When is the Best Time to Visit South Korea? The Four Seasons

South Korea is a fascinating destination with plenty on offer to visiting tourists. From its stunning natural scenery to its rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in this beautiful East Asia country.

However, the questions roam through your mind when you head off on your next adventure, when is the best time to visit South Korea? The answer to that question depends on your preferences and what you want to see and do in the country.

Can you bear the cold in the chilling winters, or do you prefer the earth of the summer months? Are you looking for the best time to see the fall foliage, or do you want to be able to hike in the spring when the flowers are blooming in full colour?

Let’s take a look at the seasons in South Korea and when is the best time to visit, depending on your interests. In this article, we will explore the four seasons in South Korea and provide tips on the best time to visit each of Korea’s fabulous seasons.

 

 

 

Are you looking for places to stay in South Korea!

Whatever season you visit, there are plenty of places to stay in South Korea, whether you’re heading to Seoul or Busan on Jeju-Do.

At Booking.com, you can find a great range of accommodation to suit all budgets and needs.

From cosy apartments in the city’s heart to luxury villas with breathtaking mountain views, there’s something for everyone.

Looking for a place to stay in South Korea? Find accommodation at Booking.com!

 

When is the Best Time to Visit South Korea?

South Korea is a country that experiences all four seasons. Spring, summer, autumn and winter each offer unique attractions and activities. So, when is the best time to visit South Korea? The answer to that question depends on your preferences and what you want to see and do while you are in Korea.

Here is a brief overview of each season in South Korea, along with some tips on the best time to visit:

 

Spring in South Korea

Spring is a great time to visit if you want to see Korea’s stunning natural scenery. Spring time from March to May is when the weather is mild, and flowers start to bloom. The Jeju Island and Seoraksan National Park are excellent this time of year.

In the early parts of spring, the weather is still cold and sow fields are still thick with snow. However, as the season progresses, the weather begins to heat up, and the flowers bloom.

The cherry blossoms come alive, and cities like Seoul and Gyeongju are booming with beauty and life.

If you want to avoid the crowds, late spring is the best time to visit when the weather is warm, but most students are still in school.

Best places to visit South Korea in Autumn:

Seoul in spring offers beauty unparalleled, with the city looking beautiful as the flowers start to bloom and sightseeing is at its best. The average temperature is around 12-18°C.

Gyeongju in spring is particularly lovely as the weather is mild and the trees turn a golden hue. The Boseong Tea Plantations are also a must-see in spring as the tea leaves start to sprout. The average temperature is around 17-18 degrees.

Busan in spring is when the city comes alive, as the weather is perfect for exploring all this coastal city has to offer. The average temperature is around 16 degrees.

Jeju Island in spring js when the weather is mild, and the flowers are in full bloom. The average temperature is around 20 degrees. It’s a great time to hike up Hallasan Mountain or explore the many waterfalls and caves on the island.

 

 

Summer in South Korea

In the summer months of South Korea, the temperature begins to rise, as water parks and beaches become a popular activity. From June to August, this is the time when you can enjoy all that South Korea has to offer in terms of outdoor activities.

The heat does make some areas quite uncomfortable, though, so if you are planning on doing a lot of walking or touring around, be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks often.

Also, beware of the rainy season, which usually falls in late July or early August. The downpour brings damp, humid conditions that get rather uncomfortable. Although the rain can be refreshing, it can also disrupt your plans if you’re not prepared for it.

Best places to visit South Korea in Summer:

Seoul in the Summer months is when the city comes to life. The average temperature is around 25-30 degrees. There is always something to do with many festivals, outdoor concerts and activities.

Gyeongju in the summer months is when the Boseong Green Tea Plantation comes alive with tourists. The plantation is blanketed in a sea of green, and the air is filled with the fragrance of tea. The average temperature is around 23-25 degrees.

Busan in the summer is when the city’s beaches are packed with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the warm weather and ocean breezes. The average temperature is around 25-27 degrees.

Jeju-Do summer is when the island is bustling with visitors, enjoying all the island has in terms of nature, food and culture. The average temperature is around 25-28 degrees.

 

Autumn in South Korea

When autumn sheds its way into the country, the seasons change once again, and September becomes lovers’ paradise as the weather becomes quite perfect and the scenery amazing.

The leaves of the trees change colour and create a romantic backdrop for all the lovebirds out there looking at rekindling their relationships with the beauty of Korea.

Fall is also a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer heat but still enjoy the outdoors. The mountains are stunning this time of year as the leaves turn into shades of red and orange.

Best places to visit South Korea in Autumn:

Seoul in the fall is when the city comes alive with vibrant energy, as the leaves change colour and the weather cools down. The average temperature is around 15-20 degrees.

Gyeongju in the fall is when the city is blanketed in a sea of red and yellow as the trees change colour. The average temperature is around 13-15 degrees.

Busan in the fall is when the city’s beaches are still beautiful but not as crowded as in the summer. The average temperature is around 18-20 degrees.

Jeju-Do in the fall is when the island’s natural scenery is at its best, as the leaves change colour and the air gets cooler. The average temperature is around 20-22 degrees.

 

 

 

Winter in South Korea

Winter in Korea, I’ll never forget how I felt when I saw the snow and my heart melted. I was in Deogyusan National Park in Muju-Gun, a few hours south of Seoul, and the mountains were the most breathtaking scenery I had ever seen. I am a Fair Dinkum Aussie, after all.

The country is blanketed in snow from December to February, and the temperatures can drop below freezing.

The winter months are a great time to visit if you want to experience Korea’s winter wonderland. The ski resorts are open for business, and the landscape is breathtaking. Be sure to wrap up warm, though, as the cold weather can be pretty unforgiving!

Primary city guide to winter in South Korea:

Seoul in winter is when the city creates a different atmosphere, as the Christmas lights are up and the snow creates a magical atmosphere. The average temperature is around -5-5 degrees.

Gyeongju in winter is when the city is blanketed in a sea of white, as the snow covers the landscape. The average temperature is around 0-8 degrees.

Busan in winter is when the city’s beaches are still beautiful but not as crowded as they are in the summer. However, it makes for great sightseeing in many famous tourist places. The average temperature is around 0-10 degrees.

Jeju-Do in winter is when the island’s natural scenery is at its best, as the snow covers the landscape of Hallassan Mountain. While warmer than the northern cities on the mainland, it can be pretty cold, so dress warmly. The average temperature is around 4-10 degrees.

 

 

 

What is my favourite season in South Korea?

When is the best time to visit South Korea? The answer is a unique and individual preference. I loved the winter months and the beautiful scenery that the snow brought with the occasion. However, the freezing temperatures sometimes made it challenging, and I am no good at skiing.

It’s the Spring months I love the most, particularly late April into early May, when the weather is beginning to warm, and the thick jackets are stored away until next winter. South Korea in spring is bursting with life and colours, and for outdoor enthusiasts like myself, it’s time to hike the mountains, explore the national parks and generally be one with nature.

If you ask me when is the best time to visit South Korea, it depends on what you’re looking for and what type of person you are.

So, when is the best time to visit South Korea? It all comes down to personal preference! If you want to experience all Korea offers, then there is no wrong time to visit this fascinating country. Each season has its unique beauty and charm. So, what are you waiting for in your endeavours to holiday in Korea? Start planning your trip today!

Have you visited South Korea? What is your favourite season?