Korea in July 2024 | Local’s Guide to Weather, What to Wear + Best Festivals

The spring flowers of May and relatively comfortable weather of June are but a distant memory in Korea in July.

This is the peak of summer in all its hot, humid, monsoon glory. If you’re not used to this type of searing heat, July can be a difficult time to travel to South Korea – but it’s also a month packed full of incredible festivals, activities, and stunning places to go.

There are perfect days in Korea in July too!

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• what the weather is like during July in Korea
• the Seoul weather in July and other major cities and tourist hotspots, including Busan, Gangneung, and Jeju Island
• the best summer festivals to attend around the country in July
• what to wear and the best things to pack for a successful trip to South Korea in July

Visiting Korea in July

The July weather in Korea is challenging. There’s no getting around that fact. But Koreans don’t let the heat, humidity, and rain stop them from getting out and enjoying all the country has to offer, and you shouldn’t either.

Equip yourself with a personal fan, strong SPF, and an umbrella / parasol, and hit the streets. Because some of South Korea’s best festivals happen in July, huge water parks open around the country, and there are gorgeous beaches to enjoy on every single coast.

There are picture perfect beaches to enjoy in Korea in July.

Despite the less than ideal weather, July in Korea is still a busy time for travel, with summer vacations starting around the world and diaspora headed back for a taste of home.

If you’re planning your visit to Korea in July, it’s wise to book day tours and accommodation in Seoul as early as possible… especially if you’re on a limited budget (or want a pool!)

READ NEXT: From Myeongdong to Gangnam: The 7 Best Areas in Seoul for Travellers to Stay

Korea in July | Weather

The Korea weather in July is hot, sticky, and downright uncomfortable. The average high temperatures range in the high 20s°C | low 80s°F, and there are definitely days in the low 30s°C | high 80s°F and higher.

I’m sad to say that I’m writing this in mid-June, and we’re already hitting highs of 33°C | 91°F.

Does she look hot? The humidity at Oedo Botania in Geoje was intense, but we survived.

However, it’s not the high temperatures that make this month a test of endurance. It’s the incredible humidity. July is the most humid month of the year, with an average humidity of nearly 80%. Make sure to stay hydrated, take breaks, and wear sunscreen to avoid heat exhaustion. Prepare to sweat. A lot!

Korea Weather in July Quick Guide

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Korea Weather in July | Busan

Busan is located on the southeastern coast of Korea, so it’s slightly cooler than landlocked Seoul in July. It has average daily temperatures of 25°C | 77°F to 29°C | 84°F. In Busan, the Korea weather in July is quite wet, with an average of 13 days of rain, totalling approximately 200-mm of precipitation.

Haeundae is one of the busiest beaches come July in Korea © Live Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

If it’s not raining, July in Korea is definitely the month to relax at one of the city’s many beaches, take a ride on the super-cute Sky Capsule Busan at Haeundae Blueline Park, or enjoy incredible views at the top of Busan Haeundae x the Sky.

Korea Weather in July | Gangneung (East Coast)

The Korea weather in July on the East Coast beaches is slightly cooler than in the interior. Gangneung in July has average daily temperatures ranging from 25°C | 77°F to 28°C | 82°F, with an average humidity of 82%.

It can fall to as low as 20°C | 68°F at night time. If it’s windy, it can feel a bit chilly, so prepare with a light windbreaker or hoodie if you’re prone to feeling cold.

When it stops raining on the East Coast, it’s gorgeous. This is Anmok Beach.

Gangneung is similar to the rest of Korea in July weather-wise, with about 15 days of rain, constant cloud cover, and a high UV index. Precipitation totals an average of around 235-mm, over the course of the month, but if it’s a particularly wet season, there can be as much as 400-mm of rain.

Korea Weather in July | Jeju Island

In July, Jeju has average high temperatures of 26°C | 79°F to 30°C | 86°F, but it can feel a lot hotter. With humidity levels reaching 78%, Jeju has a “real feel” temperature hovering around 35°C | 95°F. There’s about 12 days of rain on Jeju Island in July, totalling around 240-mm of precipitation.

Hamdeok Beach in Jeju has a unique sandbar, volcanic rock, and turquoise seas.

