Last updated: October 30, 2025
In May, Gangneung, South Korea experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 30°C (87°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Though the temperatures can dip to a minimum of 4°C (39°F), this month offers a refreshing balance between warmth and coolness. With 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread over 8 days, occasional showers contribute to the vibrant spring greenery, while the 79% humidity envelops the city in a lush, tropical ambiance. Whether you're exploring the coastline or enjoying local culture, May in Gangneung promises a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.
In May, Gangneung, South Korea, enjoys a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures that signal the full arrival of spring. The average temperature sits at a comfortable 16°C (61°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. Days can reach a pleasant maximum of 30°C (87°F), inviting residents and visitors alike to bask in the sun, while nights cool down to a mild min of 4°C (39°F), providing refreshing evenings. Compared to the chilly winter months, May showcases a significant rise in warmth, hinting at the vibrant summer that lies ahead. This month not only captivates with its favorable temperatures but also with its blooming landscapes, making it a perfect time to experience the beauty of Gangneung.
In May, Gangneung experiences a moderate rainfall with a precipitation total of 90 mm (3.5 in), falling over 8 days. This amount is slightly lower than the previous month, April, which received 94 mm (3.7 in), but showcases a consistency in the wet spring season that precedes the summer deluge. With rainfall trending upward from March's 85 mm (3.4 in), May continues the pattern of increased precipitation as the region transitions toward its peak rainy months. While the number of rainy days remains relatively stable, the overall precipitation suggests a dynamic shift in weather patterns, setting the stage for the heavier rains of June and July.
In May, Gangneung, South Korea, experiences a notable rise in humidity, reaching 79%, which marks a transition from the wetter months of spring to the impending summer. This increase follows a slightly lower April average of 74%, signaling the approach of the hotter season. Notably, May’s humidity levels set the stage for what lies ahead, as June and July witness a sharp spike, soaring to 82% and an impressive 91%, respectively. The trend indicates that May serves as a pivotal month, linking the milder spring conditions to the sweltering, moisture-laden days of summer, urging locals and visitors alike to embrace the change in atmosphere.
As summer approaches, May brings a sharp rise in the UV Index in Gangneung, South Korea, peaking at 10, which falls into the very high exposure category. This increase in UV intensity signals the need for heightened sun safety awareness since the recommended burn time shrinks to just 15 minutes. Following April's UV Index of 9, residents and visitors alike can expect noticeably stronger sunlight, suggesting a trend of escalating UV levels as the months progress toward summer. The pattern continues into June, with the UV Index climbing even higher to 11. Therefore, anyone enjoying the outdoor splendors of Gangneung this May should ensure they are well-protected to enjoy the sun safely. For more details on UV levels throughout the year, visit Gangneung UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In May, Gangneung, South Korea, basks in the warmth of increasing sunshine, boasting an impressive 303 hours of sunlight—significantly brighter than the 195 hours seen in January. This upward trend continues into June, where the city enjoys 312 hours, marking the peak of the year. As spring transitions into summer, the days grow longer and sunnier, fueling vibrant outdoor activities and cultural festivities. However, from July onwards, a gentle decline begins, with sunlight gradually tapering to 285 hours in July and 267 hours in August, hinting at the arrival of autumn. This cycle showcases Gangneung’s delightful seasonal shifts, inviting both locals and visitors to revel in the beauty of the changing landscapes.
As spring transitions into summer, the likelihood of sunny weather in Gangneung, South Korea, sees a notable decline in May, with only a 39% chance of sunshine. This marks a shift from the relatively sunny months of January and February, where the chances hover around 62% and 59% respectively. Following the promising brightness of early months, April's 44% forecast indicates a gradual decrease, culminating in May's lower prospects. As the summer heat approaches, the likelihood of sun continues to dwindle, dipping to 32% in June and even lower in July. Thus, May serves as a pivotal point, highlighting a seasonal trend where the initial warmth gives way to more unpredictable weather, paving the way for the sultry summer months ahead.
As spring transitions into summer, Gangneung, South Korea, experiences a delightful increase in daylight hours. Starting from 9 hours of daylight in January, residents welcome 14 hours by May, marking a significant embrace of longer days just as the trees burst into bloom. This trend continues seamlessly into June and July, where daylight peaks at 14 hours—perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant coastal scenery. As the summer heat begins to wane in August, daylight slightly decreases to 13 hours, leading into the gradual retreat of sunlight through the autumn months. By the time December rolls in, daylight once again shrinks back to 9 hours, completing the seasonal cycle. This rhythmic ebb and flow of light not only shapes daily routines but also paints the natural beauty of Gangneung throughout the year.
In May, Gangneung experiences a gentle breeze, with an average wind speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), marking a slight uptick from the quieter months of March and April. This moderate wind provides a refreshing contrast to the warmer spring temperatures, making outdoor activities enjoyable. As the seasons transition towards summer, the winds will gradually weaken, peaking in July when they drop to 1.7 m/s (4 mph). Overall, May serves as a pleasant bridge, maintaining a balance between the briskness of early spring and the calmness that summer brings, offering residents and visitors alike a perfect time to embrace the beauty of Gangneung’s coastal charm.
