Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Pyongyang experiences a notable drop in temperatures, with an average hovering around -3°C (27°F). The month sees a maximum temperature of 10°C (50°F) and can plummet to a chilling -21°C (-6°F). Despite the cold, Pyongyang receives a modest 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over four days, contributing to the city's humidity levels, which sit at a crisp 69%. These weather conditions create a stark winter landscape that is both challenging and enchanting for those experiencing the North Korean capital during this frigid month.
In December, Pyongyang, North Korea, experiences the chill of winter, with average temperatures hovering around -3°C (27°F). The month brings its coldest lows of -21°C (-6°F), reminiscent of the harsh January temperatures, signaling the peak of winter's bite. Despite these frigid conditions, daytime highs can reach up to 10°C (50°F), offering a brief reprieve from the cold. As the year draws to a close, the temperature trends show a transition from the mildness of November, with its average of 6°C (42°F), to the significantly cooler December, marking a distinct shift into the depths of the season.
In December, Pyongyang experiences a notable decline in precipitation, receiving approximately 24 mm (0.9 in) over just four days. This marks a sharp contrast to the summer months, where torrential downpours can accumulate significantly higher totals, such as the staggering 269 mm (10.6 in) observed in August. As the year draws to a close, the relatively low precipitation highlights a shift towards a drier climate, consistent with the area's seasonal patterns. With winter setting in, the crisp air and occasional light showers create a unique atmosphere in the capital, allowing for a peaceful end to the year.
In December, Pyongyang experiences a humidity level of 69%, a notable decline from the sweltering peaks seen in the summer months, where humidity soared to a steamy 90% in August. This drop signifies a transition into the winter season, with humidity levels generally decreasing from the high of 76% in November. Despite the cooling trend, December remains comparatively humid when set against the drier months of early winter, like January and February, which see averages around 65% and 61%, respectively. As the year closes, the city’s December humidity reflects a shift toward more comfortable, albeit still somewhat damp, conditions that characterize the region’s transition from fall to winter.
As December settles in Pyongyang, North Korea, the UV Index takes a notable dip to 2, categorizing exposure as low and extending the burn time to 45 minutes. This shift is part of a broader trend observed throughout the year, where UV levels peak in the summer months, reaching a staggering 11 in August under extreme conditions, while the sun’s intensity eases significantly by winter. From the moderate indices in the earlier months to the very high levels of spring and summer, it becomes evident that residents and visitors should remain vigilant for skin protection as the sun becomes increasingly fierce. However, by December, with lower UV exposure, there's a more comfortable allowance for time outside. For more detailed insights on the UV trends throughout the year, check out Pyongyang UV Index.
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In December, Pyongyang experiences a gentle transition from the vibrant sunlit days of summer, accumulating about 232 hours of sunshine. This marks a slight decline from the 230 hours in November, yet it remains quite mild compared to earlier winter months. The sun-soaked days in the preceding months, peaking in June with 318 hours, underscore the region's notable seasonal shifts. As the year draws to a close, December's sunshine reflects a steady pattern of diminishing daylight that began back in October, ultimately leading into the cold of January where a mere 200 hours awaits. With each passing month, the rhythm of sunlight captures both the fading warmth and the quiet beauty of Pyongyang's winter landscape.
In Pyongyang, December ushers in a 63% chance of sunny weather, a notable trend as the year draws to a close. This figure reflects a moderate increase compared to the preceding months—particularly from the 58% in November. While the months preceding winter, from July to October, exhibit a decline in sunny days, December hints at a promising shift toward brighter skies, echoing a common seasonal rebound seen as the region transitions into winter. This consistent pattern offers a glimmer of hope for those eager to bask in the sun before the harsher colder months set in.
In Pyongyang, North Korea, the daylight duration reflects a striking seasonal pattern throughout the year. December marks the return to shorter days, with only 9 hours of daylight, mirroring the light conditions of January. As winter deepens, the daylight gradually declines from the 14 hours of summer sunshine in June and July, before tapering off in the fall. February begins a slow ascent, heralding the arrival of spring with an increase to 10 hours of daylight, ultimately reaching a peak of 14 hours in May. This gradual ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the shift of the seasons but also sets the rhythm of daily life in this vibrant city, as residents adapt to the changing light throughout the year.
As December sweeps into Pyongyang, the average wind speed registers at 3.2 m/s (7 mph), mirroring the brisk breezes of January. This seasonal resurgence marks an interesting trend for the year, as wind speeds tend to fluctuate throughout the seasons. The spring months see a slight uptick with averages around 3.1 m/s (7 mph), while the summer months offer a subdued calm, with speeds dropping to lows of 2.2 m/s (5 mph) in July. Interestingly, as autumn arrives, the winds build momentum again, leading into December's refreshing gusts. Overall, the wind in Pyongyang transitions from gentle whispers to spirited breezes, revealing a fascinating interplay between the changing seasons and wind patterns.
