Here's everything you need to know about Seoul's weather and what to pack for your trip. Seoul has four distinct seasons, and packing the right gear can make or break your experience. Let's break it down month by month so you know exactly what to bring.
Quick Reference: Seoul Weather by Season
Spring (March-May): 5-20°C (41-68°F) - Cherry blossoms, mild days, cool nights Summer (June-August): 25-30°C (77-86°F) - Hot, humid, monsoon rains Fall (September-November): 10-23°C (50-73°F) - Perfect weather, colorful foliage Winter (December-February): -5-5°C (23-41°F) - Freezing cold, occasional snow
Pro tip: Seoul's weather can be unpredictable. Always pack layers, and check the forecast a week before your trip.
Spring in Seoul (March-May)
Weather Overview
Spring is one of the best times to visit Seoul. Cherry blossoms bloom in early April, and the city comes alive with pink and white flowers. Temperatures gradually warm up from chilly March to pleasant May.
March: 2-10°C (36-50°F) - Still cold, especially mornings and evenings April: 7-18°C (45-64°F) - Cherry blossom season, ideal for sightseeing May: 13-23°C (55-73°F) - Warm days, comfortable for outdoor activities
What to Pack
Clothing:
- Light jacket or trench coat (essential for mornings/evenings)
- Long-sleeve shirts and breathable tops
- Long pants and light jeans
- 1-2 sweaters for cooler days
- Comfortable walking shoes (you'll be outdoors a lot)
Accessories:
- Light scarf (March-early April)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV rays are strong)
- Small umbrella (occasional spring showers)
- Crossbody bag or daypack
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don't pack only light clothes: Even in May, evenings can be cool ❌ Don't forget rain gear: April showers happen ✅ Do bring layering pieces: Mornings start at 10°C, afternoons reach 20°C
Insider Tip: Cherry Blossom Season
If you're visiting for cherry blossoms (late March-early April), pack pastel colors for photos. Many visitors rent hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) in floral patterns that match the blossoms. Temperatures during this time are around 10-15°C during the day, but mornings can be brisk at 5-8°C.
Best cherry blossom spots: Yeouido Park, Seokchon Lake, Namsan Seoul Tower
Summer in Seoul (June-August)
Weather Overview
Seoul summers are hot, humid, and wet. The monsoon season (jangma) runs from late June through July, bringing heavy rainfall. July and August see temperatures soaring to 30-35°C with humidity reaching 75-78%.
June: 18-27°C (64-81°F) - Monsoon begins, increasing humidity July: 23-30°C (73-86°F) - Wettest month, 414mm of rain August: 22-30°C (72-86°F) - Hot and humid, occasional thunderstorms
What to Pack
Clothing:
- Light, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen)
- Short-sleeve shirts, tank tops, shorts
- 1 pair of long pants (air-conditioned buildings can be cold)
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Sandals (quick-drying) + sneakers for walking
Accessories:
- Compact umbrella (you'll use it daily during monsoon)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (reapply every 2 hours)
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Portable fan or hand fan (locals use these)
- Tissues and handkerchief (you'll sweat)
- Waterproof bag for electronics
Monsoon Season Survival Guide
The rainy season (jangma) typically runs June 19-July 31, with over 800mm of rain falling during summer months. Here's how to deal with it:
What locals do:
- Carry a compact umbrella everywhere (buy one at convenience stores for ₩5,000)
- Wear quick-drying shoes (avoid canvas sneakers)
- Check weather apps hourly (rain can be sudden and intense)
- Spend hot afternoons in air-conditioned cafes, malls, museums
Heads up: Humidity makes it feel hotter than the actual temperature. A 30°C day with 78% humidity feels like 35-38°C.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don't wear heavy jeans: You'll overheat ❌ Don't forget indoor layers: Subways and buildings blast A/C at 18-20°C ✅ Do stay hydrated: Carry a water bottle, refill at cafes ✅ Do embrace the rain: Seoul has covered walkways and great indoor attractions
Insider Tip: Beat the Heat
Seoul locals retreat indoors during peak summer. Visit palaces and outdoor attractions early (before 10am) or late afternoon (after 5pm). Spend midday hours in:
- Underground shopping malls (Gangnam Station COEX, Express Bus Terminal Mall)
- Museums (National Museum of Korea, Leeum Samsung Museum)
- Themed cafes (excellent A/C and Instagram-worthy)
- Jjimjilbang (Korean spas - surprisingly cool and relaxing)
Fall in Seoul (September-November)
Weather Overview
Fall is hands-down the best season to visit Seoul. Crystal-clear blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and stunning foliage make this peak tourism season. Book accommodations early.
September: 18-25°C (64-77°F) - Early fall, still warm October: 10-21°C (50-70°F) - Peak foliage, ideal weather November: 2-13°C (36-55°F) - Late fall, getting cold
What to Pack
Clothing:
- Medium-weight jacket or blazer
- Long-sleeve shirts and sweaters
- Long pants and jeans
- Light down vest (November)
- Comfortable walking shoes (lots of hiking for foliage views)
Accessories:
- Scarf (especially November)
- Light gloves (late November)
- Sunglasses (bright autumn sun)
- Camera (foliage is stunning)
- Daypack for hiking trips
Fall Foliage Season
Peak foliage timing:
- Mid-October: Trees start changing color
- Late October-early November: Peak colors (best time to visit)
- Mid-November: Leaves start falling
Weather during foliage season: Daytime temperatures are pleasant at 15-21°C, but it drops below 10°C after sunset. By mid-October, it can be windy and cold enough for a jacket.
Best foliage spots:
- Bukhansan Mountain (peak around November 4)
- Namsan Seoul Tower (maple reds, ginkgo yellows)
- Nami Island (day trip from Seoul)
- Deoksugung Palace (ginkgo tree-lined path)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don't underestimate evening temperatures: Bring a warm layer ❌ Don't skip hiking boots: Foliage spots involve walking on trails ✅ Do check foliage forecasts: Timing varies year to year ✅ Do book accommodations early: Peak tourism season
Insider Tip: Layer Like a Local
Seoul's fall weather swings 10-15°C between morning and afternoon. Pack clothes you can mix and match:
Morning (8°C): Light jacket + sweater + long pants Afternoon (20°C): Remove jacket, just sweater Evening (12°C): Add jacket back
Winter in Seoul (December-February)
Weather Overview
Seoul winters are cold. Like, really cold. Temperatures often drop below freezing, and January can hit -15°C on the coldest nights. Snowfall is common but not constant - expect a few snowy days per month.
December: -4-2°C (25-36°F) - Cold and dry January: -7-2°C (20-36°F) - Coldest month, occasional snow February: -4-5°C (25-41°F) - Still cold, early spring signs by late month
What to Pack
Clothing (Layer: thermal → fleece → coat):
- Heavy insulated winter coat or parka (most important item)
- Thermal underwear (top and bottom - wear under everything)
- Fleece or wool sweaters (2-3 pieces for layering)
- Winter pants (fleece-lined jeans or winter trousers)
- Waterproof, insulated boots (sneakers will get wet and cold)
Accessories (Don't skimp on these):
- Warm hat (covers ears)
- Insulated gloves (touchscreen-compatible recommended)
- Thick scarf or neck warmer
- Wool socks (pack extras)
- Hand warmers (buy at convenience stores, ₩1,000 for a pack)
Bonus Items:
- Face mask (protects against cold wind + common during flu season)
- Lip balm (air is very dry)
- Moisturizer (heating indoors dries out skin)
- Power bank (batteries drain faster in cold)
Winter Survival Guide
How to layer properly:
- Base layer: Thermal top + thermal bottoms
- Middle layer: Sweater or fleece
- Outer layer: Heavy winter coat
If you want to wear skirts, you'll need thermal, fleece-lined tights underneath.
