Seoul Weather in May

May weather in Seoul

May feels like a sweet spot for exploring Seoul. Afternoons are mild, evenings are cooler, and spring trees still soften the city streets. Rain comes in spells, so a wet day can interrupt outdoor plans, but it doesn't define the whole month.

You can walk the paths around Gyeongbokgung Palace, browse Insadong, or take a riverside stroll along the Han. The weather also suits a hike on Namsan, where you can look back over the city. June is warmer and wetter, so May is easier for long days outside. Still, save a café stop or indoor visit for rainy spells.

Festivals and holiday crowds

Children's Day on May 5 is a public holiday, and families head to places like Seoul Children's Grand Park. Buddha's Birthday also falls in May in some years. Around then, the Lotus Lantern Festival brings lantern displays and events to central Seoul.

Travelling with kids? Expect popular family sights to feel especially busy on Children's Day.

May is one of Seoul's best months for weather, so it draws plenty of visitors. Expect more competition for rooms and higher prices than in the quiet winter months. It's generally less of a summer-rainy-season squeeze than June and July, though popular weekends can still feel packed.

A useful Seoul tip

For a quieter palace visit, go to Gyeongbokgung on a weekday rather than during the Children's Day holiday. If rain rolls in, the nearby National Folk Museum of Korea gives you an indoor way to keep exploring the same area.

At the Lotus Lantern Festival, head along the route near Jogyesa Temple to see lanterns in a distinctly Seoul setting. Dates change each year, so check the festival schedule before you go.