I still remember the first time I landed in Seoul during the peak of summer. I had just stepped out of the airport, excited to start my journey in one of the most dynamic cities in Asia. But before I could even admire the skyline or grab a bite of my first Korean street snack, I was ambushed: by humidity! A heavy, sticky, invisible blanket wrapped itself around me, and it felt like someone had jumped on my shoulders and decided to stay there indefinitely.
And just like that, my romantic summer in Seoul started with sweat. A lot of it.
That monstrous wall of humidity followed me like a shadow for weeks. Even the short ride home had me drenched from head to toe. As someone who doesn’t function well in temperatures above 35°C (95°F), I was utterly unprepared. It felt less like summer and more like being trapped inside a rice cooker.
If you’re like me, someone who dreams of chilly breezes and detests sticky skin, then Korean summers might just test your endurance. The heat creeps in slowly from June and by late July, you’ll be fantasizing about life in Antarctica. But what truly makes Korean summers unbearable is not the heat alone; it's the oppressive humidity, which can spike up to 100% on some days. You can be standing in the shade and still feel like you're melting.
But don’t worry! There are ways to survive. In this post, I’ll share some practical, fun, and local-approved tips to help you beat the Korean summer. Whether you're visiting for the first time or you've lived here for years, these suggestions can help you stay cool and comfortable (and maybe even enjoy the season a little).
Tip 1: Dress for Survival
Let’s start with the basics: what you wear really matters.
To make summer more bearable, your best move is to dress smart and switch up your skincare and personal care routine. (You can also check out our other articles on How to find the right summer skincare routine for your skin type and Avoiding Heat Rash & Skin Irritation This Summer: Tips to Keep Skin Cool, Hydrated, and Calm for more detailed advice.)
Go for light, breathable materials such as cotton, linen, or bamboo. These fabrics help regulate your body temperature and allow air to circulate, unlike synthetic options like polyester, which trap heat and moisture. Trust me, wearing a polyester top in Korean humidity feels like wrapping yourself in plastic wrap.
Dark colors absorb heat, so opt for light shades that reflect sunlight. Loose-fitting clothes are also essential. Think oversized T-shirts, flowy dresses, baggy pants, and shorts. You want fabrics that let your skin breathe and don't stick to you when the sweating starts (which will be often).
Also, ditch the layers. Even lightweight cardigans or undershirts can make a big difference when the air is thick with moisture. Simplicity is key.
Tip 2: Eat Your Hydration
When it’s too hot to function, cooling down your body from the inside out can be surprisingly effective. And lucky for us, Korea is full of cold dishes that not only taste amazing but also offer serious heat relief.
One of the most iconic summer meals is naengmyeon (냉면), cold buckwheat noodles served in an icy broth. It might sound odd if you're not used to eating chilled soup, but it’s incredibly refreshing. The broth is usually tangy and savory, made with beef stock or dongchimi (radish water kimchi), and it's often topped with sliced cucumbers, a boiled egg, and sometimes cold beef slices. You can customize it with vinegar and mustard to give it a sharp, clean bite.
Naengmyeon isn’t just a meal; it’s a summer ritual. It cools you down immediately and keeps you satisfied without making you feel heavy or sluggish. My coworkers and I are basically addicted; it’s our go-to lunch every hot day.
If you’re craving something sweet, bingsu (빙수) is your best friend. This traditional Korean shaved ice dessert comes in countless varieties. The classic version, patbingsu, is topped with red bean paste, mochi pieces, and a drizzle of condensed milk. There’s also injeolmi bingsu, made with soybean powder and chewy rice cakes. While the combinations may sound unfamiliar, they’re surprisingly addictive.
Today, modern cafes offer all kinds of bingsu flavors: mango, Oreo, matcha, cheesecake, and even coffee. You’ll find bingsu almost everywhere during the summer, and it’s more than a treat, it’s a necessity.
Tip 3: Seek Out Water
Let’s face it: sometimes staying indoors isn't enough, and you want to make the most of your summer. But if you're going to be outside, do it strategically: near water!
The Han River, which cuts through the heart of Seoul, is lined with outdoor public swimming pools and water parks. Places like Ttukseom, Jamwon, and Mangwon have facilities open to the public during the summer months. They're affordable, family-friendly, and great for quick relief. Weekends can be crowded, so try visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, Caribbean Bay and Woongjin Playdoci Waterdoci are popular water parks with thrilling slides and plenty of places to lounge around in the water. They’re great for families, couples, or even solo visitors who want to escape the heat in a more exciting way.
Want a more relaxing vibe? Many hotels in Seoul offer day passes to rooftop swimming pools. Some even have infinity pools overlooking the city. It might cost a bit more, but spending a few hours cooling off with a view is worth every won on a hot day.