Footwear strategy:
- Waterproof boots are essential (snow melts into slush)
- Bring sneakers for indoor wear (Koreans remove shoes in many places)
- Avoid canvas sneakers outside - they'll get soaked
Indoor vs outdoor temperature:
- Outside: -5-2°C (feels colder with wind)
- Inside: 22-25°C (buildings are heated well)
- You'll constantly be putting on and removing layers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don't rely on just a light jacket: You need a proper winter coat ❌ Don't forget thermals: They make all the difference ❌ Don't wear regular jeans without thermals: You'll freeze ✅ Do buy hand warmers (locals swear by them) ✅ Do wear your bulkiest items on the flight (saves luggage space)
Insider Tip: Winter Indoor Culture
Koreans spend winter smartly - they go indoors. Embrace Seoul's winter indoor culture:
When it's below -5°C:
- Underground shopping (Gangnam Station underground city stays warm)
- Department stores (Lotte, Hyundai, Shinsegae - warm and have cafes)
- Jjimjilbang (Korean spas - perfect for cold days)
- Themed cafes (cat cafes, board game cafes, book cafes)
- Museums and galleries (heated and educational)
Winter-only experiences:
- Ice skating at Seoul Plaza (December-February)
- Hot street food (bungeoppang, hotteok, roasted chestnuts)
- Christmas lights in Cheonggyecheon Stream
- Temple stays and mountain hiking (beautiful with snow)
Month-by-Month Detailed Guide
January
Temperature: -7-2°C (20-36°F) Pack: Full winter gear, thermals, heavy coat Events: New Year celebrations, winter sales Insider tip: Hottest season for fried chicken and beer (chimae) indoors
February
Temperature: -4-5°C (25-41°F) Pack: Same as January, slightly lighter Events: Lunar New Year (Seollal), early spring festivals Insider tip: End of month sees plum blossoms (earlier than cherry blossoms)
March
Temperature: 2-10°C (36-50°F) Pack: Light jacket, layers, scarf Events: Early spring flowers (plum, magnolia) Insider tip: Still chilly - don't pack away winter clothes yet
April
Temperature: 7-18°C (45-64°F) Pack: Light jacket, sweaters, comfortable shoes Events: Cherry blossom season, spring festivals Insider tip: Peak tourist season - book early
May
Temperature: 13-23°C (55-73°F) Pack: T-shirts, light pants, light jacket for evenings Events: Buddha's Birthday (lantern festival), Children's Day Insider tip: Perfect weather for outdoor markets and Han River picnics
June
Temperature: 18-27°C (64-81°F) Pack: Summer clothes, umbrella (monsoon starts) Events: Korea Seoul Festival Insider tip: Monsoon begins mid-month - check forecasts
July
Temperature: 23-30°C (73-86°F) Pack: Light clothes, rain gear, sunscreen Events: Han River summer festivals Insider tip: Wettest month (414mm of rain) - plan indoor activities
August
Temperature: 22-30°C (72-86°F) Pack: Same as July, quick-dry clothes Events: Liberation Day (August 15) Insider tip: Humidity peaks at 75-78% - stay hydrated
September
Temperature: 18-25°C (64-77°F) Pack: Light jacket, long sleeves, comfortable layers Events: Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) Insider tip: Early fall is still warm - pack both summer and fall clothes
October
Temperature: 10-21°C (50-70°F) Pack: Medium jacket, sweaters, walking shoes Events: Fall foliage season, Seoul Lantern Festival Insider tip: Best month to visit Seoul - book well in advance
November
Temperature: 2-13°C (36-55°F) Pack: Warm jacket, scarf, gloves Events: Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival Insider tip: Late fall gets cold fast - bring winter accessories
December
Temperature: -4-2°C (25-36°F) Pack: Winter coat, thermals, boots Events: Christmas lights, New Year's Eve celebrations Insider tip: Outdoor Christmas markets are magical but freezing - dress warm
Packing List by Trip Length
Weekend Trip (2-3 days)
- 3 tops (mix of short/long sleeve depending on season)
- 2 bottoms
- 1 jacket appropriate for season
- 1 pair comfortable walking shoes
- Minimal toiletries (buy in Seoul if needed)
- Phone charger + adapter (Korea uses 220V, Type C/F plugs)
One Week Trip
- 5-6 tops
- 3-4 bottoms
- 2 layers (sweater, cardigan)
- 1 jacket
- 2 pairs shoes (walking shoes + dressy/casual)
- Full toiletries
- Laundry detergent packets (wash at guesthouse sink)
Two Weeks or More
- 7-8 tops
- 4-5 bottoms
- 3 layers
- 1-2 jackets (seasonal + rain jacket)
- 2-3 pairs shoes
- Plan to do laundry (coin laundries are common, ₩3,000-5,000 per load)
Heads up: Seoul has excellent shopping. Leave room in your luggage for clothes you'll buy here. Korean fashion is affordable and trendy.
Essential Items for Every Season
Must-Have Electronics
- Phone charger + cable
- Power adapter (Korea uses 220V, Type C/F plugs - different from US/UK)
- Power bank (for long days exploring)
- Universal adapter (if traveling from multiple countries)
Money & Documents
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard widely accepted)
- Cash (₩50,000-100,000 for street food, markets, taxis)
- T-money card (buy at convenience stores for subway/bus)
Health & Hygiene
- Medications (bring prescriptions in original packaging)
- Hand sanitizer
- Face masks (still common and polite during cold/flu season)
- Sunscreen (Korean sunscreens are excellent - buy here if needed)
Practical Gear
- Comfortable walking shoes (you'll walk 15,000-20,000 steps daily)
- Daypack or crossbody bag
- Reusable water bottle (refill at cafes, hotels)
- Ziplock bags (for wet umbrellas, snacks)
Shopping for What You Forgot
Don't stress if you forget something - Seoul is a shopping paradise.
