15 Summer Fun Ideas in Korea for Locals 2025
Summer in Korea means hot sun, high humidity, and the potential heavy rains. Some people prefer to embrace the elements while others stay inside. We have 15 different Summer Fun Activities for those that don’t mind tackling the elements and those that want to stay inside. No matter your preference, you will find summer fun in Korea!
15 Ideas and Over 100 Places
This blog post introduces 15 fun things to do and then links to blogs for each of these ideas. This allows us to share the maximum amount of information while still allowing this post to load more quickly. Additionally, this blog is NOT about promoting Korea to tourists, it’s about expanding information about living in South Korea for international residents. It’s bout actual daily things we do in Korea for fun over time.
Summer in Korea and What International Residents Need to Know
If you’re living in Korea long-term, summer hits differently. You need to adapt to the heat in order to maintain your daily life, routines, and weekend plans to the weather. If you simply try to “suffer through” it life can become unbearable. Here are key things to keep in mind as an international resident navigating the intense weather and enjoy summer fun in Korea
Summer Weather in Korea
Summer in Korea comes in two stages. Mid-June to late July brings the jangma (aka. rainy season or monsoon season) which can feel hot, humid, and often wet. It won’t rain every day, but you’ll need to carry an umbrella regularly for rain. Late July to early September is dry but brutally hot, with temps often over 35°C (95°F) and humidity that makes it feel closer to 40°C (104°F) and you carry and umbrella for the sun. Nights stay warm, usually over 20°C (68°F).
For daily life, this means sweaty commutes, crowded beaches, and a lot of AC. Plan weekend outings with weather apps, and keep some indoor backup plans for those sudden downpours. To make life more comfortable you need to stay prepared. Here are some of our tips:
What To Wear on the Outside
Forget jeans. You’ll want breathable, lightweight clothes you can wear to work or social outings. Sandals or mesh sneakers help on hot streets. Consider carrying a cooling light jacket, long sleeved shirt, or scarf because Korean stores, buses, and subways often blast the AC, which can feel freezing after walking in the sun. Planning a beach or pool day?
Also consider carrying light socks in your purse for when you need to take your shoes off at restaurants. This can be a common necessity outside of busy cities.
What to Wear at the Pool & Water Features
Some pools and beaches in Korea require swim caps or a baseball cap. They may also require rash guards for rides, so check the rules in advance.
What To Pack and Keep on Hand
Living in Korea during summer means prepping your backpack for daily survival. Essentials include:
- Strong sunscreen for your face and body (easily found at Olive Young and Daiso)
- Mosquito spray or patches (a must if you live near rice fields or streams)
- Portable fan (rechargeable ones are everywhere)
- Reusable water bottle (most cafes and restaurants offer free refills)
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Cooling patches or towels for commuting or travel days
- Umbrellas for heat and rain
- Long sleeved “cooling” tech or “cooling” arm sun sleeves
If you happen to forget any of these items, don’t panic. Nearly all of these are often easy to find at local shops or convenience stores.
Ideas for Escaping Summer Heat in Korea
Let’s begin with options for this how need to cool down.
Caves are Cool and Refreshing
Don’t miss out on the amazing caves across Korea where you can escape the heat and discover stunning natural beauty.
Aquariums Offer a Whole New World
Escape the heat with indoor fun at Korea’s top aquariums. COEX Aquarium, Lotte World Aquarium, and Aqua Planet Ilsan offer cool, family-friendly experiences. See sharks, penguins, and touch tanks. Great for summer days when you want to stay out of the sun.
Breweries for Tasty Brews and Food
Cool down with craft beer at local Korean breweries. Check out Magpie, The Booth, or Playground Brewery. Many spots have patios and seasonal summer menus. Great for relaxing after a long, hot day of exploring.
Cable Cars for Low Effort and Big Rewards
Ride a cable car to see Korea from above. Try Tongyeong, Yeosu, or Hanyangdoseong for amazing summer views. No hiking needed. Enjoy the breeze, take photos, and relax in style.
Water Parks Often Offer Indoor and Outdoor Fun
Water parks in Korea often have indoor and outdoor spaces because of the hot and rainy weather. This means they offer there perfect recreation for mixed groups. Give some of these in Gangwon-do a try if you want to escape the Seoul level crowds.
Cafes Offer an Escape with Some Coffee
Sometimes the best thing to do in summer is visit a cafe. We all love them and here are a few that have a fun twist.
Summer Activities for Outdoor Lovers
For those prepared to tackle the elements, here are some wonderful options for you.
Mountain Luge Courses for Adrenaline
Try mountain luge for fast-paced summer thrills. Ride the tracks at Tongyeong Luge or Ganghwa Seaside Luge. These attractions are perfect for families, couples, and adventure lovers. It’s a fun way to enjoy Korea’s mountains with minimal hiking.
Rivers for Activities
Korea’s rivers are perfect for summer sports. Kayak, paddleboard, or bike along the Han River, Bukhangang, or Geumgang. Many riverside parks offer rentals and shaded picnic spots. It’s an easy way to stay cool and active. Remember, river activities close for safety during monsoons and heavy rains.
Beaches for Relaxation or Sports
Spend your summer at Korea’s best beaches. Visit Daecheon for mud festivals, Gyeongpo for peaceful swimming, or Haeundae for beach sports. Whether you want to relax or stay active, there’s a beach for every summer mood.
Temples for Meditation
Korea’s temples in more rural areas often offer quiet breaks from summer crowds. Visit Beopjusa, Haeinsa, or Magoksa for peaceful walks and temple stays. Try a weekend of silent meditation and simple meals. It’s a calm, refreshing way to reset your mind. Remember that temples are active religious sites, even in areas like Seoul and Busan. Practice temple etiquette.
National Parks for Epic Vistas
Hike Korea’s national parks for amazing summer views. Seoraksan, Jirisan, and Songnisan offer trails with waterfalls, forests, and cliffs. Start early to avoid the midday heat. These parks are perfect for photos and fresh air.
Keep in mind thouth, during extreme heat and rain, you may want to consider and indoor activity.
Skate Parks for Entertainment
Skateboarding is gaining popularity in Korea. Visit skate parks in Seoul, Busan, or Suwon for ramps and rails. Some parks also offer scooter and BMX areas. It’s a fun summer activity for teens and young adults.
Rail Bikes for Lazy Exercise
Pedal through the countryside on a Korean rail bike. Popular locations include Gapyeong, Jeongseon, and Samcheok. It’s low-effort but scenic, with tunnels, bridges, and river views. A perfect blend of fun and relaxation.
Cross Country Cycling Adventures
Don’t forget that you can get on your bike and ride!
Drama Sets for Cultural Education
You can also visit drama sets across Korea to learn how Koreans lived during different time periods. These drama locations are stunning.
Founded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul’s information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.
Blogs published under the authorship of “South of Seoul” include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences.
South of Seoul
Founded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul's information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Blogs published under the authorship of "South of Seoul" include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences.
