Start with destinations and activities
Use climate averages to understand the season, then check the current forecast for each destination. A city forecast does not describe a mountain summit, and an average low is not the coldest temperature that can occur.
Pack for the activities you have planned. A paved city walk, a mountain hike and an evening boat trip can require different clothing even in the same month.
Spring: bring layers for changing temperatures
From March to May, conditions usually become warmer, but mornings and evenings can remain chilly. Bring a removable mid-layer and an outer layer suited to the forecast. Early spring or mountain travel may still require winter clothing.
Pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and rain protection. Check air-quality reports; if you use a particulate-filtering mask, bring one that fits well and is suitable for you.
Summer: prepare for heat, humidity and rain
Choose breathable clothing that is comfortable when you perspire, and allow for laundry and drying time. Bring sun protection and take regular breaks from the heat.
A compact umbrella can be useful in ordinary rain. A suitable waterproof layer may be better for some outdoor activities, but neither makes it safe to continue during severe weather. Avoid flooded paths and roads rather than choosing footwear for wading through them.
A light extra layer may help in air-conditioned interiors. Check the particular beach's supervised swimming season if you plan to swim; dates vary by location.
Autumn: allow for colder evenings
September can still be hot and humid, while November can feel wintry, especially inland. Pack according to the month and forecast rather than using one outfit for the whole season.
Bring layers, rain protection and suitable walking shoes. For a mountain foliage trip, add warmer clothing and check daylight hours and trail conditions.
Winter: combine insulation and wind protection
Bring warm layers, an insulating outer layer, gloves and a hat. Clothing you can remove indoors is useful when heating makes interiors much warmer than outside.
Choose footwear with grip for icy or snowy conditions. Lip balm and moisturiser may help with dry air. Southern coastal areas are generally milder, but Jeju's mountains can still require full winter equipment.
Keep essential items with you
Bring necessary medication with its documentation, chargers and adapters that match your devices, and any personal equipment that would be difficult to replace. Check airline rules for batteries and liquids before packing.
Korean shops sell many everyday supplies, but a specific size, ingredient, prescription or connector may not be readily available. Do not rely on finding every forgotten item within walking distance.
Wear comfortable shoes appropriate to your plans. You may remove them in homes, some accommodation and certain traditional interiors, but ease of removal should not take priority over support or safe grip.
Leave some luggage space if you expect to shop, and check your baggage allowance before the return journey.
