Weather
June marks the beginning of a hot and humid summer season in South Korea. Temperatures are warm but not yet sweltering, with an average high of 79°F (26°C) and an average low of 61°F (16°C). Similarly, humidity climbs to 70% this month but will not peak until July, when it can reach 90%. June's moderate weather compared to the other summer months makes it an ideal time to visit, as travelers can enjoy seasonal activities like beachgoing without experiencing the blistering heat that South Korean summers are known for.
The annual monsoon season, known in Korean as jangma, also kicks off in June. While early in the month is primarily sunny and dry, chances of rain increase by nearly 20% from the beginning to the end. Rainfall is also location-dependent, with the southern provinces at the greatest risk for heavy rain and, more rarely, typhoons. Travelers to coastal areas in the country's south, such as the popular vacation spot, Jeju Island, should consult the weather frequently and come prepared with appropriate rain gear.
Crowds & Costs
The start of the summer holiday season in June leads to a spike in tourism. While South Korean students typically remain in school until July, family travelers from abroad often begin their summer travels earlier. Even so, June is the least crowded summer month, with beaches and tourist sites popular but not yet congested. Flight and hotel prices this month are also moderate. Costs will rise with increased demand as the summer continues, so travelers are advised to book early for the best possible rates.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
Start your summer holiday in Incheon and spend sunny days meandering through Songdo Central Park. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in a shady spot or take in the view from the water while paddle boating or kayaking along the river. In nearby Seoul, it's easy to adjust your itinerary depending on the weather forecast. Check out the National Museum of Korea to take cover or beat the heat, shop at Myeongdong and Gangnam when the sun's out, and pick up souvenirs and visit a teahouse in charming Insadong. After the sun sets and temperatures cool, the city's night markets beckon, like Gwangjang Market, with an array of enticing food and beverage offerings.
The Seoul Capital Area is also an ideal jumping-off point for island hopping, with more than 70 inhabited and uninhabited islands in Incheon. Plan a beach getaway to Muuido Island, where you can sample fresh seafood and comb the beach for seashells during low tide. Jangbongdo Island is known for its hiking trails, while Wolmido Island is perfect for families with its popular boardwalk and amusement park. With several islands less than two hours from Seoul, visitors can plan a day trip or stay overnight. Adventurous travelers can even opt to spend a night camping beneath the stars.
What to Do
Hot, sunny June days are perfect for classic summer activities like beachgoing. Take advantage of lighter crowds at South Korea's beaches before the peak summer tourist season begins in July. Active travelers can rent equipment for water sports such as windsurfing, standup paddleboarding, and sailing. For a more relaxing beach day, opt to soak up the sun with a drink in hand at one of the many beachside resorts, particularly in Busan.
If you're visiting a major city, plan to see outdoor tourist attractions in the morning when crowds and temperatures are at their lowest. Indoor attractions, such as museums and galleries, offer a respite from the afternoon heat and provide shelter on rainy days. South Korea is also famous for its fun and quirky cafés, which are especially popular in the summertime. Dotted across every major city, travelers can pop in between sightseeing to grab an iced coffee or treat themselves to bingsu, a sweet Korean shaved ice dessert topped with fruit or red bean.
Seoul hosts two major music festivals this month. Kick off the summer at the World DJ Festival, a three-day event where music lovers can participate in a dance party alongside world-renowned DJs and nearly 100,000 other festivalgoers. Beat the heat at the Waterbomb Festival, highlighting the country's top EDM and hip-hop artists. The event, held at the end of the month, also features a swimming pool and equips the crowd with water guns to battle it out between sets. While the main festival is in Seoul, travelers staying in other cities, including Busan and Daegu, can participate in offshoots.
Events in June
Waterbomb Festival, Seoul. The largest music and water-themed festival in Korea, featuring EDM and hip-hop music and an epic water gun battle. The main event occurs in Seoul, with offshoots in other major cities.
Toechon Tomato Festival, Toechon. A local tomato-producing village hosts this festival with various tomato-themed events, including tomato picking, bathing in a tomato pool, and competing to build the tallest tomato tower.
World DJ Festival, Seoul. This music festival in the capital city showcases a variety of music genres and DJs from around the world.
Hansan Ramie Fabric Cultural Festival, Seocheon. An annual celebration of ramie fabric, a traditional Korean natural fiber produced in the Hansan-myeon region. The event features a fashion show and clothing display.
More Helpful Information
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South Korea in July
Best Time of Year to Visit South Korea
How Many Days to Spend in South Korea