Annual average maximum temperature South Korea 1973-2023

In 2023, the average maximum temperature in South Korea reached 19.2 degrees Celsius, slightly higher than the previous year. The annual average maximum temperature in South Korea has risen steadily over the measured period.

Temperature trends by season

South Korea has four seasons, each characterized by its own distinctive temperature trends. The history of average summer temperature recorded in South Korea has ranged around 23 to 25 degrees Celsius. Although average temperatures generally indicate moderate warmth, 31 heat-wave days were recorded in 2018 alone, far above the average value. Conversely, winter in South Korea is the coldest and driest season, with an average temperature of about 0.2 degrees Celsius in 2022.

Climate change and response

Climate change has impacted South Korea. Despite the minor ups and downs in temperature, the annual average temperature has moved gradually upward, showing a difference of more than one degree Celsius from 2023 to 1973. Additionally, the number of heatwave days has increased substantially compared to previous decades. This has not gone unnoticed as most legislative members of the National Assembly have found addressing the enactment and revision of policies to be a priority for responding to the climate crisis.