A SUMMER GUIDE IN SOUTH KOREA

Credits: Bookmundi

One of the most exciting times to visit South Korea is definitely the summertime, which starts in the month of June. Although summer brings long sunny days, amazing activities and lively festivals, this season can be extremely hot and humid, especially in July and August.

You can always expect the unexpected, as sudden monsoon rains are common in the Korean peninsula in this period, so having an umbrella or a raincoat in your bag is a must. Soaring temperatures, crowded beaches, and overwhelming humidity are to be expected, but despite these, the best part of visiting South Korea in summer is the vibrant atmosphere that envelops the entire country.

WHAT CLOTHES AND OTHER ESSENTIALS ARE SUITABLE FOR SOUTH KOREA’S SUMMER WEATHER?

Credits: Biz Chosun

South Korea’s summer runs from June to August with temperatures reaching 30-35°C, heavy humidity, and monsoon rains (usually in July).

Korean summers are hot, humid, and very sunny, with high UV levels, especially in July and August, so prolonged exposure can cause sunburn, premature ageing, and skin damage.

Koreans usually wear long-sleeved lightweight shirts for sun protection rather than tank tops. Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and parasols are also a must for any Korean in summer.

If you are preparing to visit South Korea in the summer, the most suitable clothes and accessories to wear are the following:

·       Light and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen

·       Portable fans

·       UV-blocking umbrellas

·       Raincoats or umbrellas for the monsoon season

·       Sunscreen

·       Hats and sunglasses

WHAT ARE THE MAIN SOUTH KOREAN HOLIDAYS & CELEBRATIONS IN THE SUMMER?

If you visit South Korea during the summer, there are a few important holidays and celebrations worth experiencing, especially if you are a Korean culture enthusiast.

·    MEMORIAL DAY (June 6th): a solemn national holiday honoring Koreans who died in service to the country, with ceremonies held at places like the Seoul National Cemetery

·    CONSTITUTION DAY (July 17th): a national celebration that marks the adoption of South Korea’s first constitution in 1948

Credits: Trazy

·   BORYEONG MUD FESTIVAL (early to mid-July): a summer festival held at Dacheon Beach in Boryeong featuring mud slides, pools and body painting that signify a playful tribute to the mineral-rich mud used in skincare

·    BUYEO SEODONG LOTUS FESTIVAL (mid-July): a lotus festival celebrated at Gungnamji Pond in Buyeo that includes lotus blossoms, night illuminations, cultural performances, and lotus-themed crafts and tea ceremonies

Credits: Trazy

·  DAEGU CHIMAC FESTIVAL (July): an entertaining festival that celebrates the popular Korean combination of chicken and beer, which includes musical performances and outdoor fun

·   BUSAN SEA FESTIVAL (early August): a massive summer beach festival celebrated across Busan beaches that includes free performances, cultural events, and parties by the beach

·   NATIONAL LIBERATION DAY (August 15th): a major South Korean holiday commemorating Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945 that includes ceremonies, parades, and fireworks displays

WHAT FOOD AND DRINKS ARE POPULAR IN SOUTH KOREA DURING SUMMER?

South Korea’s summers are hot, humid, and energy-draining, so Koreans have developed a food culture around staying cool, hydrated, and energized. Some of the most popular foods, desserts, and drinks that Koreans consume during summer are the following:

Credits: Seonkyounglongest

·   NAENGMYEON (Cold Buckwheat Noodles): thin and chewy noodles served in icy broth or with spicy sauce

·  SAMGYETANG (Ginseng Chicken Soup): a whole chicken stuffed with rice, ginseng, jujubes, and garlic

·  KONGGUKSU (Chilled Soybean Soup): noodles served in a cold and creamy broth made from ground soybeans

·  KIMCHI MARI GUKSU (Cold Kimchi Soup): noodles served in a chilled and slightly spicy kimchi-based broth

·  CHIMAEK (Chicken and Beer Combo): the popular combination between fried chicken and cold beer, often eaten outdoors

Credits: Korea net

·   BINGSU (Shaved Ice Dessert): shaved ice topped with red beans (patbingsu), fruit, condensed milk or even cheesecake or matcha

·   SIKHYE (Sweet Rice Drink): a traditional cold drink made from fermented malt and rice

·   OMIJA-CHA (Five-Flavour Berry Tea): cold tea made from omija berries known for having 5 distinct flavours (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent)

·  SUBAK HWACHAE (Watermelon Punch): a colourful punch made with watermelon chunks and other types of fruit

·   ICED COFFEE: Iced Americano is the #1 summer drink in South Korea during summer

Credits: Themanual

·   MAKGEOLLI (Rice Wine): a milky and slightly sparkling rice wine

·   SOMAEK: soju and beer cocktails mixed with fruit juices

SOUTH KOREAN SUMMER: IMPORTANT INFORMATION & FAQs

1.     When is Korea’s summertime?

Summer in South Korea starts in June and lasts until late August, with monsoon rains in July and peak heat in August.

2.     How does summer weather impact daily life?

Korean summers can be overwhelming due to high humidity, so Koreans usually adjust to these weather conditions by carrying portable fans or spending time in air-conditioned cafes and malls.

3.     What do people usually wear in South Korea in the summer?

The best clothes to wear are breathable and modest clothing items, accessorized with an UV-blocking umbrella and a pair of sunglasses. While shorts are common, very short tops aren’t considered a suitable item to wear in public, so make sure to take this norm into account when dressing for summer.

4.     Are summers comfortable for travelling?

Yes, but be prepared for crowds in popular areas, high humidity, and occasional heatwaves. Plan indoor activities at midday and enjoy festivals or beaches in the morning and evening.

5.     What are some must-do activities in the Korean summer?

The best summer activities are visiting beaches, enjoying night markets, trying water sports, and attending seasonal festivals and celebrations.

Credits: Lonelyplanet

Summer in Korea is vibrant, full of energy, and best enjoyed with the right clothes, foods, and seasonal activities. Whether you’re cooling off with patbingsu, joining a mud fight at Boryeong, or strolling through rainy Insadong streets with makgeolli, you will find that Korean summer is a perfect mix of culture and fun.