As with any season, it has its joys, comforts, unique features, and gifts from nature. Now that summertime is coming to a close, I am reminded of how long it has taken me to get used to summers in Korea. My first summer here was in 2011 in Daegu. I think I lost several kilograms due to a loss of appetite and the sheer fatigue of coping with the soaring heat for the first time. When thinking of summertime in South Korea and the UK, the climate & weather conditions alone are poles apart. This is largely due to the differing levels of temperature combined with humidity. To summarise, the humidex (the index number reflecting the combination of heat & humidity and how it feels to the average person) is strikingly different. Note how the levels of humidity in both countries has not been significantly different in the last 20 years yet the ‘humidex’ is significantly different as highlighted in the charts below.

*The blue line represents the UK while the Orange line represents South Korea.*
original link: https://www.worlddata.info/climate-comparison.php?r1=south-korea&r2=united-kingdom

*The ‘Humidex’ level highlights the effect of heat & humidity together.*
original link: https://www.worlddata.info/climate-comparison.php?r1=south-korea&r2=united-kingdom

The monsoon season in Korea also wreaks havoc across the country with some deadly cases of flooding happening yearly. In the UK, although the humidex is lower, the risk of droughts followed by flooding & flash flooding is also high. But aside from the natural hazards and extreme heat, there are many positives to be found during the summer seasons too. Nengmyeon (cold noodles), bingsoo (ice-dessert), and other summer treats are widely available. Water parks and sports are also popular across the country.

A real benefit of being in South Korea for me, is being surrounded by the sea on all fronts (bar the DMZ to the north). As a person who has always loved water, casual swimming, wild swimming, and the sea in general, South Korea is an excellent place to be. The main beach attractions include Jeju Island, Busan’s Haeeundae beach, and Yangyang beach in Gangwondo province. These are all very popular and are certainly worth a visit.

a local waterfall and cave pool area, Jeju Island

always love wild swimming and clean water

But there are also some ‘hidden gems’ across the peninsula (‘hidden gems’ in this case being amazing spots that are not so well-known). The term ‘계곡’ (gyaegog) in Korean refers to a ‘valley’ where the terrain is usually rocky and surrounded by woodlands. You can also often find streams, small rivers, and springs near these places. In many cases, the cold water provides not only a heavenly release from the extreme heat, but it is also crystal clear with beautiful surroundings.

Hidden Gems

Aside from the popular places I previously mentioned for beach visits, there are endless beaches across the peninsula. But I would say that the ‘Donghae’ coastline (East Sea, or East Coast) tends to offer clearer seawater and a better all-round beach & swimming experience. A hidden gem my friend found was near the small city of Samcheok in Gangwon province. It was less busy than other mainstream beach areas I have been to and again, the water was clear, clean, and excellent for snorkelling, diving, etc. The peace and tranquil atmosphere that comes with a quieter place definitely adds to the experience. A can of cool, Korean craft beer by the beach tops it off (though clearing up any litter is a must).

With regards to valleys and streams, popular places like Gapyeong and Yangpyeong have some excellent spots. These places are ideal for swimming, relaxing, and paddling. You can enjoy these activities in cool, revitalizing springs and waterfalls. The water often flows down from a mountain which keeps the water clean and fresh. The only issue is due to safety regulations, you often have to book these spots and they can be crowded. However, during my time in Silim, south-western Seoul, I found a direct bus to another hidden gem at the end of the 152 bus line (Anyang), which only took thirty minutes. Within a few minutes’ walk, I could find a nice spot to have a quick ‘dip’ in the stream and pools there.

a natural water pool at a valley in Yangpyeong, Gyeongi Province

fresh, clean water stream flowing through a valley in Anyang, near Seoul

Free gifts of nature

The ambience and fresh, fragrant smells of nature combined with natural vitamin D on a pleasant, sunny day are beyond healing. To add to that, as a person in their 40s that loves exercising, the cold water that beaches & valleys can provide offer more than refreshment. They give monumental relief & recovery treatment for muscle & joint pain that is a free gift of nature without having to pay hefty physiotherapy bills. In a world where humans are stuck to their smartphones, computers, and other screens, these beach spots & valleys provide natural therapy. The bonus being it can be of no financial cost if you can find these places.

I used to hate Korean summers, but thanks to these gifts of nature, I now look forward to summers here and plan which valleys & beaches I will visit with excitement. Although I should mention I will never get used to the irritation of feeling your clothes becoming wet after only having just put them on due to the heat & humidity.

Summers in Korea: escape the outdoor sauna to the many beaches & valleys on the peninsula

Living in the UK