Weather in Gangneung varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Gangneung, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a pleasant average of 16°C (61°F), with highs reaching up to 30°C (87°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with about 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, contributing to a higher humidity of 79%. In contrast, January is much colder, featuring temperatures that dip as low as -19°C (-2°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F), peaking at a mere 9°C (49°F). This winter month sees less precipitation, totaling around 40 mm (1.6 in) over just 4 days, and lower humidity levels of 71%. For more insights into January weather, visit Gangneung weather in January.
The weather in May presents a striking contrast to that of February. While May sees a pleasant range of temperatures from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), February experiences chilling lows of -17°C (1°F) with an average temperature of -1°C (31°F). Additionally, May has significantly higher humidity at 79% and more rainfall, with 90 mm (3.5 in) across 8 days, compared to February's modest 28 mm (1.1 in) over just 4 days. For more details on February's weather, you can refer to Gangneung weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it’s evident that May brings significantly warmer temperatures with an average of 16°C (61°F) compared to March's chillier average of 5°C (42°F). While both months experience a similar level of precipitation, with May at 90 mm (3.5 in) and March at 85 mm (3.4 in), May tends to have slightly higher humidity at 79%, compared to March's 64%. Additionally, the maximum temperatures in May can reach as high as 30°C (87°F), offering a stark contrast to March's maximum of 20°C (69°F). For more detailed weather insights, check out Gangneung weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, we see a noticeable increase in temperature as spring progresses into early summer. April's temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a warmer maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 11°C (51°F). May, on the other hand, features a broader temperature range with a minimum of 4°C (39°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a peak of 30°C (87°F). Although May receives slightly less precipitation at 90 mm (3.5 in) across 8 days compared to April’s 94 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days, the humidity increases in May to 79%, slightly higher than April's 74%. For more detailed insights, you can check Gangneung weather in April.
In May, the weather features a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a warm 30°C (87°F). The month sees around 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, with humidity levels averaging 79%. In contrast, June brings a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and an average of 20°C (67°F), while still peaking at 31°C (87°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 85 mm (3.3 in) but occurs over 10 days, leading to a marginal rise in humidity to 82%. For more detailed insights on the weather during this time, check out Gangneung weather in June.
When comparing the weather in May and July, May tends to be milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), and an average of 16°C (61°F). It experiences moderate precipitation of 90 mm (3.5 in) over about 8 days, along with a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, July is significantly warmer, with temperatures spanning from a minimum of 13°C (57°F) to a maximum of 33°C (93°F) and an average of 23°C (73°F). This month also sees increased rainfall, totaling 243 mm (9.6 in) across 17 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 91%. For more detailed information, you can check Gangneung weather in July.
May and August exhibit contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences moderate rainfall, with 90 mm (3.5 in) spread across 8 days, and a relative humidity of 79%. In stark contrast, August sees warmer temperatures, with lows of 15°C (58°F) and highs reaching up to 33°C (92°F), averaging 23°C (75°F). However, it also faces significantly increased precipitation, totaling 246 mm (9.7 in) over 20 days, and higher humidity levels at 91%. For more specifics on August weather conditions, you can check Gangneung weather in August.
May and September present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation of 90 mm (3.5 in) over about 8 days and a humidity level of 79%. Conversely, September experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums at 8°C (48°F), averages of 18°C (65°F), and maximums of 28°C (83°F). However, it also brings increased rainfall, totaling 205 mm (8.1 in) over 13 days, while maintaining a similar humidity level of 77%. For more details on September weather, check out Gangneung weather in September.
May and October present distinct weather patterns as they transition between spring and autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F), with highs reaching 30°C (87°F). The month typically records around 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 79%.
In contrast, October experiences cooler temperatures, with lows dropping to 0°C (33°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F). The maximum temperature in October is milder at 27°C (80°F). This month sees an increase in precipitation, averaging 132 mm (5.2 in) across 10 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 78%. For more specific details about October weather, you can refer to Gangneung weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). The month sees about 90 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall over approximately 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, November experiences colder weather, with temperatures dipping down to a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and averaging just 6°C (44°F), peaking at 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is less frequent in November, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in) over around 6 days, while humidity remains fairly constant at 80%. For more information, you can check Gangneung weather in November.
May and December present quite contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 30°C (87°F) during the day, with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences a fair amount of rain, with 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over about 8 days and a humidity level of 79%. In sharp contrast, December sees a drastic drop in temperatures, with minima plummeting to -19°C (-3°F) and averaging around -1°C (31°F), peaking at 13°C (55°F). The month is much drier, with only 21 mm (0.8 in) of rain across 3 days, and a slightly lower humidity of 76%. For a more detailed look at December weather in Gangneung, visit Gangneung weather in December.
As May arrives in Gangneung, the transition from the chill of spring to the warmth of summer becomes palpable. With temperatures reaching their peak, days feel notably warmer compared to the cooler months preceding it, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for occasional rain, as mid-spring showers can bring refreshing relief, enhancing the lush greenery of the landscapes. The humidity also rises, making the air feel warmer and more tropical. This combination of warmth and moisture sets May apart, allowing nature to flourish and inviting visitors to explore the beauty of Gangneung. For more detailed information about the climate variations throughout the year, check out Gangneung Climate.