And here’s a hidden gem: valley streams (계곡). Since about 70% of Korea is mountainous, there are plenty of freshwater streams tucked between forested valleys. These spots are beloved by locals and perfect for a nature escape. Grab a group of friends, pack some food, and head out early for a cool day among the trees and water. The best part? They’re free.
Tip 4: Carry a Summer Survival Kit
Every Korean knows that surviving summer means having the right tools in your bag at all times. First and foremost: a portable fan. These are everywhere, from Daiso to fancy lifestyle shops, and they’re a lifesaver when the subway platform turns into a sauna. Some are USB-charged, some clip onto your bag, and others can hang around your neck. Invest in a good one. You won’t regret it.
Anti-UV umbrellas are another common sight on sunny streets. These sunshades don’t just protect your skin; they lower the perceived temperature by a few degrees, creating a personal oasis as you walk. They’re lightweight, stylish, and affordable. Combine them with sunscreen, and you’ve got a great line of defense against sunburn and exhaustion.
Tip 5: Embrace the Indoors
Finally, let’s not ignore the obvious: air conditioning is your best friend. And in Seoul, there are endless things to do indoors.
Cafés are everywhere, and not just the standard ones. You can find cafés where you can knit, paint, draw, play board games, or even pet cats and sheep. If you want something more cultural, head to Seoul’s many libraries, museums, or exhibitions. Most have excellent air-conditioning, and many are free or inexpensive.
Escape rooms, arcades, VR gaming zones, ceramic workshops, indoor golf, yoga studios, and DIY baking classes: the options are endless! Whether you’re into relaxing or being active, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t forget Seoul’s amazing pop-up stores and weekend markets. They’re often indoors and filled with trendy products, local food, and limited-edition experiences.
Final Thoughts
Korean summers can be intense, no one’s denying that. The mix of high temperatures and crushing humidity can wear you down, especially if you're new to it. But with a little preparation, some smart habits, and a few local tricks, you can survive it, and maybe even enjoy it.
So next time the weather app shows “feels like 41°C,” don’t panic. Pull out your portable fan, grab a bowl of naengmyeon, and escape to a mountain stream. You got this.
Stay cool out there!
How to survive the summer humidity in Seoul. Tips and tricks for someone who learned it the hard way.
I still remember the first time I landed in Seoul during the peak of summer. I had just stepped out of the airport, excited to start my journey in one of the most dynamic cities in Asia. But before I could even admire the skyline or grab a bite of my first Korean street snack, I was ambushed: by humidity! A heavy, sticky, invisible blanket wrapped itself around me, and it felt like someone had jumped on my shoulders and decided to stay there indefinitely.
And just like that, my romantic summer in Seoul started with sweat. A lot of it.
That monstrous wall of humidity followed me like a shadow for weeks. Even the short ride home had me drenched from head to toe. As someone who doesn’t function well in temperatures above 35°C (95°F), I was utterly unprepared. It felt less like summer and more like being trapped inside a rice cooker.
If you’re like me, someone who dreams of chilly breezes and detests sticky skin, then Korean summers might just test your endurance. The heat creeps in slowly from June and by late July, you’ll be fantasizing about life in Antarctica. But what truly makes Korean summers unbearable is not the heat alone; it's the oppressive humidity, which can spike up to 100% on some days. You can be standing in the shade and still feel like you're melting.
But don’t worry! There are ways to survive. In this post, I’ll share some practical, fun, and local-approved tips to help you beat the Korean summer. Whether you're visiting for the first time or you've lived here for years, these suggestions can help you stay cool and comfortable (and maybe even enjoy the season a little).
Tip 1: Dress for Survival
Let’s start with the basics: what you wear really matters.
To make summer more bearable, your best move is to dress smart and switch up your skincare and personal care routine. (You can also check out our other articles on How to find the right summer skincare routine for your skin type and Avoiding Heat Rash & Skin Irritation This Summer: Tips to Keep Skin Cool, Hydrated, and Calm for more detailed advice.)
Go for light, breathable materials such as cotton, linen, or bamboo. These fabrics help regulate your body temperature and allow air to circulate, unlike synthetic options like polyester, which trap heat and moisture. Trust me, wearing a polyester top in Korean humidity feels like wrapping yourself in plastic wrap.
Dark colors absorb heat, so opt for light shades that reflect sunlight. Loose-fitting clothes are also essential. Think oversized T-shirts, flowy dresses, baggy pants, and shorts. You want fabrics that let your skin breathe and don't stick to you when the sweating starts (which will be often).
