Every season in Korea brings the best of the Land of The Morning Calm. Summer is festival season and there are so many summer festivals in Korea to go to!
If you find yourself in Korea during summer vacation, you’re definitely in for a treat! The summer months are a great time to get outside and especially go to water festivals to keep cool.
Table of Contents
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- Best Things To Do During Rainy Season in Seoul South Korea
- Summer in Seoul | What To Wear and What To Pack for Summer in Korea
- The Ultimate Guide To Summer in Korea
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What months are summer in Korea?
When is summer in South Korea you might ask? Officially, summer in Korea is from June to August. Although because I have my AC on until the end of September, I’m gonna count that month too.
It is usually very hot and humid. During July, it rains a lot which makes it feel more hot and sweltering during August with high humidity. Two thirds of Korea’s annual rainfall occurs in summer.
2. What is the hottest month in South Korea?
The hottest months in Korea are July and August. August gets up to 29°C to 32°C but can feel even hotter because of the humidity.
3. What is summer like in South Korea?
Summer in Korea feels like death if you’re not used to it. The humidity can make you sweat just from standing outside.
In addition, man public establishments and public transportation blast the air conditioning which can make it very cold indoors. During this time, you should probably bring a jean jacket to keep warm.
4. Is Korea hot in summer?
Summers in Korea are hot and humid. There is a monsoon season in Korea in July brings constant downpour. Summer starts in June and can last until late September.
What to Pack to Korea
I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way when you buy all of 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.
I lived in Korea from 2015-2021 and am quite familiar with Korean fashion. However, I do not conform to Korean styles of dress because 1) I think the fashion is ugly and 2) it doesn’t fit my body type. I typically wear what looks best on me because this is a free world and I’ll do as I please.
Sadly, many Koreans (especially the older generation) tend not to mind their own business. If they don’t approve of you, sometimes they’ll try to cover you up, say something, or you’ll get lecherous stares from grody old men.
That being said, let’s get on with this Korea summer packing guide.
How To Dress For Summer in Korea
I hate I even have to give this warning, but I feel as your internet big sister, I do need to address some important facts based on my experience. In Korea, the sense of modesty is different. This means you can wear your shorts, skirts, and dresses as short as you want. I promise no one will bat an eye. You will be stared at if you dare to expose your chest or shoulders.
Unfortunately, we still live in a world where many men are predators to women. I have been groped in public and grabbed by lecherous old men because I dared to wear what made me feel confident and beautiful. Be aware as a foreigners we are considered “curvier” and our clothes can make us appear “too sexy.”
A general rule of thumb is if you do choose to wear anything with thin straps and cleavage, you can wear a t-shirt under. If you’re headed to the beach or pool, many Koreans opt to wear rash guards over their swimsuits.
Summer in Korea Essentials
- shorts
- skirts
- dresses
- tank tops (to soak up sweat)
- t-shirts
- blouses
- jean jacket (it gets cold indoors)
- sneakers
- sandals
- swimsuits
- Reusable water bottle
Summer Weather in Korea
What is the weather like in Korea in summer? South Korea has four distinct seasons and I find the weather to be very similar to my hometown Chicago. Every month is slight different so here is a break down of the average temperatures and my own experiences.
This monthly temperature break down should give you a good idea of what to do in South Korea. However, to be honest, the summer season will usually last until September.
June Weather in Korea
During the months of June is the best time to visit South Korea because of all the good weather.. Early June, the weather is transitioning out of spring with higher temperatures.
The average high will range from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F) during the day. It cools down a little bit at night so be sure to wear a light jacket. The average lows are about 16°C (61°F).
July Weather in Korea
Honest to goodness, July is my least favorite month to travel in Korea. This is when monsoon rains make humidity levels go from zero to I’m now swimming in the air. The humid conditions are why I NEVER recommend anyone to visit during this month because it is so miserable.
