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

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Ready to pack for Seoul, South Korea? If you're planning to go to Seoul, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Seoul, South Korea

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Seoul is very cold and somewhat hazy. 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 5-10 days this month. With the colder weather comes lower 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, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Check that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. 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

February

Traveling to Seoul in February, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain once in a while and snow occasionally. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

March

March in Seoul can be very chilly and somewhat hazy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Check that you get the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in Seoul is cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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 frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Check that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you visit Seoul during May, you are likely to notice that it is mild, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally around 50 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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 some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. It's important that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

June

June for Seoul is warm 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, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you vacation in Seoul during July, you may notice that it is extremely warm and very rainy. 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 around 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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

  • 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 pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

August here is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 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, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Make sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

In September, Seoul is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Seoul, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

October

If you are traveling to Seoul 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, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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 added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Check that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

Traveling to Seoul in November, you will notice that it is cold and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. 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, 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 Seoul. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

Traveling to Seoul in December, you will notice that it is brisk and somewhat 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Seoul. 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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. It's important that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

What to do in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a bustling metropolitan city that is filled with a rich history, culture and technology. From ancient palaces and traditional markets to modern skyscrapers and theme parks, Seoul has something for everyone. Below are some of the top tourist attractions to visit while in Seoul.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace - This palace was built in 1395 and is the largest and most iconic palace of the Joseon dynasty. The palace was destroyed during the Japanese occupation period, but extensive restoration work has been done to bring it back to its former glory. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard ceremony and even dress up in traditional Korean dress for a photo opportunity.

2. Namsan Tower - Namsan Tower, also known as Seoul Tower, is an iconic landmark that offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul. The tower is accessible by cable car or a hike up the mountain, and visitors can enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant or lock in their love with a padlock at the outdoor observatory.

3. Myeongdong - This is the premier shopping district in Seoul, where you'll find international designer brands, cosmetics, and traditional Korean snacks. The streets are always busy with people from all over the world, and there are plenty of street performers and vendors to entertain visitors.

4. Bukchon Hanok Village - This is a traditional Korean village that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty, with alleyways lined with hundreds of traditional Korean houses called hanok. The village is situated between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, making it a great place to explore after visiting the palaces.

5. Lotte World - Lotte World is an indoor theme park that is perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. The park houses a variety of attractions, including rollercoasters, an indoor ice rink, an outdoor attraction, and a world-renowned folk museum that showcases a range of Korean history and culture.

6. Changdeokgung Palace - This is another palace of the Joseon dynasty that is a must-visit for history buffs. The palace's main highlight is its "Secret Garden," a 78-acre site that boasts a stunning landscaped garden, pavilions and ponds.

7. Insadong - Insadong is a neighborhood famous for its traditional Korean crafts, antiques and reading books. The streets are lined with shops that sell everything from ceramics, hanbok, and ginseng, to traditional tea houses and galleries.

8. Cheonggyecheon Stream - Cheonggyecheon is an oasis in the heart of Seoul, a 11-kilometer-long stream that passes through some of the city's most exciting neighborhoods. The stream has been beautifully restored and is flanked with art installations, public sculptures, and scenic walkways.

Seoul is a vibrant and modern city that offers a blend of tradition and contemporary, making it a must-visit destination in South Korea. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or theme parks, the city has something to offer every visitor, and these places above are some of the top attractions to explore.

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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