Best time to visit South Korea

South Korea’s year is split into four distinct seasons. Generally lasting from April to June, spring is generally regarded as the best time to visit: flowers are in bloom, and a frothy cloak of cherry blossom washes a brief wave of pinkish white from south to north. Locals head for the hills, making use of the country’s many national parks, and the effects of the change in weather can also be seen in a number of interesting festivals.

South Korea’s weather swings from icy Siberian blasts to steamy monsoon rains — and everything in between. January and February are the coldest months, especially in the north. Snowfall isn’t rare, and temperatures often dip well below freezing. That said, public transport runs smoothly, ondol floor heating keeps homes toasty, and the landscape — all powdery snow, pine forests and pale yellow grass — can be beautifully stark. Winter also offers a quieter chance to explore the best places to visit in South Korea, especially the mountain temples and ski resorts.

March marks the start of spring, with warming days and a buzz of anticipation. By April, cherry blossoms are in full swing across the country, from Jeju Island to the streets of Seoul. May is arguably one of the most pleasant months — warm, dry, and full of open-air festivals. If you’re looking for a scenic South Korea itinerary, late spring hits the sweet spot between beauty and comfort.

June brings rising humidity and the first hints of monsoon season. July and August are hot and sticky — you’ll likely find yourself bouncing between air-conditioned cafes and convenience stores. This is when over half of Korea’s annual rainfall hits, so it’s smart to factor weather into how to plan a trip to South Korea. Typhoons are rare but possible, especially in late summer.

By September, the rains ease and fall kicks in. October is one of the best months to visit: mild temperatures, dry skies and mountains cloaked in red, gold and amber. November stays relatively crisp and clear, but the chill creeps back in by the end of the month.

December sees the return of deep winter. In Seoul and inland areas, the cold can be biting, but skies are often clear and festive markets start popping up. With the right planning — and maybe input from a South Korea travel expert — the country is worth visiting any month of the year, so long as you know what you're in for.