When is the best time to visit Seoul? — The best, worst, cheapest & best season to visit Seoul

Thanks to the beautiful natural landscape, rich history, the hallyu (cultural phenomenon) or Korean wave comes from music, movies and unique culture. Korea has become one of the must-go destinations attracting a large number of international tourists. Surely many of us are planning a trip to Seoul, the capital of Korea in the near future. So, when is the best time to visit Seoul? Let’s check out our suggested cheapest time to travel to Seoul, best season to visit Seoul, best time to go to Seoul, best time to travel to Seoul as well as worst time to visit Seoul as follows!

How is the climate in Korea? What time of year should you travel to Seoul? These are certainly questions asked by many travel enthusiasts. If you are wondering and don’t know when to go to Seoul, please refer to our article below!

A few words about Seoul

Seoul is both the capital and largest city, located in the northwest of Korea. With an area of 605.2 square kilometers. It divided into northern and southern parts by the Han River, the city is also surrounded by eight mountains as well as the Han River plains and the western region. Seoul is known as the busiest and most vibrant city in Korea, the political, economic, social and cultural center of Korea, attracting more than 10 million people living here (metro area population).

While the south of the city is famous for its luxurious residences and crowded modern shopping centers and malls, the north of the city is where the culture and historical imprints of the capital Seoul are preserved. important international events take place. The capital Seoul brings together all the potential elements of a modern, world-class city, but at the same time still retains its inherent traditional cultural beauty.

What season and month is best to go to Seoul? (# when is the best time to visit seoul)

Korean climate divided into 4 distinct seasons. This means that each season will have different weather patterns and experiences. Most tourists choose to travel to Korea in the spring and fall. These are also considered the peak seasons in Korea. But according to many people’s experience, traveling to Seoul Korea in all four seasons are equally beautiful. Each season has a unique beauty for you to explore.

Most people in Seoul are proud that their capital is blessed with a climate with four distinct seasons. The seasons in Seoul are similar to many European countries in that they have quite clear differences in each season of the year. When visiting Seoul, visitors will enjoy a vibrant summer or a cold winter covered with white snow. Most especially spring and autumn with charming, extremely romantic and poetic scenery. Therefore, Seoul is considered the perfect destination at any time of the year. However, to make your trip more convenient, you should limit your visit to Korea on occasions such as: Korean Lunar New Year, Chuseok Mid-Autumn Festival, and stormy times of summer.

• Spring: This time has a warm weather, suitable for sightseeing and outdoor sightseeing activities. Coming to Seoul at this time, you also have the opportunity to participate in flower festivals including: cherry blossoms, azalea flowers, apricot flowers, canola flowers,… with a strong spring atmosphere.
• Summer: Quite hot and rainy, but in return there are many special festivals taking place in the summer.
• Autumn: This is considered the most beautiful and favorable time of the year in Korea. At this time the weather is cool and pleasant. At this time, the roads, parks, mountains… are covered with yellow and red leaves.
• Winter: Considered the harshest season in Korea, it offers many interesting experiences. You can watch the snow fall and participate in winter sports and activities.

It can be seen that the best time to visit Seoul is spring and autumn. The weather is cool with an average temperature of about 20 – 25 degrees Celsius.

If you are wondering which month is good to travel to Seoul, April, October and December will be great options. The weather and scenery of the Korean capital during these months are very suitable for unique experiences and outdoor activities.

The weather in Seoul by season (# best time to travel to seoul)

Spring (from March to May)

Spring in Korea is usually very warm, mild, dry and without rain. Furthermore, in spring the scenery in Korea is extremely beautiful, a season that most people look forward to after a cold winter. As the weather begins to warm and spring comes, tourists flock to the wildflower parks and mountain trails easily accessible via the city’s subway system.

Increasing temperatures also make for perfect running, which is why the Seoul International Marathon is held in March. The weather can be unpredictable so it’s best to keep some warmer outerwear or mid-layers to deal with the possibility of colder temperatures and a sturdy pair of waterproof walking shoes to avoid puddles when the snow melts, especially in late March.

Around the beginning of April, Seoul cherry blossoms begin to bloom, bathing the city’s parks in delicate pink color. And don’t miss the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, where you can walk under an entire path planted with picturesque flowers. Pleasant spring weather, along with the romantic blooming scene of cherry blossoms full of life, is a very suitable time to travel to Korea and regain energy for the beginning of the new year. However, April is also when the infamous yellow dust sweeps from the Gobi Desert, covering the Korean peninsula and creating a cloud of dust and dirt. Please consider going this month if you have allergies.

