January Weather in Gangneung, South Korea

Last updated: October 30, 2025

In January, Gangneung, South Korea, experiences a chilly winter climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and an average low of -3°C (28°F), dipping to a frosty minimum of -19°C (-2°F). This month sees light precipitation totaling around 40 mm (1.6 in), typically spread across 4 days of the month, contributing to the region's 71% humidity. Visitors should prepare for brisk weather and occasional rain, making it a unique time to explore the snowy landscapes and cultural heritage of this beautiful coastal city.

January Temperature in Gangneung

In January, Gangneung, South Korea, experiences a stark winter chill, with temperatures dipping as low as -19°C (-2°F) and averaging around -3°C (28°F). This month sets the stage for the cold season, showcasing a wide range between the frigid lows and a modest high of 9°C (49°F). As winter progresses into February, the conditions remain icy, but there's a slight upward trend in temperatures, with averages nudging just below freezing at -1°C (31°F). By March, the region begins to thaw, with minimums still cold at -12°C (10°F) but an inviting average rising to 5°C (42°F), hinting at the approaching spring. Overall, January's cold paves the way for gradually warming temperatures as the year advances, encapsulating the essence of Gangneung's distinctive seasonal shifts.

January Weather in Gangneung: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Gangneung, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Gangneung, January typically has an average temperature of -3°C (28°F), with highs reaching up to 9°C (49°F) and lows dropping to around -19°C (-2°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec273042516167737465544331
Data source: Temperature data for Gangneung generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Gangneung

In January, Gangneung experiences a modest precipitation level of 40 mm (1.6 in) over just four rainy days. This sets the stage for a gradual increase in moisture as the year progresses. February sees a dip to 28 mm (1.1 in) but maintains the same number of rainy days. As spring approaches, March marks a significant rise in precipitation with 85 mm (3.4 in) across nine days, indicating a shift towards wetter months. This trend continues into the late spring and summer, culminating in July and August, where rainfall peaks at 243 mm (9.6 in) and 246 mm (9.7 in) respectively, with frequent showers on 17 and 20 days. By November, precipitation once again lessens to 47 mm (1.9 in), before dropping to a minimal 21 mm (0.8 in) in December, illustrating a clear cyclical pattern in Gangneung's climate that transitions from a relatively dry winter into a lush, rain-soaked summer.

January Precipitation Trends in Gangneung

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Gangneung, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Gangneung, January typically receives around 40 mm (1.6 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 4 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4028859490852432462051324722
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Gangneung

In January, Gangneung, South Korea, experiences a humidity level of 71%, setting the stage for a winter where the crisp air is often accompanied by a noticeable dampness. As winter transitions into early spring, humidity begins to trend downward, dropping to 66% in February and reaching its lowest point at 64% in March. However, as spring unfolds and summer approaches, humidity levels climb significantly, peaking at an impressive 91% during both July and August. This pattern highlights a shift from the cooler, drier months of winter to the humid, warmer conditions typical of summer. As autumn arrives, humidity remains relatively high, hovering around 77% in September and 80% in November, before slightly easing to 76% in December. Overall, Gangneung's humidity showcases a clear seasonal rhythm, blending the chill of winter with the sultry embrace of summer.

January Average Humidity in Gangneung

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Gangneung, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Gangneung is approximately 71%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec71%66%64%74%79%82%91%91%77%78%80%76%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Gangneung

In January, Gangneung experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, with a recommended burn time of 30 minutes, indicating that while sun exposure can be enjoyable, it's wise to take some precautions. As February rolls in, the UV Index climbs slightly to 4, still within the moderate range but suggesting increased vigilance. Transitioning into spring, the UV levels spike significantly; by March, the index reaches 6, marking the onset of high exposure with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. This upward trend continues into April and May, where the UV Index hits 9 and 10, respectively, prompting very high exposure warnings and a swift 15-minute burn time. The summer months of June through August see an alarming rise to an extreme level of 11 and 12, demanding immediate sun protection measures, with burn times slashed to just 10 minutes. As the seasons change once more, September's UV Index decreases to 10, followed by a dip back to moderate levels in November and December with indices of 4 and 3, respectively. This seasonal ebb and flow suggests that while winter in Gangneung is relatively safe for sun exposure, the spring and summer months pose significant risks, highlighting the importance of being UV-aware throughout the year. For a detailed overview of the UV Index in Gangneung, check out Gangneung UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Gangneung for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Gangneung in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Gangneung typically reaches 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34691011111210743
Data source: Gangneung January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in Gangneung

