Where to Go in July

Korea in July — The Peak of Summer, Lush Greenery, and Cool Water Activities

July marks the beginning of true summer. Frequent rains continue with the northward movement of the monsoon front, but it is also a month where cool nights and diverse summer festivals await, offering relief from the daytime heat. If you plan well in anticipation of the unpredictable weather, July can be a special time to discover Korea's vibrant charm more than ever.

Reasons Why July in Korea is Special

• Peak Monsoon Season, Picturesque Scenery: July is when the monsoon season (jangma) reaches its peak. The ink-wash painting-like scenery of mountains and ancient palaces on rainy days leaves a different, profound impression compared to clear days.
• Full-Fledged Heatwave and Summer Flavors: As sweltering heat begins, cool valleys, seas, and air-conditioned indoor spaces become even more precious. It's also the best time to enjoy summer delicacies like patbingsu and naengmyeon.
• Beginning of the Main Summer Vacation Season: With summer breaks for elementary, middle, and high schools, and vacations for workers aligning, all of Korea buzzes with activity. Festivals and events held across the country add to the joy of travel.
• Wisdom to Beat the Heat: Extended Night Openings: To allow people to utilize evening hours and avoid the midday heat, ancient palaces, museums, and parks extend their operating hours into the night. Enjoy the romance of cool summer nights.
• All National Beaches Fully Open: All beaches on the East Sea, West Sea, and South Sea officially open their doors to welcome summer vacationers. You can plunge into the cool seawater and fully enjoy the vibrancy of the beach.

Recommended Places for July

• Damyang Juknokwon — The refreshing coolness and cool breeze of a bamboo forest that makes you forget the sweltering heat.
• Gamcheon Culture Village — Busan, where the monsoon impact is relatively low, and colors become even more vivid after the rain.
• National Museum of Korea — The best indoor retreat during the monsoon season, enjoying peaceful time in the 'Room of Quiet Contemplation'.
• Gyeongbokgung Palace — A walk through the ancient palace on a midsummer night, a special night viewing allowed only in July.
• Seoraksan — A place to dip your feet in the icy waters of Cheonbuldong Valley and wash away the heat.
• Bukhansan — Early morning hiking before sunrise and relaxation at a cool valley rest stop.
• Hallasan — A fantastic panorama of cloud sea visible only at Witseoreum in the early morning of July.
• Jeju — Real summer enjoyed at Hamdeok and Hyeopjae beaches, where emerald-colored seas unfold.

July Travel Tips

• Checking Real-time Monsoon Forecasts is Essential: July weather is fickle. Before departure and during your trip, frequently check short-term forecasts and heavy rain warnings from the meteorological agency, and prepare a 'Plan B' such as indoor travel destinations in case of rain.
• Be Thoroughly Prepared for Heatwaves and UV Rays: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Wear moisture-wicking and breathable clothes, and it's best to reduce outdoor activities between 1 PM and 3 PM, the hottest part of the afternoon. Don't forget to drink plenty of water.
• Book Peak Season Accommodation and Transportation in Advance: From late July, it's the peak of peak season. Accommodation in popular destinations and major transportation like KTX and flights can be fully booked one to two months in advance, so it's advisable to hurry once your travel plans are set.
• Prepare for Uninvited Summer Guests: Mosquitoes and Pests: Due to hot and humid weather, mosquito and insect activity becomes vigorous. Especially if you plan to go to mountains, valleys, or forests, be sure to pack long-sleeved clothing and insect repellent.