Where to buy missing items:
- Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven): Umbrellas, hand warmers, socks, toiletries
- Daiso (₩1,000-5,000 shop): Travel accessories, organizers, cheap basics
- Uniqlo/SPAO: Affordable basics, heattech thermals in winter
- Olive Young: K-beauty, toiletries, travel-sized everything
- Underground shopping malls: Clothes, shoes, accessories at local prices
Prices:
- Compact umbrella: ₩5,000-10,000
- Hand warmers (10-pack): ₩1,000
- Basic t-shirt: ₩10,000-15,000
- Heattech thermal: ₩19,900-29,900
- Sneakers: ₩30,000-80,000
Quick FAQs
Q: When is the best weather in Seoul? A: October and April-May. October has perfect fall weather (10-21°C) and stunning foliage. April-May brings cherry blossoms and comfortable spring temperatures.
Q: What's the worst time weather-wise? A: January (coldest, -15°C possible) and July (hottest + wettest + most humid). But both have their charms if you prepare properly.
Q: Can I wear shorts in Seoul? A: Yes, in summer (June-August). Locals wear shorts when it's hot. In other seasons, long pants are more comfortable and culturally typical.
Q: Do I need a heavy winter coat for Seoul? A: Absolutely, if visiting December-February. Seoul winters are comparable to New York or Beijing. A light jacket won't cut it.
Q: How do I check Seoul weather forecast? A: Use Korean weather apps like "Weather Korea" or international apps like AccuWeather. Check the forecast 7 days before your trip and again 24 hours before.
Q: Where can I do laundry in Seoul? A: Coin laundries (빨래방, ppallae-bang) are common in residential areas. Guesthouses often have washing machines. Cost: ₩3,000-5,000 per load.
Q: Should I pack Korean plug adapters? A: Yes. Korea uses Type C/F plugs (round pins) and 220V electricity. US/UK/Australian plugs won't fit without an adapter.
Q: What shoes should I bring? A: Comfortable walking shoes are #1 priority (you'll walk a lot). In winter, add waterproof boots. For summer, quick-dry sandals are handy during monsoon.
Final Packing Checklist
Print this out and check off as you pack:
Seasonal Core (adjust based on your travel dates):
- Appropriate outerwear (winter coat / light jacket / rain jacket)
- Season-appropriate tops (thermal / t-shirt / long-sleeve)
- Season-appropriate bottoms (winter pants / jeans / shorts)
- Layering pieces (sweater, cardigan, fleece)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Seasonal accessories (scarf, gloves, hat / sunglasses, cap)
Electronics:
- Phone + charger
- Power adapter (Type C/F, 220V)
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
Documents & Money:
- Passport
- Credit cards
- Cash (₩50,000-100,000)
- Travel insurance documents
Toiletries & Health:
- Medications + prescriptions
- Sunscreen
- Basic toiletries (buy the rest in Seoul)
- Face masks
Practical Gear:
- Daypack or crossbody bag
- Umbrella (small, compact)
- Reusable water bottle
- Ziplock bags
Season-Specific Add-ons:
- Winter: Hand warmers, lip balm, thick socks
- Summer: Tissues, portable fan, swimsuit (for jjimjilbang)
- Fall: Camera, hiking shoes (for foliage trips)
- Spring: Allergy medicine (if sensitive to pollen)
Sources:
- Seoul Climate, Weather By Month - Weather Spark
- Seoul climate: seasons, when to go - Climates to Travel
- Weather in Seoul Korea April 2026 - Designer Journeys
- Spring in Seoul - What To Wear in Spring in Korea
- Climate of Seoul - Wikipedia
- Korea Autumn Foliage Forecast - Trazy
- Ultimate Packing List for Korea (Winter)
- Winter in Seoul - What To Pack For Korea in Winter
You're now ready to pack smart for Seoul, no matter when you visit. The key is layering, checking the forecast, and not overpacking - Seoul has great shopping if you forget anything. Have an amazing trip!
