If you’re wondering how cold Seoul is in early November, think crisp autumn air quickly transitioning into chilly winter vibes. It’s a month that really feels like a bridge between the beautiful fall colors and the colder, sometimes snowy, days of winter.
November in Seoul, and generally across South Korea, sees a significant drop in temperature from October. While the early days of the month might still offer some mildness, you’ll definitely start feeling the chill. On average, you can expect daytime highs to be around 10-13°C 50-55°F, but those nights? They’re much colder, often dropping to around 2-5°C 36-41°F, and sometimes even dipping below freezing, especially as you get further into the month. So, when planning your trip, keep in mind that “early November” is key here, as the weather changes quite a bit even within the month.
This transitional period means you get the best of both worlds: the tail end of stunning autumn foliage especially in the first half of the month and the cozy, pre-winter atmosphere without the intense cold of January or February. You’ll find fewer crowds compared to the peak autumn season of October, and you might even snag better deals on flights and accommodations. Plus, there are some unique cultural events like the Seoul Lantern Festival and the Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival that kick off in November. It’s a fantastic time to explore Seoul’s outdoor attractions and historical sites, as the cooler weather makes walking around much more comfortable than in the summer heat. Just be prepared to layer up, because the chill is real, especially in the evenings!
What to Expect: Early November Temperatures in Seoul
Let’s get down to the numbers because that’s usually the first thing people want to know. When we talk about early November in Seoul, we’re talking about a distinct shift from the milder autumn days to something much crisper.
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Typically, in the first week or two of November, Seoul sees average daytime high temperatures hovering around 10-13°C 50-55°F. This feels pretty cool, especially if you’re used to warmer climates. Think of it as brisk, refreshing air that’s perfect for a long walk or exploring the city. However, the nights are a different story. Average low temperatures can drop to about 2-5°C 36-41°F, making evenings feel quite cold. You’ll definitely notice that chill in the air once the sun goes down.
As November progresses towards the middle and end of the month, these temperatures continue to fall. By late November, daily highs might only reach 5°C 41°F, and nights can be around -1°C 30°F or even colder. So, if your trip spans the entire month, be ready for a noticeable temperature difference between the beginning and the end.
The air also tends to be quite dry in November, with an average relative humidity of about 66%. This dryness can make the already cold temperatures feel even cooler, especially when combined with the moderate wind speeds averaging around 3.8 m/s about 8.5 mph. So, while the thermometer shows one thing, your body might feel a few degrees colder due to wind chill.
Sunshine and Precipitation: Clear Skies but Occasional Surprises
One of the great things about visiting Seoul in November is the generally clear skies. You’re looking at around 5 hours of sunshine per day on average, and there’s a good chance of clear or mostly clear skies about 68% of the time. This means you’ll often enjoy beautiful, bright days, which are perfect for sightseeing and appreciating the remaining autumn colors.
November is also one of South Korea’s drier months. Average rainfall totals are quite low, around 52mm for the entire month in Seoul, with the chances of precipitation averaging only 20%. So, while it’s not entirely rain-free, you’re much less likely to encounter heavy downpours compared to the summer monsoon season.
What about snow? Well, it’s rare in early November, but it’s not impossible, especially as you get closer to mid-month or later. If it does snow, it’s usually just a light dusting or immeasurable amounts. So, don’t necessarily count on a snowy , but keep an eye on the forecast – you might get a pleasant surprise!
Is November a Good Time to Visit Seoul and Korea?
Absolutely! Many people, myself included, consider November a really good time to visit Seoul and South Korea. Here’s why: What Does Seoul Mean in Korean?
The Last Glimpse of Autumn Foliage
While October is often hailed as the peak for fall colors, early November still offers a fantastic opportunity to see some stunning autumn foliage. In fact, the first week of November can sometimes be when the colors reach their absolute peak in certain areas. Places like Bukhansan National Park, Namsan Seoul Tower, and even the city’s palace grounds like Gyeongbokgung are absolutely breathtaking with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds. If you head a bit further south, like to Naejangsan National Park, you might even catch ideal late-season leaf viewing into mid-November. This beauty, combined with the crisp air, makes for some truly memorable photos and experiences.
Fewer Crowds and Better Deals
One of the biggest perks of visiting in November, especially after the first week or two, is that the crowds start to thin out significantly. Most of the peak autumn sightseers from October have gone, and the major winter holiday rush hasn’t quite begun. This means you can often enjoy popular attractions like the palaces, markets, and museums with a bit more breathing room. Fewer crowds also often translate to better prices on flights and accommodations, which is always a win in my book.
Comfortable Weather for Exploring
While it’s cold, it’s generally a “manageable” cold in early November. The crisp, dry air is perfect for walking around and exploring the city without feeling sticky from humidity or exhausted by scorching heat. It’s ideal for hiking in national parks, strolling through traditional villages like Bukchon Hanok Village, or just wandering through bustling neighborhoods like Myeongdong or Hongdae. The cooler temperatures make indoor activities like visiting cafes, museums, and shopping centers even more inviting.
