Gwangju, South Korea: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Gwangju, South Korea? If you're planning to go to Gwangju, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Gwangju, South Korea

Based on the climate and weather in Gwangju, South Korea, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Gwangju, South Korea

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gwangju, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Gwangju, South Korea by month

January

If you go to Gwangju in January, you will notice that it is freezing and very hazy. Expect it to rain occasionally and snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Be careful to get the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

February

Traveling to Gwangju in February, you will notice that it is pretty cool and very hazy. Expect it to rain sometimes and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Take care to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

March

If you vacation in Gwangju during March, you may see that it can be brisk and very hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

April

April in Gwangju is crisp, somewhat rainy and very hazy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

In May, Gwangju is mild, somewhat rainy and very hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Gwangju, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 50%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Take care to find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

June

If you visit Gwangju during June, you may find that it is warm, somewhat rainy and very hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you visit Gwangju during July, you will probably see that it is extremely warm, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Be careful to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

In August, Gwangju is pretty consistently hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Gwangju, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

In September, Gwangju is warm, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Gwangju, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you visit Gwangju during October, you may find that it is mild and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally around 50 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Check that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

November

November in this region is brisk, somewhat rainy and very hazy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

In December, Gwangju can be brisk and very hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Gwangju, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwangju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Gwangju, South Korea

Gwangju, located in the southwestern region of South Korea, is a city with a rich cultural history, stunning natural scenery, and bustling urban areas. It is a vibrant center of art, culture, and industry that has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years. Here are the top tourist attractions in Gwangju that you should not miss.

1. The May 18th National Cemetery: The May 18th National Cemetery is a memorial to the victims of the Gwangju Uprising in 1980. It is a somber but important attraction that tells the story of the fight for democracy in South Korea. The cemetery is a peaceful and serene place, with rows of simple gravestones and beautiful gardens.

2. Mudeungsan National Park: Mudeungsan National Park is a large mountain range located just outside of Gwangju. The park is a great place for hiking, with a variety of trails that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. There are also several temples and shrines located within the park that are worth a visit.

3. Gwangju National Museum: The Gwangju National Museum is one of the best museums in South Korea, with a collection that spans the history of the country from ancient times to the present day. The museum has a number of interesting exhibits, including a collection of pottery and ceramics from the Silla Dynasty, as well as a number of artifacts from the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties.

4. Damyang Bamboo Forest: The Damyang Bamboo Forest is a beautiful natural attraction located just a short drive from Gwangju. The forest is home to countless tall bamboo trees that sway in the wind and create a peaceful and calming atmosphere. Visitors can take a walk through the forest, or take a traditional bamboo raft ride down the nearby river.

5. Gwangju Biennale: The Gwangju Biennale is a biennial art exhibition that takes place in the city. It is one of the most important art events in Asia, showcasing the work of artists from around the world. The Biennale takes place in several different venues around the city, and includes a wide range of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, video installations, and performance art.

6. Baegyangsa Temple: Baegyangsa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located just outside of Gwangju. The temple was founded in the 10th century and has been rebuilt several times throughout history. It is known for its beautiful architecture, including a large wooden pagoda that stands over 100 feet tall.

7. Yangnim-dong Cultural Street: Yangnim-dong Cultural Street is a vibrant area in the heart of Gwangju that is known for its artistic and cultural attractions. The street is lined with galleries, cafes, and shops, as well as a number of interesting street art installations. It is a great place to take a stroll and soak up the creative atmosphere of the city.

Overall, Gwangju is a city that offers a wide range of attractions for tourists. From its rich cultural history to its stunning natural beauty, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and exciting city. Whether you are interested in art, history, or nature, Gwangju is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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