Best Time to Visit Seoul (Weather, Events, & More)
Planning your trip to South Korea and wondering about the best time to visit Seoul? This vibrant city offers distinct experiences each season, whether you're looking to explore its lush green spaces in the spring, enjoy the colorful festivals in summer, admire the fiery autumn leaves, or experience the snowy winter wonderland. Let's dive into what makes each season in Seoul special, helping you decide when to book your travel for the ultimate experience.
Table of Contents
- Best Time to Visit Seoul (Weather, Events, & More)
- Best Overall Time to Visit Seoul
- Monthly Overview of Seoul
- Detailed Monthly Analysis
- Seoul in January
- Seoul in February
- Seoul in March
- Seoul in April
- Seoul in May
- Seoul in June
- Seoul in July
- Seoul in August
- Seoul in September
- Seoul in October
- Seoul in November
- Seoul in December
- Special Events in Seoul to Look Out For
- Pro Tips for Traveling to Seoul
- Seoul Travel FAQ
Best Overall Time to Visit Seoul
If you're pondering the best time to visit Seoul, aim for either spring (April to early June) or fall (September to early November). During these months, the weather in Seoul is wonderfully mild, and the city bursts into vibrant colors, be it the cherry blossoms in spring or the fiery leaves in autumn. Plus, these periods avoid the extreme cold and hot spells typical of winter and summer, making your urban exploration much more comfortable.
Visiting Seoul in the low season, which includes winter (December to February) and summer (July to August), has its own set of pros and cons. On the upside, you'll benefit from fewer tourists and potentially lower prices on accommodations and flights. Winter also offers unique experiences like ice skating and viewing the city blanketed in snow, which can be quite magical. However, the cons include dealing with harsh, cold weather in winter and uncomfortably hot and humid conditions in summer, which might restrict your outdoor activities and overall enjoyment of the city.
Monthly Overview of Seoul
Month | Season | Avg. Days of Rainfall | Avg. Temperature (°F/°C) | Hotel Costs |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | Dry | 7 | 30.2/−1 | Low |
February | Dry | 6.5 | 34.7/1.5 | Low |
March | Dry | 8 | 44.6/7 | Medium |
April | Dry | 9 | 57.2/14 | Medium |
May | Wet | 10 | 66.2/19 | High |
June | Wet | 10 | 74.3/23.5 | High |
July | Wet | 17 | 78.8/26 | High |
August | Wet | 14 | 79.7/26.5 | High |
September | Wet | 9 | 71.6/22 | Medium |
October | Dry | 6 | 60.8/16 | Medium |
November | Dry | 8.5 | 47.3/8.5 | Low |
December | Dry | 6.5 | 35.6/2 | Low |
Detailed Monthly Analysis
Here’s what to expect in Seoul in each month of the year:
Seoul in January
Visiting Seoul in January means you're stepping into the heart of the Korean winter. The city wraps itself in chilly temperatures and occasional snow, offering a different kind of beauty. It's a great time to experience the serene, snowy landscapes and vibrant city life, all while indulging in warming Korean cuisine.
- Average Temperature: -2°C / 28°F
- Days of Rainfall: 7 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Ice skating at Seoul Plaza, visiting the Seoul Lantern Festival, exploring heated indoor shopping centers, enjoying traditional Korean saunas (jjimjilbang)
Seoul in February
Visiting Seoul in February means you're stepping into the chill of winter, with the city often blanketed in soft, white snow. It's a magical time to explore, especially with fewer tourists and a serene, frosty landscape. Bundle up and enjoy the crisp air as you wander through palaces and quiet streets, or warm up in bustling cafes and spicy food joints.
- Average Temperature: -2°C / 28°F
- Days of Rainfall: 5 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Ice skating at Seoul Plaza, visiting the Seollal (Korean New Year) festivals, exploring heated indoor shopping centers
Seoul in March
Visiting Seoul in March is a delightful experience as the city shakes off the chill of winter and welcomes the early signs of spring. The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for exploring the vibrant streets and the blooming cherry blossoms at the city's parks and palaces.
