Top
  >  Asia   >  Korea   >  Visiting Korea in May 2024 | Weather, What to Wear + Best Spring Festivals
korea in may | Photo Cafe Graphy Garden

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.

korea in may | Photo Cafe Graphy Garden

May brings flowers and sunshine to Korea.

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

*Any purchases made through affiliate links here help run this site. Support my blog here

In this guide

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.

korea in may | biking next to the Han River

May is the ideal time for outdoor activities in Korea

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.

Korea in May | Weather

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.

korea in may | sunset on the han river

The weather is pretty much perfect in May.

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

Korea in May | Seoul Weather

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.

girls wearing hanbok near gyeongbokgung

May is the perfect month to rent a hanbok in Seoul and tour palaces comfortably.

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.

Korea Weather in May | Busan

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.

busan | gamcheon culture village

Take a stroll around colourful Gamcheon Culture Village during May in Korea

SMALL GROUP AND PRIVATE TOURS  |  Major attractions like Taejongdae Cliff, Songdo Skywalk, Gamcheon Culture Village, and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple are spread out in several different areas of Busan. Make the most of your limited time with tailored small group or private tours. Check options here.

Korea Weather in May | Jeju Island

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.

korea in may | jeju island

May is a gorgeous time of year to visit Jeju Island.

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.

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 full details and availability of rental cars on Jeju Island here.

Korea Weather in May | Sokcho (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.

Planning a trip to Korea?

Connect with other travellers | Ask and get answers to all your travel questions | Learn about all the best things to do in Korea | Join our Korea Travel Planning + Guide Facebook Group now.

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.

yellow dust korea weather in april

Yellow dust and pollution can be an unfortunate part of visiting Korea in May.

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.

Masks have been an unfortunate part of life for too long now.

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.

Cherry Blossom trees and petals falling at Gyeonghwa Station | Jinhae cherry blossom festival in korea

Jinhae is the biggest cherry blossom festival in Korea ⓒ Lim Bo-hyeok, Korea Tourism Organization

cherry blossoms in gyeongju | hwangnyongwon

Gyeongju has gorgeous cherry blossom spots and is an easy day trip from Busan © Kim Hoyeol, Korea Tourism Organization

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.

korea in may| gyeongbokgung palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace lights up during May in Korea © Lee Seong-u, Korea Tourism Organization

Visiting Korea at another time of the year? Learn about the weather and festivals for each month in the following detailed guides.

seokchon lake cherry blossoms

There’s wonderful festivals all year round in Korea © Song Seungwook

Gyeongbokgung at Night | 경복궁 야간 특별관람

Dates: April 3rd – May 29th, 2024 (TBC)

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. It’s open from 7:00 to 9:30PM, every day except Monday and Tuesday.

Get tickets in advance online (Korean), or grab them on-site (for foreigners only – limited to 200). Cost: 3,000 won.

korea in may | renting a men's hanbok in seoul

May is a comfortable time to rent a hanbok and visit Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Of course, you can skip the ticketing process entirely, and walk straight into Gyeongbokgung for free, if you’re wearing a hanbok. It’s actually the perfect time to try it out, since the Korea weather in May isn’t too hot or cold.

HANBOK RENTAL NEAR GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE  |  I’ve rented hanbok at Hanboknam, because it’s just a quick stroll away from Gyeongbokgung Palace. Affordable, easy, and convenient. Check details here.

Garden of Morning Calm Spring Holic Festival | 아침고요 봄꽃 축제

Festival Dates: mid-April – May 31st, 2024

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.

korea in may | garden of morning calm

Spring at the Garden of Morning Calm © Live Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

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. Check options here.

Busan Lotus Lantern Festival | 부산연등축제

Festival Dates: April 26th – May 12th, 2024

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.

Samgwangsa Lotus Lantern Festival

40,000 lanterns!! © Kim Dulli, Korea Tourism Organization

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!

Royal Culture Festival 2024 | 궁중문화축전

Festival Dates: April 27th – May 5th, 2024

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.

korea in may | royal culture festival

Admissions into all palaces will be free on the first day of the festival.

The K-Royal Festival is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year, so there’s sure to be some great events and activities!

Find more details here.

Boseong Green Tea Festival 2024 | 보성다향대축제

Festival Dates: May 2nd – 6th, 2024

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.

boseong green tea field in spring

Boseong is a peaceful place to spend a spring day © Yu Ji-hun, Korea Tourism Organization

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 TOUR TO BOSEONG GREEN TEA PLANATION & SUNCHEON  |  Visit the peaceful Boseong Green Tea Fields, and the stunning Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve on this private van tour for up to 7 people. Get more details here.

Hapcheon Hwangmaesan Royal Azalea Festival | 황매산군립공원

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, April 29th – May 14th last year

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.

korea in may | hapcheon azalea festival

Dawn is one of the most beautiful times to see the azaleas on Hwangmaesan © Choi Soo-jin, Korea Travel 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.

Seoul Festa 2024 | 서울페스타 2024

Festival Dates: May 1st – May 5th, 2024

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 “feel the real Seoul,” with a number of incredible events spread across the city at iconic locations like Gwanghwamun Square and the Hangang River.

korea in may | gyeongbokgung palace

Gwanghwamun Square is one of the venues for Seoul Festa © Lee Seong-u, Korea Tourism Organization

Events kick off with a K-pop concert at Seoul Square on May 1st. The line-up hasn’t been announced yet, but past concerts have featured performers like Oh My Girl, iKon, Ive, Ateez, and Enhyphen.

