Best Things To Do During Rainy Season in Korea

If you find yourself visiting during monsoon season in Korea, then this post is for you. Rainy season in Korea usually happens from the beginning of July and sometimes until the end of August. The average precipitation during July in Korea is 395mm (15.5 inches). I hardly ever recommend you visit Korea in July because it is so miserable. However, if you’re planning a trip to Korea during this time of year, you’re probably thinking, “What on Earth am I going to do monsoon season in Seoul?”

As someone who lived in South Korea for five and half years and survived many a rainy season in Seoul, I’ve got your back. I know all the fun things to do in Seoul with friends (and yes, this includes all the indoor activities in Seoul).

Luckily for you, there’s lot of things to do while it’s raining in Seoul. If you’re wondering what to do in Seoul, this blog post is going to break down the coolest things to do in Seoul during rainy season in Korea.

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Get Travel Insurance 

A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance. Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency. I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance which you can book here. With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:

1. Trip Cancelation – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
2. Emergency Medical – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
3. Medical Evacuation – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
4. Trip Interuption – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
5. Trip Delay – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses.

How To Get Around 

The best way to get around Korea is by purchasing a T-Money card at any convenience store and loading it with money. You can also purchase the mobile version via Klook and get a 5,000 won top off coupon to use with your purchase.

I also recommend getting the Discover Seoul Pass so you can visit the major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discounted price. It comes in increments of 24/48/72 hours. 

How To Stay Connected 

Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer wifi for free and you can connect to various free spots around the city. However, if you don’t want to be reliant on that, you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone. 

What To Pack For Rainy Season in Seoul

I highly recommend packing as light as possible so when you inevitably buy all your favorite Korean products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite travel suitcase brand is Béis. I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage. Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account.

Travel Essentials for what to pack for monsoon season Korea 2023:

• Small Umbrella
• Reebok Sneakers
• Rain jacket
• Rain Boots
• Sandals
• Shorts/skirts
• Dresses

Rainy Season South Korea

This particular time of year doesn’t have to be boring. Trust me there’s so many things to do in Seoul! Below I have broken down the city into its most popular neighborhoods. I have suggestions on what to do in each season during rainy season in Korea.

What should I do during rainy season in Seoul?

• Go Shopping – If you’re looking for a cute Korean summer outfit, then I’m sure you’ll find one! Seoulites love to shop and I recommend checking out the Lotte World Mall at Jamsil Station.
• Wild Wild Dream Musical – Wanna see Magic Mike in Seoul? Then you HAVE to book this amazing experience. The men dance amazing and it doesn’t hurt they’re handsome to boot!

What is the South Korea rainy season like?

For the last few years global warming has contributed to a lot of flooding at the Han River. Some days it rains so much you barely see the sun. Honestly, it can be really depressing.

What to do in Seoul for a day?

Some things that should be on your list is visiting Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and of course a trip to Namsan Tower. For a complete itinerary of what to do in Seoul for a day, check out my quick 24 Hours in Seoul Guide.

What to do in Insadong?

With so many places to go in Seoul, I always recommend Insadong especially for traditional Korean food. The Colorpool Museum is there which is great during the heavy rain in Korea.

What to do in Hongdae?

When there’s rain in Seoul, you can always count on Hongdae to have the cutest and trendiest cafes. Some of the best ones to visit are the 943 King’s Cross Harry Potter Cafe, Winter’s Village Samoyed Cafe, the Meerkat Cafe, and Thanks Nature Sheep Cafe.

What to do in Myeongdong?

You’ll find lots of fun places in Korea in Myeongdong. This section of the city is back in full swing after the pandemic. One of my favorite things to do in Myeongdong is try all the delicious street food stalls. (Bring cash only.) When it rains you’ll still find lots of shopping and you can even watch the ever eclectic Nanta Cooking Show.

What to do in Itaewon?

The best things to do in Itaewon is eat. There’s tons of foreign food in the area. You can try everything from pancakes for dinner to Ethiopian dishes.

What to do in Gangnam?

Some of my favorite things to do in Gangnam on a rainy day in Seoul is visit the CoEx Starfield Library and go shopping in Garosugil.

What To do in Jamsil?

Jamsil Seoul is one of my favorite areas to hang out. The best thing you can do in Jamsil is spend time at the Lotte World Mall. There’s tons of shopping, cafes, a movie theater, and restaurants. Even the popular Knotted World Cafe is located inside. You can also enjoy the indoor amusement park Lotte World. For more inspiration on what to do in Jamsil, check out my itinerary here.

1. 943 King’s Cross Harry Potter Cafe

The Harry Potter Cafe Seoul is a great retreat while it’s raining in Korea. There’s six floors of fun and the cafe takes inspiration from the films. I absolutely love the fact its so much fun to take pictures, have a drink, and even some snacks. The coolest one there is the mini cake that looks like Harry’s from the films!

