South Korea in summer is a perfect time to explore the country’s fascinating destinations while enjoying pleasant weather. With temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, it’s an ideal season for outdoor activities and sightseeing. From the bustling capital city of Seoul, where ancient palaces and vibrant shopping districts await, to the historic city of Gyeongju, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, there is no shortage of places to visit. For nature lovers, the stunning coastal regions of Busan and Jeju Island offer breathtaking beaches and scenic hiking trails. Additionally, the vibrant festivals such as Boryeong Mud Festival and Daejeon International Balloon Festival add an extra dose of excitement to a summer trip to South Korea.
When does summer start in South Korea
South Korea has a moderate climate. Summers are often brief, very humid, and warm—quite the opposite of winter. June 21 marks the beginning of the warmest month of the year, which lasts until September 22.
Summer in Asia, which is in the Northern Hemisphere, is the opposite of the busiest travel season, therefore travel may be less expensive; of course, July is an exception.
Another benefit of traveling to South Korea in the summer is that you may pack lighter and/or carry larger luggage since warm clothing takes up less room.
Summer temperature in South Korea
South Korea’s summertime temperatures vary from 22 to 29°C, although the wind chill might be far worse.
People often feel uncomfortable during the humid season since it rains a lot in this nation from June to August.
Buy a tiny umbrella and have it with you at all times since half of the rain is counted in the yearly total falls at that time.
What to Wear in Summer in South Korea
Because of the high temperatures, wear comfortable clothing made of light materials and, if possible, light colors. Darker colors warm up more quickly. Consider that you will be moving around a lot in different outdoor settings when you pack your bag.
Another piece of advice is to wear really comfy shoes like sneakers. Don’t forget flip-flops, a bikini, and most importantly, sunscreen if you’re heading to the beach. You’ll sweat a lot, so don’t forget to pack deodorant as well. And I mean it.
A genetic mutation seen in Koreans, Chinese, and Japanese people prevents the perspiration beneath their arms from smelling.
South Korea in Summer: destinations
Beach Naksan
It is situated in Gangwon-do, in the city of Yangyang, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest beaches in Asia. Each season, the area welcomes around 1 million tourists.
Since Naksan Beach is a highly popular beach, the area provides a wonderful structure for visitors. Lush pine woods, white sand, and clear, shallow water distinguish it. Jet skis and banana boats are also a lot of fun.
Summer isn’t only about the beach, of course; for those who are interested in Korean culture, this location is among the greatest.
Visit the Uisangdae pavilion, which was created to commemorate the Buddhist monk Uisang, Naksansa Temple, and Seoraksan Mountain; travel there in the afternoon for a stunning sunset view.
From Seoul, it takes 4 hours and 158 kilometers to go to the beach.
Sokcho
The distance of the city from the capital, which is located 150 km away, is around two hours by bus.
Seorak-san National Park, which has beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and breathtaking sea vistas, is located in Sokcho. Check out a trip from Seoul to Seorak.
Depending on the difficulty level selected, one to 11 hours may be spent on paths in the center of nature for those who like something more extreme.
The park was designated a Biosphere Reserve by Unesco in order to promote sustainability. At Seorak-san, more than 1,400 different plant and animal species have been recorded.
Make sure you take some time to see the mountains as they are reflected in Yeongnangho Lake. The 15th-century Buddhist temple Sinheungsa is well worth a visit.
Gyeongpo
Gyeongpo Beach is a sandbar between Gyeongpo Lake and the ocean, and it is situated 1 km from Gyeongpodae and 6 kilometers from the heart of Gangneung.
This lovely beach has a length of 1.8 kilometers and is dusted with fine sand. The location is well-known for its spectacular sunrises. Plan to get up early so that you may appreciate this natural marvel.
Despite the coarser sand, this beach and the seas around Gyeongpo are quite clean. The water is often a comfortable temperature for swimming.
The region’s surrounding pine forest and wildflowers enhance its natural beauty. With lots of lifeguards and pleasure by the water, the location also provides a suitable framework for swimmers.
Busan
The second-most populous city in South Korea, Busan, which is in the region’s southeast, is named after Mount Hwangnyeong, also known as the “Kettle Mountain,” and was situated there.
With a population of more than 3.5 million, the city has a temperature comparable to Seoul’s, which is hot and humid in the summer, but not a problem for beachgoers. See what there is to do in Busan.
Visit Haeundae, the city’s principal beach, to get a sense of Busan. With loads of music playing and people taking in the sunset, the location is one of the busiest.
Gwangan Beach is another location where you may go swimming. Take advantage of the chance to capture as many photos as you can of the breathtaking panorama the city’s major bridge has created.
Want to see the whole picture? Beautiful landscapes may be seen around Busan Tower, particularly at night. The Gamcheon Culture town, a highly traditional town with vibrantly colored homes perched on top of a hill, is another image of Busan that may be seen on postcards.
Visit the Haedong Yonggung Temple, which is close to the water and has a very spiritual aura.
Jeju Island
Jeju, sometimes referred to as the Island of the Gods, is a tiny volcanic island in South Korea’s smallest province. Koreans often frequent the area on weekends, holidays, and vacations, and it is the preferred location for honeymoons in South Korea.
Jeju Island offers wonderful lodging options in addition to lovely beaches for cooling off.
There is Hallasan Mountain, South Korea’s highest peak. It rises to 1950 meters above sea level and has been the home to a dormant volcano for around 800 years.
There is a crater where a clear lake developed near the summit of the mountain as well! Explorers should be aware that 120 caverns arose from the Lava Tunnels, which were built while the volcano was active and now provide geological scientific data.
Manjang is among the most well-known caverns on Jeju. 13 kilometers in length, with 1 km exposed to visitors; archaeologists use the other 7 km as a study location. If you want to go on this trip, pack warmer clothing since the caverns are cooler inside.
Even for those who want to spend some time away from the ocean, the island boasts a number of amusement parks.
