Last updated: August 21, 2025
January in Pyongyang, North Korea is marked by a chilly climate, with an average temperature hovering around -4°C (25°F). Visitors can expect maximum daytime temperatures reaching up to 11°C (51°F), while nighttime can plummet to a frigid -19°C (-1°F). The month sees some level of moisture, with precipitation totaling 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, and the humidity typically sits at about 65%. This combination of cold temperatures and occasional snowfall lends January its unique, wintry charm, ideal for those intrigued by the stark beauty of North Korea's capital in the heart of winter.
In January, Pyongyang, North Korea, experiences its coldest temperatures of the year, with averages hovering around -4°C (25°F) and creeping daytime highs reaching 11°C (51°F). The biting cold is emphasized by low nighttime temperatures that can plummet to a chilling -19°C (-1°F). As the month progresses into February, the temperatures begin to show a gradual warming trend, with average lows rising slightly to -2°C (29°F) and daytime highs occasionally lifting to 17°C (63°F). By March, spring starts to emerge, marking a noticeable transition with an average temperature of 6°C (42°F), highlighting the region's resilience against winter. As each month unfolds, temperatures steadily rise, culminating in the warm embrace of summer by July and August, when maximums soar to around 36°C (96°F) and 37°C (98°F), transforming the landscape from a frosty winter wonderland to a vibrant, sun-soaked atmosphere.
In January, Pyongyang experiences relatively low precipitation, with only 13 mm (0.5 in) recorded over just 2 days. This makes it one of the driest months of the year, setting the stage for a stark contrast in the following months. As winter transitions to spring, precipitation begins to rise steadily; by February, monthly totals increase to 18 mm (0.7 in) and March sees a further jump to 31 mm (1.2 in). This upward trend continues dramatically as the region welcomes spring and summer, with monthly averages peaking in August at a significant 269 mm (10.6 in), accompanied by 17 rainy days. Overall, this gradual escalation of precipitation signifies a shift from the dry, harsh winter skies to the lush, moisture-rich atmosphere of summer, illustrating Pyongyang's transition through the seasons.
In January, Pyongyang experiences a relatively humid atmosphere, with humidity levels at 65%. This marks a notable increase from the colder months preceding it, showing a gradual rise in moisture as winter transitions toward early spring. As the year progresses, humidity tends to fluctuate, peaking in the summer months, particularly in July and August when it reaches an impressive 88% and 90%, respectively. Conversely, the late autumn and early winter months see a decline, with February and March recording lower percentages of 61% and 60%. Overall, the data reveals a seasonal pattern where humidity gradually increases from January until it peaks mid-year, followed by a steady decline as temperatures drop in the latter part of the year.
In January, Pyongyang experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, which indicates a relatively safe level of sun exposure, allowing for about 30 minutes before any risk of skin damage occurs. As the seasons transition into February and March, the UV Index rises slightly to 4 and 5, respectively, yet remains in the moderate category, still permitting a 30-minute burn time. However, as spring gives way to summer, a notable shift occurs: by April, the UV Index escalates to 8, entering the very high category, and necessitating a drastic reduction in burn time to just 15 minutes. This trend intensifies through the summer months, peaking at 11 in August, which is classified as extreme, demanding cautious behavior under the sun. As the year progresses into fall and winter, the UV Index declines again, providing a more forgiving environment, particularly in December with a low of 2 and a generous 45 minutes of sun exposure before risk arises. To learn more about this dynamic UV Index throughout the year, visit Pyongyang UV Index.
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In Pyongyang, January marks the beginning of the year with 200 hours of sunshine, setting a foundation for gradually brightening days. As winter transitions to spring, each month brings an increase in sunlight, with February offering 242 hours and March further enhancing the glow to 286 hours. The trend continues to climb, reaching a peak of 318 hours in June, the sunniest month, before the days begin to shorten again in autumn. By August, sunshine slips to 290 hours, and the city experiences a steady decline to 230 hours by November, heralding the arrival of the colder months. This rhythmic pattern highlights how sunlight in North Korea flows in harmony with the changing seasons, inviting both vibrant summers and serene winters.
