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Contents
- The climate of Seoul
- The best time to visit Seoul
- The worst time to visit Seoul
- Spring weather in Seoul
- Summer weather in Seoul
- Autumn weather in Seoul
- Winter weather in Seoul
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The Dongdaemun Gate in Seoul city, South Korea
The climate of Seoul
Notably situated within the Köppen climate zone, Seoul, South Korea is characterized by a Humid Continental climate with a twist—this city experiences a severe dry winter and a hot summer, classified as Dwa in the Köppen classification. This geographical location lends itself to vast fluctuations in temperature from extreme cold in winter months to sweltering heat during the summer.
Over the course of a year, the city sees average high temperatures ranging from a frosty 1.5°C (34.7°F) in the first month of the year to a sun-stricken 29.6°C (85.3°F) at the peak of summer in August. Correspondingly, the low temperatures follow a similar pattern, with mercury dipping to -5.9°C (21.4°F) in January and reaching a nighttime high of 22.4°C (72.3°F) in August.
Relative humidity levels follow a distinct annual cycle, with moderate conditions between 56.2% and 78.3%. Rainfall ranges broadly from 21mm (0.83") in January, with no more than 6.5 rainy days, to a flood-inducing 395mm (15.55") over 16.3 days in July. However, the daily sunshine duration and UV index reflect the amount of solar energy reaching the city's surface, both of which peak during the summer months.
Over the course of a year, the city sees average high temperatures ranging from a frosty 1.5°C (34.7°F) in the first month of the year to a sun-stricken 29.6°C (85.3°F) at the peak of summer in August. Correspondingly, the low temperatures follow a similar pattern, with mercury dipping to -5.9°C (21.4°F) in January and reaching a nighttime high of 22.4°C (72.3°F) in August.
Relative humidity levels follow a distinct annual cycle, with moderate conditions between 56.2% and 78.3%. Rainfall ranges broadly from 21mm (0.83") in January, with no more than 6.5 rainy days, to a flood-inducing 395mm (15.55") over 16.3 days in July. However, the daily sunshine duration and UV index reflect the amount of solar energy reaching the city's surface, both of which peak during the summer months.
The best time to visit Seoul
Considering the sunshine hours, moderate temperature, and relative humidity, the prime time for tourism in Seoul would arguably be from late spring to early summer, specifically from April to June. During this period, high temperatures are comfortably nestled between 10.4°C (50.7°F) and 23°C (73.4°F). Correspondingly, rainfall is moderate compared to the rest of the year, progressing from 47mm (1.85") to 106mm (4.17"), while the number of rainy days ramps up from 7.4 to 9.0.
In addition, these months boast a robust 12 to 14.2 hours of daylight, allowing visitors to make the most of their day. Sunlight exposure is balanced with a UV index between 5 and 8 - not so low to prevent a lovely summer glow, nor too high to expose tourists to harmful ultraviolet radiation.
In addition, these months boast a robust 12 to 14.2 hours of daylight, allowing visitors to make the most of their day. Sunlight exposure is balanced with a UV index between 5 and 8 - not so low to prevent a lovely summer glow, nor too high to expose tourists to harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The worst time to visit Seoul
Avoid July and August if possible when planning a visit to Seoul. These months experience the highest temperatures, peaking between 28.6°C (83.5°F) and 29.6°C (85.3°F). The muggy heat is exacerbated by the relative humidity, which soars to 78.3% and 75.6%, respectively. Last but not least, these momentous deluges bring a washout average of 395mm (15.55") and 364mm (14.33") rainfall in July and August. Coupled with an oppressive UV index of 10 and 9, these factors make Seoul less favorable for outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Seoul
Spring descends between March and May, marking a refreshing escape from the clinging cold of winter. During this period, average high temperatures climb from 10.4°C (50.7°F) to 23°C (73.4°F), making way for the blossoms to flourish. Correspondingly, low temperatures emerge from the freezing mark to a comfortable 13.2°C (55.8°F), pointing to milder nights and early mornings. As much as 47mm (1.85") to 106mm (4.17") rainfall can be expected, providing ample moisture for the blooming season.
Summer weather in Seoul
From June to August, Seoul dives into a sizzling hot summer. The average high temperature flares between 23°C (73.4°F) and 29.6°C (85.3°F), while the minimum temperature floats around 18.2°C (64.8°F) to 22.4°C (72.3°F). However, summer is also the rainiest season in Seoul, with downpours reaching from 133mm (5.24") in June to a staggering 395mm (15.55") in July, dipping slightly to 364mm (14.33") in August. Amidst this, the city grapples with maximum relative humidity and UV index levels, making for steamy days and sticky nights.
Autumn weather in Seoul
September ushers in a pleasant autumn. The season is characterized by gradually receding temperatures from 25.8°C (78.4°F) to a modest 11.6°C (52.9°F) by November. Simultaneously, rainfall decreases from a sizeable 169mm (6.65") in September to a mere 53mm (2.09") by November, marking drier and clear days. Relative humidity and UV index levels also drop, offering a much-needed reprieve after the brutal summer months.
Winter weather in Seoul
From December to February, Seoul is in the icy grip of winter. High temperatures skid down from a chilling 4.3°C (39.7°F) in December to a bone-chilling 1.5°C (34.7°F) in January, before rising marginally in February. The mercury plummets further at night, with lows oscillating from -3.2°C (26.2°F) to -5.9°C (21.4°F). Yet, in the heart of this severe winter, Seoul remains relatively dry and with fewer daylight hours, reducing the likelihood of snowfall.