The average temperature during the day is a sweltering 29°C to 30°C (84°F to 86°F). Recent years have seen a lot of flooding on the Han River. If you do find yourself visiting during this time, then this is my list of the best things to do during rainy season in Korea.
August Weather in Korea
The summer heat in August is usually the worst. Average high temperatures in in August are usually 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F). It feels like more because of the intense humidity that is brought on from July. Even in August, it still rains a lot.
Typhoons in Korea
If you live in Seoul, you’ll be fine. I’ve experienced “typhoons” in the big city and they’re honestly nothing but a bunch of hot air being blown around. However, if you live in a coastal town like Busan or island like Jeju, they are no joke. Make sure you stock up on appropriate items and watch the news religiously for updates.
National Holidays During Summer in Korea
Be aware if you’re visiting during these public Korean holidays, businesses could have different hours, be closed, or it will just be crowded because everyone has off.
Memorial Day and Liberation Day are the biggest summer holidays in Korea with many events and ceremonies taking place throughout the country. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Korean culture.
- June 6th – Memorial Day
- August 15th – Constitution Day
Summer Festivals in Korea
Cherry blossoms or the Lotus Lantern Festival (which takes place during the Lunar Calendar) aren’t the only allure to The Land of the Morning Calm. I’m not a hot weather person, but you best believe I’ll be outside for a special event like summer festivals in Korea.
While the Hangang Parks may be full of screaming children, I highly encourage you to visit these festivals as many are 19 and over.
1. Seoul Jazz Festival
When: May 31, 2024 – June 2, 2024
This fun festival is one of the first to kick off summer festivals in Korea. The Seoul Jazz Festival features famous jazz artists from all around the world to perform and enjoy jazz music with crowd. It will take place at Olympic Park. For more information click here for the event page.
2. Pohang Space Walk and International Fireworks Festival
When: June 1, 2024
At this festival you can have a unique experience on a walkable roller coaster and then see the fireworks. Summer in Korea is all about fireworks festivals so you definitely don’t want to miss out on this! Book your Pohang International Fireworks Festival tour here.
3. Seoul Pride Festival
When: June 1, 2024
Among the annual festivals in Korea, this has always been my favorite and when I lived in Korea, I attended every year… After all, love is love ya’ll! The Seoul Queer Culture Festival and Pride Parade is back for its 25th year. Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Pride Month is where where allies and the community come to celebrate diversity and acceptance. This is one of my favorite Korea summer festivals because of all the different events. They even have live music performances and dances.
4. Ultra Music Festival Korea
When: June 7, 2024 – June 9, 2024
Ultra Music Festival is one the best places if you love EDM music. Be transported to a magical world of wonder! The main attraction for Ultra Korea this year will be Swedish House Mafia, DeadMau5, and Afrojack.
This year’s festival will take place in Incheon. Get your tickets to the Korea Ultra Music Festival here.
5. Busan One Asia Festival
When: June 8, 2024
This festival takes place in Busan which is one of my favorite coastal cities in Korea. Die hard K-pop music lovers definitely don’t want to miss out on this festival. At this event you can watch various concerts and attend various fan meetings.
This year’s line-up will feature ZEROBASEONE, BoyNextDoor, Billie, Super Junior, Lun8, Nowadays, and more. You can book your tickets for the Busan One Asia Festival here.
6. Goseong Lavender Festival
When: TBD 2024
The Goseong Lavender Festival is one of the most unique summer festivals in Korea. Europe isn’t the only place in the world that has amazing lavender fields. Korea does too! You can smell it before you even see the purple blooms.
Snap a bunch of beautiful photos to your heart’s desire and even buy lavender products made at the farm. Purchase your tickets to the Goseong Lavender Festival here.
7. World DJ Festival
When: June 15, 2024 – June 16, 2024
If you’re a lover of electronic music, you definitely wanna pop on by to Seoul Land this year. This year’s headliners will be Eric Prydz, Alan Walker, Alok, and The Chainsmokers. For more information, check out the official website here.
