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Weather Comparison

Jeju vs Seoul

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Jeju: 20°CSeoul: 22°C455 km apart

May Weather: Jeju vs Seoul

MetricJejuSeoulBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer20°C (68°F)22°C (72°F)Seoul
Average LowHigher is milder15°C (59°F)12°C (54°F)Jeju
Rain DaysFewer is drier10 days8 daysSeoul
PrecipitationLess is drier129 mm95 mmSeoul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day10h/daySeoul
HumidityLower is more comfortable70%65%Seoul
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better16 km/h16 km/hTie

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Seoul edges ahead as the better destination in May. Seoul offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 8 rain days, while Jeju sees 9 sunshine hours and 10 rain days.

Jeju sits in the comfortable travel range at 20°C. Seoul is also comfortable at 22°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Seoul is the stronger choice in May. Seoul receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Jeju reaches an average high of 20°C (68°F) and drops to 15°C (59°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Seoul averages 22°C (72°F) for the high and 12°C (54°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Jeju receives approximately 129 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Seoul sees 95 mm over 8 rain days. That makes Seoul the drier option by 2 rain days and 34 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Jeju averages 70% while Seoul sits at 65%. Jeju will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Jeju vs Seoul

Packing for Jeju in May

Highs of 20°C, lows of 15°C, 10 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Packing for Seoul in May

Highs of 22°C, lows of 12°C, 8 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Pack for both: light layers, a light jacket for evenings, sunscreen. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Jeju vs Seoul

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthJejuSeoul
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C9d1°C4d
Feb8°C8d4°C4d
Mar11°C10d10°C6d
Apr16°C9d17°C7d
May20°C10d22°C8d
Jun23°C13d26°C9d
Jul27°C16d28°C17d
Aug28°C17d29°C16d
Sep25°C13d25°C8d
Oct20°C7d19°C5d
Nov15°C8d11°C7d
Dec10°C8d3°C5d
20°

Jeju Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

22°

Seoul Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jeju warmer than Seoul in May?
No. In May, Seoul is warmer with an average high of 22°C (72°F) compared to Jeju at 20°C (68°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Jeju or Seoul?
Jeju gets more rain in May with 10 rain days and 129 mm of precipitation. Seoul is the drier option with 8 rain days.
Is it better to visit Jeju or Seoul in May?
It depends on your preferences. Jeju averages 20°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 10 rain days. Seoul averages 22°C with 10 sunshine hours and 8 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Seoul. For fewer rain days, Seoul is the better pick.
How far apart are Jeju and Seoul?
Jeju and Seoul are approximately 455 km (283 miles) apart. Jeju is located in South Korea (Asia) while Seoul is in South Korea (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Jeju and Seoul?
For Jeju, August tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 28°C. For Seoul, May is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 22°C highs.

Compare Jeju and Seoul in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Jeju coordinates: 33.49°N, 126.50°E | Seoul coordinates: 37.57°N, 126.98°E