August is a lively and vibrant month to visit Seoul, South Korea’s dynamic capital city. As summer continues to reign, August brings warm temperatures and occasional rain showers, making it an exciting time to explore the city’s cultural wonders and outdoor attractions. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting Seoul in August, including the weather conditions, suitable clothing, and a list of events you will find only during this time of year.
Weather in Seoul in August:
August is still part of the summer season in Seoul, and you can expect warm and humid weather with occasional rainfall. The average daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F), with the evenings remaining relatively mild at around 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F). Although the city experiences less rainfall compared to July, it’s advisable to be prepared for some occasional showers, especially if there are no forecasts of typhoons.
Clothing Suggestions:
- Light and breathable clothing is essential to stay comfortable in the summer heat. Opt for cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics to keep cool and dry.
- A light jacket or a waterproof windbreaker can be useful for unexpected rain showers.
- Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Things to Do in Seoul in August:
While Seoul’s famous landmarks are worth visiting at any time of the year, August also brings a variety of special events and festivals that you won’t want to miss. Here are some exciting summer events exclusive to August in Seoul (2023 edition):
Seoul Fringe Festival 2023:
The Seoul Fringe Festival is an artistic extravaganza that fosters creativity and independence among artists. It originated in Daehangno in 1998 and continues to showcase a diverse array of art forms each year.
- Hangul: 서울프린지페스티벌
- Period: August 8th to August 27th
- Venue: The festival takes place in various theaters and galleries located in the vibrant Sinchon area.
- Website: For more information and updates, visit www.seoulfringefestival.net or find them on Instagram at @seoulfringe.
The 3rd Korea Youth Art Festival:
The Korea Youth Art Festival celebrates the talent of young artists across various genres, showcasing their captivating exhibits. The festival is designed with diverse participation programs that aim to create an interactive platform for engaging with visitors.
- Hangul: 대한민국 청년미술축제
- Period: August 17th to August 20th
- Venue: The festival will take place at the Maru Art Center (마루아트센터 특별관), providing a dynamic and inspiring space for artistic expression.
- Website: For further details and updates, please visit www.artground.net/artgroundsel or follow them on Instagram at @artground_seoul.
Han River Festival 2023:
The Han River Festival, also known as the ‘Hangang Festival,’ is an annual celebration featuring a diverse array of programs tailored for each season. This summer, immerse yourself in the refreshing ambiance of the Han River while enjoying exciting water leisure and sports activities. Delight in a cultural extravaganza with captivating art performances and exhibitions, all while basking in the cool river breeze.
- Hangul: 한강페스티벌
- Period: August 4th to August 20th
- Venue: Han River Waterfront and various Hangang Park locations.
- Website: For further details and updates, visit https://festival.seoul.go.kr/hangang or follow them on Instagram at @hangangfestival.
The 29th Changmu International Performing Arts Festival:
The Changmu International Performing Arts Festival, established in 1993, is a captivating celebration of dance that not only preserves the essence of Korean dance but also fosters new artistic visions. It serves as a platform for artists to connect, exchange ideas, and experience artistic empathy in the contemporary era.
- Hangul: 창무국제공연예술제
- Period: August 22nd to August 30th
- Venue: Join the festival’s vibrant performances at the Arko Arts Theater (아르코예술극장), where creativity and expression take center stage.
- Website: For comprehensive information and updates, visit www.changmuartcenter.com or follow them on Instagram at @changmuart_festival.
Korea Yanggeum Festival 2023:
The Korea Yanggeum Festival is a captivating celebration dedicated to showcasing the traditional musical instrument ‘Yanggeum’ to the public. Prepare to be mesmerized by various performances and interactive workshops led by skilled Yanggeum players.
- Hangul: 한국양금축제
- Period: August 29th to August 30th
- Venue: Immerse yourself in the festival’s enchanting ambiance at Marronnier Park (마로니에공원), where the sounds of Yanggeum will resonate with the beauty of nature.
- Website: For more details and updates, please visit www.koreayanggeum.com or check out their Instagram page at @koreayanggeumassociation.
Seoul International Ballet Week 2023:
The Seoul International Ballet Week presents a unique opportunity to witness mesmerizing ballet performances in an unconventional setting, taking place at the picturesque Seokchon Lake Waterside Stage instead of a traditional theater. Against the backdrop of the serene lake and surrounding nature, a series of breathtaking performances awaits, including the World Ballet Breaking Battle, National Ballet Gymnastics, Ballet Cinema, and more.
- Hangul: 서울국제발레위크
- Period: August 30th to September 1st
- Venue: Experience the magic of ballet at the enchanting Seokchon Lake Waterside Stage (석촌호수 수변무대), where artistry and nature intertwine to create an unforgettable spectacle.
- Website: For further information and updates, please visit https://sbt1995.modoo.at/ or find them on Instagram at @seoulballettheatre.