In Gangneung, South Korea, January offers 195 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase in daylight as the year unfolds. By February, the sun shines for 239 hours, and this upward trend continues into the spring, with March enjoying 268 hours and April peaking at 285 hours. As the days lengthen, May and June bask in an impressive 303 and 312 hours of sunlight, respectively, marking the zenith of sunny days. However, the summer heat starts to wane in July and August, dropping to 285 and 267 hours. Fall brings a softer glow, with September to November showcasing 250, 248, and 235 hours of sunshine, while December wraps up the year with 240 hours. This welcoming cycle of light not only brightens each month, but also reflects the shifting seasons in this picturesque coastal city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Gangneung: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Gangneung experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec195h239h268h285h303h312h285h267h250h248h235h240h
Data source: Gangneung January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Gangneung During January

In Gangneung, South Korea, January boasts a 62% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of the year. This trend of higher sunshine continues into February (59%) before experiencing a notable drop in the spring months, where March and April see only 45% and 44% sunny days, respectively. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunny weather declines significantly, hitting a low of just 19% in the sultry summer months of July and August. Interestingly, November and December bounce back with chances of sunshine at 63% and 64%, suggesting that as winter approaches, the sun re-emerges more frequently, giving residents a refreshing respite from the colder temperatures. Overall, January stands out as a prime time for sunshine seekers in Gangneung, setting the stage for a bright start to the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Gangneung

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Gangneung throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Gangneung experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62%59%45%44%39%32%28%19%32%42%63%64%
Data source: Gangneung January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Gangneung in January

In Gangneung, South Korea, January ushers in a modest 9 hours of daylight, marking the year's darkest month. As winter fades, February provides a slight boost, totaling 10 hours, hinting at the lengthening days to come. By March, daylight extends to 11 hours, and the gradual transition toward spring becomes evident. The increase is more pronounced in April, with 13 hours of sunlight, leading into May's peak at 14 hours. This extended illumination continues through June and July, creating vibrant summer days. As summer winds down, August sees a gentle decline to 13 hours, followed by a gradual taper into autumn, presenting 12 hours in September and further diminishing to 11 hours in October. The cycle completes as November and December return to 10 hours and finally settle back at 9 hours, illustrating a rhythmic dance of daylight throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Gangneung for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Gangneung throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 51m10h 46m11h 57m13h 10m14h 12m14h 43m14h 27m13h 33m12h 23m11h 11m10h 7m9h 35m
Data source: Gangneung daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Gangneung

In January, Gangneung, South Korea, experiences a brisk average wind speed of 3.8 m/s (8 mph), making it one of the windiest months of the year. This invigorating breeze is mirrored in December and November, where wind speeds also peak at 3.8 m/s and 3.7 m/s, respectively, offering a refreshing atmosphere as winter deepens. As the year transitions into spring, the winds gradually soften, dropping to 2.9 m/s (7 mph) in March and continuing to decline through the warmer months. By July, the wind eases to a gentle 1.7 m/s (4 mph), providing a calm reprieve during the summer heat. However, as the seasons shift again, November heralds a return to more vigorous breezes, enhancing the coastal charm of this beautiful locale. Overall, January sets the tone for winter winds in Gangneung, with a clear trend of diminishing gales as spring takes hold before the cycle begins anew.

Average January Wind Speed in Gangneung

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Gangneung, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.8 m/s3.72.92.83.02.11.72.12.32.33.73.8
Data source: Gangneung January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Gangneung Compares to Other Months

Weather in Gangneung varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Gangneung, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In January, the weather is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F), reaching a maximum of only 9°C (49°F). This month experiences a fair amount of precipitation at 40 mm (1.6 in) over four days, paired with a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, February shows a slight improvement in weather conditions, with minimum temperatures at -17°C (1°F) and a higher average of -1°C (31°F), peaking at a milder 16°C (62°F). Precipitation decreases to 28 mm (1.1 in) over the same number of days, and humidity drops to 66%. For more details, visit Gangneung weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Gangneung can drop to a chilling minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and typically hover around an average of -3°C (28°F), while reaching a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 40 mm (1.6 in) over just 4 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 71%, making it one of the colder months of the year. In contrast, March presents a notable shift in weather, with minimum temperatures around -12°C (10°F) and average temperatures warming up to 5°C (42°F), peaking at 20°C (69°F). This month also experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 85 mm (3.4 in) across 9 days, although the humidity decreases to 64%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Gangneung weather in March.

