Weather in January in South Korea
Planning a journey to South Korea this January and curious over the weather conditions to await? Your essential details are found on this page, answering your query:
What is the weather like in South Korea in January?
January in South Korea generally has temperatures that range from very cold to cold, with precipitation levels ranging from low to moderate. In January, it is winter.
Temperatures
Based on our climate data spanning from 1990-2020, the average maximum temperature is very cold in Pyeongchang at 1°C to cold in Seogwipo at 9°C. Nighttime temperatures generally drop to 4°C in Seogwipo and -10°C in Pyeongchang . In general, this month stands out as the coldest period throughout the year. Given the lower temperatures, it's essential to be well-prepared. Packing the right winter clothing and necessary accessories can make a significant difference in ensuring your comfort and well-being during this chilly season.
Precipitation
In January, precipitation varies across different areas. From low snow/rainfall in Ganghwa with an average of 19 mm to moderate snow/rainfall in Jeju with 81 mm. Looking at the climate data spanning the last 30 years, this month usually has the lowest rainfall in Seoul, marking it as the year's driest month.Average sunshine
Most areas experience a moderate amount of sunshine, with approximately 171 hours of sunlight expected in Seoul. This makes it neither too gloomy nor overly bright.For specific regional insights in South Korea for January, refer to the map provided below. For an in-depth overview of the yearly weather conditions, do visit our South Korea climate page.
Where to go in South Korea in January
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Popular destinations
What is the weather like in January for the 5 most popular destinations in South Korea?
Seoul
In January Seoul generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 3°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -7°C and low monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Busan
In January Busan generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 9°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 1°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Jeju
In January Jeju generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 9°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 5°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Seogwipo
In January Seogwipo generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 9°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 4°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Incheon
In January Incheon generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 3°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -5°C and low monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Is your destination not in the list? Have a look at other destinations in South Korea.
Is January the best time to visit South Korea?
In our view, January might not be the best time to travel to South Korea with often poor weather in Seoul.
Generally speaking, May and October provide perfect weather in Seoul. On the other hand, the weather in January, July, August and December tend to be poor.
Interested in more climate information?
We have much more information about the climate in South Korea.
Interested in the weather conditions in a specific month? Select the month below.
Weather and climate has detailed information for every country in the world. Are you going to South Korea? Get detailed historical weather averages for many cities in South Korea.
Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal travel conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.