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When to Go
South Korea has
cold, dry winters and hot, rainy summers. Autumn (September
through November) is generally the best time for travel, with
crisp air and brilliant sunshine.
Chances are you'll
want to avoid Seoul from December through February, when it is
snowy and so cold it almost hurts to breathe. In Seoul, the
average January temperature range is -9°-0° C (16°-32° F).
Temperatures are higher along the southern coast and lower in
the mountainous interior.
Summers (June
through September) are hot and humid. Late June through early
July brings torrential rains, and the southern coast is
subject to late summer typhoons. After several weeks, the rain
stops but the weather turns hotter. In Seoul, the average
annual precipitation is 1,250 millimeters (49 inches); the
average July temperature range is 21°-29° C (70°-84° F).
In the southern
portion of the Korean peninsula and on Cheju Island, winters
are considerably milder and summers drier and hotter.
On Sollal (Lunar
New Year's Day) and Ch'usok (9 September), South Koreans
traditionally visit their families. The mass migration of 10
million souls makes it impossible to buy rail or express-bus
tickets at this time (South Koreans make their reservations
months in advance), and the highways are likely to be clogged
with traffic.
Cheju Island
suffers from severe droughts, and hotel swimming pools will be
filled only during July and August.
From mid-July
through September, beaches and mountain resorts are likely to
be crowded with vacationing South Koreans.
What to Take
During the winter,
plan to dress very warmly both outside and in. Floors in
Korean homes and inns are heated, but the wicked wind comes
through paper-thin windows and partitions. Wool socks, tights,
long underwear, and a layered exterior are essential. In the
southern portion of the Korean peninsula, and on Cheju Island,
winters are milder and summers hotter than in other parts of
South Korea.
Light woolens in
layers are a good idea during spring (March through May) and
autumn. Rain can be harsh and bothersome. Pack proper gear and
remember that conservative clothing is the fashion here.
Take along a sewing
kit, electrical current adapters, and a good Swiss Army knife.
Bring contraceptives and condoms. If you're going in warm
weather, bring a good insect repellent.
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