Kaesong, North Korea: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Kaesong, North Korea? If you're planning to go to Kaesong, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kaesong, North Korea

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

What to wear/what to pack for Kaesong, North Korea

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Kaesong, North Korea by month

January

In January, Kaesong is frigid. Temperatures routinely are in the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Kaesong, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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 Kaesong. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Be careful to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in 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 surcharges with this

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

February in Kaesong can be extremely cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 10 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain once in a while. It also snows once in a while. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 50% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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 stuff.

  • 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 Kaesong. 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 airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

In March, Kaesong is pretty cool. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Kaesong, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 50%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaesong. 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Be careful to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

Traveling to Kaesong in April, you will notice that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaesong. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Be careful to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

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

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaesong. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Check that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • 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 pillow

    A good option is this one

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June in Kaesong is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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 Kaesong. 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 airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

In July, Kaesong is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kaesong, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always 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 Kaesong. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. It's important that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

If you go to Kaesong in August, you will notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaesong. 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

  • 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Take care to pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

If you go to Kaesong in September, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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 Kaesong. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. It's important that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

If you go to Kaesong in October, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaesong. 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Make sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

If you go to Kaesong in November, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaesong. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • 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 C. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December in Kaesong is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 10 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain occasionally. It also snows about a third of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, North 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaesong. 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 frequently 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C. Ensure that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see the Koryo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Pakyon Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Kaesong, North Korea

Kaesong, a city located in the southern part of North Korea, is a city that is rich in history and culture. Being the ancient capital of the Koryo Dynasty, Kaesong is home to many top tourist attractions that offer a glimpse into the country's rich past. Here are the top tourist attractions in Kaesong that are worth a visit.

1. Koryo Museum - The Koryo Museum is one of the most significant and historically important sites in the city of Kaesong. This museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of the Koryo Dynasty and its culture. The museum comprises of many ancient artifacts, tombs, and other historical relics that are sure to transport you back in time.

2. Tomb of King Kongmin - The Tomb of King Kongmin is situated on a picturesque hill located in the outskirts of Kaesong. The tomb is the final resting place of King Kongmin and his queen, and is said to be one of the most controversial tombs in North Korea. This site is incredible, and the surroundings are breathtakingly beautiful, which makes it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Kaesong.

3. Kaesong Folkloric Museum - The Kaesong Folkloric Museum is a fascinating place to visit, especially if you are keen on learning more about Korean culture. The museum showcases some of the oldest traditional Korean items that are still in existence today. Visitors can learn about Korean traditional dress, Korea's ancient cuisine, and much more.

4. Kaesong Nam Gate - The Kaesong Nam Gate is an ancient landmark that is over 800 years old. It is said that this gate was built during the Koryo Dynasty to keep intruders from entering the city. Visitors can take a stroll around the gate and observe its unique architecture and design.

5. Sonjuk Bridge - The Sonjuk Bridge is a historic bridge that was built during the Goryeo Dynasty. The bridge is an excellent example of Goryeo-style bridge architecture, and it still stands strong to this day. The bridge spans across the Nam River and offers fantastic views of the surrounding areas.

In conclusion, Kaesong is a perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience North Korea's unique culture and history. The sites mentioned above are a must-visit for anyone visiting the city. However, it is essential to note that tourism to North Korea is strictly regulated, and foreigners must travel with a licensed tour operator. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit well in advance and adhere to all the rules and regulations to make your trip a smooth and enjoyable one.

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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