Last updated: January 18, 2025
Gwangju, South Korea experiences a humid subtropical climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cfa. This climate is characterized by a wide temperature range, with winter lows plunging to a frigid -22°C (-8°F) in January, while summer highs can reach a scorching 37°C (99°F) in August. The average annual temperature of 14°C (57°F) reflects the distinct seasonal variations that define this vibrant urban center, making Gwangju's climate both challenging and invigorating.
In Gwangju, South Korea, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal progression, beginning with frigid winters and culminating in hot, humid summers. January marks the coldest month, where temperatures dip to a minimum of -22°C (-8°F), gradually warming through February as averages reach 2°C (36°F). Spring begins mild but quickly transitions to warmth, with daytime highs soaring to 28°C (83°F) by April and averaging 18°C (65°F) in May. The summer months of June through August bring sweltering heat, peaking in August with an average of 27°C (80°F) and maximums hitting 37°C (99°F). As fall arrives, temperatures decline again, with November and December recording cooler averages of 9°C (48°F) and 2°C (36°F), respectively. This dynamic climate results in a distinct rhythm, reflective of Gwangju's geographical positioning.
Masan experiences a January minimum temperature of -19°C (-2°F) and an August maximum of 37°C (99°F), as noted in the monthly temperatures in Masan. In comparison, Gwangju records a colder January minimum of -22°C (-8°F) while also reaching a peak of 37°C (99°F) in August, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Gwangju.
Gwangju, South Korea experiences notable variations in precipitation throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons shaping its climate. The year begins with relatively low rainfall, as January and February receive 30 mm (1.2 in) and 32 mm (1.3 in), respectively, typically over a modest number of days. Spring brings a gradual increase in rainfall, peaking in May with 90 mm (3.5 in), effectively supporting the blooming flora. This pattern culminates in June when rainfall intensifies, leading into the monsoon season with a staggering 152 mm (6.0 in) recorded.
During the summer months, Gwangju faces its wettest period, particularly in July, which receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 16 days. Both August and September also contribute significantly to total annual rainfall, with 202 mm (8.0 in) and 212 mm (8.4 in), respectively. As the year progresses into fall, the precipitation begins to taper off, with October noting 72 mm (2.8 in) and November dropping to 35 mm (1.4 in), while December wraps up the year similarly low at 31 mm (1.2 in). This seasonal variation emphasizes the dynamic interplay of Gwangju's climatic conditions, leaving an imprint on its lush environment.
Gwangju, South Korea experiences a notable increase in sunshine duration as the year progresses, reflecting the transition from the cold winter months to the warm summer season. Beginning the year with 190 hours of sunshine in January, the region gradually welcomes more sun, culminating in a peak during late spring and early summer. By May, sunshine hours reach 305 hours, and this upward trend continues into June, offering 308 hours of bright skies. These months not only provide the longest sunshine periods but also signal the arrival of vibrant flora and outdoor activities as the region basks in warmth and light.
However, the summer months, particularly July and August, still provide ample sunlight despite slightly lower totals of 292 hours and 302 hours, respectively. As fall arrives, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with September recording 258 hours and October noticing a decrease to 268 hours. By November and December, the sun's presence diminishes further, contributing 237 hours and 231 hours respectively. This seasonal pattern highlights Gwangju's climatic rhythm, where a vibrant summer is contrasted by the shorter, cooler days of winter, fostering a unique cycle that influences local lifestyles and ecology.
The UV Index in Gwangju, South Korea, exhibits significant seasonal variation, indicating differing levels of solar radiation throughout the year. During the winter months, from January to February, the UV Index remains moderate, ranging from 4 to 5 with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, particularly in March, the UV Index escalates to 7, marking the transition to higher levels of sun exposure. The situation intensifies in April, with a very high UV Index of 9, leading to reduced burn times of just 15 minutes as the sun becomes stronger.
Summer sees the UV Index reaching its peak, particularly in June, July, and August, where values soar to an extreme 11 to 12. Under such intense solar radiation, the burn time diminishes to merely 10 minutes, highlighting the necessity for sun protection during these months. As the year progresses into fall, the UV Index begins to decline, with September recording 10 and October at 7. November and December see a return to moderate levels with indices of 5 and 3, respectively. This clear seasonal pattern underscores the importance of sun safety measures during the summer months when UV radiation poses the greatest risk to skin health.
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In Gwangju, South Korea, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, influenced by the geographical positioning and time of year. Beginning in January, the city experiences approximately 10 hours of daylight, a trend that continues into February. As spring arrives in March, daylight begins to increase, reaching 11 hours, which sets the stage for a significant rise as the days grow longer. By April, daylight extends to 13 hours, further blossoming into May and June, where it peaks at 14 hours each month, providing ample time for outdoor activities and natural growth.
As summer transitions into fall, daylight duration gradually decreases, beginning in July and August where it remains steady at 14 hours before tapering off to 13 hours in September. By October, the light shrinks back to 11 hours, and the decline continues through November with 10 hours and into December, where daylight diminishes to 9 hours. This predictable pattern of daylight underscores Gwangju's shift from vibrant summer days to the shorter, cozily lit winter evenings, influencing both lifestyle and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.
Gwangju, South Korea experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot, humid summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -22°C to 17°C, while July boasts highs reaching up to 35°C. Precipitation peaks during the summer months, with July averaging 242 mm of rain and June experiencing 157 mm. This region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May and June, with over 300 hours of sunlight each month during this period. For more details, visit Gwangju climate.
Masan, South Korea experiences a diverse climate with chilly winters and warm summers. January and February feature low temperatures averaging around -10°C to 1°C, while July and August peak at an average of 26°C to 27°C. The region sees significant rainfall, particularly in July (233 mm) and June (146 mm), contributing to overall humidity during the summer months. Notably, sunshine is abundant from May to August, with May receiving up to 305 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Masan climate.
In conclusion, Gwangju, South Korea, showcases a dynamic climate characterized by distinct temperature fluctuations, varying precipitation levels, and notable shifts in sunlight and UV exposure throughout the year. With frigid winters giving way to humid summers, residents and visitors experience a rich tapestry of seasonal changes that influence both daily life and outdoor activities. The increasing daylight hours in spring and summer foster a vibrant atmosphere, while the elevated UV Index during those warmer months emphasizes the need for sun protection. Understanding these climatic patterns allows for better preparation and appreciation of Gwangju's diverse and ever-changing environment, enhancing both the enjoyment and safety of its inhabitants as they navigate the seasons.