or Utah]. The runs tend to be shorter, wider, and not as steep.”
There are two bases separating the layout of the slopes: Manseon, which has 11 runs, and Seolcheon with 6 slopes including Silk Road, a 6.2 km run that is the longest in Korea. Silk Road is a favorite run for many visitors. D’Angelo described it as a “steady slope that loops around the back side of the mountain, then spirals back around towards the face and goes right past the outdoor sauna, so you can ski there during break time and jump in a hot tub for an hour. Pretty sweet.”
Because the mountains are farther south, the resort has to produce artificial snow to maintain its slopes. This leads to more ice and effort while skiing or snowboarding, so for two hours each day there is a break so the staff can resurface the slopes. It is a great time to warm-up, grab some food and maybe some warm sake or coffee to ready yourself for the night session. Many people leave after the day session, so Muji’s night skiing is a great way to take advantage of the shorter lift lines and get as many runs in as possible.
“My husband and I went with several friends and had a blast,” said Keralis. “I had only been skiing a few times before I went, so I was not very confident, but my friends were very positive and encouraging. They helped me to loosen up and have fun!”
If you are interested in skiing or snowboarding, Muju is the place to be. Its low cost, short traveling distance and great slopes make it ideal for residents of Jeolla. So grab your friends, suit up, and have a great time.