August is usually the hottest month in Korea. It is also when much of the country goes on holiday, so beaches and resorts are at their liveliest. If you plan your days around the heat, it can still be a great time to visit, with long evenings, summer food and festivals.
What the weather is like
Early and mid August are hot and humid, often well above 30°C in Seoul, with heat-wave warnings on the worst days. Nights stay warm. Late August usually brings the first slightly cooler evenings. August and September are the main typhoon months; most pass without trouble, but a typhoon can bring a day or two of strong wind and rain, cancel ferries and flights to Jeju, and close beaches. Watch the forecast. See our seasons and weather guide.
What to pack
- The lightest clothes you have, ideally quick-drying.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or a small umbrella.
- A refillable water bottle; convenience stores are everywhere for cold drinks.
- A thin layer for strong air conditioning.
Things to do in August
Beaches and valleys
Busan's beaches are at their busiest, and the nights at Gwangalli with the lit-up bridge are a summer highlight; see our Busan one-day itinerary. Koreans also escape the heat in mountain valleys, called gyegok, sitting with their feet in cold streams.
Music and summer festivals
Summer is festival season, from rock and pop festivals to beach parties and fireworks. Dates change every year, so check our festival calendar.
Cool city plans
Sightsee early in the morning, then retreat indoors: museums, the big malls, aquariums, cafés and a Korean bathhouse. Palaces and parks are lovely after about five o'clock. Our 3-day Seoul itinerary can be shuffled to suit the heat.
Holidays and busy dates
- Late July to mid August is the peak summer holiday season. Beach hotels, Jeju flights and trains to the coast fill up early and cost more.
- 15 August, Liberation Day: a public holiday marking the end of Japanese rule in 1945. In 2027 it falls on a Sunday, with a substitute holiday on Monday 16 August.
Compare with Korea in July and Korea in September, or see every month in our best time to visit Korea guide.
FAQ
How hot is Korea in August?
Very hot and humid. Days in Seoul are often above 30°C, and heat-wave warnings are common in early and mid August.
Is August a bad time to visit Korea?
Not bad, but hot and busy. Plan outdoor sightseeing for mornings and evenings and book beach trips early.
Are there typhoons in Korea in August?
August and September are the main typhoon months. Most years only a few affect Korea, usually for a day or two.
