Seoul vs Busan

Seoul and Busan are closely matched in January. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Seoul is on the cooler side at 1°C, requiring warmer clothing. Busan is cooler at 6°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in January.

Seoul reaches an average high of 1°C (34°F) and drops to -7°C (19°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Busan averages 6°C (43°F) for the high and 0°C (32°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°C. There is a notable 5°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

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

Seoul receives approximately 19 mm of rainfall across 4 rain days during January. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Busan sees 32 mm over 4 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.