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Weather Comparison

Seoul vs Hong Kong

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Seoul: 1°CHong Kong: 19°C2,092 km apart

January Weather: Seoul vs Hong Kong

MetricSeoulHong KongBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer1°C (34°F)19°C (66°F)Hong Kong
Average LowHigher is milder-7°C (19°F)13°C (55°F)Hong Kong
Rain DaysFewer is drier4 days4 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier19 mm24 mmSeoul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day8h/dayHong Kong
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%78%Seoul
UV IndexLower is safer13Seoul
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h18 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.

Seoul is on the cooler side at 1°C, requiring warmer clothing. Hong Kong is also comfortable at 19°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

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.

Hong Kong averages 19°C (66°F) for the high and 13°C (55°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°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

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

Hong Kong sees 24 mm over 4 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

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

What to Pack: Seoul vs Hong Kong

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 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

Year-Round Comparison: Seoul vs Hong Kong

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.

MonthSeoulHong Kong
HighRainHighRain
Jan1°C4d19°C4d
Feb4°C4d20°C6d
Mar10°C6d22°C10d
Apr17°C7d25°C14d
May22°C8d28°C20d
Jun26°C9d29°C24d
Jul28°C17d30°C24d
Aug29°C16d30°C24d
Sep25°C8d29°C17d
Oct19°C5d27°C7d
Nov11°C7d24°C5d
Dec3°C5d20°C4d
1°

Seoul Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

19°

Hong Kong Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seoul warmer than Hong Kong in January?
No. 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, Seoul or Hong Kong?
Both cities average 4 rain days in January with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Seoul or Hong Kong in January?
It depends on your preferences. Seoul averages 1°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 4 rain days. Hong Kong averages 19°C with 8 sunshine hours and 4 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Hong Kong. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Seoul and Hong Kong?
Seoul and Hong Kong are approximately 2,092 km (1,299 miles) apart. Seoul is located in South Korea (Asia) while Hong Kong is in Hong Kong (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Seoul and Hong Kong?
For Seoul, May tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 22°C. For Hong Kong, July is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 30°C highs.

Compare Seoul and Hong Kong 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 | Hong Kong coordinates: 22.32°N, 114.17°E