South Korea Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

South Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are usually long, cold, and dry, while summers are very short, hot, and humid. Spring and autumn are pleasant but also short in duration. Seoul's average maximum temperature in January is 2°C (36°F), and in July, the maximum daytime temperature is about 29°C (84°F).

Rainfall and Droughts

The country generally receives sufficient rainfall, with annual precipitation rarely dropping below 760 mm (30 in). In most years, rainfall exceeds 1000 mm (39 in). However, precipitation amounts can vary from year to year. Serious droughts occur approximately once every eight years. About two-thirds of the annual precipitation falls between June and September.

Typhoon Risk

South Korea is less vulnerable to typhoons compared to neighboring countries. Only one to three typhoons can be expected per year. They usually pass over South Korea in late summer, particularly in August, bringing torrential rains.