Current Time in Pyongyang
Best time to travel to North Korea
Comparison of best months to travel to North Korea
| Month | 5-point rating | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| January | Severe cold and heavy snowfall, restricting sightseeing and movement. It is essential to take measures against the cold. | |
| February | The temperature is low and outdoor sightseeing is difficult, but there are few tourists and it is a quiet period. | |
| March | With the arrival of spring, the temperature rises. It becomes easier to travel and sightseeing gradually becomes more comfortable. | |
| April | The weather is stable and flowers bloom. It is ideal for sightseeing and there are many events. | |
| May | There are many sunny days and it is comfortable. There are also domestic holidays, making it ideal for cultural experiences. | |
| June | The heat gradually increases. There are also days when the weather is unstable due to the rainy season. | |
| July | Humidity and rain make sightseeing less comfortable. Focus on indoor sightseeing. | |
| August | Summer heat and high humidity continue. Not suitable for travel or outdoor sightseeing. | |
| September | The heat subsides, the sky is clear, and it is comfortable. There are many holidays, making it ideal for cultural experiences. | |
| October | The autumn leaves are beautiful, and the temperature is comfortable. A good time for outdoor sightseeing and walking around the city. | |
| November | The temperature drops at the beginning of winter, but there are many sunny days and sightseeing is possible. | |
| December | The winter cold is in full swing. It is difficult to see, but there are few crowds. |
The most recommended month is "October"
October in North Korea has a very good balance of temperature and weather, making it an ideal time for travelers. The daytime temperature is a comfortable 20 degrees, and it is not too cold in the mornings and evenings, so excessive cold weather measures are not necessary. This is also the peak of autumn foliage, and beautiful autumn scenery spreads across the roadside trees in Pyongyang and mountain areas such as Myohyangsan. Tourist attractions are relatively uncrowded, and you can go around at a relaxed pace even with a guided tour. In addition, some years October coincides with political anniversaries (such as the anniversary of the founding of the Workers' Party), and there is a possibility of having the opportunity to see commemorative events and military parades. The rate of sunny days is also high, making it a good time for taking photos and walking around the city. Overall, October, which has the perfect combination of culture, nature, and climate, is the most satisfying time to visit North Korea.
The least recommended month is "August"
August is one of the months to avoid when visiting North Korea. The summer climate is hot and humid, and even in Pyongyang, the temperature continues to rise to nearly 30 degrees. In particular, outdoor sightseeing can easily wear you down due to the high humidity. Also, like South Korea, North Korea is subject to the rainy season during this time of year, and may experience heavy rains like squalls. Travel to outdoor facilities and mountain areas may be canceled depending on the weather, making it difficult to proceed with the itinerary as planned. You will also need to take measures against insect bites and heat stroke, and many preparations are required for comfortable sightseeing. It is summer vacation period, and airfare prices tend to rise, so this month is not recommended in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Recommended months by travel type
| Travel type | Recommended month | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| First trip to North Korea | April and October | The climate is stable, making it suitable for sightseeing in major cities. |
| Enjoy nature | May and October | The scenery of flowers and autumn leaves is beautiful, making it ideal for mountain sightseeing. |
| Emphasis on politics and history | April and September | There are many national anniversaries, and there are plenty of events and exhibitions. |
| A quiet time | February and November | There are few tourists, so you can enjoy sightseeing in an uncrowded environment. |
| For photography | October and April | There is a high rate of sunny days, so the contrast between nature and the cityscape is striking. |
| Family trips | May and September | Mild temperatures and a mild climate that makes it easy to plan your itinerary. |