Also, ditch the layers. Even lightweight cardigans or undershirts can make a big difference when the air is thick with moisture. Simplicity is key.
Tip 2: Eat Your Hydration
When it’s too hot to function, cooling down your body from the inside out can be surprisingly effective. And lucky for us, Korea is full of cold dishes that not only taste amazing but also offer serious heat relief.
One of the most iconic summer meals is naengmyeon (냉면), cold buckwheat noodles served in an icy broth. It might sound odd if you're not used to eating chilled soup, but it’s incredibly refreshing. The broth is usually tangy and savory, made with beef stock or dongchimi (radish water kimchi), and it's often topped with sliced cucumbers, a boiled egg, and sometimes cold beef slices. You can customize it with vinegar and mustard to give it a sharp, clean bite.
Naengmyeon isn’t just a meal; it’s a summer ritual. It cools you down immediately and keeps you satisfied without making you feel heavy or sluggish. My coworkers and I are basically addicted; it’s our go-to lunch every hot day.
If you’re craving something sweet, bingsu (빙수) is your best friend. This traditional Korean shaved ice dessert comes in countless varieties. The classic version, patbingsu, is topped with red bean paste, mochi pieces, and a drizzle of condensed milk. There’s also injeolmi bingsu, made with soybean powder and chewy rice cakes. While the combinations may sound unfamiliar, they’re surprisingly addictive.
Today, modern cafes offer all kinds of bingsu flavors: mango, Oreo, matcha, cheesecake, and even coffee. You’ll find bingsu almost everywhere during the summer, and it’s more than a treat, it’s a necessity.
Tip 3: Seek Out Water
Let’s face it: sometimes staying indoors isn't enough, and you want to make the most of your summer. But if you're going to be outside, do it strategically: near water!
The Han River, which cuts through the heart of Seoul, is lined with outdoor public swimming pools and water parks. Places like Ttukseom, Jamwon, and Mangwon have facilities open to the public during the summer months. They're affordable, family-friendly, and great for quick relief. Weekends can be crowded, so try visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, Caribbean Bay and Woongjin Playdoci Waterdoci are popular water parks with thrilling slides and plenty of places to lounge around in the water. They’re great for families, couples, or even solo visitors who want to escape the heat in a more exciting way.
Want a more relaxing vibe? Many hotels in Seoul offer day passes to rooftop swimming pools. Some even have infinity pools overlooking the city. It might cost a bit more, but spending a few hours cooling off with a view is worth every won on a hot day.
And here’s a hidden gem: valley streams (계곡). Since about 70% of Korea is mountainous, there are plenty of freshwater streams tucked between forested valleys. These spots are beloved by locals and perfect for a nature escape. Grab a group of friends, pack some food, and head out early for a cool day among the trees and water. The best part? They’re free.
Tip 4: Carry a Summer Survival Kit
Every Korean knows that surviving summer means having the right tools in your bag at all times. First and foremost: a portable fan. These are everywhere, from Daiso to fancy lifestyle shops, and they’re a lifesaver when the subway platform turns into a sauna. Some are USB-charged, some clip onto your bag, and others can hang around your neck. Invest in a good one. You won’t regret it.
Anti-UV umbrellas are another common sight on sunny streets. These sunshades don’t just protect your skin; they lower the perceived temperature by a few degrees, creating a personal oasis as you walk. They’re lightweight, stylish, and affordable. Combine them with sunscreen, and you’ve got a great line of defense against sunburn and exhaustion.
Tip 5: Embrace the Indoors
Finally, let’s not ignore the obvious: air conditioning is your best friend. And in Seoul, there are endless things to do indoors.
Cafés are everywhere, and not just the standard ones. You can find cafés where you can knit, paint, draw, play board games, or even pet cats and sheep. If you want something more cultural, head to Seoul’s many libraries, museums, or exhibitions. Most have excellent air-conditioning, and many are free or inexpensive.
Escape rooms, arcades, VR gaming zones, ceramic workshops, indoor golf, yoga studios, and DIY baking classes: the options are endless! Whether you’re into relaxing or being active, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t forget Seoul’s amazing pop-up stores and weekend markets. They’re often indoors and filled with trendy products, local food, and limited-edition experiences.
Final Thoughts
Korean summers can be intense, no one’s denying that. The mix of high temperatures and crushing humidity can wear you down, especially if you're new to it. But with a little preparation, some smart habits, and a few local tricks, you can survive it, and maybe even enjoy it.
So next time the weather app shows “feels like 41°C,” don’t panic. Pull out your portable fan, grab a bowl of naengmyeon, and escape to a mountain stream. You got this.
Stay cool out there!