Weather in Pyongyang varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Pyongyang, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between December and January, both months exhibit cold temperatures, but January tends to be slightly milder. December experiences an average temperature of -3°C (27°F), with a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). In contrast, January has an average temperature of -4°C (25°F), with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and a maximum of 11°C (51°F). Precipitation also differs, with December receiving 24 mm (0.9 in) over four days, while January has only 13 mm (0.5 in) over two days. Additionally, January's humidity is slightly lower at 65% compared to December's 69%. For more detailed information, you can check the Pyongyang weather in January.
December and February present notable contrasts in weather, despite their proximity in the winter season. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a high reaching 10°C (50°F). The month experiences around 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over four days and maintains a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, February offers slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -17°C (2°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F); however, it can also see a higher maximum temperature of 17°C (63°F). February has less precipitation, totaling 18 mm (0.7 in) across the same four days, and a lower humidity level of 61%. For those looking to explore the weather specifics in February, more information can be found here: Pyongyang weather in February.
December and March present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilling minimum of -21°C (-6°F) to an average of -3°C (27°F), peaking at a maximum of 10°C (50°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 24 mm (0.9 in) over four days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 69%. Conversely, March experiences a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to an average of 6°C (42°F) and rising to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation in March increases slightly to 31 mm (1.2 in) over the same four days, but with a lower humidity of 60%. For those interested in exploring more about the weather conditions in March, you can visit Pyongyang weather in March.
December and April showcase contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) with an average hovering around -3°C (27°F), while the maximum reaches 10°C (50°F). The month sees some precipitation totaling 24 mm (0.9 in) over just four days, along with a humidity level of 69%. In stark contrast, April experiences significantly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a warm maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation increases to 50 mm (2.0 in) over six days, and humidity dips slightly to 67%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Pyongyang weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather characteristics. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -21°C (-6°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum reaching 10°C (50°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 24 mm (0.9 in) over just four days, and humidity stands at 69%. In stark contrast, May boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and highs soaring to 34°C (93°F). Precipitation rises significantly to 112 mm (4.4 in) across eight days, and humidity increases slightly to 76%. For more details about the weather in May, you can check Pyongyang weather in May.
December and June showcase contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -21°C (-6°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation is mild at 24 mm (0.9 in) over just four days, while humidity sits at 69%. In stark contrast, June brings a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a scorching maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). The month sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 136 mm (5.3 in) across ten days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 83%. For a deeper look into June weather specifics, you can check out Pyongyang weather in June.
December and July exhibit stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F), with an average around -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 24 mm (0.9 in) over just 4 days, while humidity averages 69%. In contrast, July is characterized by significantly warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a scorching maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). This summer month sees considerable precipitation at 182 mm (7.2 in) spread over 14 days, and higher humidity levels at 88%. For more details about July weather, you can visit Pyongyang weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). The month typically sees 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over about four days, coupled with a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F), an average of 26°C (79°F), and highs reaching 37°C (98°F). August is also characterized by significantly higher precipitation, accumulating 269 mm (10.6 in) over 17 days and high humidity at 90%. For more detailed insights into August weather, visit Pyongyang weather in August.
December and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. December features frigid temperatures with a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while September enjoys a much milder climate, starting with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and peaking at an average of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation levels are also significantly different; December sees only 24 mm (0.9 in) over 4 days, whereas September is much wetter, receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) across 8 days. Additionally, humidity levels tend to be higher in September at 77%, compared to December's 69%. For a more detailed look, you can visit Pyongyang weather in September.
In comparing the weather between October and December, a marked contrast emerges. October boasts a much milder temperature range with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at a warm 29°C (85°F). In contrast, December plunges into the cold, where temperatures can drop to a chilling -21°C (-6°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of only 10°C (50°F). Additionally, December experiences lower humidity at 69%, compared to October's higher humidity level of 80%. Precipitation is also heavier in October, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in) over 6 days, as opposed to December's 24 mm (0.9 in) over just 4 days. For further details, you can check Pyongyang weather in October.
December weather exhibits a notable chill compared to November, with average temperatures dropping from 6°C (42°F) in November to a colder -3°C (27°F) in December. The minimum temperature plummets significantly, going from -9°C (16°F) in November to -21°C (-6°F) in December, while the maximum temperature sees a decrease from 21°C (71°F) to 10°C (50°F). In terms of precipitation, December experiences slightly less rain, totaling 24 mm (0.9 in) over four days, compared to November's 44 mm (1.7 in) over five days. Additionally, the humidity decreases slightly from 76% in November to 69% in December. For a closer look at November trends, check out Pyongyang weather in November.
December in Pyongyang offers a distinct departure from the milder months, as temperatures dip significantly, creating a chilly atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the warmer seasons. With average temperatures sitting around a brisk -3°C (27°F), the city experiences a frosty landscape, often enveloped in a serene blanket of snow. Precipitation is relatively low, limited to about four days of light snowfall or drizzle, contributing to the crisp winter air that can reach extremes of -21°C (-6°F) at night. Humidity remains moderate at 69%, adding a biting edge to the cold. For those looking to explore Pyongyang during this time, the weather presents a unique opportunity to experience the city's tranquil beauty, best described in detail at Pyongyang Climate.