Korea by month / January
Korea in January
Last checked: October 2026
Seoul's coldest month: dry, sunny, and well below freezing at night. Busan and Jeju are milder.
- Season
- Winter
- Seoul high / low
- 2°C / -5°C
- Rain in Seoul
- 17 mm
- Don't miss
- Garden of Morning Calm light festival in Gapyeong, near Nami Island
Weather
| City | Average high | Average low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul | 2.1°C (36°F) | -5.5°C (22°F) | 17 mm |
| Busan | 8.2°C (47°F) | -0.1°C (32°F) | 35 mm |
| Jeju | 8.6°C (47°F) | 3.7°C (39°F) | 68 mm |
Averages for 1991–2020 from the Korea Meteorological Administration. Check the forecast before you pack.
What to wear
A warm down coat, hat, gloves, and layers. Indoors are well heated, so layers you can take off help.
What's on in January
- Garden of Morning Calm light festival in Gapyeong, near Nami Island (December to mid-March)
- Camellias in bloom on Jeju (November–February)
- Hallasan in snow: winter trail hours apply, with summit trail entry closing at 11:30
Good to know
- Seollal (Lunar New Year) falls in late January or February. Many shops close for the holiday and trains sell out, so check the date for your year.
Sources
- Korea Meteorological Administration – climatological normals 1991–2020
- Events and seasonal sights: see the sources on each linked guide.
Plan the rest
- Before you go: the checklist
- Seoul, Busan, and Jeju guides