The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the hottest in South Korea's recent history. The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts higher-than-average temperatures due to rising sea surface temperatures and intensified El Niño effects. Early heat-related illnesses in May already hint at a brutal season ahead.
If you're a foreigner living in or visiting Korea, adjusting to these extreme conditions is not just helpful—it's essential. Korea's summer brings not only heat but also humidity, pollution spikes, and the ever-present monsoon rains.
In this guide, you'll find everything you need to enjoy a safe, healthy summer in Korea, with clear steps that are easy to follow, even if this is your first time in East Asia.
Table of Contents :
- Korea’s Summer Climate: What to Expect
- Heat-Related Illnesses: Know the Warning Signs
- Food Safety: Avoid Summer Stomach Trouble
- What Is Air-Conditioning Sickness (Naengbangbyeong)?
- Mosquito Defense: Bite Prevention 101
- Monsoon Season Survival
- Managing Indoor Environment: Humidity & Mold
- Nutrition & Hydration
- What to Pack for a Korean Summer
- Foreigners' FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Concerns
- Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Cool
Korea’s Summer Climate: What to Expect
Korea’s summer runs from June through August. It features oppressive humidity, intense heatwaves, and a monsoon season that dumps days of heavy rain. Temperatures often rise above 33°C (91°F), and "feels-like" temperatures can climb above 40°C (104°F). For those from drier or milder climates, it can be a shock.
Climate hazards include:
Heatwaves: 3+ days of temps above 35°C
Tropical nights: Overnight temps stay above 25°C
Sudden rainstorms: Often localized and intense
Humidity stress: Constant sweat, fatigue, and reduced sleep quality
Air quality can also dip due to high ozone levels, so asthma or allergy sufferers should check daily forecasts.
Heat-Related Illnesses: Know the Warning Signs
Every summer, hundreds are hospitalized due to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms include:
Profuse sweating
Muscle cramps
Dizziness or fainting
Confusion or slurred speech
Nausea and flushed skin
Avoid this by:
Staying indoors during peak sun hours (11 AM – 4 PM)
Drinking water consistently throughout the day
Wearing breathable, UV-blocking clothing
Using a fan and A/C combo to reduce heat stress indoors
Applying cooling patches on neck and wrists
Public areas like subways and buses are air-conditioned, but walking between locations can be draining. Don’t underestimate the time spent outside even during short commutes.
Food Safety: Avoid Summer Stomach Trouble
Korean cuisine includes many cold dishes and side items that sit out during meals. In summer, these can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not handled properly.
Tips for eating safely:
Store leftovers immediately; don’t leave them on the table
Use insulated bags or ice packs if carrying food outdoors
Avoid street food on especially hot days
Wash fruits and vegetables even if they appear clean
Don’t reuse banchan (side dishes) from earlier meals
Convenience stores are popular for quick meals, but avoid dairy-based items that have sat in open fridges or near hot lights. When in doubt, throw it out.
What Is Air-Conditioning Sickness (Naengbangbyeong)?
Unique to regions like Korea and Japan, this refers to flu-like symptoms caused by drastic temperature changes from hot outdoor air to freezing indoor air. Offices and cafés often keep A/C at 20–22°C (68–71°F), which can shock your body.
Prevent it by:
Setting your home A/C to 25–27°C
Using a fan for air circulation
Wearing a light cardigan or scarf indoors
Avoiding cold drinks right after being outside
This condition isn’t dangerous but can be very uncomfortable and often leads to headaches and fatigue. Korean coworkers may casually mention "naengbangbyeong"—it’s a recognized seasonal ailment here.
Mosquito Defense: Bite Prevention 101
Korean mosquitoes are small but aggressive. They can bite through thin clothing and are most active in the evenings.
Best defenses:
Plug-in repellents (available at Daiso, Olive Young)
Portable electric fans (mosquitoes avoid moving air)
Long sleeves and pants during dawn/dusk
Avoiding stagnant water (plant trays, puddles)
Apply bug spray to ankles, a favorite mosquito target
Vaccination for Japanese encephalitis is optional for short stays but may be considered if you're in rural areas long-term. If unsure, consult your embassy or a local travel clinic.