When it’s not raining, the sea is a wonderful 25°C | 77°F that’s perfect for swimming. However, heat exhaustion and sunstroke are real possibilities, so be sure to stay in the shade as much as possible, drink lots of water, and slather on that sunscreen if you’re at the beach.

Korea in July | Typhoons

July to September is typhoon season in South Korea. Typhoons have affected us pretty regularly over the last few years, but few of them have been deadly. It can however, mean high winds, flash floods, mudslides, and property damage – particularly in the southern regions of the country.

Typhoons can cause flooding, mudslides and property damage © 울진군청 (KOGL Type 1)

If a typhoon should hit Korea in July, it’s best to stay indoors, shut the windows tight and avoid places where there could be flooding or mudslides.

READ NEXT: 49 Fun Indoor Activities and Attractions in Seoul to Survive Rainy Season

Limited Edition Summer Tours in Korea

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of the scorching heat with activities at water parks, beaches, and on boats. From gorgeous lotus flowers to a beach full of mud, there’s a ton of unique events and festivals designed just for the hot, hot summer months in Korea.

Lotus flowers bloom in the July in Korea.

• Jeju Hydrangea Festivals | May 7th – July 14th, 2024
• Busan Premium Yacht Tour | May 7th – September 29th, 2024
• Jeju Gimnyeong Yacht Cruise | May 8th – September 1st, 2024
• Suwon Fortress & Jangtaesan | May 9th – September 15th, 2024
• In the SOOP BTS Tour | May 10th – July 28th, 2024
• Seoul City & Seasonal Summer Attractions | May 19th – October 13th, 2024
• Seoraksan + Surfyy Beach Day Tour | June 1st – August 1st, 2024
• Taejeongdae Hydrangea Blossoms + Busan Highlights Tour | June 3rd – September 27th, 2024
• Caribbean Bay Water Park with Private Van Transfer (up to 13 people): June 22nd – August 25th, 2024
• Haman Lotus Park and Sunflower Field | July 12th – August 30th, 2024
• S2O Songkran Water Festival | July 13th – 14th, 2024
• Boryeong Mud Festival, Daecheon Beach + Suspension Bridge | July 19th – August 4th, 2024

Mud, mud, mud! © Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

July in Korea | Best Festivals and Events

From serene lotuses, to a massive water gun battle on the streets of Seoul, there are a number of incredibly popular festivals happening in Korea in July. Check out these guides if you’re visiting in other months.

There’s always something amazing to do in Korea.

• Korea in January: The Coldest Month of the Year
• Korea in February: The Final Month of Winter
• Korea in March: First Signs of Spring
• Korea in April: Chasing Cherry Blossoms
• Korea in May: In Full Bloom
• Korea in June: The Best Month 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

There are excellent events happening all the time in Korea.

Hueree Summer Hydrangea Festival | 휴애 여름 수국축제

Festival Dates: June and July 2024

Address: 256, Sillyedong-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 남원읍 신례동로 256

Hueree Natural Park has beautiful gardens, seasonal festivals, and a number of experiential activities. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Jeju for locals and tourists alike.

Gorgeous hydrangeas at Hueree Natural Park in Jeju.

During the Hueree Summer Hydrangea Festival, immerse yourself in a rainbow of hydrangeas as far as the eye can see. You can also try feeding baby pigs, rabbits, squirrels, and black goats, or go for a leisurely stroll through a pine forest of full of volcanic stone towers.

Semiwon Lotus Flower Festival 2024 | 세미원

Festival Dates: June 28th – August 15th, 2024

Address: 93, Yangsu-ro, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 양평군 양서면 양수로 93All 

Water lilies, including lotus flowers bloom beautifully during summer in Korea. The Semiwon is a picturesque spot located near Dumulmeori, where the heads of the Bukhan and Namhan Rivers meet.

Lotus, lotus, and more lotus at the Semiwon Garden.

At the Semiwon Garden, you can wander through the serene garden, surrounded by hundreds of different types of water lilies. If you’re looking for more activity at the festival, try your hand at making handkerchiefs and fans out of lotus leaves.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Summer in Korea Bucket List | 43 Activities, Festivals and Things to Do

Pocheon Herb Island Lavender Festival 2024 | 포천 허브아일랜드 라벤더 페스티벌

Festival Dates: all of July and August, 2024

Address: 35, Cheongsin-ro 947beon-gil, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 포천시 신북면 청신로947번길 35 (신북면)

Aromatic lavender blooms across South Korea in July. Breathe in its ultra soothing scent at the Pocheon Herb Island Lavender Festival, which takes place all summer long. This is the largest herbal botanical garden in Korea, with over 250 different kinds of herbs and plants, so there’s plenty to see and do.

