If you are thinking of planning a trip to Seoul, it is essential first to understand the weather, season, and climate of the city. If you wish to make your vacation hassle-free and want to make the most of it, then knowing the best time to visit Seoul is essential.
The capital city of South Korea, Seoul, has four seasons. Each of the four seasons offers something unique and special to travelers visiting Seoul. Choosing what season or time you should plan a visit to Seoul totally depends on what you want to see and do in the city. Hence, in this post, I have tried to explain everything about Seoul by seasons. If you are ready to make the most of your Seoul itinerary, then this weather guide will undoubtedly help you to make that happen.
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Best Time to Visit Seoul: Season-by-Season
Deciding when to go to Seoul is probably one of the very first things travelers wonder about. In this step-by-step seasonal guide, you’ll get all the insights you need to help you make your decision.
Seoul in Spring
The season of spring in Seoul begins in mid-March, and it continues until the month of June. Spring is often considered as the shoulder season to visit Seoul. Spring in Seoul becomes pleasant, and the temperature remains quite enjoyable. In the month of April, Seoul cherry blossoms begin, and during this time, the beauty of the city blooms up, and it gets covered in a sheet of gorgeous pink flowers. The temperature can go as low as 1°C, while the highest temperature is 23°C.
The weather in Seoul during the months of spring remains mild, so you may want to pack some warmer outerwear for the colder days. However, it is also advisable to keep a waterproof jacket for the days when the weather will be unpleasant. Keep a proper pair of waterproof hiking shoes, if you will be going on a hiking expedition, especially in the month of March. Mount Inwangsan (just on the outskirts of the city) offers great hiking and picture-perfect views.
If you’re traveling further afield, spring is also a great season to visit a few other beautiful places in South Korea.
Seoul in Summer
Summer in Seoul commences in the month of July, and it lasts until August. Seoul in summer, witnesses a massive footfall of tourists, and hence, is also considered as the busiest tourist season in Seoul.
But, when it comes to weather, the months of summer becomes unpleasant and unfavorable. Summer in Seoul is sweltering and humid, so be sure to check out these tips for visiting Seoul during summer. Also, the season witnesses massive rainfall.
Because of being a peak season, the prices of flight tickets and hotels in Seoul remain higher during these months. If you can tolerate the harsh weather conditions, then you can visit Seoul during this time. In summers, the temperature of Seoul ranges between 18°C and 32°C.
Consider packing light clothes to remain comfortable throughout your visit to Seoul in summer. Lightweight travel pants and tees are the perfect options to wear during these months. Also, keep an umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket to deal with the downpours that sometimes happen in the summer season.
Seoul in Autumn
The month of September marks the onset of autumn in Seoul, and it ends in November. Autumn is another best time to visit Seoul as the temperature in this season remains warm to mild. However, it is one of the driest times of the year in the city.
As a result, Seoul in autumn receives much attention from tourists. The best thing about this season is the fall colors under a stunning backdrop. The temperature of Seoul during autumn goes as high as 26°C, while dipping as low as 2°C in late autumn.
If you are planning to visit Seoul in autumn, then it is best to pack some warm clothes. Make sure to pack some warm base layers for cooler days. Also, bring a comfortable fleece jacket and something a bit warmer to wear for the outer layer. A raincoat or jacket is also a must for those rainy days.
Autumn is probably one of the best seasons for hiking and there are tons of cool day trip options from Seoul. If you are indulging in a Bukhansan hike, make sure to pack sturdy hiking shoes.
Seoul in Winter
The season of winter in Seoul begins in the month of December and lasts until mid-March. I guess there is no need to tell what this season is all about. The weather remains cold and chilly. It is not an unfavorable time to visit; however, if you are not a fan of cooler temperatures, then it is better to avoid this season to explore Seoul.
Since Seoul in winter doesn’t receive a high footfall of tourists, the prices of accommodations and flight tickets are relatively lower during these months. But, what I love about visiting Seoul in this season is Seoul’s palaces and shrines that are covered with a sheet of snow and offer exquisite views to relish. Since winter in Seoul is quite cold, the temperature of the city during this time ranges from -5°C to 4°C.
I guess there is no need to tell what to pack for winters in Seoul. But, seeing that the season of winter witnesses a considerable snowfall, it’s good to pack some warm clothes. A warm hardshell jacket would be suitable for outerwear. Also, make sure to pack a pair or two of warm gloves, a hat, and a scarf. To protect your feet from getting frozen in the chilly snowy conditions, bring a pair of waterproof boots or shoes along.
While the old travel pun, ‘if you enjoy spicy foods, go to Chile’ may ring true, Korea is renowned for its flamingly hot dishes. Wintertime is just the season to sample dishes such as Spicy Pork Ribs Stew, Jjampong, or Buldakbokkeummyon.
When is the Best Time to Visit Seoul?
If you are native of any European nation, then let me tell you Seoul has an entirely distinctive season from your home country. Seoul is often touted as a year-round destination where you can expect hot and humid summers, cold winters, and autumn and spring seasons that somewhere fall in between these.
Now, if you are wondering what the best time to travel Seoul is, then undoubtedly, it is the month of April and October. In these two months, you can make the most of your time in Seoul. Let’s have a look at what makes April and October the best time to go to Seoul.
Why is April an Ideal Month to Visit Seoul?
April is a wonderful time to visit Seoul because of its pleasant weather. Compared to the months of summer ahead of it, April is relatively dry. Besides, it’s the cherry blossom season that makes April an ideal time to explore Seoul. This month, you can expect to see the city in the best of its best.
Now since you have got the answer of when to visit Seoul and are planning to visit the city in April, then make sure not to miss the most revered attractions of this season, which are Yeouido Park and Changdeokgung Palace.
Why is October an Ideal Month to Visit Seoul?
If you do not consider April as your month to visit Seoul, then October is the next best time to visit Seoul. The weather in the city during this month remains mild to cool. Compared to the scorching heat of summer, the temperature of Seoul in October remains in favor of tourism.
You will need warmer clothes if you’re considering October as an ideal time to explore Seoul. The reason why October is the best time to visit Seoul is the favorable temperatures, and the fall foliage erupts.
One of the most famous festivals in Seoul – Chuseok, takes place in the months of September to October. If you wish to discover this festival, you can plan your dates to visit accordingly.
Conclusion
Now that you know about the weather conditions of Seoul in all seasons, it makes deciding when to go to Seoul a lot easier.
Seeing that Seoul remains prone to natural calamities in a particular season, you can create your Seoul itinerary for any season as per your taste and preference.
If you like to enjoy snowy weather, then winter is the best time for you, or if you wish to experience the cherry blossom, then it’s spring for you. Similarly, summer and autumn can also be the best time to visit for you, if those seasons are favorable in your terms.
About the Authors: Jimmy & Tah are American and Thai Millennials who left a military and finance career to become travel inspirers & storytellers. They have been traveling since 2017 and work wherever they love (as long as there are Wi-Fi and coffee). Youtube | Instagram
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