Climate and monthly weather forecast
Pyongyang, North Korea

englishespañol中文
Share
The organized cityscape of Pyongyang city in North Korea
The organized cityscape of Pyongyang city in North Korea

The climate of Pyongyang

Pyongyang, the capital and largest city of North Korea, experiences a Humid continental climate per the Köppen climate classification. The classification Dwa signifies a typically severe dry winter with hot summers. The city's geographical positioning on the Korean Peninsula distinguishes its climate with significant seasonal variations.

Analyzing climate data shows a broad range in temperature throughout the year. The coldest month in Pyongyang is January with an average low of -10.7°C (12.7°F) and an average high of -0.8°C (30.6°F). Low temperatures persist from December to February, with readings mostly in the negative. The thermometer's mercury then starts rising in March, reaching its peak in the hot summer months of July and August, where average highs are recorded at a scorching 28.6°C (83.5°F) to 28.9°C (84°F).

Monthly average rainfall across the year also indicates clear patterns. The wettest periods are observed from June through August with July receiving the maximum rainfall of 275mm (10.83"). This contrasts with the dry winter months, specifically December and January, which record the least rainfall, only 12mm (0.47") and 17mm (0.67") respectively.

The best time to visit Pyongyang

For those wishing to enjoy moderate temperatures and less rainfall, the prime months to visit Pyongyang fall between April and June. Average high temperatures during this period range from 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 26.7°C (80.1°F), making it ideal for day city tours. Rainfall levels are also conveniently low when compared to other months, setting favourable conditions for outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Pyongyang

Traveling to Pyongyang from July to August might turn out to be a challenge due to the high intensity of rainfall, peaking at 275mm (10.83") in July. In addition to this, the city also experiences its highest temperatures, reaching up to 28.9°C (84°F) during the same period. This combination of high temperatures and rainfall may lead to discomfort and interrupt planned outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Pyongyang

Spring in Pyongyang spans from March to May. The temperature begins to rise starting in March, reaching average highs that fluctuate from 8.9°C (48°F) to 22.6°C (72.7°F) by May's end. Correspondingly, the average low temperatures exhibit a rise, ranging from -1.8°C (28.8°F) in March to 10.9°C (51.6°F) in May. Rainfall is moderately low, from 25mm (0.98") in March to 72mm (2.83") in May.

Summer weather in Pyongyang

The Pyongyang summer, extending from June through August, is marked by substantial heat and precipitation. Average high temperatures vary from 26.7°C (80.1°F) to 28.9°C (84°F), while the average low temperatures are between 16.5°C (61.7°F) to 20.7°C (69.3°F). Rainfall levels reach their peak during these months, with July recording 275mm (10.83").

Autumn weather in Pyongyang

September through November signifies the autumnal phase in Pyongyang. During this period, temperatures begin to decrease. Average high temperatures drop from 24.7°C (76.5°F) in September to 9.4°C (48.9°F) in November, while the average lows fall from 14.3°C (57.7°F) to -0.3°C (31.5°F). Rainfall gradually lessens during these months, ranging from 100mm (3.94") in September to 35mm (1.38") in November.

Winter weather in Pyongyang

Winter season in Pyongyang spans from December to February, characterized by a cold and dry climate. Average high and low temperatures fall under the freezing point, with the lowest being -10.7°C (12.7°F) in January. Rainfall is minimal during these months, with the driest being December, recording just 17mm (0.67") of rainfall.

Weather in January

Starting the year, weather conditions in Pyongyang, North Korea get extreme. Temperatures fall drastically to as low as -10.7°C (12.7°F), often while battling against the severe biting winds. January is the coldest month in Pyongyang, with average high temperatures struggling to get above -0.8°C (30.6°F). Weather in January »