Breathe in the soothing scent of lavender in Korea in July.

Take pictures at flowery photo zones, make natural soap and cosmetics, or take a break from the heat inside the air-conditioned Herb Garden Museum.

More details here.

Garden of Morning Calm Rose of Sharon Festival | 아침고요수목원 무궁화 축제

Festival Dates: all of July 2024

Address: 432, Sumogwon-ro, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 가평군 상면 수목원로 432 (상면)

Hydrangea and the Rose of Sharon bloom in Korea in July, and the Garden of Morning Calm is one of the best places near Seoul to see these gorgeous summer flowers.

Gawking at 250 varieties of Korea’s national flower – the Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) at the garden juuuust might make you forget the heat.

The Mugunghwa might be associated with this creepy doll forever now.

In combination with places like Nami Island, Alpaca World, and the Gangchon Rail Bike, the Garden of Morning Calm is one of the most popular day tours from Seoul, and one well worth taking.

2024 Daegu Chimak Festival | 대구치맥페스티벌

Festival Dates: July 3rd – 7th, 2024

Address: 7, Gongwonsunhwan-ro, Dalseo-gu, Daegu | 대구 달서구 공원순환로 7 두류공원야구장

Could Korean fried chicken washed down with an ice cold beer be the best food and drink combo in history? I think it’s possible – especially in the steamy hot weather of July in Korea.

Fried chicken and beer might be the perfect combo © Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

You can test out the theory yourself at the Daegu Chimac Festival, while dancing your heart out, chicken wing in one hand, beer in the other. Pick up a Festival Pass here.

PS: If you didn’t know already – CHI = Chicken and MAK = Maekju (the Korean word for beer)

Details here.

Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival 2024 | 부천 국제판타스틱영화제

Festival Dates: July 4th – 14th, 2024

Address: 210, Gilju-ro, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 부천시 길주로 210 (중동)

If your idea of fun on a steamy July night in Korea is getting scared out of your wits, then the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BiFan) is for you. It’s all about Asian horror, thriller, mystery and fantasy films.

© BIFAN

This year, the BIFAN festival features 255 films from 49 countries, under the slogan “Stay Strange.” Get more details here.

Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival | 부여서동연꽃축제

Festival Dates: July 5th – 7th, 2024

Address: 52, Gungnam-ro, Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 부여군 부여읍 궁남로 52 / 부여 궁남지 일원

Buyeo is one of the former capitals of the Baekje Kingdom, along with Gongju City. Both cities are worth a visit, but head to Buyeo during July in Korea, when lotus flowers are in full bloom for summer. The Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival celebrates the romance of King Mu and Princess Seonhwa.

See lotuses AND a historical love story in Buyeo in July.

Festival events include performances of this historical love story, as well as hands-on programs like lotus flower origami classes, soap making, candle-making sessions, and a LED lantern exhibition.

More details here (Korean only).

WATERBOMB 2024 | 워터밤

Festival Dates in 2024: Seoul – July 5th – 7th | Jeju – July 13th | Daegu – July 20th | Busan – July 27th

The WATERBOMB Festivals start in Seoul at the end of June, and make their way around the country from there. There are 9 events planned for summer in Korea 2024.

All of the WATERBOMB events feature live performances from K-POP stars and DJs, a tropical lounge, and massive exploding water cannons. However, the highlight of WATERBOMB is defintiely a crazy water gun battle where you fight along your favourite celebs.

WATERBOMB is a 19+ event, that’s definitely not suitable for young children, as you can see from the video (don’t watch if flashing lights bother you). Check the line-up and get tickets here.

Taebaek Sunflower Festival | 태백해바라기축제

Festival Dates: July 17th – August 15th, 2024

Address: 38-33, Guwau-gil, Taebaek-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 태백시 구와우길 38-33 (황지동)

Wanna get lost in a sea of bright yellow sunflowers? Well you can do it easily at the Taebaek Sunflower Festival in Guwau Village. It’s the largest sunflower patch in all of Korea.

