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Weather Comparison

Seoul vs Budapest

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Seoul: 1°CBudapest: 3°C8,169 km apart

January Weather: Seoul vs Budapest

MetricSeoulBudapestBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer1°C (34°F)3°C (37°F)Budapest
Average LowHigher is milder-7°C (19°F)-3°C (27°F)Budapest
Rain DaysFewer is drier4 days8 daysSeoul
PrecipitationLess is drier19 mm36 mmSeoul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day5h/daySeoul
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h15 km/hTie

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Seoul edges ahead as the better destination in January. Seoul offers 7 hours of daily sunshine with only 4 rain days, while Budapest sees 5 sunshine hours and 8 rain days.

Seoul is on the cooler side at 1°C, requiring warmer clothing. Budapest is cooler at 3°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Seoul is the stronger choice in January. Seoul receives 2 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Seoul reaches an average high of 1°C (34°F) and drops to -7°C (19°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Budapest averages 3°C (37°F) for the high and -3°C (27°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

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

Rainfall Comparison in January

Seoul receives approximately 19 mm of rainfall across 4 rain days during January. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Budapest sees 36 mm over 8 rain days. That makes Seoul the drier option by 4 rain days and 17 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Seoul vs Budapest

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

Packing for Budapest in January

Highs of 3°C, lows of -3°C, 8 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Seoul vs Budapest

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.

MonthSeoulBudapest
HighRainHighRain
Jan1°C4d3°C8d
Feb4°C4d6°C8d
Mar10°C6d11°C8d
Apr17°C7d17°C9d
May22°C8d21°C12d
Jun26°C9d25°C11d
Jul28°C17d27°C10d
Aug29°C16d27°C8d
Sep25°C8d21°C8d
Oct19°C5d16°C8d
Nov11°C7d9°C9d
Dec3°C5d4°C8d
1°

Seoul Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

3°

Budapest Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seoul warmer than Budapest in January?
No. In January, Budapest is warmer with an average high of 3°C (37°F) compared to Seoul at 1°C (34°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Seoul or Budapest?
Budapest gets more rain in January with 8 rain days and 36 mm of precipitation. Seoul is the drier option with 4 rain days.
Is it better to visit Seoul or Budapest in January?
It depends on your preferences. Seoul averages 1°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 4 rain days. Budapest averages 3°C with 5 sunshine hours and 8 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Budapest. For drier weather, Seoul is the better pick.
How far apart are Seoul and Budapest?
Seoul and Budapest are approximately 8,169 km (5,073 miles) apart. Seoul is located in South Korea (Asia) while Budapest is in Hungary (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Seoul and Budapest?
For Seoul, May tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 22°C. For Budapest, August is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 27°C highs.

Compare Seoul and Budapest 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.

Seoul coordinates: 37.57°N, 126.98°E | Budapest coordinates: 47.50°N, 19.04°E