Weather in January
January in Seoul, South Korea is predominantly dry and consists of long, cold nights with low temperatures descending to -5.9°C (21.4°F). Frozen snowflakes frequently decorate the scenic landscapes, creating a wintry atmosphere. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February displays a continuation of the winter climate, with cold conditions prevailing. Snowfall is still possible, adding to the charm of Seoul's architectural treasures. The Level 2 UV index implies that snow blindness could be an issue for those outside during sunny days. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March acts as a bridge between winter and spring, with temperatures ranging from -3.4°C (25.9°F) to 10.4°C (50.7°F). The soft spring breeze brings a sense of renewal to Seoul, as colorful flowers start blooming around the city. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April witnesses a significant transition towards warm weather, with Seoul's landscapes transforming into vibrant canvases of cherry blossoms. Ideal for outdoor activities, the climate is comfortably warm, experiencing soft, refreshing rain showers. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May is marked by Seoul's rapid transition into summer, with more daylight hours and increasingly warm temperatures. Gardens are in full bloom and street festivals become more frequent and vibrant. Visitors and locals can enjoy outdoor dining and afternoon strolls in parks. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June showcases the arrival of summer in Seoul, with hot, humid, and rainy conditions becoming the norm. People can be seen enjoying ice creams and cold drinks to ward off the heat. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the lush greenery in parks and along the Han River. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is mostly characterized by Seoul's hot and humid conditions due to the monsoon season. Raincoats and umbrellas become essential items for residents and tourists alike. Despite the heat, traditional summer celebrations continue with enthusiasm. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August maintains the peak of summer in Seoul, with sultry weather and intense rain showers. It is a typical sight to see locals sipping on cold buckwheat noodles to keep cool. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish in the magnificent sunsets along the Han River despite the high humidity. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September ushers in the autumn spirit as it transitions from the sweltering summer. The city starts radiating hues of gold and brown, marking the beginning of fall. The comfortable autumn days in Seoul make it a popular month for touring the city's cultural landmarks. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October is famous for offering the best of Seoul’s autumn weather, with mild temperatures and low rainfall. The city boasts vibrant and colorful foliage, offering beautiful panoramas, especially the panoramic view from Namsan Tower. Weather in October »
Weather in November
The last month of the autumn, November, is also a fresh month in Seoul, South Korea, with an average temperature ranging between max 11.6°C (52.9°F) and min 3.2°C (37.8°F). In Seoul, the average high-temperature in November drops, from a comfortable 19.8°C (67.6°F) in October, to a fresh 11.6°C (52.9°F). Weather in November »
Weather in December
December marks the advent of winter, with temperatures diving into chilly lows. The streets are adorned with warm festive decorations, lighting up Seoul's winter spell. Hot street food serves as the city’s defense against the falling mercury. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest time of year in Seoul?
January, recording an average high temperature of 1.5°C (34.7°F) and a low temperature of -5.9°C (21.4°F), is Seoul's coldest month.
What is the driest month in Seoul?
January is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 6.5 days and accumulates 21mm (0.83") of precipitation.
How much does it rain in Seoul?
Throughout the year, in Seoul, South Korea, there are 108.8 rainfall days, and 1451mm (57.13") of precipitation is accumulated.
When is the lowest UV index in Seoul?
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What is the least humid month in Seoul?
The least humid month in Seoul is April, with an average relative humidity of 56.2%.
What month has the most sunshine in Seoul?
May has the most sunshine of the year in Seoul, with an average of 6.9h of sunshine.
When are the longest days in Seoul?
With an average of 14h and 42min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What is the most humid month in Seoul?
The most humid month is July, with an average relative humidity of 78.3%.
What is the rainiest month in Seoul?
The month with the most rainfall in Seoul is July, when the rain falls for 16.3 days and typically aggregates up to 395mm (15.55") of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Seoul?
With an average of 3.9h of sunshine, July has the least sunshine of the year.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Seoul?
July is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 10.
What are the warmest months in Seoul?
The warmest time of the year in Seoul, South Korea, is August, with temperatures averaging a high of 29.6°C (85.3°F) and a low of 22.4°C (72.3°F).
What is the month with the shortest days in Seoul?
December has the shortest days of the year in Seoul, with an average of 9h and 36min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Seoul?
Seoul does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). KST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Seoul, South Korea
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (29.6°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (1.5°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (22.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-5.9°C).
Average humidity
Seoul, South Korea
- Average humidity in January:
59.8% - Average humidity in February:
57.9% - Average humidity in March:
57.8% - Average humidity in April:
56.2% - Average humidity in May:
62.7% - Average humidity in June:
68.1%
The month with the highest relative humidity is July (78.3%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (56.2%).
Average rainfall
Seoul, South Korea
- Average rainfall in January:
20.8mm - Average rainfall in February:
25mm - Average rainfall in March:
47.2mm - Average rainfall in April:
64.5mm - Average rainfall in May:
105.9mm - Average rainfall in June:
133.2mm
- Average rainfall in July:
394.7mm - Average rainfall in August:
364.2mm - Average rainfall in September:
169.3mm - Average rainfall in October:
51.8mm - Average rainfall in November:
52.5mm - Average rainfall in December:
21.5mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (394.7mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (20.8mm).
Average rainfall days
Seoul, South Korea
- Average rainfall days in January:
6.5 days - Average rainfall days in February:
5.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
7.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
7.8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
9.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
16.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
14.6 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9.1 days - Average rainfall days in October:
6.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
8.7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
7.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (16.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (5.8 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Seoul, South Korea
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 36min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
3h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is May (Average sunshine: 6h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 3h and 54min).
Average UV index
Seoul, South Korea
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 10).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 2).
Seoul, South Korea
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