North Korea in July

July weather, activities, events & insider tips

July Weather in North Korea

26°C (79°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

25mm (1.0 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is July Right for You?

Advantages

Peak agricultural season - witness the country's lush green landscapes at their most beautiful, with rice terraces in full bloom and collective farms showcasing North Korea's self-reliance ideology
Ideal weather for outdoor propaganda events and mass games rehearsals - tourists can observe authentic daily life as locals prepare for national celebrations
Arirang Mass Games season begins - July offers the best chance to secure tickets for the world's largest choreographed performance with 100,000+ participants
International friendship exhibitions and cultural centers operate extended hours due to increased diplomatic activity during summer months

Considerations

Rainy season begins late July - while rainfall is minimal early in the month, sudden weather changes can disrupt carefully planned itineraries that cannot be easily modified
Peak tourist season pricing - accommodations and tours cost 15-20% more than shoulder months, with limited availability requiring bookings 3+ months ahead
Intense UV exposure at high altitudes - locations like North Korea (2,744m/9,003ft) offer little shade, and sunscreen availability is extremely limited locally

Best Activities in July

Pyongyang City Walking Tours

July's pleasant morning temperatures (18°C/64°F) make early exploration of Kim Il-sung Square and the Grand People's Study House ideal. The clear, dry conditions offer excellent photography opportunities of the city's monuments without the harsh winter winds or autumn rain. Tour groups are smaller in July as most international visitors come for the Mass Games later in summer.

Booking Tip: Book through approved tour operators 2-3 months ahead. Tours typically cost $150-250 per day including guides and transportation. All tourism must be arranged through licensed operators - see current approved tours in the booking widget below.

DMZ Border Tours

The dry July weather provides clear visibility across the 4km (2.5 mile) wide demilitarized zone. Cool morning temperatures make the outdoor observation posts comfortable for extended viewing. July coincides with increased agricultural activity on both sides, offering unique insights into the contrast between North and South Korean farming methods.

Booking Tip: DMZ access requires special permits processed 4-6 weeks in advance. Tours range $200-350 and must be booked through operators with military clearance. Weather-dependent activities have high success rates in July's stable conditions.

Mount Kumgang Hiking Expeditions

July offers the perfect window for accessing the 'Diamond Mountain' before the late-summer monsoons. Temperatures at elevation remain comfortable (20-22°C/68-72°F) while lower elevations can reach 26°C (79°F). The mountain's famous waterfalls are at optimal flow from spring snowmelt, and the diverse flora is in full bloom.

Booking Tip: Multi-day hiking permits cost $300-500 including accommodation in mountain lodges. Book 6-8 weeks ahead as access is limited to 50 visitors per day. Tours include mandatory guides and specific route restrictions.

Wonsan Beach Resort Experiences

July marks the beginning of North Korea's beach season along the East Sea. Water temperatures reach 22°C (72°F), and the newly developed North Korea-Kalma coastal tourist area showcases the country's efforts to develop domestic tourism. Clear skies provide excellent conditions for observing local beach culture and family activities.

Booking Tip: Beach resort packages range $180-280 per night at approved accommodations. Limited availability requires 2-month advance booking. Access includes transportation from Pyongyang and supervised beach activities.

Kaesong Historical City Tours

The ancient capital's outdoor UNESCO sites are best explored in July's stable weather. Comfortable temperatures allow for extended walking tours through the Koguryo tombs and traditional Korean architecture. July's clear conditions provide optimal lighting for photographing the well-preserved Koryo Dynasty structures.

Booking Tip: Full-day North Korea tours cost $120-180 including the famous lunch at Tongil Restaurant. Book through operators offering historical specialist guides. Transportation from Pyongyang takes 2.5 hours each way.

Agricultural Cooperative Farm Visits

July showcases North Korean agriculture at its peak, with corn and rice crops in full growth. The Migok Cooperative Farm and similar collectives demonstrate the country's farming techniques and socialist agricultural principles. Pleasant weather allows for extended outdoor observations and interactions with farm workers during their busiest season.

Booking Tip: Farm visit packages cost $80-120 per day and must be arranged through approved cultural exchange programs. Limited to small groups of 6-8 visitors. Includes traditional meals prepared with farm produce.

July Events & Festivals

Early to Mid July

Victory Day Preparations

Throughout July, witness the buildup to the July 27th Victory Day commemorating the Korean War armistice. Mass choreography rehearsals occur in Kim Il-sung Square, and military preparation activities provide insight into North Korean national pride and historical narrative.

Late July

Arirang Mass Games Opening Season

The world's largest choreographed performance begins its season in late July. Over 100,000 participants create intricate patterns telling the story of Korean history and revolutionary spirit. This is North Korea's premier cultural export and tourist attraction.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

UV-blocking sunglasses and SPF 50+ sunscreen - July UV index reaches 9, and local sunscreen availability is non-existent

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts for cultural sites - many locations require covered arms, and cotton/linen breathes well in 65% humidity

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - most sightseeing involves extensive walking on uneven surfaces at monuments and historical sites

Portable phone charger/power bank - electrical availability can be inconsistent, and phones may be needed for approved photography

Cash in euros or Chinese yuan - North Korea operates on a cash-only basis for tourists, and credit cards are not accepted

Modest clothing in dark colors - bright colors and flashy patterns are culturally inappropriate, and conservative dress is strictly required

Light rain jacket for late July - weather can change quickly, and locally available rain gear is limited

Personal medications in original packaging - bring 2x needed supply as specific medications are unavailable locally

Water purification tablets - tap water quality varies, and bottled water isn't always available outside Pyongyang

Neutral-colored backpack or bag - avoid anything with Western logos, political statements, or bright colors

Insider Knowledge

Photography restrictions are strictly enforced - never photograph military personnel, construction sites, or people without explicit permission. Guides will indicate photo-approved zones clearly.

Tipping guides in Chinese yuan is appreciated but keep amounts modest ($5-10 per day) - excessive tipping can create uncomfortable situations or be seen as insulting

Internet and international phone service is unavailable for tourists - inform family/work of complete communication blackout periods lasting 4-7 days

All books, magazines, and electronic devices are inspected at borders - avoid bringing anything with political content, religious materials, or South Korean media

Avoid These Mistakes

Bringing prohibited items like GPS devices, satellite phones, or Korean language materials - border inspections are thorough and violations can result in serious consequences

Attempting to deviate from planned itineraries or interact independently with locals - all activities must be supervised and spontaneous exploration is not permitted

Underestimating the physical demands - most tours involve 4-6 hours of walking daily on varied terrain with limited rest breaks