Sun, snow, and seasonal cherry blossoms
South Korean weather is split into four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are the most popular times to visit - but all four seasons are great for travelling. Read on to find out what the weather is like in each season, so you can plan the best time to take your trip.
South Korea in spring
Cherry blossom blooms at the beginning of spring. As does the warm, dry weather. It makes spring one of the most popular seasons to travel to South Korea. By April, everywhere from national parks to the city streets come back to life as the winter snow melts away. Visit South Korea in spring to make the most of the bustling city action and the vibrant scenery.
South Korea in summer
A South Korean summer can be intense. July to August sees hot temperatures, summer sun, and a lot of rain - it is monsoon season, after all. But don't be swayed if you think you can handle it. South Korea is littered with stunning parks and beaches; all ideal for a hot summer day. And there's nothing better than ice-cold delicacies like naengmyeon and patbingsu to help you keep cool.
South Korea in autumn
Comfortable temperatures, drying rainfall, and unbeatable natural scenery. Autumn is another favourite time for travel to South Korea. September to November gets gradually cooler, but it's certainly still warm enough to explore. The season adds a natural glow to modern city streets, and the most vibrant backdrop to age-old temples and ruins.
South Korea in winter
Cold, crisp, and delicately scattered in snow. The frost-covered streets and blanketed hills make for a picture perfect trip from December to March. You'll need to wrap up warm, but there's nothing quite like wandering the snowy streets of Seoul. And there's no better time to try South Korea's traditional hot teas and hearty noodle soups.
Climate | Seoul
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp Min °C | -9 | -7 | -2 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 21 | 22 | 15 | 7 | 0 | -7 |
| Temp Max °C | 0 | 3 | 8 | 17 | 22 | 27 | 29 | 31 | 26 | 19 | 11 | 3 |
| Rainfall (mm) | 31 | 20 | 38 | 76 | 81 | 130 | 376 | 267 | 119 | 41 | 46 | 25 |
Climate | Jeju Island
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp Min °C | 3 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 23 | 24 | 20 | 15 | 10 | 5 |
| Temp Max °C | 8 | 9 | 13 | 18 | 22 | 25 | 29 | 30 | 26 | 21 | 16 | 11 |
| Rainfall (mm) | 65 | 62 | 89 | 90 | 97 | 181 | 240 | 283 | 222 | 80 | 62 | 48 |
South Korea Highlights
Ancient temples, vibrant cities, and boundless natural beauty. You're headed for South Korea, but where will your adventure begin?
Seoul:
A mighty metropolis of bright lights, glass skyscrapers, and traditional Buddhist temples. Join us in Seoul for plenty of urban charm, a slice of history, and a big bite of sumptuous street food. Click here to discover trips to Seoul.Jeju:
An island getaway with an extra layer of South Korean culture. Head here in autumn to escape the city bubble - and watch the cherry blossom turn to red autumn leaves. Click here to discover trips to Jeju.Gyeongju:
The vibrant heart of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju brims with age-old tales of Korean culture and history. Explore traditional temples and colourful pagodas all year round. Click here to discover trips to Gyeongju.Seoraksan National Park:
A park with unrivalled natural beauty; scattered with hot springs, age-old temples, and maybe an otter or two. Meet us here in spring to see the cherry blossom come alive. Click here to discover trips to Seoraksan National Park.Recommended tours and trips to South Korea
See the best of South Korea at - arguably - the best time of year. From spring in the streets of Seoul to an early summer on the beaches of Jeju.
Stray from the city and step into traditional South Korea this autumn. Lose yourself in the vibrant colours of the ancient temples - and the autumn leaves.
The frosty streets of Seoul are a firm winter favourite. Just head to a traditional teahouse or street food market to keep the cold away.
Want to know more about South Korea? Check out our latest blog posts
See Also
For further information to help plan your trip to South Korea, see the following:
Best Places to Visit - cities, national parks and more Top Travel Tips - covering everything from money to health, food to shopping Tourist Visas - know what visa you need prior to travel South Korea's UNESCO Sites - the country's most impressive World Heritage sites
