Seoul Weather in May: What to Expect
In May, Seoul averages highs of 22.7°C and lows of 11.7°C, with about 8 rainy days (~104 mm). Verdict: Good — comfortable — manageable 22.7°C days. That makes it the 2nd hottest of South Korea's 6 main cities this month.
May in Seoul offers pleasant daytime temperatures, feeling comfortably warm at around 22-23°C, ideal for exploring palaces like Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung. Nights are cool, dipping to about 12°C, so a light jacket is essential for evenings. With roughly eight rainy days, do carry a compact umbrella. Given Seoul is the second warmest city in South Korea this month, plan outdoor excursions like Hwaseong Fortress for mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday sun.
Seoul vs other South Korea cities in May
South Korea is not one climate. In May, Gyeongju runs to 24.6°C while Incheon sits at 20.5°C — a 4°C spread. Here is where Seoul falls:
What to pack for Seoul in May
With highs near 22.7°C and lows around 11.7°C, pack layers — a light jacket for mornings and evenings, a compact umbrella or rain shell.
What to do in Seoul in May
May's weather suits sightseeing through the day. Top sights:
Public holidays in South Korea, May
- 2026-05-01 — Labour Day
- 2026-05-05 — Children's Day
- 2026-05-25 — Buddha's Birthday
- 2027-05-03 — Labour Day
- 2027-05-05 — Children's Day
- 2027-05-13 — Buddha's Birthday
Seoul in May — FAQs
What is the weather like in Seoul in May?
In May, Seoul averages daytime highs of 22.7°C and overnight lows around 11.7°C, with roughly 8 rainy days and about 104 mm of rain across the month. Good — comfortable — manageable 22.7°C days.
Is May a good time to visit Seoul?
Good — comfortable. May is comfortable enough for full-day sightseeing in Seoul. Among South Korea's cities, Seoul is the 2nd hottest this month.
What should I pack for Seoul in May?
For May (11.7–22.7°C), pack layers — a light jacket for mornings and evenings, a compact umbrella or rain shell.
What is there to do in Seoul in May?
Seoul's main sights include Changdeokgung, Gyeongbokgung, Hwaseong Fortress, Namsan Seoul Tower. The weather suits visiting these comfortably through the day.
Are there public holidays in South Korea in May?
Yes — Labour Day (2026-05-01), Children's Day (2026-05-05), Buddha's Birthday (2026-05-25), Labour Day (2027-05-03), Children's Day (2027-05-05), Buddha's Birthday (2027-05-13). Sites can be busier or closed around these dates.
Seoul weather by month: