Korean Job Discussion Forums

[em]

I'm having a bit of trouble wrapping my head around the seasonal temperatures and climatic conditions for Korea. I'm headed to Jeju-do in a couple of weeks and I want to pack for winter as per the thread on buying clothes in Korea. So what do I bring? I've never lived any place moderate. I've heard that it's not so cold but that it is a damp cold so I will want some sweaters and a winter coat - is this right? Also, what about messiness in winter? Without snow is there any call for boots?

(God, I'm so poorly travelled!)

Straightforward advice would be appreciated. If you have been there for at least one winter, are a woman, and have a tendency to feel the cold, would you mind just giving me a little list of the kinds of clothes you find yourself wearing in the Korean winter?

[Bulsajo]

Jeju-do? Bring lots of rain gear. Jeju-do winter is not the same as winter in the rest of Korea.

[William Beckerson]

Em: Winter?

Where are you from?

It's the summer rainy season here in Korea. The average temperature is about 29-30 degrees celcius right now, and humid. I'm near Seoul, so I cant imagine Jeju.

Winter in Korea is a joke. Maybe -5 degrees and little snow to speak of.

[em]

Hey Beckerson/Run Forrest Run,

I'm Canadian - Toronto for the last ten years. Hot, nasty, humid summers and bloody cold, messy winters. I've been to Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean, where there is no question of winter, and to Hungary, where winter was less cold but damp and equally messy. These are my reference points and I'm trying to figure out what the heck I need to pack for Korea. Will there be months where I wish I had my winter gear, as I would have had I not brought it to Hungary? Korea's still fairly northern, but it is surrounded by water which tends to be a moderating factor. However, a damp cold may warrant a wool coat and some sweaters. And then there are the regional climates, Jeju is probably quite unique. Eeek!

[Bulsajo]

While they're fewer, Korea can have its cold days (especially if you or plan on hiking up Halla-san or leaving jeju-do for a Seoul visit in Dec or Jan), and apt./school heating is also going to be 'different' from what you're used to so bring some winter clothes, but don't bother bringing your entire T.O.@-20C wardrobe.