Last Updated on 2025 年 5 月 17 日 by 総合編集組
A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling in Seoul During May and June 2025
This vibrant guide to Seoul in May and June 2025 offers a detailed roadmap for travelers seeking a seamless and exciting trip to South Korea’s capital. As spring transitions into summer, Seoul bursts with greenery, festivals, and a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.
From ancient palaces to trendy neighborhoods, this guide covers pre-trip preparations, weather and clothing tips, transportation hacks, currency and payment advice, must-visit attractions, and exclusive May-June events, ensuring a memorable adventure.
Pre-Trip Preparations: Setting the Stage for a Smooth Journey
Planning a trip to Seoul starts with getting the essentials right. For Taiwanese travelers, the good news is visa-free entry to South Korea for up to 90 days, making the process hassle-free. However, the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) requirement, temporarily waived for some countries, may apply, so checking the official K-ETA website or VisitKorea a month before departure is wise. The application, costing around 10,000 KRW (approximately USD 7), is typically processed within 24-72 hours.
Booking flights and accommodations early is key to securing deals, especially since May and June, while not peak season, see price fluctuations due to holidays like Children’s Day (May 5), Buddha’s Birthday (May 5), and Memorial Day (June 6), as well as events like the Seoul Rose Festival and MyK FESTA. Platforms like Skyscanner suggest booking flights 26 days in advance for optimal prices, with budget airlines like T’way or Jetstar offering affordable options.
For stays, vibrant areas like Hongdae, Myeongdong, or Dongdaemun provide convenience and atmosphere. Using KAYAK or Booking.com and setting price alerts can help snag discounts, especially for non-holiday weekdays.
Travel insurance is a must to cover unexpected issues like medical emergencies, lost luggage, or flight delays. Opt for plans with robust medical coverage and store policy details digitally for easy access. These preparations ensure a stress-free start to your Seoul adventure.
Weather and Packing: Dressing for Spring and Summer Vibes
Seoul’s weather in May and June is a delightful mix of spring warmth and early summer heat, but it comes with nuances. May averages 17°C, with daytime highs of 22-30°C and cooler nights at 7-15°C, creating noticeable temperature swings. Rainfall is moderate (70-106mm over 8 days), mostly as gentle spring showers, but air quality can be affected by occasional PM2.5 haze or high ozone levels, particularly in the afternoons.
June ushers in summer, with averages of 22°C, highs of 25-35°C, and lows of 15-23°C. The latter half of June marks the start of the rainy season, with heavier rainfall (100-151mm+ over 8+ days). Ozone levels may remain elevated, so monitoring air quality via AQICN is recommended.
For May, layer with short-sleeve tops, thin long-sleeves, and a light jacket or cardigan to handle temperature shifts. A compact umbrella or raincoat is handy for showers, and a mask can protect against poor air quality. Comfortable sneakers are ideal for exploring. In June, switch to breathable summer attire—shorts, skirts, or light pants—paired with waterproof shoes or sandals for rainy days. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, and a thin jacket is useful for air-conditioned indoor spaces. Packing these items ensures comfort and style throughout your trip.
Transportation: Navigating Seoul Like a Pro
Seoul’s transportation system is a traveler’s dream, offering efficiency and accessibility. From Incheon International Airport (ICN) or Gimpo (GMP), options to reach the city include the AREX Airport Express (43 minutes to Seoul Station for 9,000 KRW or 60 minutes with stops for 4,150 KRW), airport buses (10,000-16,000 KRW to major hotels), or taxis (50,000-100,000 KRW depending on type). Avoid peak hours to bypass traffic.
Within the city, Seoul’s subway is world-class, with color-coded lines and multilingual signage. Buses complement the network, reaching less accessible areas. A Tmoney or Cashbee card, available at subway stations or convenience stores, offers discounted fares and free transfers within 30 minutes. WOWPASS combines transport and prepaid functions, while NAMANE cards allow custom designs and debit features. For taxis, Kakao T simplifies booking, and choosing model or international taxis at night ensures safety and language support.
Currency and Payments: Spending Smartly
Seoul is a leader in cashless payments, with credit cards widely accepted, though cash is useful at traditional markets or small shops. For currency exchange, avoid airports and hotels due to poor rates. Instead, exchange a small amount (50,000-100,000 KRW) in Taiwan for emergencies, then visit Myeongdong’s exchange counters, like Yipumhyang or Money Box, for better rates, especially with large USD bills. ATMs with PLUS/Cirrus support are convenient but incur fees, so confirm costs with your bank.
When using credit cards, always choose to pay in KRW to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees. Cards with high overseas cashback (1.5%+) can offset transaction fees. Mobile payments like Taiwan Pay or Google Pay have limited acceptance, but LINE Pay works at select locations like duty-free stores. Carrying a mix of cards, cash, and a transport card ensures flexibility.
Top Attractions: A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
Seoul’s attractions cater to every interest. History buffs can explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, where wearing hanbok grants free entry and stunning photo ops, or Changdeokgung’s lush Secret Garden. Bukchon Hanok Village and Ikseon-dong offer traditional hanok houses meets modern cafés, perfect for Instagram.
For trendsetters, Hongdae buzzes with street performances and indie shops, Myeongdong is a haven for beauty products and street food, Seongsu-dong boasts chic cafés, and Dongdaemun’s markets thrive at night. Nature lovers can bike along Han River Park, stroll Seoul Forest’s rose gardens in May, or ride a cable car to N Seoul Tower for panoramic views. Unique experiences include Nanta Show’s comedic percussion, K-pop dance classes, traditional jjimjilbang saunas, or nearby adventures like rail biking.
May and June Events: Festivals and Flavors
May and June are festival season in Seoul. May’s holidays—Labor Day (May 1), Children’s Day, and Buddha’s Birthday (both May 5)—bring lively temple lantern displays and family events. The Seoul Rose Festival (May 16-24) transforms Jungnang Rose Park into a floral wonderland, while the Banpo Bridge Walking Festival (May 4 onwards) offers romantic Han River strolls. The Seoul Jazz Festival and DDP design exhibitions add cultural flair.
June’s Memorial Day (June 6) is more solemn, but events like the Seoul Book Fair, MyK FESTA (June 19-22) with K-pop concerts, and music festivals like Weverse Con or World DJ Festival keep the energy high. Traditional performances at the National Gugak Center showcase Korea’s musical heritage. Seasonal foods shine, with May’s spring greens and seafood (try bibimbap or spicy stir-fries) and June’s watermelon shaved ice and crab dishes, best enjoyed at Myeongdong or Dongdaemun night markets.
Practical Tips for a Flawless Trip
Stay informed with VisitKorea and the Tourist Complaint Center for support. Monitor air quality via AQICN, as haze or ozone can occur. Note that shops may close early on holidays, and supermarkets have rest days (typically second and fourth Sundays). For tax refunds, keep receipts for purchases over 30,000 KRW. When using ATMs, shield your PIN and confirm card retrieval. These tips ensure a smooth and enjoyable Seoul experience.
Conclusion: Your Seoul Adventure Awaits
Seoul in May and June 2025 is a captivating blend of spring blooms, summer warmth, and cultural festivities. With thorough planning, smart packing, and this guide’s insights, travelers can navigate the city’s palaces, markets, and festivals with ease. Whether you’re chasing K-pop dreams or savoring seasonal delicacies, Seoul promises an unforgettable journey.