Unique Festivals and Events
November isn’t just about the weather. it’s also a time for some cool cultural events.
- Seoul Lantern Festival: This spectacular event lights up the city with thousands of colorful lanterns, usually taking place from the first Friday of November for a few weeks. It’s truly magical to see the Cheonggyecheon Stream adorned with these beautiful lights.
- Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival: Held in early November, this festival teaches visitors about kimjang, the traditional art of making enough kimchi to last through the winter. You can often participate in making kimchi, and much of what’s made goes to feed those in need.
- Cheongsong Apple Festival: If you’re willing to venture outside Seoul, this festival celebrates high-quality apple farming in early November and offers various apple-related activities.
Things to Consider
- Shorter Days: As it’s closer to winter, the days are noticeably shorter than in summer, with about 9-10 hours between sunrise and sunset by the end of November. This means less daylight for outdoor activities, so plan your sightseeing accordingly.
- The Cold Intensifies: Be prepared for the weather to get progressively colder throughout the month. If you’re traveling late in November, it’ll feel much more like winter than autumn.
- Fall Foliage Fades: While early November is great, by the end of the second week, most of the fall foliage will have disappeared, leaving bare trees. If vibrant colors are your main goal, aim for the absolute beginning of the month.
Overall, if you’re okay with layering up and embracing the brisk air, November offers a fantastic travel experience in Seoul with fewer crowds, unique cultural events, and often beautiful, clear skies. The AI Revolution in SEO: What You Need to Know
What to Pack: Layering is Your Best Friend!
You know it’s going to be cold, especially at night and as the month progresses. The absolute key to staying comfortable in Seoul in early November is layering. You’ll want to be able to add or remove clothes as the day warms up or cools down, or as you move between indoors and outdoors.
Here’s a breakdown of what you should definitely include in your packing list:
Outerwear
- Warm Coat: This is non-negotiable. For early November, a medium-weight jacket will probably suffice for daytime, but a thicker, insulated coat or a down jacket is essential for chilly evenings and colder days. Something windproof would be a bonus, as it can get breezy.
- Rain Gear Just in Case: While November is generally dry, occasional showers are possible. A compact umbrella or a light raincoat is a smart addition.
Inner Layers
- Long-sleeved Shirts: Start with a good base layer. Thermal underwear or heat-tech shirts are excellent for colder days, but regular long-sleeved shirts work well for milder ones.
- Sweaters and Cardigans: These are your essential mid-layers. Pack a few warm sweaters or cozy cardigans that you can easily put on or take off over your long-sleeved shirts. Wool or fleece are great materials.
- T-shirts: While it might seem odd, having a few short-sleeved shirts is good for layering under sweaters or for warmer indoor environments.
Bottoms
- Jeans or Warm Pants: Stick to denim, corduroy, or other thicker materials. If you tend to get cold easily, consider wearing thermal leggings or tights underneath your pants, especially for evenings or if you plan to be outdoors for extended periods.
Footwear
- Comfortable Walking Shoes or Boots: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Seoul, so comfortable footwear is crucial. Choose shoes that are closed-toe and offer good support.
- Waterproof Shoes: This is a good idea in case of unexpected rain or even a light dusting of snow.
- Warm Socks: Wool or thermal socks are much better than thin cotton ones for keeping your feet toasty.
Accessories
- Scarf: An absolute must-have! A warm scarf will protect your neck and chest from the chilly wind and can instantly make you feel warmer.
- Gloves: Essential for keeping your hands warm, especially on colder mornings and evenings.
- Hat or Beanie: A warm hat can make a huge difference in retaining body heat.
- Lip Balm and Moisturizer: The dry air can be harsh on your skin, so keep these handy.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is always a good idea, and you can refill it easily.
Other Essentials
- Portable Charger: You’ll be using your phone for navigation, photos, and translations, so a power bank is incredibly useful.
- Travel Adapter: South Korea uses Type C and Type F outlets, so make sure you have the right adapter for your electronics.
- Small Backpack: Great for carrying your layers, water, snacks, and any souvenirs you pick up.
Pro-Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of “heat-tech” clothing, which is widely available and popular in Korea and easily found in stores like Uniqlo. These thin, thermal layers can add significant warmth without bulk. When in doubt, always lean towards bringing more warm layers than you think you’ll need. It’s much easier to take a layer off than to wish you had brought one!
Getting Around and Staying Warm in Seoul
Even with the right clothes, it’s good to have a strategy for staying warm while you’re out and about.
Public Transportation is Your Friend
Seoul has an incredibly efficient and extensive public transportation system, particularly its subway. It’s heated, so it offers a warm respite between outdoor excursions. Plus, it connects you to virtually every major attraction, making it easy to hop on and off. Consider getting a T-Money card for seamless travel.
Embrace Indoor Activities
While the autumn foliage is beautiful, Seoul also has a wealth of fantastic indoor activities.
