Best time to go to South Korea for a perfect weather and where to go?

Where and when to go based on the weather?

Best time to travel to South Korea by cities

Best time to go to Seoul

Best time to go to Busan

Best time to go to Jeju Island (Jejudo)

Best time to go to Andong

Best time to go to Anseong

Best time to go to Cheongju

Best time to go to Chuncheon

Best time to go to Daegu

Best time to go to Daejeon

Best time to go to Gangneung

Best time to go to Gwangju

Best time to go to Incheon

Best time to go to Jeonju

Best time to go to Koesan

Best time to go to Pohang

Best time to go to Seosan

Climate and Weather in South Korea

Relatively rare in Asia, the weather in South Korea is characterized by four distinct seasons: autumn, winter, spring, summer. Moreover, the country reveals a wide variety of climates. At the same time and depending on the region, once can experience scorching temperatures or, on the contrary, cool to cold temperatures. Here are the climates found in South Korea:

• A humid subtropical climate with hot summers and the other seasons dry and temperate. This is the predominant climate type in the country.
• A humid continental climate with hot summers and very dry winters, as in Seoul.
• A humid subtropical climate with dry and temperate winters, as well as hot summers, as in Incheon.
• A humid continental climate with hot summers and no dry season, as in Daejeon.

The different seasons in South Korea

• Let's start with winter, which lasts from December to February. South Korea's climate is characterized by a harsh winter, especially in the northeast and center of the country, where snow can be present until early March. Temperatures can easily drop below -10°C, especially when polar winds from Siberia blow. In the northwest, the temperature is slightly milder, and in the south, winter is much less severe than elsewhere. In any case, don't forget to bring warm clothes, especially if you want to fully enjoy the ski resorts or stroll through the beautiful snowy landscapes.
• Then comes spring, from March to May, a season highly appreciated in South Korea. The air warms up, nature awakens, and cherry blossoms bloom. It's the perfect time for a peaceful walk in the streets of Seoul or the Buddhist temples. However, expect some precipitation during this period, especially in the north and center of the country.
• Summer, from June to August, is hot and humid in South Korea. The temperature can easily rise to over 30°C, but it's the humidity that can be the most uncomfortable. Expect frequent and sometimes heavy rains because it's the famous monsoon season, during which a tropical wind blows from the sea to the land, bringing along rain-laden clouds. Once or twice a year, these precipitations turn into typhoons, so you need to be extra cautious if you are on the coast during this period. That being said, summer is still the perfect time to relax on the beautiful beaches of the country, even if the sky is overcast.
• Finally, autumn, from September to November, is arguably the most charming season to visit South Korea. The air is cool and dry, with rare precipitation. The tree leaves adorn themselves with a thousand shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a natural masterpiece. It's an ideal time for hiking in the country's numerous national parks.

Climate specifics by region

Climate in southern South Korea

In the south, South Korea experiences a humid subtropical climate with two variations: no dry season and hot summer, as in Busan, or dry winter and hot summer, as in Tongyeong. The most favorable months to visit are April, May, June, September, and October, but it's still possible to consider a trip in July and August to enjoy beach activities.

Slightly more affected by trade winds, the South Korean coast still benefits from a very pleasant climate. Although much less vulnerable than its neighbors, China, the Philippines, or Taiwan, to typhoons, this meteorological phenomenon remains a possibility. Typhoons usually occur at the end of summer, causing some floods with considerable damage.

Climate in northern and central South Korea

In winter, while most of South Korea experiences snowfall, it's in the north, especially in ski resorts like Muju, where the lowest temperatures are found.

In Seoul, the capital, the weather is also very cold during this time of the year, with averages between -5°C and 5°C. In summer, the heat is bearable, although humidity is still present, especially in July. The best time to visit is in May, June, September, or October.

In the northeast and central South Korea, the climate is decidedly continental, with many variations depending on altitude and latitude. Most of the time, humidity and heat prevail in summer, but winters are harsh and very dry. The best periods for the most favorable weather conditions are May, June, and September.

Climate in eastern and western South Korea

In winter, from December to March, these two Korean regions experience similar weather with a predominant humid subtropical climate without a dry season. Thus, it may rain from time to time, but the thermometer can show pleasant averages around 15°C in the middle of the day. However, nights remain cold.

In summer, from June to September, the east is preferred. Indeed, this region is much less affected by monsoon rains, and the months from May to October are all favorable for an exceptional trip. In the west, July and August are rainy, so it's better to choose the periods before and after.

Temperatures and rainfall in South Korea

On these 3 graphs, we present the evolution of temperatures of South Korea and month-by-month rainfall for the cities of Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island (Jejudo), Andong and Anseong, as well as the month-by-month sea temperature for coastal cities.

Peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in South Korea

Find out when South Korea has its high tourist season (the period when the influx of tourists is highest) and off-peak tourist season using our data and figures.

Tourist seasons in South Korea

The months with low numbers of tourists are: January, February and March. The number of visitors to South Korea is high in: April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December.

• Very low season in South Korea: February.
• Low season in South Korea: January and March.
• High season in South Korea: April, May, June, July, September, November and December.
• Peak season in South Korea: August and October.

Figure: Visitor index for South Korea month by month

Average price for flights to South Korea

Find the best price for your flight Flight prices to South Korea

Where to go in South Korea?

This table allows you to see the maximum temperature for each city and our opinion on the weather month by month (see colour legend below the table).

Legend:

About South Korea

What can I do in South Korea?

Beaches / swimming

Nature and countryside

Culture and heritage

Sports

Family travel

Crafts / shopping

Gastronomy

Nightlife