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Best Time to Visit Seoul: Month-by-Month Guide

  • Writer: TravelDeals Team
    TravelDeals Team
  • Sep 9, 2024
  • 3 min read

Best Time to Visit Seoul: A Month-by-Month Guide

Planning a trip to Seoul? Choosing the right time to visit can significantly enhance your experience. This month-by-month guide provides insights into Seoul's weather, festivals, and events, helping you decide when to explore this vibrant city.

Caption: Gyeongbokgung Palace, a must-see Seoul attraction, is especially beautiful during the spring cherry blossom season.

Seoul Weather Overview

Seoul experiences four distinct seasons:

  • Spring (March-May):Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms, and blooming flowers.

  • Summer (June-August):Hot and humid with monsoon season in July.

  • Autumn (September-November):Cool and dry with stunning fall foliage.

  • Winter (December-February):Cold and dry with occasional snowfall.

Month-by-Month Guide to Visiting Seoul

January: Winter Wonderland

January is the coldest month in Seoul, with average temperatures ranging from -6°C to 1°C (21°F to 34°F). Expect snow and icy conditions.

  • Pros:Fewer tourists, opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding nearby.

  • Cons:Cold weather may limit outdoor activities.

  • Events:Winter festivals and ice skating rinks.

February: Continuing Winter

February is similar to January in terms of weather, with slightly longer daylight hours.

  • Pros:Still fewer tourists than peak seasons.

  • Cons:Cold weather persists.

  • Events:Lunar New Year (Seollal) celebrations.

March: Spring Begins

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually rising. Average temperatures range from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F).

  • Pros:Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month.

  • Cons:Still can be chilly, especially in the evenings.

  • Events:Early cherry blossom festivals.

April: Cherry Blossom Season

April is one of the best times to visit Seoul. The city is covered in cherry blossoms, and the weather is mild and pleasant. Average temperatures range from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F).

  • Pros:Beautiful scenery, numerous outdoor activities.

  • Cons:Higher tourist crowds, higher prices.

  • Events:Cherry blossom festivals throughout the city.

May: Perfect Spring Weather

May offers ideal spring weather with comfortable temperatures and sunny days. Average temperatures range from 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F).

  • Pros:Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than April.

  • Cons:Occasional rain showers.

  • Events:Seoul Jazz Festival, Lotus Lantern Festival.

June: Early Summer

June marks the beginning of summer in Seoul. Temperatures start to rise, and humidity increases. Average temperatures range from 19°C to 28°C (66°F to 82°F).

  • Pros:Lush greenery, fewer tourists than peak summer months.

  • Cons:Increasing humidity.

  • Events:Dano Festival.

July: Monsoon Season

July is the peak of monsoon season in Seoul. Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F).

  • Pros:Fewer tourists, lower prices.

  • Cons:Heavy rain may disrupt travel plans.

  • Events:Boryeong Mud Festival (nearby).

August: Hot and Humid

August is hot and humid, with temperatures similar to July. Rainfall decreases towards the end of the month. Average temperatures range from 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F).

  • Pros:Vibrant nightlife, water parks.

  • Cons:Uncomfortable heat and humidity.

  • Events:Various music festivals.

September: Autumn Arrives

September brings the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures and clear skies. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F).

  • Pros:Pleasant weather, beautiful autumn foliage.

  • Cons:Increasing tourist crowds.

  • Events:Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving).

October: Peak Autumn Foliage

October is another excellent time to visit Seoul. The city is ablaze with autumn colors, and the weather is mild and dry. Average temperatures range from 11°C to 19°C (52°F to 66°F).

  • Pros:Stunning scenery, numerous outdoor activities.

  • Cons:Higher tourist crowds, higher prices.

  • Events:Seoul International Fireworks Festival.

Caption: Namsan Park offers breathtaking views of Seoul bathed in autumn colors.

November: Late Autumn

November marks the end of autumn, with temperatures gradually decreasing. Average temperatures range from 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F).

  • Pros:Fewer tourists than October, still some autumn foliage.

  • Cons:Chilly weather.

  • Events:Seoul Lantern Festival.

December: Winter Begins

December is the start of winter in Seoul, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Average temperatures range from -4°C to 4°C (25°F to 39°F).

  • Pros:Festive atmosphere, Christmas markets.

  • Cons:Cold weather, shorter daylight hours.

  • Events:Christmas celebrations, New Year's Eve events.

Summary Table: Best Time to Visit Seoul

Conclusion: Planning Your Seoul Adventure

The best time to visit Seoul depends on your preferences. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather and stunning scenery, but expect larger crowds. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) is cold but offers unique winter experiences. Consider your priorities and interests when planning your trip to make the most of your Seoul adventure.

 
 
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