All the freshness and cherry blossoms of Korea in April might be finished, but Korea in May is the true height of spring. Warm sunshine and bright flowers paint the country in a rainbow of kaleidoscopic colour that’s just as stunning as all that pink.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- what the weather is like during May in Korea
- the Seoul weather in May and other major cities and tourist hotspots, including Busan, Sokcho, and Jeju
- the best spring festivals to attend around the country in May
- what to wear and the best things to pack for a successful trip to Korea in May
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Visiting Korea in May
Some would say that May is the absolute best time of the year to visit Korea. The heaving crowds from peak cherry blossom season have left, and summer vacations haven’t started yet, so booking tours and accommodation in Seoul is much simpler.
There’s also plenty to keep you entertained, with some of the year’s best festivals occurring in the month of May. I’ll cover these a bit later on in this guide.
The May weather in Korea is pretty much ideal. So whether you choose to hike up Bukhansan, or take a leisurely stroll around Seokchon Lake Park, this is definitely the month to get outdoors and explore the delights of nature.
What’s the weather in South Korea in May?
The warming trend of spring continues in Korea during May, with daytime temperatures reaching as high as the mid-20s°C | high 60s°F by the end of the month. May (along with October) is one of the best months to visit Korea climate-wise, with ideal temperatures, little humidity, and long, sunny days.
In May, average daily temperatures in Korea range from 13°C | 55°F to 23°C | 73°F across the country. There’s some humidity, but the gross mugginess brought by summer monsoons have yet to hit the Peninsula, and it’s a very pleasant time to be in Korea.
Korea Weather in May Quick Guide
City | Average Lows | Average Highs | Precipitation |
Seoul | 13°C | 56°F | 23°C | 73°F | 106-mm | 4.17-inches |
Busan | 15°C | 59°F | 20°C | 68°F | 37-mm | 1.46-inches |
Jeju Island | 14°C | 59°F | 22°C | 71°F | 96-mm | 3.78-inches |
Sokcho | 16°C | 61°F | 20°C | 69°F | 96-mm | 3.78-inches |
Jeonju | 13°C | 55°F | 25°C | 76°F | 92-mm | 3.62-inches |
Gyeongju | 12°C | 54°F | 21°C | 71°F | 26-mm | 1.02-inches |
Seoul Weather in May
Seoul in May is pretty indicative of the weather all over the country. The average temperature increases 6°C from April, up to 17°C | 63°F. Highs can reach up to 25°C | 77°F by the end of the month. You can expect an extra 60 to 90 minutes of daylight in Korea in May, with many of those hours filled with blue skies and bright sunshine.
The Seoul weather in May has increasing humidity, but it still doesn’t feel overly humid or uncomfortable yet. There are about 6 days of rain (mostly concentrated at the end of the month), totalling approximately 100-mm, on average.
Busan Weather in May
Busan is located on the southeastern coast of Korea, so it’s slightly warmer than Seoul in May. It has average daily temperatures of 15°C | 59°F to 22°C | 72°F. In Busan, the Korea weather in May is relatively rainy, with an average of 9 days of rain per month, totalling approximately 157-mm of precipitation.
Jeju Island Weather in May
Jeju has a temperate humid climate, but in May, temperatures are not much different than in Seoul. Averages range from 14°C | 57°F to 22°C |72°F, with 10 days of rain, totalling around 100-mm of precipitation.
Overall though, May is an absolutely wonderful time to visit Jeju Island. Nature is at its most verdant, and the Korea weather in May on Jeju is perfect for the many outdoor activities available on the island.
GOOD TO KNOW | GETTING AROUND JEJU ISLAND
Public transit on Jeju Island is not as efficient as in Seoul. Distances are long, and it’s a lot slower, so most visitors either take day tours, hire a taxi, rent a car, or book a private car charter. To rent a car as a traveller to Korea, you MUST have: a book type international driver’s permit (obtained in your home country), your passport, and your driver’s license from home. Check rental car options here.
Sokcho Weather in May | East Coast
The Korea weather in May on the East Coast beaches is typically a bit cooler than in the interior. Sokcho in May has average daily temperatures ranging from 12°C | 54°F to 17°C | 63°F. In my experience. it can feel pretty chilly, especially with those sea breezes, so be prepared with some heavier weight clothing.
