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Best Time to Visit Jeju City

Best Time to Visit Jeju City

Jeju City Jeju-do, South Korea Travel Guide

Best Times to Visit Jeju

Jeju Island features four distinct seasons. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) bring mild, pleasant weather. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, with a monsoon season. Winter (November-March) is cold and dry, with snow on Hallasan.

Each season has a different island experience, from blossoming flowers to winter hiking.

Seasonal Weather Insights

  • Spring: Mild (10-20°C), low rain, comfortable humidity.
  • Summer: Hot & Humid (25-30°C), monsoon (late June-July), typhoons (Aug-Sept).
  • Autumn: Mild to cool (15-25°C), clear skies, low rain.
  • Winter: Cold & Dry (5-10°C), possible snow, colder on Hallasan.

Ideal Timing for Activities

Activities on Jeju are best enjoyed in specific seasons.

Hiking Hallasan: Spring (May) and Autumn (late September-October) offer optimal weather and views. Winter snow hiking with appropriate gear is also an option. Beach & Water Sports: Late July to early August for warmest sea temperatures. Flower Viewing: April for cherry blossoms.

High Season

April-May, Sept-Oct, late July-early Aug

Pros

Optimal weather, scenic blossoms/foliage, atmosphere.

Cons

Crowds, higher prices, advance bookings essential.

Shoulder Season

Late May, early June, November

Pros

Fewer crowds, moderate prices, unique transitional scenery.

Cons

Weather can be less predictable, some seasonal attractions closed.

Low Season

Winter (excl. Holidays), late June-July (monsoon)

Pros

Lowest prices, minimal crowds, peaceful experience, winter snow activities.

Cons

Cold/heavy rain, limited outdoor activities, potential for typhoons (late summer).

Weather Considerations

Monsoon Jangma

End Of june to July brings heavy, prolonged rainfall. Outdoor plans may see significant disruption. Rain gear needs to be considered for travel during this period.

Typhoons

August to September marks typhoon season. Strong winds, heavy rain, and coastal flooding occur. Flight cancellations, ferry disruptions, and temporary attraction closures are possible. Weather forecasts warrant close monitoring during these months.

Temperature Ranges

  • Spring:

    10°C to 20°C (50-68°F)

  • Summer:

    25°C to 30°C (77-86°F)

  • Autumn:

    15°C to 25°C (59-77°F)

  • Winter:

    5°C to 10°C (41-50°F), below 0°C at high elevations.

  • General Note:

    Prepare clothing for comfort and safety based on season.

Extreme Weather Alert

  • Typhoons in late summer/early autumn can cause severe disruptions. Follow local advisories.
  • Summers: High heat and humidity, at times with heat advisories.
  • Winters: Temperatures below freezing, especially on Hallasan.

Seasonal Transitions

Meteorological patterns during shoulder seasons can be less predictable. Flexibility in planning your activities is a consideration.

Visa & Entry Overview

Entry into South Korea, including Jeju, typically has a straightforward process for the majority of foreign visitors.

General South Korea Entry

Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for short stays (around 90 days), including citizens of the USA, Canada, EU countries, Australia, and New Zealand.

Requirements

  • K-ETA: Most visa-free eligible nationals apply for K-ETA online before travel.
  • Visa Required: Nationals not eligible for visa-free entry apply at an embassy.
  • Onward/Return Ticket: Immigration may request proof of departure.
  • Your Accommodation reservation: Reservation details for lodging are useful.

Jeju Visa-Free Entry

Most countries enter Jeju Island visa-free for up to 30 days. This applies only to direct arrivals at Jeju International Airport (CJU) from outside mainland Korea.

Important Notes

  • Direct Flights Only: This policy applies only if arriving directly at CJU.
  • No Mainland Travel: Travelers under this policy cannot travel to the main landmass South Korea.
  • Excluded Countries: A small number of designated countries are not eligible.
  • Passport Validity: Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond departure.

Application Tips

K-ETA Application

  • Apply well in advance of your trip (visit IVisa or VisaHQ).
  • Authorization is typically valid for two years.
  • Carry a printed or digital copy of your K-ETA approval.
  • Check the official K-ETA website for current updates and exemptions.

