Sejong Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Korea, South

Summer (June – August)

Sejong experiences hot and humid summers with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84°F). The humidity levels are high, often reaching over 70%, making the air feel muggy and uncomfortable. Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are common during this season, with an average of over 300mm of precipitation per month.

Spring (March – May)

Springs in Sejong are characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in March to 20°C (68°F) in May. The weather is generally clear and sunny, with occasional periods of rain. The city becomes greener during this season as trees and flowers bloom, creating a picturesque landscape.

Summer Temperatures

Sejong experiences hot and humid summers, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (71.6°F to 82.4°F). The hottest month is August, with an average temperature of 28.5°C (83.3°F). However, extreme heat is not uncommon, with temperatures occasionally reaching over 35°C (95°F) during the summer months. As a result of the high humidity, heat index values can be significantly higher than the actual temperature, making outdoor activities uncomfortable on the hottest days.

Winter Temperatures

In contrast to the hot summers, Sejong has cold and dry winters. Average temperatures during the winter months range from -1°C to 5°C (30.2°F to 41°F). January is typically the coldest month, with an average temperature of -0.9°C (30.4°F). Snowfall is not uncommon during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of 28.6 cm (11.3 in). Sub-zero temperatures are also possible, especially during the coldest nights. However, prolonged periods of severe cold are less common in Sejong compared to other regions of South Korea.

Cloud Cover in Sejong, South Korea

Sejong, located in the central region of South Korea, experiences a diverse range of cloud cover throughout the year. During the summer months (June to August), Sejong typically sees more frequent and heavier cloud cover due to the influence of the monsoon season. Monsoon rains often bring thick, overcast skies and persistent rainfall, resulting in reduced visibility and increased humidity. The average cloud cover during this period ranges from 65% to 80%.

Seasonal Variations in Cloudiness

In winter (December to February), Sejong tends to experience clearer skies and less cloud cover compared to the summer months. As the monsoon subsides and cold, dry air masses from the northwest dominate, the region sees reduced precipitation and more sunshine. On average, cloud cover during this time falls between 40% and 60%, offering ample opportunities for clear views of the sky. During the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months, Sejong transitions between its summer and winter cloud cover patterns. The average cloud cover ranges from 50% to 70%, with a mix of sunny and cloudy days and occasional showers.

Annual Precipitation

Sejong, South Korea, experiences a humid climate characterized by abundant precipitation throughout the year. On average, the city receives around 1,200 mm (47 inches) of precipitation annually, distributed fairly evenly across the months. The driest month is January, with an average of 50 mm (2 inches) of rainfall, while the wettest month is July, with an average of 250 mm (10 inches). Sejong’s precipitation is primarily driven by the East Asian monsoon system, which brings moist air from the Pacific Ocean during the summer months, resulting in heavy rainfall.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

During the spring and summer months, from March to September, Sejong receives the majority of its precipitation. This period is known as the rainy season, with frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms. The summer months, particularly July and August, experience the heaviest rainfall, often resulting in flooding in some areas. In contrast, the winter months, from December to February, are relatively dry, with less than 10% of the annual precipitation occurring during this period. During this time, snowfall is common, but accumulations are typically light.

Annual Rainfall and Distribution

Sejong, South Korea experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The annual precipitation averages around 1,200 millimeters (47 inches). Rainfall is generally evenly distributed throughout the seasons, with slightly heavier precipitation during the summer months. The wettest months are July and August, when monthly rainfall typically exceeds 200 millimeters (8 inches). December and January are relatively dry, with average monthly rainfall below 50 millimeters (2 inches).

Seasonal Variability

The rainfall pattern in Sejong exhibits seasonal variability. During the spring and early summer, from March to June, rainfall gradually increases as the warm and humid East Asian summer monsoon approaches. The monsoon season, lasting from July to September, brings abundant rainfall, with frequent heavy rain events. The intensity and duration of rainfall during this period can lead to flooding and other weather-related hazards. Autumn and winter, from October to February, are typically drier, with occasional rainfall resulting from extratropical cyclones or frontal systems.