There’s more days of rain in Sokcho in May, but less overall precipitation relative to Seoul and Busan. There’s still plenty of sunshine to enjoy.
Korea Travel Essentials
Don’t board that plane to Seoul until you’ve sorted out accommodation, transport from the airport, and your data on the ground.
Korea in May | Air Quality
In Korea in May, there are fewer bad air days compared to April, but it’s still a depressing factor.
As spring begins in Korea, windstorms originating in the Gobi Desert, travel across China and land squarely on top of the ROK, in the form of yellow dust. Called “hwangsa,” in Korean, it colours the sky, in a murky yellowish fog. And it’s full of ultrafine and fine dust pollution.
If you’re visiting Korea in May, be sure to equip yourself with some kind of air pollution mask, and allergy meds if you need them. There’s no need to prepare too many masks in advance. You can pick up high-quality disposable air pollution masks in any pharmacy, convenience store or Daiso in Korea for as low as 500 won each.
The Korean equivalent of an N95 mask is called KF94. If that feels too hot and heavy for the Korea weather in May, you can get a KF80 mask instead. This will factor out 80% of pollutants, so it’s not perfect, but it’s still better than nothing.
Are there public holidays in Korea in May?
There are 3 major national public holidays to be aware of in Korea in May 2026.
- Labour Day on Friday, May 1st
- Children’s Day on Tuesday, May 5th
- Buddha’s Birthday on Sunday, May 24th, with the alternative holiday date happening on Monday, May 25th
These are days off for all Koreans, with special events and activities happening all over Korea.
If you’re planning to transit around Korea in the first week of May, make sure to book KTX tickets as early as possible (that’s 30 days in advance). With Labour Day and Children’s Day happening around a weekend, it’s likely that many people will take the extra Monday off work to create a longer holiday for themselves.
Also – avoid Lotte World, Everland, or any other kid-friendly activity on May 5 (unless of course, you have kids.) They’ll be extra packed that day, but there will also be a ton of special activities for Children’s Day.
Limited Edition Spring Tours in Korea
Plum blossoms in Gwangyang Maehwa Village are usually the first sign of spring in Korea, with petals bursting into bloom from mid-March. Like cherry blossom season, the dates for most spring tours in Korea is incredibly limited. Most run for just a few short weeks, so catch them while you can.
These are the updated dates for 2026.
- Gwangyang Maehwa & Jeonju Hanok Village Tour | March 13th – 27th
- Jeju Cherry Blossom Tour with Hotel Pick-up | March 15th – April 19th
- Spring Flowers + King Cherry Blossoms at Hwaseong Fortress | March 26th – April 18th
- Jeonju Hanok Village + Spring Flower Festivals | March 29th – April 29th
- Seoul Seasonal Hot Attractions Tour | March 18th – May 13th
- Jeju Island Cherry Blossoms and Canola Private Taxi or Van Tour | March 20th – April 10th
- Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Tour from Seoul or Busan | March 23rd – April 15th
- Haeundae Sky Capsule + Cherry Blossom Hunting in Busan | March 23rd – April 10th
- Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Tour from Busan | March 28th – April 10th
- Chasing Cherry Blossoms in Seoul | March 30th – April 17th
- Taean Tulip Festival + Strawberry Picking Experience | April 3rd – May 5th
- King Cherry Blossom Tour from Seoul | April 16th – 30th
Korea in May | Best Festivals and Events
From bamboo and green tea, to roses and drums, May is a wonderful month for festivals in Korea.
Visiting Korea at another time of the year? Learn about the weather and festivals for each month in the following detailed guides.
- Korea in January: The Coldest Month of the Year
- Korea in February: The End of Winter
- Korea in March: Chasing Cherry Blossoms
- Korea in April: Spring Flowers and Cherry Blossoms
- Korea in June: The Best Month of Summer
- Korea in July: The Peak of Summer
- Korea in August: Summer Vacation for EVERYONE!