- Average Temperature: 7°C / 45°F
- Days of Rainfall: 6 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Cherry blossom festivals, city tours, traditional Korean performances
Seoul in April
Visiting Seoul in April is a delightful experience as the city shakes off the chill of winter and welcomes the mild, vibrant spring. The streets come alive with cherry blossoms and the weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities.
- Average Temperature: 11°C / 52°F
- Days of Rainfall: 7 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Cherry blossom festivals, city tours, hiking in Bukhansan National Park
Seoul in May
Visiting Seoul in May is a delightful experience as the city bursts into springtime bloom. The weather is comfortably warm, and the city's parks and streets are adorned with colorful flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and festivals.
- Average Temperature: 17°C / 63°F
- Days of Rainfall: 7 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, Lotus Lantern Festival, exploring outdoor markets
Seoul in June
Visiting Seoul in June is a vibrant experience, as the city buzzes with energy and the warmth of early summer. The weather is comfortably warm, but it's also the beginning of the monsoon season, so you might experience some rainy days. This mix of sun and showers brings out the lush beauty of the city's parks and gardens, making it a picturesque time to explore both the urban and natural attractions.
- Average Temperature: 22°C / 72°F
- Days of Rainfall: 10 days
- Season: Beginning of wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Enjoying the Seoul Rose Festival, hiking in Bukhansan National Park, exploring night markets
Seoul in July
Visiting Seoul in July is quite the vibrant experience, despite the heat and humidity. It's the heart of summer, so while you're exploring the bustling city streets and historical sites, you'll also be experiencing some of Seoul's hottest temperatures and frequent rain showers. Don't let that deter you, though; the city is fully alive with festivals, outdoor events, and lush, green landscapes that are especially beautiful this time of year.
- Average Temperature: 24°C / 75°F
- Days of Rainfall: 15 days
- Season: Wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Boryeong Mud Festival, watching the lotus flowers at Seokchon Lake, evening river cruises
Seoul in August
Visiting Seoul in August is quite the steamy affair! The city buzzes with vibrant energy despite the heat and humidity. It's a great time to dive into the urban culture, with plenty of indoor and nighttime activities to escape the midday sun.
- Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
- Days of Rainfall: 15 days
- Season: Wet season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Night markets, indoor shopping centers, cultural festivals
Seoul in September
Visiting Seoul in September is a delightful experience as the city transitions from the hot, humid summer into cooler autumn. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring both the modern and traditional aspects of the city. You'll notice a vibrant cultural scene as the city celebrates various festivals and events during this month.
- Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
- Days of Rainfall: 9 days
- Season: Transition from wet to dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Chuseok festival celebrations, hiking in Bukhansan National Park, visiting the Seoul International Fireworks Festival
Seoul in October
Visiting Seoul in October is a delightful experience as the city transitions into autumn. The weather cools down, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant streets and enjoying the colorful fall foliage. It's a great time to experience the city's lively festivals and outdoor activities without the summer's oppressive heat.
- Average Temperature: 15°C / 59°F
- Days of Rainfall: 6 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Attending the Seoul International Fireworks Festival, hiking in Bukhansan National Park to see autumn leaves, visiting the Seoul Lantern Festival
Seoul in November
Visiting Seoul in November is a delightful experience as you get to witness the tail end of autumn. The city is less crowded, and the weather is cool and crisp, perfect for exploring. The vibrant autumn leaves in various shades of red, orange, and yellow create a picturesque backdrop for your adventures around the city.
- Average Temperature: 7°C / 45°F
- Days of Rainfall: 9 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Autumn foliage viewing, Seoul Lantern Festival, Kimchi making festivals
Seoul in December
Visiting Seoul in December is all about experiencing the crisp, cold winter air and the festive atmosphere. The city is beautifully lit with Christmas decorations and the streets are bustling with holiday markets and cheerful events.
- Average Temperature: -2°C / 28°F
- Days of Rainfall: 5 days
- Season: Dry season
- Cost: Moderate
- Activities: Ice skating at Seoul Plaza, visiting Christmas markets, enjoying the Seoul Lantern Festival
Special Events in Seoul to Look Out For
Seoul Lantern Festival
- Date: Early November
- Description: This festival lights up the Cheonggyecheon Stream area with hundreds of colorful lanterns, celebrating South Korea's cultural heritage and history through beautifully illuminated artworks.
