Hamhung

Planning a trip to the second-largest city in North Korea? In this section, you'll find the most up-to-date weather information for Hamhung, including detailed forecasts and essential climate data to ensure a comfortable stay.

The climate in Hamhung is temperate monsoonal, thanks to its favorable location on the coast of the East Korea Bay. Due to its proximity to the sea, weather conditions here are noticeably milder than in the inland or northern mountainous regions of North Korea, making the city one of the most climatically pleasant places in the country.

This region features distinct seasonality. Warm and humid summers are followed by dry and sunny winters, while spring and autumn delight travelers with gradual transitions and picturesque landscapes. The average annual temperature is around 10.3°C, and the maritime air ensures stable weather, avoiding the sharp temperature swings typical of continental areas.

One of the main features of Hamhung's climate is the influence of Pacific monsoons. These bring the bulk of the rainfall during the summer months, creating conditions for lush greenery, while the winter period remains mostly clear, though chilly. Average humidity is around 68%, which remains comfortable thanks to sea breezes.

The temperature profile of Hamhung is characterized by a noticeable contrast between seasons, yet it remains milder compared to the central regions of North Korea. The coldest period occurs in January, when the average temperature is about -5.4°C, and nighttime lows can drop to -10.7°C. Winters here are bracing, but thanks to low wind speeds (around 1.9 m/s), strolling through the city remains pleasant.

Summer heat reaches its peak in August, when the average daily high rises to +26.3°C. July and August are the hottest months, with average temperatures staying around +23°C. High humidity during this period is offset by fresh sea breezes, and the water temperature in the East Korea Bay reaches a comfortable +22…+24°C at the height of the season, which is perfect for a seaside getaway.

Spring and autumn in Hamhung are periods of wonderful transformation. In April, the air warms up to +14.5°C as nature awakens, and by May, stable warm weather sets in at around +19.7°C. Autumn arrives gently: September still treats visitors to summer warmth with an average of +18.5°C, and only by November does the temperature gradually drop to +4.7°C, preparing the city for the winter chill.

Precipitation in Hamhung is distinctly seasonal. Most of the moisture falls between July and September, when the city is under the influence of Pacific monsoons. The wettest month is August, which sees about 268 mm of rainfall; downpours during this time are intense and often accompanied by thunderstorms.

In contrast, the winter months are the driest. In January and February, precipitation falls mainly as snow, although the coastal location can make snow cover unstable, often giving way to a light drizzle. December is the driest month in Hamhung, when the number of clear and sunny days reaches its peak, providing excellent conditions for taking in city panoramas.

Spring in North Korea begins with moderately dry weather in March, but by May, the frequency of rain increases to about 10 days per month. Autumn offers travelers a "golden season": after the heavy summer rains in September, October and November bring a gradual decrease in humidity and mostly calm, clear skies, making this one of the best times to visit Hamhung.

When packing for Hamhung, it is best to follow the principle of layering, especially during the transitional seasons. For a winter trip (December–February), you will definitely need a warm jacket or down coat, a hat, scarf, and gloves, as well as insulated waterproof footwear. The winter air here is dry, so don't forget to bring facial moisturizer and protective lip balm.

A summer wardrobe for a trip to North Korea should consist of lightweight items made from natural fabrics—such as cotton or linen—which help you stay comfortable in high humidity. During the monsoon season (July to September), a reliable umbrella or high-quality raincoat is essential. If your visit falls in July or August, be sure to pack swimwear for relaxing on the coast.

For spring and autumn walks around Hamhung, windbreakers, light sweaters, and comfortable trousers are ideal choices. Regardless of the time of year, make sure to have comfortable walking shoes, as exploring the city involves plenty of walking. During the summer season, it's also recommended to carry sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong seaside sun.