In January, Pyongyang experiences a 55% chance of sunny weather, marking it as a favorable month for those seeking clear skies. This probability stands out compared to the following month, February, where the chances increase to 68%, suggesting a brightening trend as winter wanes. However, as the seasons transition into spring, the likelihood of sunny days dips again in March and April to 49%, hinting at potential cloud cover. Interestingly, January's sun probability is higher than in the subsequent warmer months, peaking in February, but gradually declines through summer into August, where it hits a low of 34%. Following this low, the chance for sunshine rebounds somewhat in the fall, making November's 58% a promising shift before winter returns in December at 63%. Overall, January offers a reasonable balance of sun, hinting at a bit of comfort amidst the winter chill.
In Pyongyang, North Korea, January brings a modest 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual lengthening as winter gives way to spring. By February, the daylight extends to 10 hours, and as March approaches, it increases further to 11 hours. This upward trend continues with April and May, enjoying an impressive 13 and 14 hours of daylight respectively, allowing residents to bask in the sun as spring flourishes. The peak is reached in June, where daylight remains stable at 14 hours, a sweet spot that lingers through July. However, as summer transitions to autumn, the daylight gradually recedes—13 hours in August, followed by 12 hours in September. The trend continues back to 11 hours in October, dipping to 10 hours in November, before returning to a familiar 9 hours by December. This cyclical pattern highlights the region's rhythmic dance between longer days of summer and shorter, drearier winter months.
In January, Pyongyang experiences an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), setting the stage for a gentle winter breeze that subtly invigorates the city. This month stands as a precursor to a slight increase in wind speed during February, reaching 3.4 m/s (8 mph), before the winds begin to soften in March with a dip to 2.8 m/s (6 mph). As spring approaches, the winds remain relatively stable, fluctuating between 3.1 m/s (7 mph) in April and May, showcasing a consistency that brings a refreshing air to the burgeoning season. However, as summer takes hold, the winds mellow further, with speeds dropping to their lowest in July and August, hovering around 2.2-2.3 m/s (5 mph). The trend shifts again in the autumn months, as a gradual increase returns, culminating in a winter reawakening by December, mirroring January's initial briskness at 3.2 m/s (7 mph). Overall, the wind patterns of Pyongyang in January suggest a rhythmic dance between brisk winters and gentler summer days, creating a unique atmosphere throughout the year.
Weather in Pyongyang varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Pyongyang, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In January, the weather tends to be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) to a maximum of 11°C (51°F) and an average of -4°C (25°F). Precipitation is low, averaging 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, and the humidity sits at 65%. In comparison, February sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), leading to an average of -2°C (29°F). Precipitation increases to 18 mm (0.7 in) and occurs over 4 days, while humidity drops slightly to 61%. For further details, you can check out the Pyongyang weather in February.
January and March present a notable contrast in weather. In January, temperatures can drop to as low as -19°C (-1°F), with an average of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 11°C (51°F). The month sees limited precipitation, totaling just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 65%. In contrast, March experiences a milder climate, with minimum temperatures of -9°C (17°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). This month also witnesses increased precipitation of 31 mm (1.2 in) across 4 days and slightly lower humidity at 60%. For more details on the weather during March, you can visit Pyongyang weather in March.
January and April present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures plummet, with minimums reaching -19°C (-1°F) and average highs around just 11°C (51°F), creating a cold and crisp climate. Precipitation is minimal, occurring on only two days, with an average of 13 mm (0.5 in) and humidity levels at 65%. In contrast, April ushers in a significant warming trend, with average temperatures soaring to 12°C (54°F) and maximums peaking at 26°C (79°F). The month experiences increased precipitation, totaling 50 mm (2.0 in) over six days, and the humidity rises slightly to 67%. For a more detailed overview, visit Pyongyang weather in April.