8. Daegu Chimac Festival | 대구치맥페스티벌
When: July 3, 2024 – July 7, 2024
Summer festivals in Korea would not be complete with Daegu’s annual festival. Chicken and beer or Chimaek is one of South Korea’s top food groups… So it’s no wonder they have an entire festival dedicated to it.
Korea’s fried chicken franchises will be there along with some local chicken places. Chimaek is a combination of chicken and maekju which means beer.
Here you can enjoy a refreshing picnic of chicken along with some tasty beer and other cultural events. For more information on the Daegu Chimaek Festival, click here.
9. Waterbomb Festival 2024
When: July 5, 2024 – July 7, 2024
This is the largest water festival in Korea. It kicks off in Seoul in July and does a tour to different parts of Korea including Jeju Island, Busan, and Daegu. Get ready for energetic live performances and water gun fights. Basically this is a giant water park for adults as no one under the age of 19 is permitted.
There is no seating and it is all a standing zone. This year’s Korean artists include Jay Park, Loco, Hwasa, Taemin, Sunmi, and Jessi at center stage. For more information on the Waterbomb Korea Festival, click here for the event link.
10. Boryeong Mud Festival | 보령머드축제
When: July 19, 2024 – August 4, 2024
This is one of the most popular festivals in Korea. At this unique festival, you’ll have a great time mud wrestling and participating in various programs. Here you can cake your whole body in mud and I promise your mom won’t yell at you. Don’t forget to try sun-blocking mud and large mud slide!
This is perfect for people of all ages and great for making incredible memories! It also brings the largest number of international visitors to Korea every year. It takes place at Daecheon Beach Mud Square. Book your tickets to the Boryeong Mud Festival here.
11. Buyeo Seodang Lotus Flower Festival
When: TBD 2024
A lotus is often the symbol purity and strength in Buddhism. Growing from mud, a lotus shows that we can strive to be more. Come see over 50 types of water plants and lotus in full bloom at this stunning festival. If you’re looking for cultural festivals, then I highly suggest visiting this one.
The tour will also take you around the iconic Jeonju Hanok Village. Book your tour to the Buyeo Seodang Lotus Flower Festival here.
12. Sinchon Watergun Festival | 신촌물총축제
When: TBD 2024
This festival always takes place toward the end of July, but you can feel like a kid again and have the time of your life with this street festival. Basically everyone brings their own water guns and prepares for the most epic water fight of their lives. The admission fee to get in is about 12,000 won.
13. Busan Sea Festival | 부산 바다축제
When: TBD 2024
In 1996, the first Busan Sea Festival was held to promote Busan as a beautiful beach town destination. It’s been happening a pretty long time and will be back for its 28th year. Nothing screams summer festivals in Korea like going to the beach.
The festival takes place at Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach, Songdo Beach, Dadaepo Beach, Songjeong Beach, and at other places in Busan. You can definitely expect a fireworks show and water sports here. There will also be various activities native to Busan to participate in.
14. Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival | 인천 펜타포트 락페스티벌
When: August 2, 2024 – August 4, 2024
Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival is Korea’s largest rock festival. The festival dates signify the end of the summer season as many students go back to school the following week. I’m a huge rock music fan.
The year I went The Fray headlined and I was rocking out. They usually have some great international artists performing as well. The lineup has yet to be announced, but you can check the official page here for more updates.
15. Hwacheon Tomato Festival | 퇴촌 토마토축제
When: TBD 2024
Have you ever wanted to get into a giant food fight? Well, this Korean summer festival has answered your wildest dreams. The main event is a unique opportunity to fling tomatoes at random strangers to your heart’s desire. For a hassle free experience, book your tour to the Hwacheon Tomato Festival here.
I hope you’ve found the perfect way to enjoy your summer vacation in Seoul. The name of the game is summer in Korea! If you’re a music lover, you’ll experience the best summer festivals in Korea.
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