2. Samoyed Cafe in Hongdae

Wondering what to do in Seoul? Then you HAVE to check out Winter’s Village Samoyed Cafe in Seoul. Samoyeds are some of the cutest and most intelligent dogs. They’re so smart they’re easy to train, but they do require a lot of stimulation. These sweet pups know how to do tons of tricks and are very well behaved. I love the fact there’s a giant squad of puffy, white, teddybear-looking pups. In my not so humble opinion, there’s no better way to spend and afternoon during monsoon season in Korea.

3. Alive Museum

Of course I had to put this as my number one pick because I love dirty jokes and making inappropriate faces and gestures. If you’re like me, and you can’t help yourself, try out the Alive Museum. It’s one of the best art attractions in Seoul since all the installations are fully interactive. Book your tickets to the Alive Museum here.

4. 63 Building Aquarium

The 63 Building Aquarium is one of the coolest places in Seoul because they have mermaid shows. I actually found myself inside on a very polluted and rainy day. I was amused for hours. If you want a shot similar to this one, take a photo of the mermaids while they’re performing. Then, when the crowds and children have dispersed, take a photo of the aquarium. You can book your tickets to the 63 Building Aquarium here.

5. Colorpool Museum

Have you ever dreamt of being balls deep? Now you can fulfill your childhood McDonald’s ball pit fantasy at this adult friendly Instagram museum in Seoul. P.S. They clean the pit often so you can rest assured its much cleaner than the places we played in the 90s. There’s so many fun installations. If you find yourself bored while it’s raining in Seoul, this is a great place to spend the afternoon. Book your tickets to the Colorpool Museum aka the most Instagram worthy spot in Seoul here.

6. DIY Cell Phone Case Cafe

There’s no better way to spend a Seoul rainy season than at one of the coolest cafes in Seoul. After all, you’ll be sitting inside an air-conditioned cafe making your own personal phone case. There are thousands of different charms, trinkets, and styles to choose from. Want something sparkly? Bonobo Cafe in Hongdae is a great DIY cell phone case cafe in Seoul. Depending on what you want on your phone case and how many add-ons is the price. It can be anywhere from 15,000 – 30,000 won.

7. Go To A Korean Salon

If you’re feeling fancy I suggest visiting the Korean salon, The Days Dean in Hongdae. When I lived in Korea, I never let anyone except Dean touch my hair. He did such a wonderful job and I was very happy every time I went. Since he’s so popular now, you have to book him really far in advance. If you can’t get an appointment with Dean, try these salons instead:

1. Jenny House in Seoul – Hallyu and Kpop Stars alike have been to this high end luxury hair salon in Gangnam. They offer translation services in Chinese and English.
2. Franck Provost Salon in Myeongdong – This amazing salon combines European and Korean techniques for a beautiful hair finish.

8. Staycation at Banyan Tree

Banyan Tree Seoul is my absolute favorite luxury hotel in Korea. I think its the coolest hotel in Seoul because you literally have a relaxation pool in your room while looking at the Namsan Tower. I had the most amazing staycation here during the pandemic and have raved about it to everyone who will listen. You can book your stay at the Seoul Banyan Tree here.

9. Nanta Cooking Musical

The best part about watching a Nanta cooking show in Seoul is you don’t need to speak Korean to understand. The story is a wacky kitchen staff tring to make their way through life. You’ve got the hot one, the one with common sense, drama, and a whole lot of laughs. They do amazing work in the kitchen too! I’ve never seen anyone chop cabbage that fast in my life. Book a show to the Nanta Cooking Musical here.

10. MeerKat and Friends Cafe

I love exotic animals and cafes in Seoul. If you’re looking for a unique experience, then you should stop by the Meerkat and Friends Cafe. Here you can hang out with the real Timon from the Lion King and experience raccoons, a wallaby, a South African Genet, and an Arctic Fox. Please be mindful of the animals and if they come to you be calm and gentle. If they don’t want to deal with you, then just enjoy looking and taking photos at a distance. Please note that people 15 years and up are permitted to enter the cafe.

11. Play Disney Princess Dress Up

At Jade Mug & Yumi’s Dress Room, you’ll get a super unique experience. This cafe offers cute high tea sets, drinks, and snacks. In addition, they have Disney princess dresses from the cartoon and live action movies including Ariel, Jasmine, Belle, Rapunzel, Anna and much more!

12. Make Cute Korean Desserts

Have you ever wanted to try and make super cute Korean desserts? If you’re vegan or vegetarian, this is the perfect activity for you. These cakes are made with rice and red bean. Not to mention they’re super adorable and the perfect souvenir for your friends and family. Or you can just eat them yourself. Book a Korean traditional dessert class here.

13. Make Your Own Makgeolli

Have you ever wondered how Koreans make their traditional rice wines? Well, now you can make your own too. The milky, off-white and lightly sparkling rice wine has a slight viscosity that tastes slightly sweet, tangy, bitter, and astringent. Book a traditional Korean wine Makgeolli making class here.