In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average around -4°C (25°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Precipitation is minimal, totaling just 13 mm (0.5 in) over only 2 days, and humidity hovers at 65%. In stark contrast, May sees a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), and an average of 18°C (64°F). This month is much wetter, experiencing 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation across 8 days, coupled with higher humidity at 76%. For more insights on the weather in May, you can visit Pyongyang weather in May.
January and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum reaching only 11°C (51°F), creating a chilly and often harsh environment. Precipitation is minimal during this month, totaling just 13 mm (0.5 in) over a couple of days, and the humidity sits at a moderate 65%.
In stark contrast, June brings a warm and vibrant climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a sweltering 33°C (91°F). Rainfall significantly increases to 136 mm (5.3 in), occurring on about ten days of the month, and humidity levels rise to 83%. This shift to a hot summer atmosphere is encapsulated in more detail at Pyongyang weather in June.
The weather conditions in January and July present a stark contrast. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average around -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 11°C (51°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, and humidity hovers at 65%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F), an average of 26°C (79°F), and a maximum reaching up to 36°C (96°F). The summer month sees significantly higher precipitation levels, totaling 182 mm (7.2 in) over 14 days, along with increased humidity at 88%. For more details on the weather in Pyongyang during July, you can refer to Pyongyang weather in July.
January and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures are frigid, with average lows plunging to -4°C (25°F) and maxing out at only 11°C (51°F). The month experiences minimal precipitation with just 13 mm (0.5 in) over two days and a humidity level of 65%. In sharp contrast, August boasts warm temperatures, ranging from a low of 13°C (56°F) to a scorching high of 37°C (98°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). This summer month is notably wetter, receiving 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain over 17 days with high humidity at 90%. For a more detailed look at the specifics, you can check out Pyongyang weather in August.
The weather in January is marked by frigid temperatures, with averages hovering around -4°C (25°F) and a striking minimum of -19°C (-1°F), contrasting sharply with the warm and pleasant September temperatures, which range from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). While January sees only 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, September is considerably wetter, receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) spread across 8 days. Additionally, the humidity levels are higher in September at 77%, compared to January's 65%, creating a more humid atmosphere as summer transitions into autumn. For more details on September weather specifics, you can check Pyongyang weather in September.
In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) to a maximum of 11°C (51°F), and an average temperature of -4°C (25°F). The month sees only 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, coupled with a humidity level of 65%. In contrast, October showcases a milder climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), and an average of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences more rainfall, accumulating 47 mm (1.9 in) over 6 days, along with increased humidity at 80%. For more detailed insights into October weather, you can visit Pyongyang weather in October.
January and November present notable contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average temperature around -4°C (25°F) and a maximum reaching 11°C (51°F). The month sees limited precipitation of just 13 mm (0.5 in) over two days, combined with a humidity level of 65%. In contrast, November experiences milder temperatures, where the minimum is -9°C (16°F) and the average climbs to 6°C (42°F), with highs soaring up to 21°C (71°F). This month is also characterized by increased precipitation, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over five days, alongside a higher humidity level of 76%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can refer to Pyongyang weather in November.
In January, the weather is slightly milder compared to December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) to a maximum of 11°C (51°F), while December sees colder conditions with a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation levels also decrease from December, which experiences 24 mm (0.9 in) over four days, to January's 13 mm (0.5 in) over just two days. Additionally, humidity is slightly lower in January at 65%, compared to December's 69%. For more information on December weather, you can visit Pyongyang weather in December.
As January unfolds in Pyongyang, the city experiences its coldest temperatures of the year, with a stark contrast to the milder months that precede and follow it. With a chilly average temperature hovering around -4°C (25°F) and occasional drops to a frigid -19°C (-1°F), January sets a distinctly frosty stage for visitors and locals alike. Precipitation is relatively low, with just a couple of days seeing light snow or rain, contributing to a humidity level that enhances the cold air. Unlike the warmer summer months filled with greenery and vibrancy, January offers a serene, stark beauty wrapped in winter’s grasp. For those interested in exploring more about the unique weather patterns throughout the year, please visit Pyongyang Climate.