In January, the weather is quite frigid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), averaging around -3°C (28°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation of 40 mm (1.6 in) spread over just four days, along with a humidity level of 71%. In stark contrast, April brings a significant shift, featuring milder temperatures that range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 11°C (51°F). However, April also sees increased precipitation, with 94 mm (3.7 in) falling over nine days, and a slight rise in humidity to 74%. For more detailed information, check out Gangneung weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite frigid, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F). This month experiences about 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over four days and maintains a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, May ushers in much milder temperatures, with minimums of 4°C (39°F), average highs of 16°C (61°F), and can even reach a peak of 30°C (87°F). The precipitation increases to 90 mm (3.5 in) spread over eight days, accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 79%. For more details on the weather conditions in May, you can check Gangneung weather in May.

In January, the weather is notably frigid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), accompanied by an average temperature of -3°C (28°F). The month sees about 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 4 days, while humidity levels hover around 71%. In contrast, June offers a significant warmth boost, with minimum temperatures of 9°C (49°F) and maximum temperatures reaching 31°C (87°F), averaging at a comfortable 20°C (67°F). The month also experiences increased precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days and a slightly higher humidity level of 82%. For more details, you can explore Gangneung weather in June.

January and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -19°C (-2°F), with average highs reaching only 9°C (49°F), while the air remains relatively dry with 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over just 4 days and a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, with minimums around 13°C (57°F) and averages soaring to 23°C (73°F), peaking at highs of 33°C (93°F). This summer month experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 243 mm (9.6 in) over 17 days, coupled with a high humidity of 91%. For more details, check out Gangneung weather in July.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with averages around -3°C (28°F) and a minimum that can plummet to -19°C (-2°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation of 40 mm (1.6 in) spread over just 4 days, while humidity hovers around 71%. In stark contrast, August boasts much warmer conditions, with average temperatures reaching 23°C (75°F) and peaks soaring up to 33°C (92°F). This month experiences significantly higher precipitation of 246 mm (9.7 in) over 20 days, coupled with a humidity level of 91%. For a more detailed look at the weather in August, you can visit Gangneung weather in August.

January and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. January experiences chillier temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F), while September enjoys milder warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (48°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). While January sees relatively low precipitation of 40 mm (1.6 in) over just 4 days, September is much wetter, recording 205 mm (8.1 in) across 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in September at 77%, compared to January's 71%. For more detailed insights, check Gangneung weather in September.

In January, the weather is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, with lows plunging to -19°C (-2°F) and averaging around -3°C (28°F), reaching a maximum of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 40 mm (1.6 in), occurring on about 4 days, and the humidity averages 71%.

In stark contrast, October presents a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 0°C (33°F) and averaging 12°C (55°F), peaking at a warm 27°C (80°F). This month sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 132 mm (5.2 in) over approximately 10 days, and a higher humidity level of 78%. For more details on October weather, you can visit Gangneung weather in October.

In January, temperatures in Gangneung are significantly colder, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F), while November offers milder conditions with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in November at 47 mm (1.9 in) compared to January's 40 mm (1.6 in), and rainfall occurs on more days during November (6 days versus 4). Additionally, humidity levels peak in November at 80%, compared to January's 71%, contributing to a more overcast and damp climate. For more insights on the November weather, you can visit Gangneung weather in November.

In January, temperatures in Gangneung range from a chilly -19°C at night to a mild maximum of 9°C during the day, with an average temperature of -3°C. The month sees about 40 mm of precipitation over four days, resulting in a moderate level of humidity at 71%. In contrast, December experiences slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures dipping to -19°C and maximums reaching 13°C, yielding an average of -1°C. Precipitation in December is lower at 21 mm over three days, but humidity is slightly higher at 76%. For more detailed insights, you can check Gangneung weather in December.

Compare Gangneung's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Gangneung

As January blankets Gangneung in winter's chill, it stands apart from the other months with its notably lower temperatures and brisk conditions. While the average temperature hovers around a frosty -3°C, the occasional respite is offered with peaks reaching up to 9°C. The cold is accompanied by a higher humidity level of 71%, which can make the air feel even crisper. Though January sees only a handful of days with precipitation, accumulating around 40 mm, the unique character of this month offers a tranquil beauty that contrasts sharply with the milder weather of other seasons. Discover more about the seasonal variations in this coastal city by visiting Gangneung Climate.