Weather in February

As the calendar turns to February, weather patterns in Pyongyang experience the early signals of spring. Though temperatures remain freezing, they gradually begin to inch upwards from those in January. February witnesses less rainfall with just 11mm (0.43") spread across 4.2 days, making it one the driest months of year. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Come March, the influence of spring becomes palpable on the North Korean capital's weather. There is a further escalation in the temperature range, reaching upto 8.9°C (48°F) on warmer days. The span of daylight stretches to a considerable 12 hours, offering ample sunshine and boosting the UV index to 4. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April brings more definitive marks of spring in Pyongyang, coinciding with a sharp hike in temperatures. These now peak at 17.1°C (62.8°F), introducing a warmth that citizens welcome after the harsh cold of the previous months. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May situates Pyongyang into the full comfort of spring, heading towards the threshold of summer. With temperatures cresting to 22.6°C (72.7°F), the city begins to experience the early signs of the impending hot season. Rainfall also intensifies, registering 72mm (2.83") as spring showers become a common daily phenomenon. Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, summer officially commences in Pyongyang, signalled by clear skies and the warmest weather parameters. Highs escalate sharply to 26.7°C (80.1°F), marking the city's transition into the new season. Although the UV index reaches its peak at 8, the torrential rains accounting for 90mm (3.54") act as a therapeutic respite. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Pyongyang is characterized by a tropical mood; it's the apex of the North Korean summer. Temperatures move up to reach 28.6°C (83.5°F), reflecting the intensity of the season. Interestingly, Pyongyang receives the highest rainfall of the year, about 275mm (10.83"), caused by the dominant monsoon winds. Weather in July »

Weather in August

The tropical character of Pyongyang's weather persists in August maintaining high temperatures that average around 28.9°C (84°F). Although the rainfall reduces lightly to reach 213mm (8.39"), it still significantly contributes to the city's humidity, making it feel warmer than it is. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September brings the early signs of autumn to Pyongyang, with temperatures beginning a downward trend to sit around 24.7°C (76.5°F). The change in weather is also evident in the reduced rainfall, with only 100mm (3.94") precipitation recorded for the month. Weather in September »

Weather in October

In October, Pyongyang embraces autumn fully, trailing lower temperatures around 18.2°C (64.8°F). The city experiences a further decrease in rainfall registering only 40mm (1.57"), rendering the weather dry and comfortable. The drop in temperature is matched by a reduction in humidity, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Pyongyang marks the start of winter, with average high temperatures down to 9.4°C (48.9°F). The city receives the second least rain, recording only 35mm (1.38") across the month. This shift in weather is felt distinctly as the first fresh gusts of winter begin to sweep through the streets of Pyongyang. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December represents the full onslaught of winter in Pyongyang. The temperature range dips to its lowest with a sharp descent to 1.7°C (35.1°F), making it the second coldest month of the year. Despite precipitation being at its nadir with just 17mm (0.67"), snowfall becomes a common occurrence, whitening the city landscapes. Weather in December »
[Resources]

Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest month in Pyongyang?

January, noted for its average high-temperature of -0.8°C (30.6°F) and an average low-temperature of -10.7°C (12.7°F), is considered the coldest month in Pyongyang, North Korea.

How much does it rain in Pyongyang?

Throughout the year, in Pyongyang, North Korea, there are 89.9 rainfall days, and 940mm (37.01") of precipitation is accumulated.

What is the driest month in Pyongyang?

The month with the least rainfall in Pyongyang is February, when the rain falls for 4.2 days and typically collects 11mm (0.43") of precipitation.

What is the month with the most sunshine in Pyongyang?

April through June, with an average of 8h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.

When are the longest days in Pyongyang?

The month with the longest days in Pyongyang, North Korea, is June, with an average of 14h and 54min of daylight.

What is the rainiest month in Pyongyang?

July is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 14.4 days and accumulates 275mm (10.83") of precipitation.

What is the month with the highest UV index in Pyongyang?

July and August, with an average maximum UV index of 9, are months with the highest UV index.

What time of the year is the hottest in Pyongyang?

Pyongyang's warmest temperatures are experienced in August, with average high temperatures of 28.9°C (84°F) and lows of 20.5°C (68.9°F).

What is the month with the shortest days in Pyongyang?

With an average of 9h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Pyongyang.

Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Pyongyang?

Pyongyang does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). KST timezone is used throughout the entire year.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Pyongyang?

The month with the least sunshine in Pyongyang is December, with an average of 5h of sunshine.

What is the month with the lowest UV index in Pyongyang?

The month with the lowest UV index in Pyongyang, North Korea, is December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.

Average temperature
Pyongyang, North Korea

Average temperature - Pyongyang, North Korea

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (28.9°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (-0.8°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (20.7°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-10.7°C).

[Resources]

Average rainfall
Pyongyang, North Korea

Average rainfall - Pyongyang, North Korea

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (275.2mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (11mm).

[Resources]

Average rainfall days
Pyongyang, North Korea

Average rainfall days - Pyongyang, North Korea

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (14.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (4.2 days).

[Resources]

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Pyongyang, North Korea

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Pyongyang, North Korea

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 30min).

The months with the most sunshine are April, May and June (Average sunshine: 8h).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h).

[Resources]

Pyongyang, North Korea

Weather forecast for your location

1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location