- Korea in September: Autumn Relief
- Korea in October: Full on Fall Foliage
- Korea in November: Autumn to Winter Transition
- Korea in December: Christmas Lights Galore
Seoul Spring Festa | 서울페스타
Festival Dates: April 10th – May 5th, 2026
Address: Various locations around Seoul, including Jamsil, Gwanghwamun, and the Hangang | 잠실, 광화문, 한강
In its third year, Seoul Festa is one of the city’s biggest festivals. This is your chance to “Make Wonders” with a number of incredible events spread across the city at iconic locations like Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Square, and Noeul Park.
Events kick off with a K-pop concert at World Cup Stadium on April 30th. The sheer number of associated festivities and activities is totally mind-boggling. Check their website for full event listings and locations, and start planning now!
Garden of Morning Calm Spring Flower Festival | 아침고요 봄꽃 축제
Festival Dates: April 18 – May 25, 2026
Address: 432, Sumogwon-ro, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 가평군 상면 수목원로 432 (상면)
The Garden of Morning Calm is famous for its winter lighting festival, but in spring, you can see thousands of azalea, magnolia, forsythia, and cherry blossoms displayed in perfect harmony across the huge 330,000㎡ arboretum.
In combination with Nami Island and the Gangchon Rail Bike, the Garden of Morning Calm is one of the most popular day tours from Seoul, with good reason. I’ve visited these places multiple times myself, and they are definitely worth the trip – especially in Korea in May, since the weather is pretty much perfect.
CHUNCHEON AREA ATTRACTIONS
The Garden of Morning Calm and other popular attractions like Nami Island, Alpaca World, and the Gangchon Rail Bike are best visited on an all-inclusive tour.
Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival | 연등회
Festival Dates: April 22nd – May 25th, 2026
Address: 55, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 종로구 우정국로 55
Seoul’s YeonDeungHoe or Lotus Lantern Festival is a centuries old event that celebrates the day of Buddha’s birth. In 2026, the Eoulim Madang (Buddhist cheer rally), Lotus Lantern Parade, and post-parade party take place from May 16th to 17th.
There are a number of separate events to attend during the festival, including a lighting ceremony, cultural performances, traditional lantern exhibition, and lantern making experiences.
The highlight is undoubtedly the Lotus Lantern Parade, where literally thousands of Buddhists carry lovely glowing lanterns, along a route that starts at Heunginjimun Gate and ends at Jogyesa Temple. It starts at 7:00PM, but I suggest arriving a bit earlier to get a good spot on the parade route.
On May 17th, you can participate in cultural events like lantern making, and watch traditional performances, while eating favourful temple cuisine. All events will be held on the street directly in front of Jogyesa Temple.
If you can’t make it to Yeon Deung Hoe on either of those days, you can still see traditional lanterns colourfully displayed at Jogyesa Temple, Bongeunsa, and Gwanghwamun Square for another few weeks.
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITY | SINGING BOWL MEDITATION AT BONGEUNSA
This 3 hour wellness experience combines a singing bowl meditation, with a peaceful walk through one of Seoul’s most historic temples. Reset and find your inner balance through sound healing.
Seoul Outdoor Library
Event Dates: April 23rd – June 28th, 2026 & September 4th – November 1st, 2026
Locations: Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggyecheon Stream
The Seoul Outdoor Library is one of Seoul’s most popular events, and it’s easy to see why. With libraries and reading areas set up at iconic locations around Seoul, it’s something you’ll definitely want to check out if you’re visiting Korea in May.
It’s generally open from Fridays to Sundays at 11:00 to 22:00, but note that night hours don’t start until May.
Icheon Ceramics Festival | 이천도자기축제
Festival Dates: April 24th – May 5th, 2026
Address: 123 Dojayesul-ro 62beon-gil, Sindun-myeon, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 이천시 신둔면 도자예술로5번길 109
Icheon is a UNESCO-recognized City of Creative Culture and considered the birthplace of pottery here. Head there during the first week of May in Korea for the Icheon Ceramics Festival. You can try your hand at making ceramic darts out of raw clay, or sample freshly baked bread straight out of a kiln.
We’ve taken a couple of day trips down to this relaxed town, and had a wonderful time, playing with clay and learning about the history of ceramics in Korea. I definitely recommend a visit to peaceful Icheon.
