Sweltering Days and Rainy Spells: What to Expect from Korea’s Weather Next Week

Unprecedented Heat: June’s Record Temperatures

Did you know Korea just experienced its hottest June ever? According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the national average temperature last month reached 22.9°C, breaking all previous records. Cities like Busan, Mokpo, and Daegu saw daily highs never recorded before, with Daegu averaging an incredible 30.7°C on June 30. This heatwave isn’t just a fluke—experts say it’s part of a trend of rising temperatures due to climate change and persistent high-pressure systems drawing in warm, humid air from the Pacific. The result? More days with heatwave advisories, earlier and more frequent tropical nights, and a summer that feels like it’s arrived early for everyone in Korea.
Community reactions on Naver and Daum show a mix of frustration and resignation: “It’s like living in a sauna,” one user wrote, while another commented, “I can’t remember the last time June was this hot.”
Foreign readers, take note: this isn’t just a local complaint—Korea’s heat is making global headlines and affecting daily life, from commutes to energy bills.

The Monsoon Arrives: Rainfall Patterns and What to Expect

If you thought the heat was intense, get ready for the rain. Late June and early July mark the start of Korea’s monsoon (jangma) season, and this year it’s expected to be even wetter than usual. The Korea Meteorological Administration and international weather centers predict that rainfall will be 120–130% above the annual average, with heavy downpours and thunderstorms especially likely from June 30 through July 2. Seoul and the central regions will see rain starting Monday, with Gyeongsang and Jeju likely to get the heaviest showers. Some areas could receive up to 50–60mm in a single day. Community posts on Instiz and DC Inside are full of people sharing photos of flooded streets and soaked shoes, with comments like “Here we go again, jangma season!” and “Time to break out the rain boots.”
For foreign visitors and residents, this means packing an umbrella is non-negotiable—rain can arrive suddenly and intensely, often accompanied by thunder and high humidity.

Day-by-Day Forecast: What’s Happening Next Week?

Let’s break down the forecast so you can plan ahead:
- **Monday (June 30):** Expect rain in the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon’s inland and mountainous regions from early morning to afternoon. Afternoon showers are likely in Gyeongbuk, western Gyeongnam, and Jeju. Morning lows: 21–26°C, highs: 27–34°C.
- **Tuesday (July 1):** Occasional rain in Incheon, northern Gyeonggi, and northern Gangwon. Afternoon showers for Chungcheong and southern provinces. Lows: 22–26°C, highs: 26–33°C.
- **Wednesday (July 2):** Overcast with rain in the capital and Gangwon Yeongseo. Lows: 22–26°C, highs: 26–34°C.
- **Thursday to Sunday (July 3–6):** Mostly cloudy or overcast nationwide, with occasional scattered showers. Lows: 22–25°C, highs: 26–34°C.
Naver and Tistory bloggers are already sharing tips for surviving the heat and rain: “Don’t leave home without a portable fan and a waterproof bag,” one recommends. Another writes, “If you’re planning outdoor activities, check the hourly forecast and have a backup plan.”

Community Buzz: How Koreans Are Coping with the Weather

Online communities are buzzing with weather talk. On Theqoo and FM Korea, users are swapping hacks for staying cool—like freezing wet towels or using public libraries for free air conditioning. Others vent about the high humidity, with one post reading, “My laundry never dries!”
Some are embracing the season, sharing photos of lush, rain-soaked parks and recommending favorite summer foods like naengmyeon (cold noodles) and bingsu (shaved ice dessert). There’s also a sense of camaraderie: “We’re all suffering together, so let’s get through this!”
For international fans of Korean culture, these reactions offer a window into daily life and how weather shapes everything from fashion (think light, breathable fabrics and rain ponchos) to food and social plans.

Cultural Insights: Why Monsoon Season Matters in Korea

Monsoon season isn’t just about inconvenience—it’s a major cultural event. For centuries, farmers have relied on the jangma rains for rice cultivation, and the rhythm of summer life adapts to the weather. Festivals, school schedules, and even pop culture reflect the impact of the rainy season. For K-pop fans, it’s common to see idols posting about the heat or sharing rainy-day playlists.
Bloggers on Tistory and Naver often use this time to recommend indoor attractions, from art galleries to themed cafes. The weather also influences what’s trending in beauty and skincare, with tips for humidity-proof makeup and sun protection making the rounds.

Expert Advice: How to Prepare and Stay Safe

With both heatwaves and heavy rain on the horizon, preparation is key. Experts and bloggers alike recommend:
- Wearing lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics
- Carrying a compact umbrella and waterproof shoes
- Staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat
- Monitoring weather alerts for flash floods or heat advisories
Many Naver blog posts stress the importance of checking real-time weather apps, as conditions can change rapidly—especially in the mountains or along the coast. For those sensitive to heat, public cooling centers and shaded parks are popular refuges.
And don’t forget: the combination of high humidity and heat can be dangerous, so look out for signs of heat exhaustion and take breaks when needed.

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for the Rest of Summer?

Meteorologists warn that July and August will likely be even hotter and wetter than usual, with the potential for more record-breaking temperatures and intense rainfall. Climate change is making Korea’s summers more extreme, and both locals and expats are adapting in creative ways.
On community sites like PGR21, there’s a mix of concern and humor: “At this rate, we’ll need boats to get to work!” jokes one user, while another wonders if summer will ever end.
For travelers and residents alike, flexibility and preparation are the best strategies for enjoying all that Korea has to offer—rain or shine.