When to Go

Peak Season: July to August

Expect monsoons, high-humidity, and throngs of tourists. It's also peak travel time for Koreans so even off the beaten path is crowded.

Off Season: January to April

Except for the Lunar New Year holiday (a week that falls somewhere between mid-January and early February), this is the best season for hotel discounts. Winter is cold but beautifully blanketed in snow. March and April are lush and green but frequent dust storms are the norm.

Shoulder Season: May to June; September to December

In addition to generally pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and some hotel bargains, spring and fall are the most pleasant times to travel around Korea.