Climate in North Korea

North Korea has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -55°C in the coldest regions to highs of 41°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 17mm in drier regions to 379mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 357cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making North Korea a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across North Korea vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Southwest is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 41°C and an annual average of 29°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Southwest, where winter lows drop to -55°C and an annual average of -47°C. This 76°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of North Korea they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 81°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Songnim-ni in the Hwanghae-bukto averages 29°C annually, while Ch’ŏngdan-ŭp in the Hwanghae-namdo averages -47°C.

North Korea sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 17mm to 379mm per year. The Southwest receives the most rainfall, at approximately 379mm annually. The Southwest is the driest, with around 17mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The West sees the most snowfall, with up to 357cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Travellers should pack rain gear when visiting wetter areas, while drier regions offer more favourable conditions throughout the year.