Seoul Weather in January
With daytime temperatures of 3°C (37°F) and nighttime lows of -7°C (19°F), January in Seoul brings low temperatures during the day. It is also the driest month of the year, with minimal snow/rainfall.
Rainfall in Seoul in January
This month sees the least rain of the year, making it well suited for outdoor adventures, even if you'll need a jacket. Records from the past 30 years suggest around 7 days of snow/rain, with 21 mm (0.8 in) average for the month. The occasional light shower is possible, but rain is rarely an issue this month.
Temperature in Seoul in January
Daytime highs in Seoul in January reach 3°C (37°F), with nights around -7°C (19°F). The month of January belongs to the winter season. Expect a distinctly cold feel throughout the day, not just overnight. Nights drop below freezing to -7°C (19°F). An extra blanket is worth packing if you're unsure about the heating where you're staying. It is the coldest month of the year, so be sure to pack proper winter clothing for the conditions.Pack accordingly with warm clothes.
Sunshine in Seoul in January
You can expect a moderate amount of sunlight, with approximately 171 hours. This means a pleasant mix of sun and overcast.
Wind Speed in Seoul in January
Average wind conditions reach 2 m/s (4 knots) in January. This creates comfortable weather with light winds that gently move vegetation. Keep in mind this is an average. Daily conditions range from near-calm to more noticeable wind.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. May and October typically offer the best weather for Seoul.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit South Korea, check out our Seoul's climate page.
Seoul Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-7°C (19°F)
Max Temperature
3°C (37°F)
Chance of Rain
23%
Precipitation
21 mm (0.8 in)
Rainy days
7 days
Humidity
57%
Windspeed
2 m/s (4 knots)
Sunshine
171 hours
Percentage Sunshine
53%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Seoul typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 3°C (37°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -9°C (16°F) to -6°C (21°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Seoul in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Seoul spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Seoul historical weather extremes in January
Based on 49 years of weather observations (1976-2025), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Seoul.
- On January 14, 2002, temperatures climbed to 15°C (59°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
Best Places in South Korea in January
Find out more about the weather in South Korea and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of South Korea in January →
perfect weather
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What to Wear in Seoul in January
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Seoul in January. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Light rain is possible, so consider bringing a small umbrella or rain jacket. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.What To Do in Seoul in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit South Korea, check out our Seoul's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Seoul climate overview or explore weather in South Korea.
