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Best time to visit Seoul 2023 - Weather & 45 things to do

Seoul weather in January

-2° average

Average temperatures

Winter in Seoul is quite cold, but also sunny and dry. The amount of sunshine in winter is quite greater than in summer. Snowfall is not frequent, but it does happen sometimes. Average temperatures hover several degrees below freezing. At night, however, it can occasionally drop to -20°C (-4°F). January belongs to the season of north-westerly cold winds blowing from Asia. In addition, winter is the time when the yellow dust (HwangSa) phenomenon can occur - it comes from the Mongolian desert and China and is intensified by local pollution, resulting in a characteristic haze observed during the cold months. A down jacket, winter boots, a hat, a scarf and gloves - all winter gear should be brought.

Seoul weather in February

0° average

Average temperatures

The last month of a short Seoul winter, which tends to be cool but sunny at the same time. The amount of sunshine is decent, reaching an average of six hours per day. The highs and lows rise a little, but the average temperature still hovers around freezing. Snowfall rarely occurs. Cold summons are possible, with nighttime temperatures occasionally dropping as low as -20°C (-4°F). In February, cold northwesterly currents are still blowing from the Asian continent. In addition, the likelihood of yellow dust or HwangSa in Korean is even closer to the spring season. A characteristic haze is formed by air masses from China and Mongolia as well as local pollution. Winter visitors need to pack warm clothing, including heavy jackets and jumpers. A down coat, hat, gloves, scarf and other winter gear will be necessary.

Planning a visit to Seoul in March? Here's what you need to know about the weather. With average temperatures around 6°C (43°F), Seoul starts to shed its winter coat as spring arrives. While lows can still dip below freezing, daytime highs hover around 10°C (50°F), creating a pleasant climate for exploration.

Average hours of sunshine in March are about six per day, providing ample opportunities to soak up the beauty of the city. However, it's important to note that this is also the season when yellow dust, known as HwangSa, makes its appearance. Originating from the Mongolian desert and China, this dust can result in a characteristic haze, along with respiratory problems and eye irritation. Local pollution adds to the mix as well.

When packing for your trip, be sure to include a mix of heavier and lighter clothing to accommodate the changing weather. A windbreaker, scarf, and umbrella will be useful during scattered rain showers that can occur in the early spring.

Explore the vibrant streets of Seoul, visit historical landmarks, and indulge in the diverse culinary scene while taking precautions for the weather conditions. Your March trip to Seoul is bound to be a memorable one!

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Furthermore, if you seek a wider overview of available accommodations in Seoul, check tophotels.com. Their comprehensive information will ensure you make the right choice for a comfortable and delightful stay in this dynamic city.

Seoul weather in April

11° average

Average temperatures

Some define April as the true start of the spring season as this is when the average temperatures reach the mildest records. This month boasts the longest hours of sunshine in the year, averaging seven. It is also the peak of blossoming, when the city is bathed in white and pink colours of the cherry trees. These are several reasons to consider April as the best time to visit Seoul. On the downside, rainfall will be higher and rainy days are more likely to occur. Yellow dust can also occasionally cause some discomfort - when air masses from China and Mongolia mix with local pollution. It results in a characteristic haze, which in some cases can cause breathing difficulties or eye irritation. For a spring traveller, dressing in layers will be sensible. A mackintosh or umbrella, windbreaker, light scarf and sunglasses could also be of use.

Seoul weather in May

17° average

Average temperatures

Another beautiful month in Seoul with plenty of sunshine - seven hours a day, on average. Temperatures rise to pleasantly warm, although evenings sometimes remain cooler. Precipitation grows gradually, reaching its maximum by the end of the month, so rainy weather becomes more frequent. Humidity is also higher. In May, you can still occasionally see a haze typical of winter and spring months. It is formed by the so-called yellow dust (HwangSa in Korean), which originates from the desert of Mongolia and China. Local pollution also contributes to the phenomena. As a result, some people may complain of respiratory problems and eye irritation. Despite the rising temperatures, it is still recommended to dress in layers. A jacket can be particularly useful in the evening. And pack an umbrella or mackintosh, a windbreaker, sunglasses and possibly a light scarf.

Seoul weather in June

22° average

Average temperatures

Summers in Seoul are humid and rainy. The weather is mainly determined by hot and humid currents of tropical origin. Sometimes scorching days happen when the highs reach 35°C (95°F). But the sea in nearby Incheon is still too cold to escape such heat. Rainfall is abundant in June. As a result, the sky is often cloudy and the sun appears less frequently than in spring. Heavy rainfall also occurs. In addition, the second half of the month can occasionally be affected by typhoons, which are typical between July and early October. If you visit Seoul in June, bring light cotton or linen clothing, sun cream and sunglasses, as well as a jumper or sweatshirt for the evenings. A mackintosh or umbrella will also be valuable.

