The Best Time to Visit Seoul

Seoul is a bustling city that offers a diverse range of experiences. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in exploring ancient history, enjoying Korean cuisine, experiencing the buzz of K-Pop, or immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife. Choosing when to visit Seoul is an important decision because the weather can greatly impact your experience. In this blog post, we’ll help you determine the best time to visit Seoul based on your preferences and interests.

Spring (March – May)

Spring is a popular time to visit Seoul because of the pleasant weather and the cherry blossom season. Temperatures can vary but generally range from 7°C to 20°C. The cherry blossom season, which lasts for around two weeks, attracts tourists from all over the world. Parks and streets become bathed in pink, creating a beautiful and romantic atmosphere. It’s recommended to book accommodation and tours in advance because this is a busy time of year.

Summer (June – August)

Summers in Korea can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C. Although it can be uncomfortable, summer is a great time to enjoy the beaches near Seoul, like Gangwon-do Province, which has long stretches of sandy beaches and is just a few hours by train or bus. Summers are also peak season, with many tourists visiting Seoul to take advantage of the vacations and festivals. One example is the Boryeong Mud Festival, which takes place near Daecheon Beach in July, where you can enjoy mud wrestling, mud slides, and other related activities. Book early to avoid disappointment for accommodation.

Fall (September – November)

Fall is one of the best times to visit Seoul with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 23°C, with leaves changing colors making it a perfect time for outdoor activities. Exploring Seoul’s parks, such as Namsan Park, Bukhansan National Park, and Gyeongbokgung Palace is a great idea during this season. During the fall season, Seoul hosts the Seoul Lantern Festival, which is a stunning visual showcase of traditional Korean lanterns. It’s recommended to book accommodation and flights close to the festival time and try to plan ahead.

Winter (December – February)

Winter in Seoul can be very chilly, with temperatures ranging from -6°C to 7°C Celsius. But if you’re a fan of winter activities and love to see snowfall, then winter might be your dream time to visit Seoul. Plan to experience winter sports like skiing, ice skating and ice fishing amidst picturesque snow-laden landscapes. Winter in Korea is a great time to eat Korean hotpot dishes such as Dakgalbi, Sundae, and other warming stews. One of the best festivals during the winter season is the Seoul Light Festival, which is a light show held between November and February showcasing Seoul’s iconic landmarks, historical sites, and landscapes.

Conclusion

Each season in Seoul has its own unique charm and offers a range of activities that will entertain you, from food festivals and music events to outdoor activities and cultural events. It’s important to consider what you want to experience before booking your trip. If you’re a fan of skiing and winter sports, then December through February is perfect for you. On the flip side, if you’re someone who loves the outdoors and nature, then spring and fall are great options. For those who enjoy the beach, summer is a perfect time to visit. Keep in mind that bookings should be made in advance during peak season, especially for accommodation and tours. Whenever you decide to visit, Seoul is sure to keep you entertained and give you an unforgettable experience.

The Insider’s Guide to the Best Time to Visit Seoul

Seoul is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, a thriving food scene, and a bustling nightlife. As the capital city of South Korea, Seoul has something to offer everyone, all year round. However, some seasons might be better suited to your travel plans than others. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the best time to visit Seoul, depending on your preferences and interests:

Spring: March to May (Cherry Blossom Season)

Spring in Seoul brings vibrant pink cherry blossoms that attract millions of visitors every year. The national flower of South Korea, the cherry blossom, is a symbol of renewal and hope. You can view the cherry blossoms in many parts of the city, including Yeouido Park, Seokchon Lake, and Namsan Tower. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Spring is also the time when the Seoul Lantern Festival takes place. It features various colorful lanterns, exhibitions, and performances that have a traditional Korean theme.

Summer: June to August

Summer in Seoul can be hot and humid, but it’s also when many exciting events happen. June marks the start of the Seoul Dragon City Festival at the Cheonggyecheon Stream. The festival has various events, including dragon boat races, music performances, and street food stalls. July is also the month when the Boryeong Mud Festival occurs, South Korea’s largest music and mud festival that attracts hundreds of tourists each year. Besides the festivals, summer is also a great season for hiking and outdoor activities, as the mountain trails are lush and green. You can hike up Bukhansan or take a stroll in the parks around the Han River.

Fall: September to November (Autumn Foliage Season)

Fall is one of the best times to visit Seoul, thanks to the breathtaking autumn foliage. The leaves change color to shades of red, yellow, and orange, covering the city in a warm glow. The best places to view the foliage are Namsan Tower, Haneul Park, and Ginkgo Tree Avenue. September also marks the Seoul International Fireworks Festival, an annual event that lights up the sky over the Han River with a spectacular firework display. Other notable events during fall include the Seoul Lantern Festival, Seoul International Film Festival, and Seoul Kimchi Festival.

Winter: December to February (Ski Season & Lunar New Year)

Winter in Seoul can be cold and snowy, but it’s also the best time for skiing and winter sports. Seoul has several ski resorts, including Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort and Bears Town Ski Resort, both of which are accessible by public transportation. Winter is also when the Lunar New Year takes place, a significant event in South Korea. The city is decorated with colorful lanterns and there are various traditional Korean activities, including making rice cakes, trying on a hanbok (Korean traditional clothes), and playing traditional games. You can also visit the historical palaces like Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung to get a glimpse of Korean culture and history.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestion

If you’re looking for something less touristy, Seoul has plenty of hidden gems to discover. Visit Ikseon-dong, a quaint traditional Korean village that has preserved its old charm amidst skyscrapers. You can wander through its narrow alleys, admire the traditional hanok houses, and try some local street food. For a unique dining experience, have a meal at a Korean temple. Some temples, like Gilsangsa Temple, have vegetarian restaurants that serve temple food, which is healthy and delicious. Finally, for an adrenaline-pumping experience, go bungee jumping at the Seoul Olympic Park. The park has the world’s first-ever bungee jump facility built on a bridge, and it offers stunning views of Seoul.

In conclusion, Seoul is a year-round destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting during the cherry blossom season or the winter ski season, you’re sure to have a memorable time in this vibrant city.