Surviving Korean Summer

June–August: 30°C+, 80%+ humidity, monsoon rain. Here's how to cope.

Mold Prevention

  • • Run dehumidifier (제습기) daily
  • • Ventilate 2x/day even in rain
  • • Wipe condensation on windows
  • • Check bathroom ceiling weekly

Bug Control

  • • Gel bait for cockroaches (replace monthly)
  • • Cover drains at night
  • • No food left out
  • • Mosquito net or electric repellent

AC Tips

  • • Clean filter every 2 weeks
  • • Set to 26°C (saves 30% vs 22°C)
  • • Use "제습" (dehumidify) mode on humid days
  • • Get professional cleaning before summer

Monsoon Season (장마)

  • • Late June–mid July (3–4 weeks of rain)
  • • Keep windows closed during heavy rain
  • • Check for leaks around windows
  • • Dry shoes/umbrella in entrance, not inside

Monthly summer costs (expect higher bills)

Electricity (AC)₩60,000–120,000
Dehumidifier₩15,000–30,000 (electric)
AC cleaning (once)₩50,000–80,000

Essential summer purchases

Dehumidifier (제습기, ₩150,000–300,000 at Coupang), moisture absorbers (습기제거제, ₩5,000 at Daiso), drain covers (배수구 망, ₩3,000)