14. Get a Facial at Whoo Spa

Experience getting glowing complexion like a Hallyu Star at Whoo Spa in Sinsa. They offer a variety of care and spa packages depending on what you choose. Korean celebrities have been known to go to this spa as it’s that awesome and top notch. Trazy has an exclusive care package for facial and body care. You’ll get an amazing massage and literally feel like a new person afterwards. I’ve done this before and I would go back and do it again!

15. Make Your Own Name Stamp

Hangul is a very efficient and easy to learn alphabet. You can literally sit down for 90 minutes and learn it in an afternoon. If you want to learn quickly, check out this FREE Hangul cheat sheet. Why not make your time in Korea memorable by making a name stamp? In Korea, people don’t sign their names. They use official and registered stamps. You can book your own Korean name stamp making class here.

16. SBS MTV the Show

Kpop fans keep rejoicing because you can get close to your favorite music groups on SBS The Show. Most of the time you don’t know which groups will be performing, but granted it’s live, a treat, and a wonderful way to get all your fangirl feels out. This is one of the most popular things to do for a Hallyu fan so make sure your book your tickets in advance.

17. Grab a Brew At Art Monster

Grabbing a craft beer at Art Monster is one of my favorite things to do in Gangnam. Rainy season in Seoul doesn’t have to dampen your spirits with a place as fun as this! Art Monster is one of my favorite restaurants in Gangnam for tasty bar food and french fries!

18. Record a Kpop Song at King Studio

Wanna get down like the Kpop stars do? Or maybe even sit on the same couch as VIXX? If you like to sing try this unique experience at King Studio. You’ll get some lessons with a vocal coach, some help from them and they won’t be judgmental of your singing voice. I loved my experience there in the sound room and had the greatest time being shown around the studio.

19. Afternoon Tea at Park Hyatt

Afternoon tea at Park Hyatt is one of the best things to do in Seoul. A rainy day in Korea doesn’t have to dampen mood. What’s really cool is there’s amazing views of the CoEx mall from the lounge. Park Hyatt Seoul serves the most delectable afternoon tea. They even have an awesome indoor pool that overlooks the city. If you want to stay at the Seoul Park Hyatt, make your booking here.

20. Coex Library

Starfield CoEx Mall photos are the most popular and well known on social media. The library’s aesthetic placement makes for amazing pictures. Visiting the CoEx library is one of the top things to do in Seoul. There are thousands of free titles in many different languages at the library.

Enjoying the shopping mall perfect way to spend a rainy season in South Korea. This is your one stop shop because it is a mall, there’s plenty of restaurants, a movie theater, and an aquarium. There’s even a Pandora store where I bought my exclusive Seoul charm.

21. Arc-N-Book Jamsil

There’s so many books in here in English and Korea. They even have little reading nooks throughout the store. I love the book tunnel and it makes for amazing aesthetic photos.

22. Chegro Bookstore (채그로)

Sadly Chegro doesn’t have many English selections, but this bookstore has an incredible aesthetic. The wooden panels, large floor to ceiling panels, and views of Seoul cannot be beat. There’s a cafe in the bookstore. You can even eat at the tasty restaurant in the same building.

23. Go to the Alice Speak Easy

Prohibition was never a thing in Seoul, but you can’t get away from this fun idea. (And let’s be real. Soju is literally Korean water.) Tucked behind an adorable antique flower shop, lays the back door into this amazing bar. The drinks are pretty pricey, but it’s totally worth the visit because all the ingredients are fresh and the alcohol is incredible. Besides, Alice in Wonderland is a theme you really can’t screw up.

24. Make Your Own Perfume

Fancy smelling like something delectable? Making your own perfume has actually become a pretty cool thing to do. Instead of trying a million different perfumes, why not find a scent that will make you feel happy and reflect your uniqueness? With 150 different fragrance bases and 20 natural fragrances, you’ll definitely hit the jackpot when creating your own perfume.

25. Times Square Mall

This is also another fun mall. They have a Din Tai Fung (amazing Taiwanese soup dumpling place) and a Shake Shack. They have huge SPAO store that does collaborations with the biggest brands out there like Stranger Things, Harry Potter, and even Sailor Moon. They’re really popular around the holidays for their huge Christmas tree display.

26. Norebang

You can find these anywhere in Korea. Grab some friends or go alone. Get some drinks and snacks and be prepared to sing all of your favorite tunes from pop to rock to Spanish. Karaoke/the singing room is one of the best things to do at night in Seoul. Plus its cheap!

Being indoors during rainy season doesn’t have to be a drag when there’s so many things to do in Seoul. Whether you liked theme cafes or interesting classes on making traditional paintings or perfume you’ll always hit the jackpot. Seoul is one of my favorite cities on the planet and there’s never a shortage of interesting activities to keep one amused. There’s so many things to do in Seoul Korea I just keep coming back for more!

This article contains affiliate links. This means at no extra cost to you, I make a small commission to keep Gina Bear’s Blog running.

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