Summer calls for fine sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and warm radiant sunshine! But in Korea, there are plenty of other things you can do to make your summer memorable–like attending cool festivals, strolling through unique parks, and more!
There’s a reason why it’s become such a popular summer destination for tourists all over the world. So sit back and relax as we give you the ultimate guide to spending a whole summer in Korea!
When is summer in Korea?
Summer in Korea takes place during June, July, and August. These three months have varying weather conditions so make sure to research well before planning a trip. Different activities are also available for different months!
Should you visit South Korea in summer?
Yes, absolutely! Korea during summertime is a sight to see. This is when the country really embraces its fun and youthful side. There are plenty of activities the whole family can enjoy that are only available during summer.
How’s the weather in Korea during summer?
Korean summers are quite legendary. Temperatures rise (25-30 °C) and humidity rates go off the charts by the time June starts. While the heat doesn’t actually rise that much (only about an extra 5°C between May and June), the humidity levels (80-90%) will truly make you feel the burn.
If you’re planning a trip for summer, we recommend packing light clothes and getting yourself one of those portable fans that many Koreans use to beat the heat. Of course, ice-cold drinks also become available on every corner to help cool you down.
South Korea also experiences summer monsoons quite frequently, so make sure to pack an umbrella for your trip. It’s better safe than sorry!
Still, the activities you can do and places you can visit will make the trip worth it. During summer, beaches open and nighttime activities become more popular so people can enjoy cooler air. There are also tons of festivals purely designed for helping locals and tourists alike beat the heat!
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The 20 Best Things To Do In Korea During Summer
We listed for you 20 activities that you are can enjoy during summer in Korea. Read on and let us know when you are planning to visit South Korea in the comments!
1. Have a Blast at the Sinchon Water Gun Festival
When it comes to summer in Korea, you can never go wrong with the variety of festivals you can attend! First up is the Sinchon Water Gun Festival, a surefire way to beat the heat!
Usually held during the last weekend of July, the Sinchon Water Gun Festival is a timeless classic that promises to bring the fun. Sinchon is located right in Seoul, and you can reach it via the subway or through Seoul buses. Here you can jam out to world-class DJs and enjoy amazing street performances from different kinds of artists.
But most of all, Sinchon Water Gun Festival promises a wicked water gun fight! The streets of Sinchon and Hongdae get transformed into a fun water adventure! Grab a gun and feel free to blast anyone in sight. It’s the perfect way to cool down and have fun at the same time!
2. Get Down and Dirty at the Boryeong Mud Festival
A mud bath by day and a concert by night? Count me in!
Boryeong is a small town located just outside of Seoul. From Seoul, you can reach Boryeong by taking a bus to Daecheon Beach from the Seoul Central Bus Terminal. You wouldn’t expect such a quiet and unassuming town to have some quirky attractions, but Boryeong defies expectations!
When it comes to unique experiences, this one definitely takes the cake. At the Boryeong Mud Festival, you can participate in an epic mud fight! Coat yourself in nutrient-rich Boryeong mud all day which will leave your skin feeling smoother than ever afterward.
Then at night, wash off all the mud and party your heart out to the best K-Pop and EDM concerts happening right here on the beach! At the Boryeong Mud Festival, you’re guaranteed a full day of fun.
3. Attend the Buyeo Sedong Lotus Festival
If you’re a fan of slower-paced and chill activities, then the Buyeo Sedong Lotus Festival is perfect for you. This summer festival is one of the most beautiful events in the country. Thousands of lotus flowers erupt in full bloom, filling Chungcheongnam-do with a brilliant and lovely atmosphere.
Chungcheongnam-do is the country’s richest province located south of Seoul. Lucky for us, it’s still really accessible if you’re coming from the big city. Just take Line 1 at the Seoul Metropolitan Subway and get off at Cheonan Station, which is Chungcheongnam’s largest city.
The Buyeo Sedong Lotus Festival was actually established to reenact and celebrate the romance of King Mu and Princess Seonhwa. Here you can watch reenactments of the beautiful historical love story. There are also tons of other fun activities like flower origami classes, soap-making, candle-making, and even a fun LED lantern festival!