W.G.F. Water Gun Festival 2023:
The W.G.F. Water Gun Festival is an exhilarating summer extravaganza, offering a super-sized celebration right in the heart of the city. Escape the heat and immerse yourself in a vibrant party atmosphere filled with pulsating beats from DJs and mesmerizing dance performances.
- Hangul: 물총축제
- Period: August 12th to August 13th
- Venue: Head over to the Oil Tank Culture Base (문화비축기지) to experience this one-of-a-kind festival, where water gun fun and festivities reign supreme this summer.
- Website: For more information and tickets, visit https://www.heyway.co.kr/ .
The 2nd Indie Music Festival: In-die-Autumn
In-die-Autumn is an exciting audition-type indie music festival that offers aspiring indie musicians a chance to showcase their talent and creativity. Through an open recruitment process, selected musicians get the opportunity to produce music videos and perform on stage. The final winning team is even rewarded with a solo concert, opening doors to greater exposure and recognition.
- Hangul: 인디뮤직페스티벌
- Period: The festival takes place on August 19th, from 16:30 to 21:30.
- Venue: Join the vibrant event at Musinsa Garage (무신사 개러지), where music enthusiasts and talented indie artists come together to celebrate the spirit of indie music.
Seodaemun Independence Fiesta:
The Seodaemun Independence Fiesta is an annual historical and cultural celebration that unites citizens in commemorating the joy of liberation. Held at the Seodaemun Prison History Museum, a significant cultural heritage of Seodaemun-gu, the festival aims to instill the values of independence, freedom, and peace. It offers a meaningful opportunity to honor Liberation Day and reflect on the importance of these cherished ideals.
- Hangul: 서대문독립페스타
- Period: The festival takes place from August 12th to August 15th.
- Venue: Immerse yourself in history at the Seodaemun Prison History Museum (서대문형무소역사관), where the spirit of independence resonates throughout the event.
- Website: For more details and updates, visit https://sidfest.modoo.at/ .
Lotus Festival 2023:
The Lotus Festival is a celebration of the symbolic lotus flower, which holds profound significance in Buddhism, representing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. As the lotus blooms, it is believed to symbolize the awakening of the Buddha within oneself. Each summer, from as early as June until September, several temples in Seoul host lotus flower festivals to honor the cultural and spiritual importance of this beautiful flower in Buddhist traditions.
- Hangul: 연꽃축제
- Venues: Jogyesa Temple (Period: July 13th to Mid-September), Bongeunsa Temple (Period: July 5th to September 3rd)
A Day Trip Outside Seoul: Exploring August Festivals in Korea
While Seoul offers an array of special events during August, there’s also a world of captivating festivals just a day trip away from the city. Embark on a delightful journey and venture beyond Seoul to discover more exciting festivals held during this time of the year. Here are some renowned events worth exploring in Korea in August:
- Boryeong Mud Festival (보령머드축제): Dive into the fun and therapeutic Boryeong Mud Festival, where you can indulge in mud-based activities, rejuvenating your skin and spirit. Located just a couple of hours away from Seoul, it promises a memorable experience. (Event period: 2023.07.21~2023.08.06)
- Hwacheon Tomato Festival (화천 토마토축제): Head to Hwacheon and celebrate the Hwacheon Tomato Festival, where you can savor mouthwatering tomatoes and participate in various tomato-themed activities and contests. (Event period: 2023.08.03~2023.08.06)
- Semiwon Lotus Flower Festival (세미원 연꽃축제): Immerse yourself in the beauty of lotus flowers at the Semiwon Lotus Flower Festival, held in the serene surroundings of nature. Witness the captivating sight of blooming lotus blossoms in all their glory. (Event period: 2023.07.01~2023.08.27)
- Taebaek Sunflower Festival (태백해바라기축제): Experience the golden hues of the Taebaek Sunflower Festival, where vast sunflower fields create a picturesque landscape that will leave you in awe. (Event period: 2023.07.21~2023.08.15)
- Suwon Cultural Heritage Night Tour (수원 문화재 야행): a captivating program that delves into the cultural treasures within Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and the profound memories of its neighboring communities. (Event period: 2023.08.11 ~ 2023.08.13)
Congratulations on reaching the end of my comprehensive guide to August in Korea! If your travel plans include a visit to Seoul during this month, I sincerely hope this post has been helpful in shaping your itinerary. Enjoy your trip to the fullest!
Google Map: Places Mentioned in This Post:
Did this entry help you? Or Did you enjoy my photos? Help support my small blog by giving a little cup of joe. I am always grateful when readers reach out wanting to support 🙂
p.s. This post is independently created. However, when you book or purchase something through the retail links, I may earn an affiliate commission to help keep Ploy’s Little Atlas running. Thank you very much for your support!
p.p.s All images used (unless specified) are owned by the author of the blog and permission is required for a repost. Please, reach out via social media channels to ask beforehand if you’d like to use them.