Royal Culture Festival | 궁중문화축전
Festival Dates: April 25th – May 3rd, 2026
Address: Gyeongbok, Changdeok, Deoksu, Changgyeong and Gyeonghui Palaces, Jongmyo, and Cheong Wa Dae
If you haven’t had a chance to visit any of Seoul’s 5 Joseon Dynasty palaces yet, the Royal Culture Festival is a good time to do it. Korea’s rich cultural heritage will be highlighted with performances, rituals, and moonlight tours at these venues for a week in May.
The K-Royal Festival is in its 11th iteration this year, so there’s sure to be some great events and activities!
Find more details here.
K-ROYAL CULTURE FESTIVAL EVENTS AT PALACES
There are a number of special foreigner exclusive tours available at different palaces around Seoul to check out. See a Royal Court music performance at Changdeokgung at night, taste traditional royal snacks at Deoksugung Palace or take a peaceful morning tour of Changdeokgung before it opens to the public.
Deoksugung Seokjojeon Night Tour | 덕수궁 밤의 석조전
Dates: May 1st – 3rd, 2026
Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 중구 세종대로 99
Seoul’s special night time palace tours for foreigners kicks off with evening event at Deoksugung Palace.
You’ll experience a nighttime tour with an English-speaking guide, an outdoor terrace café experience, and wonderful musical performance – all within the unique neo-classical stylings of the Seokjojeon.
Tickets for this event are ONLY available on Creatrip, and it WILL sell out incredibly quickly.
Gyeongbokgung Starlight Tours | 경복궁 별빛여행
Dates: 2026 TBA (slated for May)
Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 종로구 사직로 161 (세종로)
Twice a year, Gyeongbokgung Palace is brilliantly lit and opened for night viewing. During these regular night openings, a number of special guided tours are also run.
It’s quite difficult to get tickets for these tours (even for Koreans), but on 4 special nights, there are tours available just for non-Korean passport holders in english. These are available for booking EXCLUSIVELY on Creatrip, and they do sell out quite quickly (May 14th is already sold out).
There are 2 tours available each night, one at 18:40 and one at 19:40, and you’ll get to enjoy traditional performances, a fully guided tour, and even a royal cuisine meal!
These are the perfect events for wearing a hanbok, and getting all your gorgeous photos, since the Korea weather in May isn’t too hot or cold.
Wonju Hanji Festival | 원주한지문화제
Festival Dates: May 1st – 5th, 2026
Address: 151, Hanjigongwon-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 원주시 한지공원길 151
Hanji is a traditional Korean paper, handmade from the inner bark of the paper mulberry. Strong, flexible, and incredibly durable, it’s used to make everything from lanterns to books to string.
At the Wonju Hanji Festival, you can enjoy hanji in all its beautiful iterations by wondering inside a hanji paper forest, admiring thousands of glowing hanji lanterns, or signing up for traditional hanji craft experience programs.
I checked out this festival last year, and it was wonderful! Get more details on their website (Korean only).
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITY | SOGEUMSAN SUSPENSION BRIDGE
Sogeumsan is the longest and largest pedestrian bridge in Korea, and a location for “It’s Okay to Not be Okay.”. It stretches 200-metres, and hangs at a height of 100 metres-high. Walk in mid-air, and on glass-bottomed floors, as you admire the stunning landscapes all around you.
Boseong Green Tea Festival 2025 | 보성다향대축제
Festival Dates: May 1st – 5th, 2026
Address: 775, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 775
Boseong not only accounts for over 50% of Korea’s green tea production, it’s also an incredibly picturesque place to spend a warm, spring day. For a week in May in Korea, you can try various tea-related experience programs at its annual green tea festival.
Try picking tea leaves, indulge in some green tea ice cream, or stroll through the symmetrical bushes of the plantation, breathing in the fragrant air.
Check full festival details here (Korean only).
PRIVATE TRANSFERS FROM BUSAN
Want to move onward to off-the-beaten path gems in Jeolla or Chungcheong Provinces easily and comfortably? These private transfers for up to 25 people make it super easy.
