When to Visit Pyongyang
Climate guide & best times to travel
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is the coldest month in Pyongyang, with temperatures well below freezing and occasional Siberian cold snaps that can make it feel even colder. The air is crisp and dry with minimal precipitation, and you'll need serious winter gear. Expect short daylight hours and the kind of cold that requires multiple layers and face protection.
February
February remains bitterly cold, though temperatures inch up slightly from January's depths. It's still deep winter with frozen conditions, dry air, and limited precipitation. The city tends to be quiet during this period, and outdoor activities require substantial cold-weather preparation.
March
March marks the beginning of spring's arrival, with temperatures finally climbing above freezing during the day, though nights remain cold. You'll see the transition from winter to spring happening fairly quickly, with occasional lingering cold snaps. Precipitation increases slightly but remains relatively light compared to summer months.
April
April brings genuine spring weather with temperatures climbing into the comfortable 60s°F during the day. The city comes alive with blossoming trees and increasingly pleasant conditions for outdoor exploration. Rainfall increases but remains manageable, and you'll want layers since mornings and evenings can still be quite cool.
May
May offers some of the year's most pleasant weather, with warm days in the mid-70s°F and mild nights. Rainfall picks up compared to earlier spring months as the monsoon season approaches, but it's still relatively dry. This is actually one of the better months for visiting before summer humidity and heavy rains arrive.
June
June transitions into summer with temperatures climbing into the low 80s°F and humidity increasing noticeably. The monsoon season begins, bringing more frequent rainfall—you'll start to see the pattern of afternoon thunderstorms that characterizes summer. It's warm enough for summer clothing, though you'll want rain gear handy.
July
July is the wettest month by far, with nearly 11 inches of rainfall concentrated in often heavy downpours. Temperatures peak in the mid-80s°F with high humidity creating that sticky, oppressive feeling you get during monsoon season. Expect frequent rain interruptions to outdoor plans, though storms tend to be intense but relatively brief.
August
August continues the monsoon pattern with heavy rainfall, though slightly less intense than July. It's the warmest month temperature-wise, with highs in the mid-80s°F and warm nights. The humidity remains high and can feel draining, making indoor activities more appealing during the hottest parts of the day.
September
September marks the transition to autumn with temperatures becoming more comfortable in the upper 70s°F and humidity dropping as the monsoon winds down. Rainfall decreases significantly from summer levels, though you'll still get occasional showers. This is actually one of the better months for visiting, with pleasant conditions and clearer skies.
October
October brings classic autumn weather with mild days in the mid-60s°F and crisp nights. The air becomes noticeably drier and clearer, making it excellent for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Rainfall is moderate, and you'll want layers as the temperature difference between day and night becomes more pronounced.
November
November sees temperatures dropping quickly as winter approaches, with highs barely reaching 50°F and nights dipping to freezing. The landscape takes on autumn colors early in the month before winter sets in. Rainfall decreases, and you'll need to start thinking about winter clothing as cold weather becomes the dominant feature.
December
December plunges into full winter mode with temperatures well below freezing most of the time. It's dry and cold with short daylight hours, requiring serious winter preparation. The city takes on a stark, frozen quality, and outdoor activities become challenging without proper cold-weather gear.