Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

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When I first arrived in Chuncheon in early September 2024, I didn’t expect to become so closely acquainted with the changing moods of Korean weather. Over the past few months, I’ve had the chance to observe and experience the climate differences between three beautiful places: Chuncheon, Jeju, and Busan. Each destination has its own personality, and each season brought a different kind of charm—and challenge. From the cool autumn breezes of Chuncheon to the gusty coastal winds of Jeju, and the mild seaside comfort of Busan, my journey through Korea’s changing seasons has been nothing short of memorable.

Chuncheon: The Slow Descent into Winter

Chuncheon has become my home, as I’m currently doing my master’s degree here. I lived here from early September until the last week of December, and now I’m back again for the new semester. Nestled between lakes and mountains, Chuncheon’s weather felt cozy and romantic—at least in the beginning. September was gentle, with warm days and slightly cooler nights. I remember walking to campus under golden afternoon sunlight, with the leaves just starting to change color. It was the perfect balance, and I thought to myself, “I could get used to this.”

October marked the true arrival of autumn. The trees burst into vibrant reds and oranges. Mornings became crisp, and I had to start layering up before going out. By November, winter began whispering its arrival. The wind turned sharper, and the air began to bite. I experienced my first frost-covered morning here, and soon enough, December brought real winter. Snow started falling, gently covering Chuncheon in white. The city became quiet, calm, and cold. Some days, it felt like I was living inside a snow globe. I never imagined winter could feel so magical—and at the same time, so bone-chilling.

Jeju: Winter with a Twist

When the semester ended, I packed my bags and headed to Jeju for my winter vacation. After the freezing winds of Chuncheon, I expected Jeju to be much milder—and it was, to a certain extent. Jeju’s weather in January felt like a strange in-between. It wasn’t as cold as Chuncheon, and snow was rare, but the wind was something else entirely. Since Jeju is surrounded by the sea, the wind never seemed to stop. Sometimes it howled so loudly at night, I could hardly sleep.

The island’s volcanic landscape looked beautiful under grey winter skies. There was a constant mix of rain, clouds, and sunshine. One moment I’d be walking by the ocean, feeling the warm sun on my back, and the next I’d be running for shelter from sudden rain. Even though Jeju wasn’t freezing like Chuncheon, it had its own way of reminding me that it was still winter. But the green fields, citrus trees, and ocean breeze gave it a more relaxing, holiday vibe. It felt like I was resting in nature’s lap, even during the colder days.

Busan: A Gentle Escape from the Cold

By March, classes had started again, and spring was slowly knocking on the door. I had the chance to visit Busan twice between March and April during short class breaks. Coming from Chuncheon, where the chill still lingered in early March, Busan felt like a soft escape. The weather there was noticeably warmer, and spring arrived a little earlier. On my first visit, I remember walking along the beach in just a light jacket, while Chuncheon was still stuck in layers of wool and scarves.

Busan’s air felt fresh but not sharp. It was the kind of cool that refreshes rather than stings. By April, cherry blossoms were in full bloom, especially around places like Haeundae and Dalmaji Hill. The temperature was mild, the sky was clear, and the sea breeze carried the scent of spring. Unlike Jeju’s unpredictable gusts or Chuncheon’s dry winter cold, Busan had a softer, more stable climate. I could finally say goodbye to winter clothes and enjoy the early arrival of spring’s colors and warmth.