Hi Seoul Festival
- Date: May
- Description: A seasonal cultural festival that showcases a mix of traditional and contemporary performances, art installations, and other cultural events throughout the city.
Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival
- Date: Early November
- Description: A festival dedicated to the traditional art of kimchi making. Participants can learn how to make kimchi, participate in kimchi-making contests, and enjoy various cultural performances.
Seoul International Fireworks Festival
- Date: Late September or early October
- Description: An explosive display of fireworks that lights up the night sky over the Han River. This event draws teams from around the world to compete and showcase their pyrotechnic skills.
Lotus Lantern Festival
- Date: April or May (around Buddha's birthday)
- Description: Celebrating Buddha’s birthday, this festival features thousands of colorful lanterns that are paraded through the streets of Seoul, along with traditional music and dance performances.
Seoul Fashion Week
- Date: March and October
- Description: A biannual event held in Dongdaemun Design Plaza, where top Korean and international designers showcase their latest collections. This event is a major highlight for fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
Seoul Music Festival
- Date: September
- Description: A celebration of music that features a wide range of genres, from K-pop to indie and everything in between, with performances by both well-known and emerging artists across various venues in Seoul.
Pro Tips for Traveling to Seoul
- Cash vs. Card: While major retailers and restaurants in Seoul accept credit cards, it’s wise to carry some cash for small shops, street vendors, and local markets.
- Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not customary in Seoul. However, you can round up the taxi fare or leave a small tip at upscale restaurants if you feel the service was exceptional.
- Tap Water Safety: Tap water in Seoul is safe to drink, but if you prefer, bottled water is widely available and inexpensive.
- Public Transportation Mastery: Take advantage of Seoul’s extensive and efficient public transportation network, including subways and buses. Purchase a T-money card for convenience.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home and some traditional restaurants. It’s a sign of respect.
- Must-Try Foods: Don’t leave without trying kimchi, bibimbap, and Korean BBQ. For street food lovers, tteokbokki and hotteok are a must.
- Language Basics: Learn a few basic Korean phrases like "Annyeonghaseyo" (Hello) and "Kamsahamnida" (Thank you). It’s appreciated by locals.
- Respect Quiet Zones: Be mindful of noise levels in public spaces like subways, where designated quiet zones are strictly enforced.
- Stay Connected: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in Seoul, but consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device or purchasing a local SIM card for uninterrupted connectivity.
- Explore Beyond Seoul: Take day trips to nearby areas like the DMZ, Gyeongju, or the port city of Incheon to enrich your Korean experience.
Seoul Travel FAQ
Do I need a visa to visit Seoul?
Whether you need a visa to visit Seoul depends on your nationality. Many countries benefit from visa-free entry for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days. Always check the latest visa requirements from the South Korean embassy or consulate in your country before your trip.
What currency is used in Seoul?
The currency used in Seoul is the South Korean Won (KRW). While major credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, shops, and restaurants, it's handy to have some cash for small purchases, especially in markets or smaller establishments.
What should I pack for a trip to Seoul?
Pack according to the season. Winters (November to March) are cold, so bring warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, so opt for light, breathable clothing. Always include comfortable walking shoes, as you'll likely do a lot of walking. An umbrella or raincoat is a good idea for the rainy season in July and August.
Do I need to speak Korean to visit Seoul?
It's not necessary to speak Korean to visit Seoul, as many Koreans in the city understand basic English, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Korean phrases can enhance your experience and is often appreciated by locals.
Is Seoul safe for tourists?
Seoul is considered very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and the streets are generally safe to walk at night. However, always exercise common sense and caution with your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.
Is Seoul accessible for those with disabilities?
Seoul has made significant improvements in accessibility for those with disabilities, including public transportation systems equipped with facilities like elevators and ramps. Major tourist sites, hotels, and other public areas are generally accessible. However, smaller venues and older buildings might not be fully equipped, so it's a good idea to check ahead.
What type of outlet is used in Seoul?
In Seoul, the standard voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 60Hz. The outlets fit two types of plug shapes: type C and type F, which are the two round pins. If your device plug has a different shape, you'll need a plug adapter.