Damyang Bamboo Festival | 담양대나무축제
Festival Dates: May 1st – 5th, 2026
Address: 119, Jungnogwon-ro, Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 담양군 담양읍 죽녹원로 119 (담양읍)
Juknokwon Bamboo Garden in Damyang is worthy of a visit any time of the year, but during May in Korea, there’s an annual bamboo festival to attend.
At the festival, breathe in super-rich oxygenated air on a bamboo forest tour, enjoy some of Damyang’s local delicacies, or try catching fish with a basket made of bamboo.
DAMYANG BAMBOO FOREST PRIVATE TOUR
Traveling with a group? This private van tour for up to 8 people takes you from the busy streets of Seoul to the peace and serenity of Korea’s biggest bamboo forest.
Hapcheon Hwangmaesan Royal Azalea Festival | 합천 황매산 철쭉제
Festival Dates: May 1st – 10th, 2026
Address: 4, Hwangmaesangongwon-gil, Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do | 경상남도 합천군 가회면 황매산공원길 4
Move over cherry blossoms. You’ve got some competition. The azalea habitat in Hwangmaesan County Park is the biggest and most breathtaking in Korea.
In fact, the pink azaleas on Hwangmaesan Mountain are so incredibly gorgeous that they’re included on CNN’s list of “50 Beautiful Places to Visit in Korea,” and were voted one of the top 100 destinations for 2021-2022 by the Korean Tourism Organization.
Despite being near the top of an 1108-metre mountain, Hwangmaesan County Park is very accessible. It’s an easy hike up to the peak, or you can simply drive up to the fields instead. There’s parking nearby.
If you don’t have access to a car, you can jump on a tour from Busan instead.
Busan Lotus Lantern Festival | 부산연등축제
Festival Dates: May 1st – 17th, 2026
Address: 121-1, Dongseong-ro 112beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan | 부산광역시 부산진구 동성로112번길 121-1
Buddhist or not, this is a festival that absolutely everyone can enjoy. Admire lotus lanterns of every shape and size that are on brilliantly on display at Songsanghyeon Plaza and Busan Citizen’s Park.
Make sure to stop into Samgwangsa for its famous lantern festival while you’re at it. With over 40,000 lanterns decorating the temple complex, it’s a sight you won’t soon forget! It’s set to start on May 15th!
Seoul Silent Disco | 사일런트 디스코 코리아
Festival Dates: May 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24tth, 2026
Address: Banpo Hangang Park
A silent DJ party with EDM and K-pop, next to Seoul’s iconic Han River? No wonder this has become one of the city’s most popular events!
You can get advance tickets for the Silent Disco exclusively on Creatrip, but if you planning in advance isn’t your strong suit, there are 200 up for grabs on-site as well.
Seoul Drone Show | 드론 라이트 쇼
Festival Dates: May 5th (Jamsil) & May 16th, 2026
Address: Jamsil Hangang Park &Ttukseom Hangang Park
Head to Jamsil or Ttukseom Hangang Park in May for the yearly Seoul Drone Show. This free event sees 1,200 to 2000 drones lighting up the sky in a wonderful series of brilliant shapes and animations.
The actual drone show starts at 8:30PM, and lasts for about 15 minutes, but there are performances and other activities on offer both before and after the show.
Car-Free Jamsugyo Bridge Ddubuk Ddubuk Festival | 뚜벅뚜벅 축제
Festival Dates: May 3rd – June 14th, 2026, Sundays from 13:00 ~ 21:00
Address: 40 Sinbanpo-ro 11-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 서초구 신반포로11길 40 (반포동)
The Ddubuk Ddubuk Festival sees the lower half of the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Bridge closed to traffic, for 8 weeks of fun events to celebrate the gorgeous spring weather in Seoul.
Each week features a different theme. From parades to outdoor movie screenings to sunset yoga sessions, you’re sure to find something worthwhile to check out.
And of course, don’t forget to check out all the food trucks, and a flea market full of unique souvenirs.
Baeksang Arts Awards | 백상예술대상
Festival Dates: May 8th, 2026
Address: COEX Hall D, 513, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 강남구 영동대로 513
For the K-drama addicts among you, the Baeksang Arts Awards are Korea’s version of the Oscars, with awards for excellence in film, television, and theatre.
Packed with Hallyu stars, check the full list of nominees, in every category here.
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITY | MBC STUDIO TOUR
Discover the world of K-drama, with backstage access at one of Korea’s top networks. You might even see some rehearsals and actors too!
Gyejoksan Mountain Barefoot Festival | 계족산 맨발축제
Festival Dates: May 9th – 10th, 2026
Address: San 85, Jang-dong, Daedeok-gu, Daejeon | 대전광역시 대덕구 장동 산85
Walking barefoot along Gyejoksan Red Clay Trail is thought to have positive health and stress relieving effects. Whether this true or not, you’re sure to enjoy the squelch of mud between your toes as you stroll along Korea’s first eco-healing barefoot walking trail, breathing in the scent of fresh pine needles.
In Korea in May, there’s a Gyejoksan Mountain Barefoot Festival, where participants are encouraged to take off their shoes and run or walk barefoot along the 14.5-km trail. Register for the festival here.
Changdeokgung Moonlight Tours | 창덕궁 달빛기행
Festival Dates: May 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st, 2026
Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 종로구 율곡로 99 (와룡동)
The Moonlight tour at Cheongdeokgung Palace is an incredibly special event that happens for just 4 nights in spring, and 4 nights in autumn.
On this tour, you’ll stroll the palace grounds, led only by lantern light, while stopping to enjoy traditional Korean performances and try Korean snacks.
There are only 6 separate sessions available each evening, in English, Japanese, and Chinese (make sure you book the right one). Many times are already sold out, so make you get get on Creatrip to book as soon as possible.
Seoul Rose Festival | 서울장미축제
Festival Dates: May 15th – 17th, 2026
Address: 332, Jungnangcheon-ro, Jungnang-gu, Seoul |서울특별시 중랑구 중랑천로 332 (묵동,묵동한국아파트)
The most breathtaking thing to see at the Seoul Rose Festival is undoubtedly the 5.15-km long tunnel made up of literally thousands of roses, but you can also enjoy romantic photo zones, a flower market, and various rose-themed activities and performances.
Past year’s festivities have included fireworks, a hanbok flash mob, and jazz concert. There’s definitely a full-scale festival happening in Korea in May, so keep checking their website for updated info (only in Korean so far).
Haeundae Sand Festival | 해운대 모래축제
Festival Dates: May 15th – 18th, 2026
Address: U-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan | 부산광역시 해운대구 우동
During May in Korea, large-scale sand sculptures take over Haeundae Beach in Busan. Be amazed by the fine detail and artistry of these fleeting pieces of art, and take part in experiential programs like sand-boarding or a sand treasure hunt at the festival.
If you can’t make it to Busan for the actual festival dates, don’t worry! Sand sculptures will be on display until June 6th. That is, unless it gets washed away by a typhoon or unexpected rainfall…
BUSAN HAEUNDAE X the SKY ADMISSION TICKET
Enjoy a breathtaking view of Busan’s skyline and Haeundae Beach on the 100th floor of Korea’s second tallest building. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at the highest Starbucks in the world!
Seoul Drum Festival | 서울드럼페스티벌
Festival Dates: May 16th – 17th, 2026
Address: Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Taking place over an exciting 2 days during the month of May in Korea, the Seoul Drum Festival fills the streets of the city with percussive beats and dynamic rhythms. Best of all, this is a FREE event that anyone can enjoy!
In its 28th year, you’ll be treated to performances and competitions from amateur and professional percussionists from all over the world. Check their website for full details.
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITY | NANTA SHOW
Nanta is a non-verbal performance featuring acrobatics, comedy, and percussion, set in one crazy kitchen. Korea’s longest running performance is a total blast. I laughed so hard, I cried. Don’t miss it!
Haman Nakhwa Nori Festival | 함안 낙화놀이축제
Festival Date: May 24, 2026
Address: 36-2 Gwangjeong-ri, Gaya-eup, Haman-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do (경상남도 함안군 가야읍 광정리 36-2)
I had the privilege of witnessing the Nakhwa Nori Festival in Haman a few years ago, and it will forever be one of the most breathtaking and spectacular things I’ve seen in Korea.
