South Korea Weather: Large Temperature Swings Expected

As of October 15, 2026, South Korea is experiencing significant daily temperature fluctuations, requiring residents to prepare for chilly mornings and warmer afternoons. Meteorologists note that the gap between morning lows and afternoon highs is reaching up to 20 degrees Celsius in certain parts of the country.

What is the current weather pattern?

The weather across South Korea remains largely clear, though cloud cover is expected to increase in the central and northern regions throughout the day. Light rain of less than 5mm is forecast for parts of the Seoul metropolitan area and Gangwon province between this afternoon and evening.

Early morning temperatures have dropped significantly, leading to frost in some inland areas and ice in the Gangwon mountainous regions. While morning temperatures are low, afternoon highs are expected to reach between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius, consistent with or slightly higher than typical seasonal averages.

Why is this trending in South Korea?

The sudden shift in temperatures, described as a "rollercoaster" by local reports, has prompted high search volume as residents look for guidance on appropriate clothing and travel safety. The combination of early autumn cold and high afternoon warmth is a primary concern for daily commuters.

What is confirmed and what is not

It is confirmed that strong winds with gusts exceeding 15 meters per second are expected to impact the Gyeonggi western coast starting this afternoon, necessitating caution regarding outdoor structures. While the current autumn weather is expected to persist through the weekend, the exact timing and intensity of rain forecast for the upcoming holiday remain subject to change based on further meteorological updates.