Sunflowers appear in Korea in July.

Get more details here (Korean only).

Boryeong Mud Festival 2024 | 보령머드축제

Festival Dates: July 19th – August 4th, 2024

Address: 897-15, Daehae-ro, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 보령시 대해로 897-15 (신흑동)

Every year, thousands of people flock to Daecheon Beach in Chuncheongnam-do to coat themselves in nutrient-rich Boryeong mud by day, and party to K-pop and EDM at night. I mean, you can’t really argue with festival events like giant mud baths, mud mazes, mud painting, and mud slides, can you?

Prepare to get dirty at the Boryeong Mud Festival © Jeong Sung-joo, Korea Travel Organization

I’m gonna go out on a limb here, and say that this is probably THE most popular and famous festival for international visitors to Korea in July. Join a day tour here.

Busan Sea Festival | 부산 바다 축제

Festival Dates: July 26th – 28th, 2024

Address: Beaches around Busan – Haeundae, Gwangalli, Dadaepo, Songdo, and Songjeong Beaches

Summer in Korea means Busan, and the Busan Sea Festival is an awesome way to celebrate the cool sea and hot sun at 5 of the city’s beaches. From pool parties to live music to DJ contests to surfing, there’s something for everyone, because each beach has a different vibe and events.

There are different events at 5 separate beaches in Busan © Busan Metropolitan city (CC BY-SA 4.0)

For a quieter evening by the sea, spend your day checking out folk and jazz performances at Dadaepo and Songdo instead of heading to busy Haeundae Beach.

Check more details here.

Bongwha Sweetfish Festival 2024 | 봉화은어축제

Festival Dates: July 27th – August 4th, 2024

Address: Naeseongcheon Stream area in Bonghwa-eup | 경상북도 봉화군 봉화읍 내성리 506

Sweetfish are plentiful in Korea in July and August, and the most delicious can be found on the banks of the Nakdonggang and Seomjingang Rivers, near Bonghwa in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province.

Wade into the refreshing river water and try catching these slippery creatures with traditional nets, or even with your bare hands at the Bonghwa Sweetfish Festival. Cap off the day by grilling up your fresh catch on a charcoal bbq.

Details here.

Korea in July | What to Wear

To best try to survive Korea’s weather in July, lightweight clothing that wicks sweat is the name of the game. Breezy linens, technical fabrics, and clothing lines like Uniqlo’s Airism are made specifically to deal with a hot, muggy climate.

It’s best to wear lightweight clothing and sandals or flip flops in Korea in July.

Since there’s also potentially a ton of rain in Korea in July, waterproof running shoes or quick-dry clothing could be useful. If you choose to wear sandals or flip-flops, choose ones with a good grip. A lot of streets in Korea become very slippery in the rain.

READ NEXT: xFyro ANC Pro Review: The Best Wireless Earbuds for Travel and City Life

I don’t understand how some of these crazy people are wearing jeans in summer.

Visiting Korea in July | Packing List

Here’s a rough guideline of items to pack for the Korea weather in July.

Bring from Home

• travel documents: passport, itineraries, hotel reservations, plane tickets, travel visas, insurance
• international driver’s license if you plan to rent a car
• adaptor / plug
• lightweight t-shirts, tank tops
• shorts, skirts, capris
• summery dresses
• thin windbreaker or shell, light hoodie or cardigan
• swimsuits, rash guards, board shorts
• sunglasses
• deodorant, feminine hygiene items
• comfortable running shoes or sandals with good grip for lots of walking (waterproof shoes are good at this time of year)
• any special prescription medications you need
• allergy medications if you’re sensitive to pollen and dust
• eyeglasses, contact lenses

Buy in Korea

• umbrella if it rains / parasol
• personal fan
• disposable air pollution masks
• batteries / charging cables (super cheap at Daiso)
• skincare products like sunscreen (high quality and cheap in Korea!)
• eyeglasses and contact lenses can be purchased just by walking into a store (a free eye test will be provided)
• birth control can be purchased over the counter, without a prescription (but all brands may not be available)

Sunsets are stunning on the West Coast in summer ⓒ Jeong Jong-ho, Korea Tourism Organization

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All ready for the perfect trip to Korea in July? What have you got planned?