Weather Comparison
Seoul vs Hong Kong
Side-by-side weather comparison for January
January Weather: Seoul vs Hong Kong
| Metric | Seoul | Hong Kong | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 1°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 drier | 4 days | 4 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 19 mm▲ | 24 mm | Seoul |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 7h/day | 8h/day▲ | Hong Kong |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65%▲ | 78% | Seoul |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 1▲ | 3 | Seoul |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 15 km/h▲ | 18 km/h | Seoul |
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.
| Month | Seoul | Hong Kong | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 1°C | 4d | 19°C | 4d |
| Feb | 4°C | 4d | 20°C | 6d |
| Mar | 10°C | 6d | 22°C | 10d |
| Apr | 17°C | 7d | 25°C | 14d |
| May | 22°C | 8d | 28°C | 20d |
| Jun | 26°C | 9d | 29°C | 24d |
| Jul | 28°C | 17d | 30°C | 24d |
| Aug | 29°C | 16d | 30°C | 24d |
| Sep | 25°C | 8d | 29°C | 17d |
| Oct | 19°C | 5d | 27°C | 7d |
| Nov | 11°C | 7d | 24°C | 5d |
| Dec | 3°C | 5d | 20°C | 4d |
Seoul Weather in January
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Hong Kong Weather in January
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities