Compare the climate averages
These are 1991–2020 climate averages, not a forecast for your visit. The daily high and low columns average many days over that period; they are not limits on how hot or cold a particular day can become. Precipitation is the average monthly total.
| City | Monthly mean (°C) | Average daily high (°C) | Average daily low (°C) | Average high–low difference (°C) | Monthly precipitation (mm) | Relative humidity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Busan (부산) | 17.9 | 22.0 | 14.6 | 7.4° | 155.9 | 68.3% |
| Daegu (대구) | 19.7 | 25.7 | 14.1 | 11.6° | Not available in this dataset | Not available in this dataset |
| Gangneung (강릉) | 17.9 | 22.7 | 13.3 | 9.4° | 79.2 | 59.3% |
| Gyeongju (경주) | 18.4 | 25.7 | 11.7 | 14.0° | 55.3 | 63.5% |
| Incheon (인천) | 16.8 | 21.6 | 13.1 | 8.5° | 96.3 | 69.8% |
| Jeju (제주) | 18.3 | 22.1 | 15.0 | 7.1° | 95.6 | 68.4% |
| Seoul (서울) | 18.2 | 23.6 | 13.5 | 10.1° | 103.6 | 59.7% |
| Sokcho (속초) | 16.3 | 20.9 | 12.1 | 8.8° | 88.5 | 68.6% |
Source: Korea Meteorological Administration, 1991–2020 climate normals. A missing value means it is unavailable in the dataset used here, not that the city has no rain or that no other climate record exists. The selected table does not cover every Korean city.
Enjoy spring weather without assuming it is guaranteed
May often suits city walks, gardens and other outdoor visits. Average temperatures are warmer than April, but mornings and evenings can still feel cool, especially inland or by the coast.
Rain remains possible, and hot spells can occur before summer. Check the forecast and air quality rather than assuming every day will have mild temperatures and clear skies.
Check the holiday calendar for your year
Labour Day, on 1 May, became a government-office public holiday in 2026. Children's Day is 5 May. Substitute days and the position of weekends can extend the travel period around them.
Buddha's Birthday follows the lunar calendar and changes Gregorian date each year. Use the annual official calendar for the date and any substitute holiday. The 2027 calendar announcement also explains the Labour Day change and its substitute-day arrangements.
Family attractions, popular coastal areas and Jeju can be busy during holiday periods. Compare availability for your exact dates rather than assuming the middle of May is always quiet or that every city charges a fixed peak-season rate.
Look up the lantern festival programme
Yeon Deung Hoe, the Lotus Lantern Festival, includes lantern displays, a parade and cultural activities associated with Buddha's Birthday. The organising committee publishes the current Seoul programme.
The parade date is separate from the holiday itself. Check the route, start time and any road or station restrictions before going. Other cities and temples run their own events on different schedules.
Allow time to reach a viewing place and make a plan for leaving a crowded area. A quiet temple visit and a major parade offer different experiences, so choose what fits your trip.
Make use of green spaces
Palace gardens, parks and countryside walks can be attractive as foliage develops. On Jeju, places such as Gapado are known for seasonal fields, but check ferry conditions and the actual crop or flowering stage before planning around a particular view.
For a coastal or mountain outing, use the local forecast. Inland city weather does not establish conditions on an exposed trail or island crossing.
Confirm holiday opening arrangements
Some attractions open on a normal closing day during a public holiday and close later instead. Others have separate event hours or maintenance closures.
Check the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center and the specific venue's notice. Do not assume that all museums and palaces share one weekly schedule.
Pack layers and allow breaks
Light clothing with a jacket or fleece covers more situations than either winter clothing or summer clothing alone. Add rain protection, comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
On a hot day, shorten exposed midday walks and take breaks. May can offer pleasant conditions, but the forecast and your own comfort should determine the day's pace.