Visa Application

  • Apply at a South Korean embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • This process needs more time and documentation than K-ETA.
  • Passport-sized photos and specific forms are general requirements.
  • Visa application fees apply.

Special Permits & Health

  • Hallasan National Park: Reservations are often necessary for Seongpanak and Gwanseumsa trails, especially in peak seasons.
  • Vaccinations: No particular vaccinations are needed for entry. Routine vaccinations are generally advised. Consult a medical professional for personalized advice.
  • Entry Fees: South Korea and Jeju Island do not charge general entry fees for tourists.
  • Immigration: Standard procedures apply upon arrival. Complete an entry card.

Budgeting & Costs

Costs vary based on travel style. The official currency is the South Korean Won (KRW, ₩).

Currency & Exchange

  • Exchange currency at Jeju International Airport or banks.
  • ATMs are widely available for overseas cards ("Global ATM" signs).
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, even at smaller shops.
  • Tipping is not customary or expected in South Korea.

Money-Saving Strategies

  • Use public transportation (T-Money/Cashbee card for discounts).
  • Eat locally (markets, street food, budget eateries).
  • Choose guesthouses or hostels for accommodation.
  • Car rental for groups can be more economical than taxis for extensive exploration.

Budgeting Tip

Jeju Island offers options for every budget. Careful planning of accommodation, meals, and transport can lead to significant savings.

Health & Safety

South Korea maintains high standards for public health and safety. General precautions are sufficient for a smooth trip.

Common Health Aspects

Health concerns in Jeju are generally minor. Preparation for sun exposure and insect bites covers most common issues.

Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water remains an option for sensitive stomachs.

Prevention Strategies

1

Medical Access

Jeju City has modern hospitals like Jeju National University Hospital. High-quality medical amenities are available, often with English-speaking staff in emergency departments.

Routine vaccinations for travel are suggested. No specific vaccinations are required for entry.

Bring prescription documentation for any medications you carry.

2

Safety Environment

Jeju Island has a very low crime rate and is among the most secure destinations globally. No specific neighborhoods are known for high crime concerns.

Standard precautions for belongings are sufficient, as in any travel destination.

Typhoon season (August-September) and monsoon (late June-July) are seasonal hazards.

3

Emergency Contacts

Immediate emergency services are readily available.

Police: 112. Fire & Ambulance: 119.

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Tourist Information Line: 1330.

Travel Insurance

Coverage Aspect Benefit Recommendation
Medical Emergencies Hospitalization and emergency treatment. Highly recommended for any international trip.
Emergency Evacuation Medical evacuation expenses. Consider providers like World Nomads or SafetyWing.
Trip Cancellation/Interruption Unforeseen events altering travel plans. Protects against various travel disruptions.

Drinking Water & Food

  • Tap Water Safety:Generally safe to drink.
  • Bottled Water:Widely available.
  • Food Hygiene:Superior standards.
  • Reusable Bottle:For reduced plastic waste.

Natural Disaster Risks

  • Typhoons:August-September.
  • Heavy Rain:Late June-July (monsoon).
  • Earthquakes:Infrequent and generally minor.
  • Monitor Forecasts:Stay updated on local weather.

Important Contacts

  • Police:112
  • Fire & Ambulance:119

Travel Insurance Coverage

  • Medical Emergencies:Included
  • Emergency Evacuation:Included
  • Lost Luggage:Included

Other Essential Information

KTO Tourist Information Line:1330
Foreign Embassy/Consulate:Contact details on hand.
Flight Compensation (AirHelp):Possible for delayed/canceled flights.
Local Emergency Services:Quick response times.
Food Hygiene Standards:Generally very high.
Crime Rate:Very low.

Health Proactive Steps

  • Consult a healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before travel.
  • Carry a basic First aid kit.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Be mindful of sun exposure.
  • Monitor weather during the stormy season.
Best Time to Visit Jeju City. Weather, Seasons, Climate