Getting tickets to this free event is beyond difficult, but if you manage it – kudos to you! Watching these flaming embers waft through the dark is truly unforgettable.
Chuncheon Mime Festival | 춘천마임축제
Festival Dates: May 24th – 31st, 2026
Address: Various locations around Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 춘천시 전역
The Chuncheon Mime Festival is set to take over the city of Chuncheon in the last week of May. This is just one of 3 major mime festivals in the world, attracting performers from mime troupes from all over the world.
At the festival, you’ll see innovative non-verbal mime and street performances that even non-Korean speakers can enjoy.
If you’re looking for more to do in the area, you could combine a visit to the Mime Festival with a visit to the nearby Nami Island or Gangchon Rail Bike, which are 2 of the most popular day trips from Seoul.
ALPACA WORLD + NAMI ISLAND + GANGCHON RAIL BIKE
While there are many attractions near each other in Chuncheon/Gapyeong area, it can be a bit difficult to get between them. This day tour lets you choose which places you’ll visit. Get more info. Prefer a private tour? Check details here.
Korea in May | What to Wear
To best deal with Korea’s weather in May at the beginning of the month, jeans, leggings, skirts, and long-sleeved shirts, tees, or lighter weight sweaters work well. Bring along a hoodie, cardigan or light jacket for cooler evening temperatures.
By the end of the month (or even earlier), it’s warm enough for shorts and t-shirts for those used to cooler temperatures. Travellers from tropical climates might still find it a bit chilly, especially at night.
There is some precipitation, but it’s not really enough to worry about, unless you’re visiting in the very last week of May. This is when the bulk of rainfall happens as we head into summer monsoon season, so it’s helpful to have waterproof shoes or quick-dry clothing. I wouldn’t recommend wearing a raincoat at the end of May in Korea, as it could be hot and uncomfortable.
Tips for What to Wear in Korea in May
1. It’s cooler at the beginning of May in Korea than at the end, so prepare accordingly. If you’re visiting in the last week of May, expect some rain.
2. Koreans generally dress quite well. You’ll stand out quite a bit if you’re wearing a “typical backpacker“ look.
3. It’s best to dress on the conservative side, if you don’t want to draw unwelcome attention. For women, a low neckline will attract eyes, but a super short skirt won’t (go figure).
Visiting Korea in May | Packing List
Here’s a rough guideline of items to pack for the Korea weather in May.
Korea in May | Bring from Home
- travel documents: passport, itineraries, hotel reservations, plane tickets, travel visas, insurance
- adaptor / plug
- t-shirts, lightweight sweaters, hoodies, cardigans
- jeans, trousers, leggings
- shorts, capris
- skirts or dresses
- light jacket, wind breaker or waterproof shell
- sunglasses
- deodorant, feminine hygiene items
- comfortable running shoes or sandals for lots of walking (water resistant shoes are good at this time of year)
- any special medications you need
- allergy medications if you’re sensitive to pollen and dust
Buy in Korea
- umbrella if it rains
- disposable air pollution masks
- skincare products like sunscreen (high quality and cheap in Korea!)
Korea in May: FAQs
1. Is May a good time to visit Korea?
Warm temperatures, less tourists, and spring flowers make May one of the very best months of the year to visit Korea.
2. Is May cold in Korea?
Average daily temperatures in Korea range from 13°C | 55°F to 23°C | 73°F in May. It can feel a little chilly at night. at the beginning of the month, but you’ll be in shorts by the end.
3. Is Korea hot in May?
In Korea in May, temperatures and humidity get progressively higher over the course of the month. It’s generally a very comfortable month climate-wise but can begin to feel hot at the end of the month.
4. What to do in Korea in May?
There are various flower and nature festivals to go to all over Korea in May. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking are also very popular.
All ready for the perfect trip to Korea in May? What have you got planned?
So many things happening in Korea in May! The Lotus Lantern Parade, The Garden of Morning Calm Spring Flower Festival, the Royal Culture Festival, and the Damyang Bamboo Festival look good to enjoy.
Hi Madhura – yes, there is a ton! I didn’t even write about absolutely everything that’s happening haha. I’m writing a summer post now – and if it’s possible now, there’s even MORE happening over the next few months.