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Weather Comparison

Hong Kong vs Seoul

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Hong Kong: 19°CSeoul: 1°C2,092 km apart

January Weather: Hong Kong vs Seoul

MetricHong KongSeoulBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer19°C (66°F)1°C (34°F)Hong Kong
Average LowHigher is milder13°C (55°F)-7°C (19°F)Hong Kong
Rain DaysFewer is drier4 days4 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier24 mm19 mmSeoul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier8h/day7h/dayHong Kong
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%65%Seoul
UV IndexLower is safer31Seoul
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h15 km/hSeoul

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Hong Kong edges ahead as the better destination in January. Hong Kong offers 8 hours of daily sunshine with only 4 rain days, while Seoul sees 7 sunshine hours and 4 rain days.

Hong Kong sits in the comfortable travel range at 19°C. Seoul is cooler at 1°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in January. Hong Kong receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Hong Kong reaches an average high of 19°C (66°F) and drops to 13°C (55°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 6°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Seoul averages 1°C (34°F) for the high and -7°C (19°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. There is a notable 18°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

Hong Kong receives approximately 24 mm of rainfall across 4 rain days during January. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Seoul sees 19 mm over 4 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Humidity also differs: Hong Kong averages 78% while Seoul sits at 65%. Hong Kong will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Hong Kong vs Seoul

Packing for Hong Kong in January

Highs of 19°C, lows of 13°C, 4 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Seoul in January

Highs of 1°C, lows of -7°C, 4 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • a warm scarf

Year-Round Comparison: Hong Kong vs Seoul

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthHong KongSeoul
HighRainHighRain
Jan19°C4d1°C4d
Feb20°C6d4°C4d
Mar22°C10d10°C6d
Apr25°C14d17°C7d
May28°C20d22°C8d
Jun29°C24d26°C9d
Jul30°C24d28°C17d
Aug30°C24d29°C16d
Sep29°C17d25°C8d
Oct27°C7d19°C5d
Nov24°C5d11°C7d
Dec20°C4d3°C5d
19°

Hong Kong Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

1°

Seoul Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hong Kong warmer than Seoul in January?
Yes. In January, Hong Kong is warmer with an average high of 19°C (66°F) compared to Seoul at 1°C (34°F), a difference of 18°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Hong Kong or Seoul?
Both cities average 4 rain days in January with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Hong Kong or Seoul in January?
It depends on your preferences. Hong Kong averages 19°C and 8 hours of daily sunshine with 4 rain days. Seoul averages 1°C with 7 sunshine hours and 4 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Hong Kong. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Hong Kong and Seoul?
Hong Kong and Seoul are approximately 2,092 km (1,299 miles) apart. Hong Kong is located in Hong Kong (Asia) while Seoul is in South Korea (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Hong Kong and Seoul?
For Hong Kong, July tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 30°C. For Seoul, May is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 22°C highs.

Compare Hong Kong and Seoul in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Hong Kong coordinates: 22.32°N, 114.17°E | Seoul coordinates: 37.57°N, 126.98°E