Climate and Snow Patterns in Sejong

Sejong, South Korea, experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters in Sejong are typically cold and dry, with average temperatures ranging from -2 to 3 degrees Celsius (28.4 to 37.4 degrees Fahrenheit). Snowfall is common during winter months, as the city is located in a higher elevation area compared to other metropolitan cities in South Korea. The snowfall patterns in Sejong are influenced by various factors, including the Siberian high-pressure system, which brings cold and dry air from the north.

Snowfall Data and Accumulation

The average annual snowfall in Sejong ranges from 30 to 50 centimeters (12 to 20 inches). The heaviest snowfall typically occurs in January and February, with significant accumulations possible during these winter months. In recent years, Sejong has experienced occasional heavy snowfall events, resulting in the accumulation of snow several feet deep. The city’s topography also plays a role in snowfall accumulation, as areas located at higher elevations receive more precipitation compared to lower-lying areas.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Sejong, South Korea, the sun’s daily rising and setting times vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s orbit and axial tilt. During the summer months from June to August, sunrise occurs around 5:00 AM and sunset around 7:30 PM local time. The days are longer during this period, providing ample daylight hours for various activities. In contrast, the winter months from December to February witness shorter days with sunrise around 7:00 AM and sunset around 5:30 PM. This reduced daylight duration influences daily schedules and can impact outdoor activities.

Seasonal Variations

The sun’s trajectory in Sejong also undergoes seasonal variations. During the summer solstice around June 21st, the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, resulting in the longest day of the year with about 15 hours of daylight. Conversely, during the winter solstice around December 21st, the sun sits lowest in the sky, leading to the shortest day with approximately 9 hours of daylight. These seasonal differences have a noticeable effect on the duration of sunlight available for activities and can influence seasonal rhythms and energy levels.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The moon’s rising and setting times vary throughout the month and year in Sejong, Korea, South. During the summer months, the moon rises later in the evening and sets later in the morning. In the winter months, the moon rises and sets earlier. On average, the moon rises between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM and sets between 4:00 AM and 6:00 AM.

Moon Phases

The moon goes through a cycle of phases, from new moon to full moon and back again. The new moon is when the moon is not visible from Earth. The full moon is when the moon is fully illuminated by the sun. During the waxing moon phase, the moon is growing from a new moon to a full moon. During the waning moon phase, the moon is shrinking from a full moon to a new moon.

Seasonal Variations

Sejong, South Korea, experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity levels. During the summer months (June to August), humidity tends to be high, often exceeding 70%. This is due to the influence of warm and moist air masses from the Pacific Ocean. The city also sees occasional heavy rainfall during this period, which can further contribute to the high humidity levels.

In contrast, the winter months (December to February) are characterized by significantly lower humidity. During this time, humidity levels typically drop to around 40% or below. The cold and dry weather conditions, combined with limited precipitation, result in a drier climate during the winter season. The transition periods between summer and winter (spring and fall) experience moderate humidity levels, ranging from 50% to 60%.

Wind Patterns in Sejong

Sejong experiences a diverse range of wind patterns throughout the year, influenced by its unique geographical location near the Yellow Sea and the Korean Peninsula’s topography. During the summer months, prevailing southwesterly winds bring warm and humid air from the ocean, contributing to the city’s high humidity and summer rainfall. In contrast, during the winter, cold northwesterly winds from the Siberian interior sweep across the region, bringing dry and cold weather conditions. These alternating wind patterns are largely responsible for Sejong’s distinctly different seasons.

Seasonal Variability of Wind

The average wind speed in Sejong varies significantly throughout the year. During the summer, wind speeds are typically calm to moderate, with average speeds ranging between 2 to 4 meters per second. This is due to the dominance of the East Asian monsoon pattern, which brings warm and humid air from the Pacific Ocean. In the winter, however, wind speeds increase significantly as cold and dry air masses from Siberia move across the region. Average wind speeds during this season can reach up to 6 meters per second, with occasional gusts even stronger. These strong wind patterns contribute to Sejong’s cold and windy winter climate. In addition to the seasonal variations, Sejong can also experience occasional strong winds during the spring and autumn, especially during the passage of extratropical cyclones.

