Korea and Melbourne: From 4 Distinct Seasons to 4 Seasons in a Day

Weather plays a huge role in shaping a country’s culture, lifestyle, and daily habits.
For those who have experienced both South Korea and Australia, one of the most striking differences is how the seasons unfold and, more importantly, how people experience temperature—both indoors and outdoors.

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “4 seasons in a day,” you know that Melbourne is infamous for its unpredictable weather. Meanwhile, Korea experiences clear-cut seasons, with scorching summers and freezing winters. But beyond the temperature, the way people adapt to the cold and heat differs dramatically. 

Let’s explore the fascinating contrasts between Korea and Australia when it comes to weather, seasons, and the way we live through them.

The 4-Season Drama: Korea’s Sharp Contrasts vs. Australia’s Milder Shifts

Korea is a country where the 4 seasons are well-defined and dramatic.

• Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms bloom, and the weather is mild but often unpredictable, with sudden bursts of yellow dust from China.
  
  
• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, with monsoon rains soaking the country in July.
  
  
• Autumn (September–November): A stunning season of red and golden foliage, with crisp, cool air.
  
  
• Winter (December–February): Bitterly cold, often dipping below -10°C, with snowfall turning cities into winter wonderland.

On the other hand, Australia’s seasons are reversed due to its position in the Southern Hemisphere, and its seasonal changes are not as extreme.

• Summer (December–February): Hot and dry, with scorching days often exceeding 40°C.
  
  
• Autumn (March–May): Cooler temperatures set in, with leaves changing color in some regions.
  
  
• Winter (June–August): Generally mild, though southern cities like Melbourne can get quite chilly.
  
  
• Spring (September–November): Warmer days return, and flowers bloom across the country.

                                        

Melbourne’s “4 Seasons in a Day” vs. Korea’s Predictable Climate

If you live in Melbourne, you quickly learn that checking the weather forecast is almost pointless.
You might leave home in the morning with bright sunshine, get caught in a sudden downpour by noon, feel strong winds in the afternoon, and end the day with a chilly evening.
This unpredictability makes dressing for the day a strategic challenge—Melburnians are experts at layering! 😶

Korea, in contrast, has a much more predictable climate.
If it’s winter, expect freezing temperatures.
If it’s summer, brace for intense humidity.
While sudden rain showers can happen in spring and summer, the general pattern of the seasons is stable.
This consistency allows people to plan their wardrobes and activities well in advance.

The Great Indoor Contrast: Korea’s Warm Floors vs. Melbourne’s Chilly Homes

One of the biggest surprises for people moving between Korea and Australia is how indoor temperatures feel.

In Korea, winters are brutally cold outside, but the inside of homes, offices, and cafes remain toasty warm. This is thanks to "ondol", the traditional Korean underfloor heating system, which keeps the entire floor warm.
Even when the temperature drops below -10°C, walking barefoot inside feels cozy and comfortable.

Melbourne, on the other hand, presents the opposite challenge.
Winters here are not as cold as in Korea, but the lack of insulation in many homes means it often feels colder inside than outside.
Most houses are built with wood rather than brick, and central heating is not always a standard feature. The result? Many residents rely on portable heaters, electric blankets, and extra layers indoors.
The irony of a relatively mild winter turning into a freezing indoor experience is something that surprises many newcomers.

Surviving the Cold: Cultural Adaptations

In Korea, winter fashion is all about long padded coats, thermal leggings, and heated packs. People bundle up when stepping outside but can strip down to light layers indoors, thanks to efficient heating systems.
Korean winter culture also revolves around warm foods like hot soups, roasted sweet potatoes, and spicy tteokbokki to fight the cold.

In Melbourne, the approach to winter is different. While puffer jackets are popular, the layering strategy is essential due to the fluctuating weather.
People often carry a light jacket, even in summer, just in case of a sudden weather shift. And when it comes to warming up, Australians turn to coffee, tea, and pub fireplaces rather than heated floors.

Which Is Tougher: Korean Winter or Melbourne’s Weather Mood Swings?

Both places offer unique challenges.
If you prefer a predictable 4-season cycle with proper winter heating, Korea is ideal. However, if you enjoy variety and don’t mind dressing for all seasons in a single day, Melbourne offers a more dynamic experience.

Either way, adapting to the local climate is key to making the most of each season, whether that means carrying an extra layer in Melbourne or stocking up on heat packs in Korea!

Conclusion: Appreciating the Best of Both Worlds

While Korea and Australia have vastly different weather patterns, both bring their own unique experiences.

The beauty of Korea’s dramatic seasons allows for activities like cherry blossom festivals and winter skiing, while Melbourne’s ever-changing weather keeps things exciting.

At the end of the day, whether you prefer the extreme cold of a Korean winter or the unpredictable nature of Melbourne’s climate, each offers something special.

And one thing is for sure—wherever you are, the best way to enjoy any season is to embrace it like a local!

What’s your experience with Korea’s four seasons or Melbourne’s unpredictable weather? Share your thoughts in the comments below!