- Museums and Galleries: Places like the National Museum of Korea, the War Memorial of Korea, or the various art galleries are perfect for escaping the cold for a few hours.
- Shopping Malls and Underground Shopping Centers: Areas like Myeongdong, Gangnam, and the Express Bus Terminal have massive underground shopping areas that are warm, vibrant, and full of things to buy and eat.
- Cafes: Korea has an amazing cafe culture. Duck into a cozy cafe for a warm drink, some delicious pastries, and a break from the cold.
- Spas Jjimjilbangs: For a truly local experience and ultimate warmth, visit a jjimjilbang Korean bathhouse. You can soak in hot tubs, relax in heated saunas, and even sleep overnight. It’s a fantastic way to warm up from the inside out.
Warming Foods and Drinks
Korean cuisine offers plenty of options to keep you warm:
- Hot Soups and Stews: Kimchi jjigae, sundubu jjigae, tteokbokki, and various other stews are not only delicious but also incredibly warming.
- Street Food: Grab some hot eomuk fish cakes from a street stall, often served with a warm, savory broth, or a freshly roasted Hotteok sweet pancake.
- Warm Beverages: Besides coffee, try traditional Korean teas like yuja-cha citron tea or saenggang-cha ginger tea, which are soothing and warming.
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Early November vs. Late November vs. Winter in Seoul
Understanding the progression of weather through November and into true winter can help you plan better.
Early November First 1-2 Weeks
This is when you’ll still experience a good chunk of autumn. The temperatures are cool but often manageable, with clearer skies. Average highs around 10-13°C 50-55°F and lows around 2-5°C 36-41°F. You’ll catch the tail end of the vibrant fall foliage, especially if you visit during the first week. It’s less crowded than October and offers a comfortable balance for sightseeing.
Late November Last 2 Weeks
The shift becomes much more pronounced here. The average monthly temperature for November in Seoul is 5°C 41°F, but this is skewed by the colder second half. Daily high temperatures decrease from around 15°C 59°F at the start of the month to 7°C 45°F by the end, and daily lows drop from 7°C 45°F to 0°C 32°F. You’ll see more bare trees, and the air will be consistently colder, often feeling quite wintry. While snow is rare, the chances increase slightly towards the very end of the month. You’ll need proper winter gear, including a thick coat, hat, gloves, and scarf, just like you would for winter.
Full Winter December to February
This is when Seoul gets seriously cold. January is typically the coldest month, with average highs around 0°C 32°F and lows plummeting to -8°C 17°F or even lower. The wind chill can make it feel even colder. Snowfall is more common, and the is definitively wintery. While beautiful in its own way, full winter requires heavy-duty winter clothing, including thick thermal layers, down parkas, waterproof boots, and all your winter accessories. So, early November is definitely a milder experience compared to the deep freeze of true Korean winter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average temperatures in Seoul in early November?
In early November, you can expect average daytime high temperatures in Seoul to be around 10-13°C 50-55°F, with night lows typically dropping to 2-5°C 36-41°F. It’s generally a crisp, cool period, getting colder as the month progresses.
Is November a good time to see autumn foliage in Seoul?
Yes, early November, especially the first week or two, can still be an excellent time to witness stunning autumn foliage in Seoul and surrounding areas. While October is often considered peak, the vibrant colors often extend into early November before the trees become bare.
What kind of clothing should I pack for Seoul in early November?
Layering is crucial! Pack long-sleeved shirts, warm sweaters or cardigans, a thick coat especially for evenings, jeans or warm pants, thermal leggings if you get cold easily, comfortable walking shoes or boots waterproof if possible, warm socks, a scarf, gloves, and a hat.
Does it rain or snow much in Seoul in November?
November is generally a dry month in Seoul, with low average rainfall around 52mm for the entire month and a low chance of precipitation. While light snow is rare, it’s possible, especially towards the latter half of the month, but heavy snowfall is uncommon in early November.
Are there many tourists in Seoul in November?
Compared to the peak autumn season in October, tourist crowds tend to diminish in November, especially after the first couple of weeks. This means you might find popular attractions less crowded and potentially better deals on accommodations and flights. How Easy Is It to Learn SEO? (And How to Get Started in 2025)
What are some popular activities in Seoul during November?
November offers a great mix of activities. You can enjoy the last of the autumn foliage in parks and palaces, visit indoor attractions like museums and shopping malls, explore traditional markets, and warm up in cozy cafes or jjimjilbangs Korean bathhouses. The Seoul Lantern Festival and the Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival also typically take place in November.
How does early November compare to late November or full winter in Seoul?
Early November is a transition period, still holding onto some autumn mildness, though it’s cool and crisp. Late November gets noticeably colder, feeling much more like winter, with average temperatures dropping further and a higher chance of freezing conditions. Full winter December-February is significantly colder, with frequent sub-zero temperatures and more regular snowfall, requiring heavy-duty winter gear.
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