Check their website for full event listings and locations here.

Damyang Bamboo Festival 2024 | 담양대나무축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, May 3rd – 7th last year

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 at the beginning of May in Korea, there’s an annual bamboo festival to attend.

korea in may | damyang bamboo forest

Juknokwon Bamboo Garden in Damyang is a little slice of heaven

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.

PRIVATE TOUR TO DAMYANG BAMBOO FOREST  |  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. Check full details here.

Wonju Hanji Festival | 원주한지문화제

Festival Dates: under renovation for 2024, May 5th – 14th last year

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.

hanji center in seoul

Hanji paper is used for making clothes to lamps to bookmarks!

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).

WONJU 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. Check full details here.

Gyejoksan Mountain Barefoot Festival | 계족산 맨발축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, but usually takes place in the first week of May

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.

korea in may | gyejoksan red clay trail

Get healthy on the Gyejoksan Red Clay Trail © IR Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

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. In 2023, the festival was cancelled, but the site was still open for visitors who wished to visit. Check if this is the case in 2024, before making a trip there.

The Color Run Korea

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, May 13th last year

Address: 350, Central-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon | 인천광역시 연수구 센트럴로 350 달빛축제공원

Also known as “The Happiest 5K on the Planet,” the Color Run is the largest running festival in the world. Over 6 million runners from more than 35 countries have participated so far.

Aside from the running and color bombs, there are photo zones, live entertainment, food trucks, and an after party. This event DOES sell out, so be sure to check their website for upcoming dates.

Seoul Rose Festival | 서울장미축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, May 13th – 28th last year

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.

korea in may | seoul rose festival

This tunnel of roses is breathtaking © Seoul Metropolitan Government/Penta Press

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).

Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival 2024 | 연등회

Festival Dates: May 11th – 15th, 2024

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 2024, the Eoulim Madang (Buddhist cheer rally), Lotus Lantern Parade, and post-parade party take place on Saturday, May 11th.

lotus lantern parade in seoul | yeon deung hoe

The Lotus Lantern Parade has to be seen to be believed © 대한민국 정부 문화체육관광부 문화재청 (CC BY-SA 2.5)

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.

korea in may | lotus lantern parade yeondeungho

Show up early to get a good spot on the parade route. Your kids can play tag on the street.

On May 12th, 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.

korea in may | bongeunsa temple

Lanterns will be on display at Bongeunsa, Jogyesa, and Gwanghwamun Square for about a month.

HISTORIC WALKING TOUR OF SEOUL  |  Discover Seoul on foot! Walk around Gwanghwamun Plaza, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Temple, Insadong, and other historic hotspots with an english speaking guide. Check details here.

Haeundae Sand Festival | 해운대 모래축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, May 19th – 22nd last year

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.

Sand sculptures are amazing pieces of art.

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! Check info here.

Eumseong Pumba Festival | 음성 품바축제

Festival Dates: May 22nd – 26th, 2024

Address: 28, Seolseonggongwon-gil, Eumseong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do | 충청북도 음성군 음성읍 설성공원길 28

Every September in Korea, Eumseong County is taken over by hilarious street singers (pumba) from all over the country.

Before Korea became the economic powerhouse it is today, pumba wandered markets, streets, and villages, entertaining the public in search of food, money, or whatever else they needed. Today, pumba don’t beg for food or money, but instead sing at special events and festivals.

At the Eumseong Pumba Festival, there are both free and paid Pumba performances, a National Pumba King Contest, and parade. Check full festival details here (Korean only).

Seoul Drum Festival | 서울드럼페스티벌

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, May 26th – 27th last year

Address: Nodeul Island | 445, Yangnyeong-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul  

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!

traditional korean drumming

Enjoy traditional AND modern drumming at the festival © National Gugak Center, Korea Tourism Organization

In its 26th year, you’ll be treated to performances and competitions from amateur and professional percussionists from all over the world. Details are still forthcoming, but it looks like there’s definitely a festival happening this year. Check their website for full details.

NANTA SHOW IN SEOUL  |  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. Don’t miss it! Get discounted tickets here.

Pohang International Fire and Light Festival | 포항국제불빛축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, May 26th – 28th last year

Address: Haedo-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do | 경상북도 포항시 남구 해도동

A spectacular fireworks display will light up the sky above Pohang in Korea in September. When you’re not being wowed by the teams from South Korea, Sweden, Italy, and the Philippines competing for the title of best fireworks, you can enjoy a dance party with DJ, busking, a parade and much more.

Best of all, it’s all free!

korea in may | pohang fireworks festival

The Pohang International Fire and Light Festival is FREE to attend © Lee Jae-deok

Check out more details here.

Chuncheon Mime Festival 2024 | 춘천마임축제

Festival Dates: May 26th – June 2nd, 2024

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.

the pinwheel tunnel at gangchon rail bike

Ride along abandoned trail tracks and tunnels on the Gangchon Rail Bike.

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.

korea weather in may | what to wear

By the end of May, it’s warm enough to wear shorts and t-shirts

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).
korea in may | Dulegil Trail

May is the perfect month for hiking the many Dulegil around Korea.

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 | flowers by the hangang

May in Korea is full of flowers

Did this article help you? Writers (and moms especially) need caffeine!

Help support my small business with a cup of coffee.

Korea in May: Essential Info and 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?

Comments:

  • May 4, 2023

    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.

    reply...

Share your thoughts