4. Party at the Waterbomb Festival
Are you a big K-Pop fan looking to experience the concert of a lifetime? Maybe you’re one of those tourists who want a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. Or maybe you’re just like one of the locals looking to beat the heat. No matter what category you fall under, we guarantee that attending the Waterbomb Festival will be the highlight of your trip!
This annual summer music festival is held throughout June, July, and August in various cities across South Korea including Seoul and Busan. Featuring the summer’s hottest stars from K-Pop, K-Hip Hop, K-RnB, and more, the Waterbomb Festival guarantees fun and wild performances with a twist. While performing the soundtrack of the summer, singers and audiences alike are blasted with water!
Idols and celebrities love performing here because of the lively energy and the refreshing atmosphere. From fun water guns to actual hoses, Waterbomb Festival promises to be a thrilling experience from start to finish! If you want to see your favorite idols drenched and sexy–all while having the time of their lives–then you definitely can’t miss the Waterbomb Festival.
5. Escape To Gyeongpo Beach
What better way to beat the heat than to plan a getaway to Korea’s most dazzling beaches?
Up first we have the stunning Gyeongpo Beach in Gangwon, right on Korea’s East Coast. From Seoul, you can reach Gangwon by the KTX train with the travel time lasting around 2 hours–but we assure you, it’s worth it!
Summer’s intense heatwave can make some people a little more hotheaded than usual, but the wide sandy beach and sparkling deep blue waters will instantly put you in a good mood.
Gyeongpo Beach has also become a favorite weekend getaway among locals because of the wide range of activities you can do here! From sightseeing. swimming, surfing, wakeboarding, and more, Gyeongpo Beach has it all. Of course, you could also just spend the day lounging on the sandy shore.
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6. Have A Coffee Shop Date At Anmok Beach and Gangneung Coffee Street
Calling all caffeine addicts! An underrated way to beat the heat is through a nice refreshing glass of ice-cold coffee. Heatwaves are known to cause lethargy, but you can combat that with a drink that will boost your energy and refresh you all at once!
And of course, what better way to do that than with a magnificent view around you? Anmok Beach in Gangwon is super close to Gyeongpo Beach, yet it offers a totally different experience. Here you can also do regular beach activities like swimming and sightseeing, but Anmok comes with a twist.
Here in Anmok, you can find the famous Gangneung Coffee Street which is home to over 30 cafes each specializing in their own unique brew. Each and every coffee shop also has stunning views of the amazing Anmok Beach, so you really won’t lose no matter which cafe you pick!
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7. Spend Summer in Jeju
When it comes to favorite summer spots, Jeju Island definitely takes the cake. There’s a reason why so many Koreans think of Jeju when they hear the word “summer.” The two are practically inseparable!
Jeju is an island off the coast of Korea, so it’s most accessible via plane from Incheon Airport.
There’s a lot to do at this summer staple–but to start, we recommend visiting the beautiful Hamdeok Beach! This hidden wonder is tucked away behind Seoubong Mountain so it’s protected from harsh winds. This results in super calm waters that make this beach perfect for family getaways!
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8. Hike at Gwanaksan Mountain
Did you know that Korea is made up of 70% mountains? No wonder hiking has become such a popular pastime! There are tons of mountains all over the country just waiting to be conquered by you. Because hiking is so popular, most of these mountains have well-paved roads to make sure your adventure is thrilling–but safe.
If you don’t want to leave the city, don’t worry. There are still tons of beautiful and majestic mountains right here in Seoul. One of them is Gwanaksan Mountain, especially the Nadeul Road you can find here. It spans 6km long and follows a lot of different valley streams where you can take a dip and cool off after a satisfying hike.
9. Travel to Ancient Egypt at the Vivaldi Park Ocean World
Think regular beaches are too boring for you? Then head on over to Vivaldi Park Ocean World, where a fun-filled adventure awaits!
Located inside the luxurious Sono Hotel, the Vivaldi Park Ocean World is a massive water park the whole family can enjoy. It’s in Gangwon Province, just 2 hours away from Seoul and accessible via the KTX train.