The weather in May is least likely to be affected, making it one of the most popular months of the year to visit Seoul. This is also the best suggestion for you, take advantage of beautiful sunny days, enjoy vibrant bars, night markets and countless festivals, especially the Lotus Lantern Festival on Buddha’s Birthday, You will admire the beauty of the city surrounded by lanterns and parades.

If you don’t like the crowds of May, save your trip for June, when the weather is still mild and the crowds are sparse, enjoy the night and have fun at Ultra Music Festival.

What to wear when traveling to Seoul in spring? Even if the weather is mild and cool, you should prepare some warm jackets because temperatures can get colder at night. A fleece jacket or a waterproof jacket or softshell jacket will be perfect choices. If you go on hikes like Namsan, it’s best to bring a pair of waterproof hiking shoes, especially when traveling in March, when the snow melts and leaves many wet puddles on the trail.

Summer (from June to August) (# best time to travel to seoul)

Although summer is one of the busiest tourist seasons in Seoul, it is also one of the most miserable weather. The temperature at this time is about 21.9℃ – 20.8℃, relatively hot and muggy. Near the end of June, Korea is affected by East winds from Asia that bring moisture, causing rain and storms that can be torrential, with many lasting all day, and in August, heavy rain can cause dangerous flash floods. Add to that the big crowds, long lines, and higher room prices, and you’ll have to think twice before visiting Seoul during these terrible months.

But for those who are not hindered by the weather, this is also a fun time to explore Seoul. Visitors will have the opportunity to relax at beautiful beaches, exciting and stimulating water parks with adventure games or participate in bustling festivals such as the Jisan Valley Rock Music & Arts Festival and Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival, as well as cultural events such as the Sinchon Water Gun Festival and the Seoul Queer Culture Festival take place every weekend.

Summer is a great season to enjoy a bowl of patbingsu or naengmyeon in a cool, air-conditioned restaurant. Let’s enjoy summer in Seoul with lightweight moisture-proof travel shorts, beat the hot summer heat and revive your fun spirit. Don’t forget to bring a raincoat.

What to wear when going to Seoul in summer? To suit the weather and travel itinerary, you should choose thin, light and comfortable clothing. Shorts or travel shorts are a great idea amid the sweltering heat of the Korean summer. In addition, you should equip an umbrella or light raincoat to prevent rain that may occur in the summer.

Fall (from September to November) (# best season to visit seoul)

Fall is always a time that pleases almost everyone. Average temperatures remain warm to mild and it is one of the driest times of the year in the capital. Autumn can be considered the best season to visit Seoul because this time the weather is cool and pleasant, and the romantic scenery will make visitors extremely excited. Korea’s autumn seems to have become a trademark. In Seoul, visitors will encounter the lyrical scene of long rows of Ginkgo trees simultaneously turning yellow along with brilliant red maple leaves. Furthermore, this season visitors can go Enjoy the scenery without worrying about heat or heavy rain.

September is one of the most unpredictable months of the year, the weather can bring some of the hottest days of the year early in the month and fall-like cold later in the season. If you go this month, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in events such as the Seoul International Fireworks Festival and Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival. This is the right time to rest and enjoy with family.

Winter (from December to February of the following year) (# when is the best time to visit seoul)

Winter weather will make everyone feel very lazy, but for those who don’t mind the cold, Seoul will definitely be your favorite place of visiting the city. Actually, Korean winter is not too harsh and bad. If you have ever watched Korean movies, you can see that the winter scene in Korea is also quite romantic. Covered by the pure white of snow everywhere, Seoul gives visitors the opportunity to participate in adventure games such as exciting skiing or relaxing and bathing in hot mineral springs to relax the body after the long journey. In particular, winter is quite empty of tourists so you will be able to get some great deals for booking rooms in Seoul.

In December, the cold can be uncomfortable, but by the end of the month, there are festive decorations and lots of fun. While businesses close on Christmas in many cities worldwide, larger businesses in Seoul explode with festivals and events throughout December and rarely close on holidays.

By January, the temperatures are more pleasant and sunny, and the driest days of the year. Tourists tend to escape the cold, so many attractions in Seoul are also less congested, making this a good time to visit, especially for those wanting to avoid the crowds that flock to the capital at the end of the year. In addition, you can also take advantage of the cold by ice skating at City Hall, eating snacks on the street…

Temperatures have started to warm by a very small margin as we enter February. There are several advantages to traveling to Seoul in February, which are that hotel and flight prices are significantly decreased and visitors can shop freely with Korea’s Great Promotions held at malls the city’s major shopping malls and department stores this month. But take note if you intend to travel around Korean Lunar New Year (Seollal), which usually falls between late January and mid February, as this is one of the busiest times of the year to go travel in Korea.