Monsoon Season Survival
Monsoon—or jangma—starts in late June and lasts until late July. Rain can last for days and often comes with little warning. Even after the monsoon ends, typhoons may arrive from the south.
Your rainy day checklist:
Foldable umbrella and waterproof bag covers
Quick-dry shoes or sandals
Towel and extra socks
Waterproof case for phone
Mobile app: “Emergency Ready Korea” for alerts
Flood-prone areas like underpasses can be dangerous. Always check the news before heading out.
📱 Emergency Ready App :
-
Official Information:
Seoul Metropolitan Government – Emergency Ready App -
Download for Android:
Google Play Store -
Download for iOS:
Apple App Store
Managing Indoor Environment: Humidity & Mold
Korea’s summer mold problem is no joke. High humidity turns bathrooms and kitchens into breeding grounds. Indoor air quality can worsen quickly if you don’t manage humidity.
Tips:
Use a dehumidifier or A/C’s dry mode
Open windows at night if air is cooler/drier
Wipe window frames and bathroom walls weekly
Avoid drying clothes indoors without ventilation
Check closets and shoes for musty smells
Mold allergies are common in Korea. If you wake up with a stuffy nose or sore throat, your room might be too humid.
Nutrition & Hydration
Your body loses fluids faster in Korea’s humid heat. Make hydration a habit—not a reaction.
Drink:
Water (add lemon or salt for electrolytes)
Barley tea or sports drinks
Avoid too much iced coffee or sugary sodas
Eat:
Water-rich foods like cucumber, melon, tofu, cold noodles
Avoid spicy stews or greasy meat dishes during midday
Try summer-specific Korean dishes like naengmyeon (cold noodles)
Convenience stores offer hydration aids like Pocari Sweat and ion drinks, which are ideal after outdoor activity. Add seasonal fruits like peaches, watermelon, and plums for a nutritional boost.
What to Pack for a Korean Summer
Breathable tops and light trousers
Refillable water bottle
SPF 50 sunscreen
Mosquito spray and patches
Cooling patches (from local pharmacies)
Light scarf or hat
Foldable umbrella
Personal fan or USB rechargeable neck fan
Avoid heavy perfumes—they attract bugs. Deodorant options are limited, so bring your favorite if staying long.
Foreigners' FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Concerns
Q1: Are cooling centers open to everyone?
Yes. These are public spaces like libraries and senior centers. Anyone can use them during extreme heat.
Q2: Can I drink tap water?
Yes, but many Koreans use water purifiers or bottled water due to mineral content or taste.
Q3: What if I get sick from the heat?
Call 119. English service is available. Most ERs are familiar with treating heatstroke.
Q4: Where can I find health info in English?
The “Emergency Ready App” and “Hi Korea” government sites provide updates. Also, check your local embassy’s site.
Q5: How much is electricity in summer?
Korea has tiered pricing, so bills increase sharply with excessive A/C use. Use fans and timers to conserve.
Q6: Are Korean pharmacies foreigner-friendly?
Yes, many have staff who speak basic English. Use a translation app to describe symptoms if needed.
Q7: Is Korean sunscreen good quality?
Yes! Korean sunscreens are known for high SPF and light texture. Try brands like Innisfree, Round Lab, or Dr. G.
Stay Smart, Stay Cool
Korea’s summer in 2025 will be intense, but with the right preparation, it can also be manageable—even enjoyable. Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun and insects, monitor weather alerts, and manage your indoor climate wisely.
Whether you're sightseeing, working, or studying, these simple steps can help you enjoy the best of Korean summer without the health risks.
Quick Summary Checklist:
☀ Avoid direct sun between 11 AM–4 PM
💧 Drink water often—even without thirst
🌬 Maintain indoor temp around 26°C
🦟 Use repellents and avoid standing water
🧊 Keep food cold and eat fresh
🧼 Control indoor humidity to prevent mold
Stay cool out there—and don’t forget your umbrella!