With lots of water slides and fun games, you won’t regret spending a day at one of the most popular water parks in the whole country.
What makes Vivaldi Park Ocean World stand out is its unique Ancient Egyptian theme. Check out awesome pyramids and fantastic pharaohs all at this incredible water park adventure.
10. Have An Adventure At The Caribbean Bay
When talking about massive water parks, we can’t skip talking about undoubtedly one of the most famous and beloved parks in the country! Caribbean Bay is part of the Everland Resort. Established back in 1996, Caribbean Bay has only grown in popularity, enough to be awarded the “Must-See Water Park Award” from the prestigious International Association of Amusement Park Attractions.
Caribbean Bay is located in Yongin, which is just outside of Seoul! Some of its attractions include an indoor Aquatic Center which includes different kinds of pools like wave pools and diving pools, the Sea Wave which is a huge outdoor wave pool, and the Bay Slide that’s made up of tons of different and fun slides fit for everyone.
If you want a day full of non-stop fun and thrills, then you definitely can’t skip Caribbean Bay!
11. Say Aloha At Gimhae Lotte Water Park
Looking for another unique water park experience? We’ve got you!
Gimhae Lotte Water Park is one of the newest water parks to hit the scene. Gimhae is located all the way in the southern portion of the country, near Busan. It’s quite far from Seoul, but you can reach it via Korail Train from Seoul Station to Busan Station. But if you’re looking for convenience, we recommend getting a short flight from Incheon Airport to Gimhae International Airport instead.
But we assure you, the trip is worth it. This huge part-amusement park and part-pool in Gimhae has some of the biggest water park facilities in the entire country! It has a 135-meter-long outdoor wave pool as well as a 118-meter-long Tornado Slide that’s perfect for daredevils looking for a bit of fun.
This water park also sports a unique Polynesian theme that will transport you straight to Hawaii. Enjoy the palm tree volcano displays as you go on some of the most entertaining rides you won’t find anywhere else!
12. Enjoy A Unique Cruise Experience
If you frequent social media, then you’ve probably seen crazy pictures of the huge cruise ship that’s perched dangerously on top of a cliff. Actually, that cruise ship is located in none other than South Korea–and it’s become a really popular spot!
It’s in Jeongdongjin Beach in Gangwon Province, which is easily accessible via KTX train from Seoul. The Sun Cruise Resort and Yacht is a totally unique resort that also doubles as an on-site theme park. You can beat the heat in their gorgeous and picturesque outdoor pool or challenge yourself by hiking in the nearby scenic trails.
Of course, you could also just lounge nearby and take photos of the incredible and death-defying cruise ship!
13. Ride the Waves at Busan
Busan is another one of those “summer capitals” that even locals can’t get enough of. Famous for its gorgeous sandy beaches, Busan is a favorite go-to spot for many locals and tourists alike.
If you’re tired of the same old beach experience, then why not try your hand out at some water sports? Gwangalli Beach at Busan is especially famous for beginners because of its calm waters. It’s considered one of the best places to try out different water sports, including paddle boarding!
Surfing can be a little too intimidating for beginners. If you’re one of those people who don’t quite feel up for surfing just yet, then why not try paddle boarding? It’s a popular summer sport in Korea especially because it’s so accessible for beginners and all skill levels. In paddle boarding, you can use paddles to maintain your balance and keep you upright on the waves!
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14. Drop By Asia’s Biggest Wave Park
Want to ride the waves but feel too intimidated to do it outdoors? Lucky for you, Korea has the largest wave park on the entire continent!
Located in Siheung a few hours away from Seoul, Wave Park has over 20 different artificial wave pools, ranging from calm knee-high waves to massive torrents of water perfect for experienced surfers. Here you can practice surfing, paddle boarding, wakeboarding, and other water sports. Or you could just relax and let yourself be carried away by the waves–both are a great way to spend your time!
15. Go River Rafting
Craving for something a little more thrilling? River rafting is a popular hobby that’s perfect for adventurers! It’s the perfect family activity to build teamwork, have a good workout, and enjoy the beautiful scenery all in one. It’s also a great way to release the pent-up energy you’ve built all summer!