What to wear when traveling to Seoul in winter? For winter trips to Seoul, bringing a thick, warm coat is indispensable. Besides, you should also prepare gloves to keep warm or a pair of waterproof shoes to better protect your feet in the cold snow.

Seoul weather by month (# best time to go to seoul)

January

Although it is somewhat cold with low temperatures, in general, January is a good time to travel to Seoul. At this time, there are not too many tourists coming to the city (except holidays, of course). Days in January are usually sunny, relatively pleasant and are also some of the driest times of the year.

• Average temperature: -4 ºC
• Lowest temperature: -9 ºC
• Highest temperature: 1 ºC
• Average rainfall: 21 mm

February

In Seoul, temperatures have started to warm up heading into February. Like other winter months, February is one of the driest months of the year. Even though the temperatures are quite cold, this is a great time to enjoy the outdoors in Seoul. However, you should avoid traveling during Lunar New Year in Korea because this is the busiest time of the year.

• Average temperature: -2 ºC
• Lowest temperature: -7 ºC
• Highest temperature: 4 ºC
• Average rainfall: 25 mm

Although the weather in February is quite cold, it is generally quite suitable for travel

March

While early March still feels like winter, you’ll notice a distinct warmth as temperatures begin to gradually rise. However, to be able to fully feel the beauty of Korean spring, it takes a little more time, towards the end of the month or the next month.

• Average temperature: 4 ºC
• Lowest temperature: -2 ºC
• Highest temperature: 9 ºC
• Rainfall: 48 mm

April

Along with November, April is one of the best months to visit Seoul, as cherry blossoms first appear at the beginning of the month. Yeouido and Nami Island are among the best day trips from Seoul and are also the two best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul. The weather also improved. With the average daytime temperature not too cold, you can “wear” more comfortable clothes than in winter.

• Average temperature: 11 ºC
• Lowest temperature: 5 ºC
• Highest temperature: 17 ºC
• Average rainfall: 95 mm

May

Even though the cherry blossoms have long since faded, May in Korea is not lacking in charming spring flower scenes. At this time, the temperature increases quite a lot, bringing warm and pleasant weather. If you are looking for dry weather conditions with warm sunshine then traveling in May is highly recommended.

• Average temperature: 17 ºC
• Lowest temperature: 11 ºC
• Highest temperature: 22 ºC
• Average rainfall: 83 mm

June

During the first moments of June, visiting Seoul is still quite nice. Temperatures continue to rise as the summer days draw near. However, the weather will be a bit humid and uncomfortable in June.

• Average temperature: 21 ºC
• Lowest temperature: 16 ºC
• Highest temperature: 26ºC
• Average rainfall: 151 mm

July

July is a hard time to visit Seoul. At this time, rainfall is nearly 2.5 times higher than in June and rising temperatures can cause some difficulties for tourists. For trips to Seoul in July, choosing cafes, shopping malls and visiting museums is the most appropriate choice.

• Average temperature: 24 ºC
• Lowest temperature: 20 ºC
• Highest temperature: 27 ºC
• Average rainfall: 383 mm

August

Like July, August is also not the most comfortable time to plan a trip to Seoul. Hot temperatures are not suitable for a comfortable trip. Furthermore, there may be rainstorms at this time.

• Average temperature: 24 ºC
• Lowest temperature: 20 ºC
• Highest temperature: 28 ºC
• Average rainfall: 283 mm

September

“Goodbye” to the summer heat, Seoul becomes more pleasant in September. Temperatures begin to moderate. Rainfall also began to decrease. However, it should be noted that Chuseok holiday also in September. Along with Lunar New Year, this is one of the country’s biggest holidays and the busiest time in Korea.

• Average temperature: 19 ºC
• Lowest temperature: 14 ºC
• Highest temperature: 24 ºC
• Average rainfall: 159 mm

October

Continuing mild and dry days in October, one of the best months to visit Seoul. Temperatures are comfortable, a bit chilly, especially in late October. This is also the start of the beautiful fall colors that cover Seoul with vibrant colors such as yellow, red and orange.

• Average temperature: 13 ºC
• Lowest temperature: 7 ºC
• Highest temperature: 18 ºC
• Average rainfall: 52 mm

November

By November, you will feel quite cold as winter approaches. Still, it’s an exciting time to visit Seoul. The brilliant fall colors typically reach their peak in late October to early November, creating a distinctive atmosphere around the city. Other than the three cold winter months, November is the driest month of the year in Seoul.