Seoul weather in July

25° average

Average temperatures

Typical for the season, July is quite heavily affected by the summer monsoon. Hot and humid tropical currents make it the second hottest month after August, and also the wettest one. Every second day in July is rainy. Fearsome downpours occur frequently. The result is that sunshine reaches a low of just four hours a day. July is also the start of typhoon season in South Korea, and tropical cyclones can also affect Seoul to some degree. Periods of good weather also happen, but then temperatures occasionally exceed 35°C (95°F). Some people find relief by the sea in Incheon. The sea, which is very cold in winter and spring, eventually warms up to 22°C in July. Summer visitors should remember to pack a light rainproof jacket and umbrella. - Loose cotton and linen clothing, along with sun cream, go without saying. A jumper might come in handy for the evenings.

Planning a visit to Seoul in August? Get ready for hot and wet weather! As the monsoon season reaches its peak, August brings scorching temperatures and abundant rainfall, with torrential downpours occurring every other day.

Although the sun may occasionally make an appearance, its rays are accompanied by hot and humid tropical currents, driving the mercury up to staggering heights of over 35°C (95°F). In such intense heatwaves, seeking refuge along the refreshing coast of Incheon is a wise choice. The sea temperature reaches a pleasant 24°C (75°F) during this time.

It is important to be aware that August is also the season of typhoons in South Korea, which can impact Seoul and the surrounding areas. To make the most of your late summer trip, make sure to pack loose and breathable summer clothing made from cotton or linen, along with essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Don't forget to come prepared for the rainy days too, with a light waterproof jacket or an umbrella.

Whether you choose to explore the vibrant cityscape or unwind by the coast, a trip to Seoul in August promises a memorable experience. Just remember to stay hydrated, seek shade when necessary, and embrace the unique charm this bustling metropolis has to offer.

Seoul weather in September

8.3/10 Score

Excellent

22° average

Average temperatures

With the beginning of autumn, the weather changes significantly. Above all, the rainfall is less than half of the August value, so naturally, rainy days are fewer now. Accordingly, the amount of sunshine is greater than in the wet summer season. There is no more unpleasant humidity. Plus, the air temperatures are much more comfortable. Average highs hover around the mid-twenties (77°F) and lows drop several degrees below 20°C (68°F). At the same time, the sea in Incheon has yet to lose its warmth - the sea temperature is 23°C (73°F). While hot and humid tropical currents do not affect Seoul in September, the month can still be affected by typhoons caused by tropical cyclones of Southeast Asia. Either way, this month is considered one of the best times to visit the city. If you go in September, bring light clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses. A long-sleeved shirt or light jacket can be used in the cooler mornings or evenings. An umbrella will also be helpful on a rainy day.

Seoul weather in October

8.5/10 Score

Excellent

16° average

Average temperatures

Because of its mild temperatures, low precipitation, infrequent rainfall and a fair amount of sunshine, the month of October is considered one of the best times to visit Seoul. The average lows and highs are between 20°C (68°F) and 10°C (50°F), which is perfect for sightseeing, but not enough for a weekend by the sea. Also, the sea in Incheon is much cooler in October than it was a month ago - the temperature drops from 23°C (73°F) to 19°C (66°F). The city can also be occasionally affected by tropical cyclones from Southeast Asia in the first half of the month, as the typhoon season lasts until early October. Finally, mid-autumn is when the city dresses in warm colours of seasonal foliage. Travelling to Seoul in October, bring a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, as well as a jumper, sweatshirt and a jacket. The weather is unlikely to spoil your holiday, but throw an umbrella just in case.

When it comes to Seoul weather in November, temperatures begin to drop as winter approaches, making it less pleasant than the previous month. Average highs reach just above 10°C (50°F), while lows drop to above freezing. The sun shines for about five hours a day, slightly less than in October. However, rain becomes more frequent, so it's advisable for late autumn visitors to pack both a rainproof jacket and a heavier coat to stay warm and comfortable in the cooler and wetter weather. Additionally, don't forget accessories like a hat, scarf, gloves, and an umbrella for extra protection.

Did you know that Seoul offers a wide range of indoor attractions and activities? You can escape the chill by exploring museums, art galleries, and indoor amusement parks. Check out the National Museum of Korea, one of the country's largest museums, which houses impressive artifacts showcasing Korea's rich history and culture. Another must-visit spot is Lotte World, a one-of-a-kind entertainment complex that features thrilling rides and a massive indoor ice-skating rink, perfect for enjoying wintertime fun, regardless of the weather outside.

Seoul weather in December

0° average

Average temperatures

Winter comes to Seoul in December and is mainly characterised by a rapid drop in average temperatures to freezing and below. At night, it can occasionally drop as low as -20°C (-4°F). However, the sun shines surprisingly often for a cold time of year - the average of five hours per day remains a stable figure for the period between November and January. Snowfall is rarely seen in the city. The season is characterised by cold air currents blowing from the Asian continent. In addition, yellow dust (HwangSa in Korean) can be brought from the desert of Mongolia and China. Balanced with the local pollution, it forms a characteristic haze typical of winter and spring seasons. While visiting Seoul in December, you will need proper winter gear. A down jacket, winter boots, a hat, a scarf, gloves and a couple of jumpers will help you feel warm and comfortable.