Popular river rafting spots include Hantangang River, Donggang River, and Naerincheon River–all located in Gangwon! All of these rivers have relatively calmer rapids so you don’t have to worry if it’s your first time river rafting.
16. Camp in the Woods
And speaking of popular hobbies, camping is another one that’s been making waves lately. Even celebrities and idols can’t get enough of this craze–including SHINee’s Onew, Mamamoo’s Moonbyul, and Winner’s Song Mino!
We can’t blame them. Camping is the best way to challenge yourself and relax at the same time. Because Korea is so mountainous, it offers some of the best camping sites you can find anywhere–with full facilities and amazing scenery!
There are two ways to camp in Korea. One is through official campsites where you can find full gear rental and other convenient amenities like bathrooms. This is perfect for beginners who want to experience the great outdoors but don’t have the guts to go full-on Survivor just yet. We recommend getting a campsite near a body of water like a mountain stream so you can cool off after you’ve set up camp.
The other option is the more adventurous one. “Wild camping” is generally allowed throughout the country, so if you’ve got your own gear, you’re set to go! Have fun truly getting in touch with nature and exploring Korea’s wide selection of trails all on your own. It’s a challenging yet fulfilling adventure that we recommend everyone try!
17. Bike Through Seoul
You may not realize it, but biking is one of the best ways to experience the local sights and culture of a place when traveling. It allows you to truly immerse in the city and familiarize yourself with all of the different areas, while also enjoying the scenery!
Biking is perfect during summer because you’ll benefit from the cool breeze as you pedal through the winding alleyways. In Seoul, there are several places to rent a bike for cheap. You can even opt for a full guided bike tour of Seoul’s most popular spots for a truly unique experience!
18. Explore Han River
Ask any Seoulite where they love hanging out, and chances are, they’ll say Han River. Locally known as “Hangang,” Han River runs throughout the whole city and bisects it into two. Aside from sightseeing, there’s plenty of stuff you can do riverside!
You can go on a Han River cruise, have a picnic among the locals, pitch a tent to camp, and more. In Han River, you can also enjoy cooling summer sports like water skiing! There are several riverside parks with plenty of green spaces, restaurants, cafes, and more. Han River is really the perfect place to explore because it has everything you could think of!
19. Stroll by Cheonggyecheon Stream
Looking for a romantic date spot? We’ve got you covered. Cheonggyecheon Stream is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll. It’s a nice little area right in downtown Seoul, filled with pretty lights and sparkling flowing waters.
If you want the full experience, we suggest renting out hanboks at the nearby rental shops before going here. Donned in traditional Korean clothing, the photos you take will become next level! Cheonggyecheon Stream is the perfect spot to relax and refresh yourself, especially in the evenings. This spot is also relatively cooler than other parts of Seoul due to the flowing water and abundance of trees.
20. Go On A Sunset Hike
We’re ending this list with one of the most picturesque and fulfilling activities you can do during summer in Korea. We’ve already established that hiking has become more and more popular among locals lately, but tourists may be wary to try hiking due to the intense summer heat waves.
In that case, why not go hiking after sunset? Not only will you be shielded from potential heatstroke, but you can also enjoy a magnificent view you won’t be able to see anywhere else. Watch as the setting sun envelops the sky in vibrant colors as the city’s sparkling lights begin to come to life one by one.
It’s a truly awesome view that will make all your efforts in hiking worth it. The Hanyangdoseong Fortress Wall is a famous spot around Seoul for good reason–go check it out for some amazing scenery!
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I hope you liked our article on the best things to do during summer in Korea! Which activity are you most excited to try?
Summer in Korea is the perfect time for adventure. The warm breeze and the bright warm sunlight make every day full of excitement. This is the perfect time to visit the country if you want to make fun memories!
You may also want to read our post about the best things to do in Korea in winter and our complete travel guide about spring in Korea and what to do in Korea during autumn.
Wanna enjoy a traditional trip to Korea? Visit the 9 most beautiful hanok villages in South Korea!