Korea Weather by Month: Complete Guide for Travelers
Planning a trip to Korea? Understanding the weather by month is essential for packing the right clothes and choosing the best time to visit. Korea has four distinct seasons, and each month offers a different experience. Here's a detailed breakdown of Korea’s climate, average temperatures, travel tips, and the best destinations to visit each month!
January - Coldest Month with Snowy Landscapes
- Temperature: -6°C to 3°C (21°F to 37°F)
- Weather: Dry, freezing temperatures, occasional snowfall
- Travel Tips: Pack heavy winter coats, gloves, and thermal wear.
- Best Destinations: Visit Nami Island, Pyeongchang ski resorts, and Seoul’s winter illuminations.
February - End of Winter, Less Crowds
- Temperature: -3°C to 6°C (26°F to 43°F)
- Weather: Still cold but slightly warmer than January
- Travel Tips: Great time for budget travelers, as flight and hotel prices are lower.
- Best Destinations: Experience Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, Jeju’s winter landscapes, and Busan’s Gamcheon Culture Village.
March - Beginning of Spring
- Temperature: 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F)
- Weather: Chilly mornings, warmer afternoons
- Travel Tips: Early cherry blossoms start blooming in Jeju Island. Pack light jackets.
- Best Destinations: Visit Jeju Island, Gyeongju’s historical sites, and Seoul’s Bukchon Hanok Village.
April - Cherry Blossom Season
- Temperature: 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F)
- Weather: Pleasant, mild temperatures, less rain
- Travel Tips: Best time to visit for cherry blossom festivals. Hotels get booked fast, so plan early!
- Best Destinations: Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in Seoul, Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, Seokchon Lake.
May - Perfect Spring Weather
- Temperature: 12°C to 23°C (54°F to 73°F)
- Weather: Warm days, cool nights
- Travel Tips: Ideal for outdoor activities. Pack light layers.
- Best Destinations: Namiseom Island, Hwagae Market, Jirisan National Park hiking.
June - Start of Summer & Rainy Season
- Temperature: 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F)
- Weather: Humid, increasing rainfall
- Travel Tips: Carry an umbrella or raincoat.
- Best Destinations: Busan’s Haeundae Beach, Jeju Island, Damyang Bamboo Forest.
July - Monsoon Season & High Humidity
- Temperature: 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F)
- Weather: Heavy rain, very humid
- Travel Tips: Avoid mountain hiking due to slippery trails.
- Best Destinations: Indoor attractions in Seoul (museums, palaces), Lotte World, Incheon’s Songdo Central Park.
August - Hottest Month of the Year
- Temperature: 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F)
- Weather: High humidity, occasional typhoons
- Travel Tips: Stay hydrated and wear light clothing.
- Best Destinations: Jeju’s beaches, Sokcho Beach, Gangwon’s Valley Retreats.
September - Transition to Autumn
- Temperature: 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F)
- Weather: Less rain, pleasant temperatures
- Travel Tips: Perfect for sightseeing and hiking.
- Best Destinations: Andong Hahoe Village, Seoraksan National Park, Gyeongju Bulguksa Temple.
October - Best Time for Autumn Foliage
- Temperature: 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)
- Weather: Dry, cool, and comfortable
- Travel Tips: Best month for outdoor activities and festivals.
- Best Destinations: Naejangsan National Park, Seoraksan Autumn Foliage, Changdeokgung Palace Garden.
November - Beginning of Winter Chill
- Temperature: 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F)
- Weather: Cool with occasional wind
- Travel Tips: Layer up and enjoy hot springs.
- Best Destinations: Jeju’s Hallasan Mountain, Gyeongju’s historical sites, Korean Jjimjilbang (saunas).
December - Winter Begins
- Temperature: -2°C to 7°C (28°F to 45°F)
- Weather: Cold, occasional snowfall
- Travel Tips: Enjoy Christmas markets and winter festivals.
- Best Destinations: Seoul Christmas Market, Garden of Morning Calm Winter Lights, Alpensia Ski Resort.
Best Time to Visit Korea
- Spring (April - May): Ideal for cherry blossoms and mild weather
- Autumn (September - October): Best for fall foliage and pleasant temperatures
- Winter (December - February): Perfect for snow activities and winter scenery
- Summer (June - August): Great for beaches but expect high humidity
What to Pack for Korea?
- Winter (Dec - Feb): Thermal clothes, winter coat, gloves
- Spring (Mar - May): Light jacket, comfortable shoes
- Summer (Jun - Aug): Breathable clothes, sunblock, umbrella
- Autumn (Sep - Nov): Sweaters, comfortable walking shoes