South Korea in July: Weather, Beaches and More
As South Korea enters July, temperatures soar and humidity levels rise, signaling the impending arrival of monsoon. Despite this, a trip to South Korea in July offers invaluable opportunities for nature and culture lovers. Seek refuge in indoor treasures like Seoul's bustling markets, vibrant neighborhoods, and historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace. Head to coastal retreats like Busan, with its rejuvenating sea breezes and sandy beaches, or go hiking amidst the incredible heights of Seoraksan National Park. Escape from the mainland’s heat to Jeju Island, a true paradise with lush vegetation and charming beachfront resorts.
- Buster
South Korea Weather in July
South Korea in July sees hot and humid conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 28°C (83 °F) during the day to 23 °C (73 °F) at night. Heavy rainfall is expected due to the onset of the monsoon season, with about 289 millimeters of precipitation during the month, nearly half of the expected yearly rainfall. However, due to the lay of its land, South Korea is minimally affected by the strong typhoons that typically hit other East Asian countries during the summer.
Coastal areas such as Busan experience slightly cooler temperatures due to the sea's moderating influence, with highs of around 28°C (82°F). However, they also receive more precipitation, contributing to higher humidity levels. Inland cities, such as Seoul and Daegu, experience warmer temperatures, averaging around 30°C (86°F), but receive less rainfall than coastal regions. Mountainous areas such as Seoraksan or Jirisan National Parks offer cooler temperatures due to higher elevations, making them more suitable for outdoor activities despite occasional rain showers.
For a more in-depth overview, go through our guide on the best time to visit South Korea.
Weather in South Korea in July - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 1 | 4 | 9 | 17 | 22 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 24 | 18 | 10 | 3 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | -9 | -7 | -2 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 20 | 20 | 14 | 7 | -1 | -7 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 34 | 40 | 49 | 63 | 72 | 79 | 81 | 83 | 76 | 65 | 50 | 38 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 16 | 20 | 29 | 41 | 52 | 61 | 68 | 68 | 58 | 45 | 31 | 20 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 23 | 25 | 47 | 94 | 92 | 134 | 370 | 294 | 169 | 50 | 53 | 21 |
| Jun | Jul | Aug | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 26 | 27 | 28 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 16 | 20 | 20 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 79 | 81 | 83 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 61 | 68 | 68 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 134 | 370 | 294 |
Why Visit South Korea in July
If you are keen to discover the most authentic and laid-back side of South Korea, then July is the right month to visit this Eastern Asian gem. Here are some of the compelling reasons you should plan a trip to South Korea during July:
- Vibrant summer festivals: Visiting South Korea in July means immersing yourself in the cheerful and joyful atmosphere of summer festivals, including the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival, the Boryeong Mud Festival, and the Water Gun Festival in Sinchon.
- Hiking in national parks: Thanks to occasional summer downpours, South Korea's national parks come alive in July with vibrant, lush vegetation, providing the perfect setting for scenic hikes and picnics.
- Relax on a pristine beach: What better way to escape the heat and humidity of inland destinations than by sipping a refreshing drink with your feet in the crystal clear waters of a paradisiacal seaside resort? Hyeopjae Beach and Imnang Beach offer pleasant evening breezes and emerald pine forests for picnics and mid-day naps.
- Explore Seoul’s night markets: As the city comes alive with warm evenings, the bustling Myeongdong and Dongdaemun night markets provide the perfect backdrop to experience local food, music, and the vibrant atmosphere of Korean summer nights.
Where to go and what to do
Don't let July's hot and humid weather stop you from exploring some of South Korea's best destinations. Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Incheon, a major port city west of Seoul bathed by the waters of the Yellow Sea. Although the climate is generally more pleasant than in other large inland cities, temperatures in July in South Korea may still reach annual highs, especially during the middle hours of the day. Fortunately, you can take advantage of the city's ample green spaces, such as Incheon Grand Park, or the hyper-technological and well-air-conditioned shopping malls to take a rejuvenating break.
Beat the Seoul summer heat with indoor explorations by exploring museums and art galleries that offer cool escapes and shorter lines. For those craving an outdoor adventure, venture to the stunning Taebaek Mountains, the main ridgeline of the Korean peninsula that offers hikes amidst the lush landscapes.
If you're yearning for coastal bliss, look no further than Jeju Island or Busan, which boasts white sand beaches and emerald waters. If tranquility is what you seek, venture to the Beomeosa Buddhist Temple. Or, for those craving pristine beaches and captivating folklore, set your course for the hidden gem of Ulleungdo.
Whether you are in search of vibrant festivals, serene coastal retreats, or enriching cultural immersions, South Korea in July has it all. Seize the opportunity to explore inland cities like Seoul and Daegu, as they are less crowded than coastal destinations. For a more personalized travel experience, contact our travel experts for a customized trip to South Korea to craft a perfect itinerary, ensuring your adventure is as unique and unforgettable as the destination.