Spring (April-May)

Spring in Sejong offers a refreshing respite from the winter chill. The city awakens as vibrant greenery carpets the hills and parks. Temperatures range from mild to warm, with occasional showers bringing lushness to the landscape. The Sejong Lake Festival is a highlight of this season, featuring water sports, live music, and cultural performances.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn paints Sejong in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. As temperatures gradually cool, the leaves turn into a picturesque tapestry. The Sejong Autumn Cultural Festival showcases the beauty of the season with art exhibitions, concerts, and traditional performances. The Sejong City Marathon attracts runners from around the world, offering a chance to experience the vibrant autumn colors while exploring the city.

Solar Energy Potential

Sejong, South Korea, possesses a favorable solar radiation profile for harnessing solar energy. The city receives an average of 4.5-5.0 kWh/m² of solar irradiance daily, which is comparable to other parts of the country. This abundant sunshine provides a significant opportunity for solar energy development. Moreover, Sejong has a low level of air pollution, which minimizes the impact of atmospheric attenuation on solar energy systems. The city’s expanding urban areas and the presence of large-scale solar farms further enhance the potential for solar energy utilization.

Solar Energy Initiatives

Recognizing the potential of solar energy, the Sejong government has implemented several initiatives to promote its development and utilization. The city has established a renewable energy development plan, which includes targets for solar energy deployment. Additionally, Sejong has introduced financial incentives, such as subsidies and tax breaks, to encourage the adoption of solar energy systems. These measures have spurred the growth of the solar industry in the city. As a result, Sejong now boasts numerous solar photovoltaic (PV) installations on rooftops, commercial buildings, and dedicated solar farms. These installations contribute to the city’s energy mix and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

Overview of Topography:

Sejong, South Korea, is a planned city located in the central region of the Korean Peninsula. The city’s topography is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, gentle slopes, and a vast central plain. The Geumgang River, a major tributary of the Han River, flows through the city, providing a natural drainage system. The surrounding hills offer panoramic views of the urban landscape and adjacent countryside. Sejong’s unique topographic features have influenced its urban design, with zoning regulations ensuring the preservation of natural vistas and green spaces.

Geological History and Landforms:

The topography of Sejong has been shaped by geological processes over millions of years. During the Mesozoic era, the area was covered by a shallow sea, which deposited layers of sedimentary rock. These rocks were subsequently uplifted and eroded, forming the gently undulating hills and plains. The Geumgang River has carved a deep valley through the landscape, exposing the underlying bedrock. The river’s meandering course has created oxbow lakes and floodplains that add to the region’s topographical diversity. The presence of granite outcrops and limestone formations further enhances the city’s geological interest. These landforms, combined with the city’s planned layout, create a visually appealing and distinctive urban environment.

Cheongju International Airport (CJJ)

Cheongju International Airport (CJJ) is the nearest major airport to Sejong, South Korea, located approximately 30 kilometers (18 miles) to the northwest of the city center. CJJ features domestic and international flights connecting Sejong to major cities in South Korea as well as destinations in China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. The airport has a single terminal with modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and a currency exchange.

Other Nearby Airports

While Cheongju International Airport is the most convenient option for air travel to Sejong, there are other airports in the vicinity that may also be considered. Incheon International Airport (ICN), located approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) northwest of Sejong, is a major international hub serving Seoul and the surrounding areas. Gimpo International Airport (GMP), located approximately 100 kilometers (60 miles) west of Sejong, offers mostly domestic flights. Both ICN and GMP offer a wider range of flight options and connections compared to CJJ, but they are also further from Sejong and may require additional travel time.

History and Foundation

Sejong, named after the revered Joseon King Sejong the Great, is a planned city located in South Chungcheong Province, South Korea. Its creation was initiated in 2003 under the decentralization policy aimed at alleviating the excessive concentration of population and economic activities in Seoul. The city’s construction began in 2006, and it officially became the administrative capital of South Korea in 2012. Sejong is designed to be a futuristic and environmentally sustainable city, incorporating advanced technologies and innovative urban planning concepts.

Administrative and Economic Role

As the administrative capital of South Korea, Sejong houses the central government ministries and agencies, including the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Justice. This has led to the relocation of numerous government officials and their families to the city, significantly contributing to its population growth. Additionally, Sejong plays a strategic role in South Korea’s economic development. It is home to several research and development institutions, including the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI). The city also serves as a hub for IT and biotechnology industries, attracting investment and fostering innovation.