Weather in Gwangju

To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible, check out the current weather conditions in Gwangju. Below are the latest data, detailed forecasts, and charts to help you plan your day.

Gwangju is characterised by a humid climate with a distinct change of four seasons. The weather here is quite diverse: from crisp coolness in winter to sweltering heat in summer. Overall, the climate is favourable for travel year-round, but the choice of season significantly affects the nature of your holiday and the necessary wardrobe.

Winter here is mild but cool, with temperatures often hovering around zero or dipping slightly below, and relatively rare precipitation. Spring and autumn are rightfully considered the best times to visit: during these periods, comfortable, moderately warm weather sets in, ideally suited for excursions. In spring, the city blooms, and in autumn, it delights with pleasant freshness and clear days after the summer heat.

Summer in Gwangju is hot and humid, especially in July and August, when the average temperature consistently stays above 25°C, and daytime highs often exceed 30°C. Travellers should be prepared for a pronounced rainy season that falls in the middle of summer: in July, the number of rainy days can reach 18 per month. Despite the high humidity, this time of year attracts tourists with lush greenery and the city's vibrant life.

The temperature pattern in Gwangju is characterised by distinct seasonality, offering tourists very different conditions for travel depending on the time of year. Winter here is cool but not extremely harsh: the coldest month is January with an average temperature of about 1.1°C. During this period, nighttime readings often drop below zero (down to -3°C), however, during the day the air usually warms up to positive values of 5–7°C, making winter walks quite comfortable provided you have warm clothing.

Summer brings real heat. The hottest month of the year is considered to be August, when the average temperature reaches 26.7°C, and daytime maximums regularly exceed the 30°C mark. July is also distinguished by high temperatures (averaging 25.8°C), and combined with summer rainfall, the weather can feel humid and stuffy. This is the ideal time to visit air-conditioned museums or relax in the shade of parks.

Spring and autumn are considered the most pleasant periods for a visit thanks to the mild climate, however, travellers should be mindful of daily temperature fluctuations. For example, in April and October, the difference between the nighttime chill and daytime warmth can be about 10 degrees (from 8°C to 18°C in spring and from 10°C to 20°C in autumn). Such fluctuations require a smart selection of wardrobe to feel cosy from morning until the very evening.

Precipitation patterns in Gwangju are closely linked to seasonality, so it is important to take the time of year into account when planning a trip. The wettest and rainiest period traditionally falls in summer. July and August are the peak months: at this time, the sky is often overcast, and rain can fall for more than half the month. For example, an average of about 18 rainy days is recorded in July, so a reliable umbrella and raincoat will be mandatory companions for the traveller.

Autumn and spring bring significant relief and are considered more favourable for tourism. While September can still be quite wet (about 12 days with precipitation), October becomes one of the driest and most comfortable months of the year, when the number of inclement days drops to a minimum (averaging about 5). In spring, from March to May, rains are moderate, occurring approximately 8 times a month, which usually does not interfere with sightseeing.

In winter, from December to February, the amount of precipitation is minimal in volume, but it cannot be completely ruled out. About 6–7 days with precipitation per month are recorded during this period. Given that nighttime temperatures in January and February often drop below freezing, you might encounter snow instead of rain in Gwangju. However, winter precipitation here is generally not too heavy compared to summer downpours.

When packing your suitcase for Gwangju, it is important to consider the distinct seasonality of South Korea's climate. Winters here are cool, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, so from December to February you will definitely need a warm jacket or down coat, a hat, a scarf, and gloves. Summer, on the other hand, is hot and humid, especially in July and August, when the thermometer reaches 30°C. For this time of year, it is better to choose clothes made of natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen, to tolerate the heat more easily.

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times for travel, however, the weather can be changeable. The principle of layering works best here: bring t-shirts, light jumpers, and a windbreaker that can be taken off during the day and put on in the cool evening. Since July and August are distinguished by a large number of rainy days (up to 18 days per month), a high-quality umbrella or a compact raincoat will become your indispensable companions. And, of course, regardless of the season, do not forget comfortable shoes for long walks around city attractions and parks.