Last updated: January 18, 2025
Gyeongsangnam-do, located in South Korea, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by a blend of Köppen-Geiger climate classes: Cfa, Dwb, Cwa, and Dwa. This region experiences a significant temperature range, with a stark minimum of -20°C (-4°F) in January, contrasting sharply with a sweltering maximum of 38°C (100°F) during August. The average annual temperature hovers around 14°C (58°F), illustrating the region's distinct seasonal variations. Such climatic diversity influences the local ecosystem, agriculture, and seasonal activities, making Gyeongsangnam-do a fascinating area for climate observation and study.
Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea, experiences distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, with pronounced variations that reflect the transition from winter to summer. January and February are characterized by cold temperatures, with January showcasing a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), while February sees slightly milder conditions with a minimum of -16°C (3°F). As spring arrives in March and April, temperatures gradually rise; March boasts a maximum of 25°C (78°F), and by April, the region can reach up to 31°C (88°F). May signals the onset of true warmth, with averages climbing to 18°C (65°F) and maximums soaring to 35°C (96°F). The summer months of June, July, and August are notably hot, with July recording an average of 25°C (77°F) and peaks of 37°C (99°F), eventually peaking in August at 38°C (100°F). As autumn approaches in September and October, the temperatures begin to cool, yet September still enjoys comfortable averages around 22°C (72°F). By November and December, the chill returns, with November starting to drop to 10°C (51°F) and December rounding out the year with a minimum of -15°C (6°F), reflecting the cyclical nature of Gyeongsangnam-do’s climate.
Miryang experiences a temperature range from a minimum of -14°C (8°F) in January to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in August, while Changwon and Kimhae have slightly milder winter lows of -11°C (13°F) but similar summer highs peaking at 37°C (98°F) and 36°C (98°F), respectively. For more details on the climate in these cities, visit the links: monthly temperatures in Miryang, monthly temperatures in Changwon, and monthly temperatures in Kimhae.
Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea, exhibits a dynamic precipitation pattern throughout the year, primarily influenced by seasonal changes. The winter months of January and February remain relatively dry, with precipitation levels at 31 mm (1.2 in) and 38 mm (1.5 in), respectively, and only 3 days of rain each month. As spring unfolds, rainfall begins to increase, peaking in May at 106 mm (4.2 in) across roughly 7 rainy days, signaling the approach of the wetter summer period. March and April also contribute significant rainfall, with totals of 85 mm (3.4 in) and 93 mm (3.7 in).
The summer season is marked by a substantial rise in precipitation, particularly from June to August, where Gyeongsangnam-do receives its highest totals. June sets the stage with 168 mm (6.6 in) over 9 days, while July peaks dramatically at 269 mm (10.6 in) spread across 14 days, making it the wettest month of the year. Although August sees a decrease to 190 mm (7.5 in), it still maintains significant rainfall. The onset of autumn in September and October continues to deliver considerable precipitation, with September accumulating 240 mm (9.4 in). By November and December, rainfall significantly tapers off, dropping to just 25 mm (1.0 in) and 23 mm (0.9 in) respectively, as the region transitions back to its drier winter phase.
In Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea, the duration of sunshine showcases a clear seasonal trend, with hours steadily increasing from the cold winter months into the vibrant summer season. January begins the year with 197 hours of sunshine, slowly increasing to 240 hours in February. As spring unfolds, sunshine hours continue to rise, reaching 271 hours in March and peaking at 278 hours in April, ultimately culminating in 299 hours in May—the region's sunniest month. This period reflects not only the growing warmth but also the lengthening days, as residents enjoy the increasing brightness prior to the heat of summer.
Entering the summer, June maintains a strong 295 hours of sunshine, though the peak heat of July sees a slight decline to 262 hours. August experiences a rebound with 287 hours, reflecting a remaining abundance of sunlight despite the seasonal shift. As autumn starts, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with September recording 243 hours, followed by October with 261 hours. The final months of the year, November and December, yield 238 hours and 242 hours respectively—a return to the lower levels seen in the winter months, reminding residents of the cyclical nature of Gyeongsangnam-do’s climate and the rhythmic interplay of light and dark throughout the year.
In Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea, the UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, reflecting seasonal changes that influence sun exposure. Beginning in January, the UV Index is relatively low at 4, categorized as moderate, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, a steady increase is noted, with March reaching a UV Index of 7 (high), where the burn time decreases to 25 minutes. The months of April and May both experience a peak UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, which significantly shortens the safe exposure time to just 15 minutes.
The summer months amplify this trend even further, with June, July, and August displaying extremely high UV Index values of 11 and 12, where the burn time reduces to a critical 10 minutes. This extreme exposure alert underscores the necessity for adequate sun protection during this period. As autumn approaches, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping back to 10 in September and 7 in October, before settling at lower levels of 5 in November and 3 in December, indicating more moderate UV conditions. The data emphasizes the importance of sun safety, particularly during the higher UV periods, to mitigate the risks of skin damage from excessive sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea, daylight duration showcases a pronounced seasonal variation, beginning with the shorter days of winter. January and February each provide around 10 hours of daylight, setting a subdued atmosphere as the region experiences colder temperatures. As spring arrives, the days gradually lengthen, with March increasing to 11 hours, followed by notable growth to 13 hours in April and 14 hours in May—the latter reflecting the lengthiest daylight hours leading into summer.
The summer months of June, July, and August maintain a consistent level of 14 hours of daylight, allowing for ample time to enjoy outdoor activities and warm weather. However, as autumn sets in, daylight starts to decrease, tapering to 13 hours in August and down to 12 hours by September. October sees a further reduction back to 11 hours, while November and December experience the shortest days of the year, with only 10 hours and 9 hours of daylight, respectively. This cyclical pattern emphasizes the rhythmic nature of daylight in Gyeongsangnam-do, influencing lifestyle and seasonal activities throughout the year.
Changwon, South Korea experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and hot, humid summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -11°C (13°F), while July sees highs reaching up to 35°C (96°F). Precipitation is highest in the summer months, particularly in July with 258 mm (10.2 in), and rainfall decreases significantly in the winter. Sunshine is abundant in spring and summer, with May offering the most hours at 295. For more details, visit Changwon climate.
Goseong, South Korea, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -11°C to 16°C, while July can reach up to 36°C. Precipitation peaks in the summer months, especially July with 248 mm, and sunshine is abundant in spring and early summer, reaching up to 297 hours in May. The transition seasons of spring and autumn showcase moderate temperatures and a mix of rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Goseong climate.
Hadong, South Korea experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with January temperatures ranging from -13°C (9°F) to 15°C (58°F) and July highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F). The region sees substantial rainfall, especially in July and August, with cumulative precipitation of 302 mm (11.9 in) and 236 mm (9.3 in) respectively. While the summer months are warm and humid, winters can be quite cold with notable snowfall. Sunlight is abundant, peaking in May at 296 hours, providing a pleasant atmosphere. For more detailed information, visit Hadong climate.
The climate in Kimhae, South Korea, is characterized by distinct seasonal variations. Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -11°C (13°F) in January, while summers (June to August) are warm to hot, peaking at 36°C (98°F) in August. Precipitation is highest during the monsoon months of July and August, totaling 257 mm (10.1 in) and 183 mm (7.2 in), respectively. The region enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, particularly in May, which sees about 295 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Kimhae climate.
Miryang, South Korea experiences distinct seasonal variations in climate, characterized by cold winters and hot, humid summers. January's temperatures can drop to a minimum of -14°C (8°F), while summer months like July and August reach highs of up to 36°C (97°F) and 37°C (99°F), respectively. Precipitation is significant, especially from June to August, with July averaging 244 mm (9.6 in) of rainfall. The city enjoys ample sunshine in spring and summer, peaking at 298 hours in May. For more detailed information on the climate in Miryang, refer to Miryang climate.
In conclusion, Gyeongsangnam-do's climate exemplifies the dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the seasons. With cold winters giving way to warm summers, this region experiences significant variations that impact both the natural environment and daily life. The noteworthy increase in sunshine and daylight from spring to summer invites outdoor activities, while the rising UV Index during these months calls for careful consideration of sun safety. As the year transitions into autumn and winter, the gradual reduction in daylight and precipitation creates a rhythm that shapes the region's ecological patterns and cultural practices. Understanding these climatic trends fosters awareness and preparation for residents and visitors alike, enhancing their connection to this vibrant area of South Korea.