South Korea will experience generally clear skies and rising temperatures during a three-day holiday starting May 23 [9].
The forecast is critical for millions of residents planning outdoor activities, as the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) said high UV indices and significant temperature swings between day and night are expected.
On Friday, Seoul recorded a temperature of 25.9 °C [1], which was eight °C higher than the temperature at the same time on the previous day [2]. The KMA said that seasonal spring-to-early summer conditions are driving these rising daytime temperatures and strong solar radiation.
For the start of the holiday, the KMA forecast a morning temperature of 15 °C in Seoul [4] and 14 °C in Daejeon and Daegu [5]. By noon, temperatures are expected to reach 24 °C in Seoul and Gwangju [6], while Busan is forecast to reach 21 °C [7].
While most of the country will remain clear, some regions will see light precipitation. The KMA said that rain clouds passing to the north will bring weak rain to the Yeongnam coast and Jeju Island. The expected rainfall in these areas is less than five mm [3].
Public health officials and weather reporters said citizens should manage their body temperature with outer clothing during evening commutes to avoid the chill from the day-night gap. The warming trend is expected to continue into next week, with maximum temperatures reaching around 30 °C on Monday, May 27 [8].
Seasonal shifts in the Korean peninsula often produce these volatile temperature gaps. The current pattern of clear skies and high solar radiation increases the risk of UV-related skin damage and heat exhaustion during peak daylight hours.
“South Korea will experience generally clear skies and rising temperatures during a three-day holiday.”
The rapid transition from spring to early summer temperatures, evidenced by an 8-degree jump in a single day, suggests an accelerated seasonal shift. The combination of high UV radiation and sharp diurnal temperature variations requires public health vigilance regarding heat-related illnesses and skin protection during a period of high domestic travel.
