Seoul has a humid continental climate (Dwa under Koppen classification) with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid thanks to the East Asian monsoon, while winters are cold and dry under the influence of the Siberian High. The city receives about 1,450mm of rain annually, with 60% falling between June and August. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for visiting, with mild temperatures and clear skies.
January
January is Seoul’s coldest month. Average highs reach just 2degC (36degF) and lows drop to -6degC (21degF). The city gets about 21mm of precipitation over 6 days, mostly as light snow. Humidity averages 60% and you’ll see roughly 5 hours of sunshine daily. The Han River sometimes freezes at the edges. Dress in heavy layers with a down coat, thermal underwear, gloves, and a hat. Indoor heating is excellent everywhere, so the cold is manageable between subway rides and cafes.
February
February remains cold but begins to thaw toward the end. Highs reach 5degC (41degF), lows -4degC (25degF). Precipitation stays low at 25mm. Seollal (Lunar New Year) usually falls in February, and the city is livelier despite the cold. Snow is still possible but less frequent than January. Pack similar winter gear to January. The late-February sun starts to feel warmer on exposed skin.
March
March signals the start of spring. Highs climb to 10degC (50degF), lows to 1degC (34degF). Rainfall increases to 47mm spread across 7 days. You’ll get about 6.5 hours of sunshine. Yellow dust (hwangsa) from the Gobi Desert can blow in on westerly winds, so pack a face mask and check air quality forecasts. A medium-weight jacket works for most days. Early cherry blossoms start appearing in the last week of March at southern-facing spots.
April
April is one of Seoul’s most beautiful months. Highs reach 18degC (64degF), lows 7degC (45degF). Rainfall is moderate at 75mm over 8 days. Cherry blossoms typically peak around April 5-10 at Yeouido Park and along the Seokchon Lake path. Expect 7 hours of daily sunshine. A light jacket or cardigan is sufficient for daytime, with layers for cooler evenings. Hotel rates start climbing as tourist season begins.
May
May delivers ideal weather before the summer heat arrives. Highs reach 23degC (73degF), lows 13degC (55degF). Rainfall is 85mm over 8 days. Humidity stays comfortable at 65%. With 7.5 hours of sunshine, May is perfect for outdoor exploration of palaces, markets, and hiking trails. Pack short sleeves for daytime, a light jacket for evenings. Buddha’s Birthday celebrations bring lantern festivals to temple grounds and the Cheonggyecheon stream.
June
June marks the beginning of summer and the monsoon season (jangma). Highs reach 27degC (81degF), lows 18degC (64degF). Rainfall jumps to 140mm over 10 days as the monsoon front approaches from the south. Humidity rises to 72%, making it feel warmer than the temperature suggests. The monsoon typically starts in the last week of June. Pack an umbrella and waterproof shoes. Indoor attractions like COEX Mall, museums, and jjimjilbangs (Korean saunas) are good backup plans for rainy days.
July
July is the wettest and most humid month. Highs reach 29degC (84degF), lows 22degC (72degF) with humidity at 78%. Rainfall peaks at 395mm over 16 days as the monsoon is in full force. Expect heavy, persistent rain rather than short showers. The heat index often exceeds 35degC (95degF). Every Korean carries a compact umbrella; you should too. Despite the rain, this is peak season for Korean domestic tourism as schools are on summer break. Book accommodations well in advance.
August
August remains hot and humid. Highs reach 30degC (86degF), lows 23degC (73degF). Rainfall is 365mm over 14 days as the monsoon tapers off by mid-month. The second half of August often brings typhoon remnants from the south, producing intense short-duration rainfall. Pack the same as July: light breathable clothing, umbrella, waterproof footwear. Air conditioning is universal in shops, subways, and hotels, providing relief between outdoor stretches. Late August sees slightly fewer crowds as Korean school holidays end.
September
September transitions into pleasant autumn weather. Highs reach 26degC (79degF), lows 17degC (63degF). Rainfall drops to 170mm over 9 days. The monsoon is gone but occasional typhoon-related rain can still occur early in the month. By mid-September, humidity drops noticeably and the air feels crisp. September is one of the best months for visiting: summer crowds are gone, prices drop from peak season, and the weather is warm without being oppressive. Light long sleeves for evenings are sufficient.
October
October rivals April as Seoul’s best month. Highs reach 20degC (68degF), lows 10degC (50degF). Rainfall is just 52mm over 6 days. Humidity drops to 64% and skies are reliably clear. Autumn foliage peaks in late October at Namsan Park, Bukhansan National Park, and the Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace. Expect 6.5 hours of sunshine. A mid-weight jacket is needed especially after sunset. Hotel rates are high as this is peak tourism season for foliage viewing.
November
November brings crisp autumn air and the first frosts. Highs reach 11degC (52degF), lows 3degC (37degF). Rainfall is 50mm over 8 days. Early November still has lingering foliage in sheltered areas. By late November, trees are bare and the city prepares for winter. Expect 5.5 hours of sunshine. A warm coat becomes necessary. This is a shoulder month with moderate hotel rates and thinner crowds at attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Myeongdong.
December
December brings winter cold and festive atmosphere. Highs reach 4degC (39degF), lows drop to -4degC (25degF). Precipitation is just 23mm over 7 days, mostly as occasional snow. Seoul averages 24 snowy days per year, and December accounts for about 6 of them. Christmas lights and displays transform Myeongdong, Lotte World, and Cheonggyecheon Plaza. The ski resorts in Gangwon Province (1-2 hours east of Seoul by KTX or bus) open in early December. Full winter gear is essential.
Seoul Climate Data at a Glance
| Month | High (degC/degF) | Low (degC/degF) | Rain (mm) | Sun (hrs/day) | Humidity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2 / 36 | -6 / 21 | 21 | 5.0 | 60% |
| Feb | 5 / 41 | -4 / 25 | 25 | 5.8 | 59% |
| Mar | 10 / 50 | 1 / 34 | 47 | 6.5 | 60% |
| Apr | 18 / 64 | 7 / 45 | 75 | 7.1 | 62% |
| May | 23 / 73 | 13 / 55 | 85 | 7.5 | 65% |
| Jun | 27 / 81 | 18 / 64 | 140 | 6.1 | 72% |
| Jul | 29 / 84 | 22 / 72 | 395 | 4.5 | 78% |
| Aug | 30 / 86 | 23 / 73 | 365 | 5.2 | 76% |
| Sep | 26 / 79 | 17 / 63 | 170 | 6.0 | 72% |
| Oct | 20 / 68 | 10 / 50 | 52 | 6.8 | 64% |
| Nov | 11 / 52 | 3 / 37 | 50 | 5.2 | 63% |
| Dec | 4 / 39 | -4 / 25 | 23 | 5.0 | 61% |
The best months for visiting Seoul are April, May, September, and October when temperatures are comfortable (10-25degC/50-77degF), rainfall is moderate, and humidity is low. For detailed seasonal advice, see our Seoul best time to visit guide.