• Average temperature: 5 ºC
• Lowest temperature: -1 ºC
• Highest temperature: 10 ºC
• Average rainfall: 46 mm

December

The first official month of winter with temperatures starting to drop lower in Seoul. Although the weather is cold, the days of December are relatively dry and sunny, so they are quite suitable for travel!

• Average temperature: -2 ºC
• Lowest temperature: -7 ºC
• Highest temperature: 3 ºC
• Average rainfall: 25 mm

When is the best time to visit Seoul?

Which season is the best to travel to Seoul?

The best time to visit Seoul is in the fall, between September and November. The city experiences mild weather and gentle breezes at this time of year, and offers beautiful views of the sky Brilliant green against a breathtaking backdrop of hillsides. Cultural festivals such as the Seoul Drum Festival (mid-September), Andong Maskdance Festival (September – October) and Jinju Namgang Yudeung Lantern Festival (early October) are held in Korea.

Visit Seoul in spring, when brilliant pink, purple and white cherry blossoms bloom in the city and beyond. If you’re in the city in mid-April, you’ll be able to enjoy the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival – activities range from vibrant flower parades and street performances, to art exhibitions and photography.

Which months are the best to travel to Seoul? (# best time to go to seoul)

Arguably, the best months to visit Seoul are April and October.

Why should you travel to Seoul in April?

As the first month to completely escape the cold winter in Korea, April is a great time to travel to Seoul. Not only are the temperatures pleasant, but April is also relatively dry compared to the summer months.

Of all the reasons to visit Seoul in April, none is more appealing than witnessing cherry blossom season in Korea. Pale pink flowers create a vibrant scene across the streets of Seoul, painting the city at its best. Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul include Yeouido Park and Changdeokgung Palace.

Why should you travel to Seoul in October?

Along with April, October is probably also the best time to visit Seoul. Temperatures in Seoul in October range from chilly to cool, but still comfortable for activities. You will need to dress warmer, this will help you enjoy your trip to Seoul to the fullest.

The most appealing reason to visit Seoul in October is for the fall colors. Along with the spring cherry blossoms, admiring the fall foliage is an unforgettable experience for any visitor coming here in October.

Some tips before you go

To make your self-sufficient trip to Seoul truly complete, remember the following:

• If you want to see cherry blossoms, go to Seoul in April. If you want to see snow, come in December.
• Taxis in Seoul in the evening or during rush hour often have high prices, so you should use public transportation to save costs.
• You should choose a hotel in the central Seoul area to conveniently move between attractions, the Insadong area will be the best choice.
• You can buy a Korean SIM and T-Money transportation card right at the Korean airport at a reasonable price.
• Korean people often rarely communicate in English, you can communicate with them in Korean or translation software.
• You can bargain when shopping at markets down 20-40% compared to the original price.
• Every November and December there will be many discount and sales in Seoul in particular and Korea in general. If you come to Seoul at this time, don’t forget to go shopping.

Above are detailed updates on the weather in Seoul during the four seasons and months of the year. Hopefully, the information that we just shared will make it easier for you to prepare for yourself a thoughtful and perfect travel plan in Korea.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Seoul you can refer to

• Private Incheon International Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Private Incheon Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Incheon International Airport (ICN) Limousine Bus Transfers for Seoul (Gangnam District)
• Klook Exclusive Seoul 5 Day Pass
• Discover Seoul Pass (BTS Edition Available)
• [SALE] Instant Ticket! Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS) 2/3/4/5 Days to travel around the cities in Korea
• Private Incheon Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport (GMP) Transfers for Seoul by S.A Tour
• Everland Private Car Charter with Admission Ticket by Wondertrip
• KAL Limousine Bus Ticket for Seoul
• [Limited Offer] AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul
• Bukchon Oneday Hanbok Rental Experience (4/24 Hrs)
• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Seoul City Sightseeing Bus (Downtown Palace Namsan Course/Seoul Panorama Course)
• [Limited Offer] Incheon International Airport (ICN) Luggage Services (Between Airport and Hotel) by Safex
• 4G Prepaid SIM Card (SK Airports Pick Up) for South Korea
• [Sale] Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store) with Korean Hairstyling
• [SALE] South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT Olleh
• 4G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for South Korea (Unlimited Data)
• 4G Portable WiFi for South Korea from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)

Are you finding more top things to do in Seoul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.