If you’re planning on visiting South Korea in autumn, then you’re in luck! As someone who lived in the Land of the Morning Calm for almost six years, I know a thing or two about the best autumn festivals in South Korea.
I’ve been to many myself and can confidently give the best tips and tricks to enjoying (in my not so humble opinion) the BEST season in Korea.
Also, I don’t know about you, but I have been consuming copious amounts of pumpkin cream cold brew from Starbucks. I’m geeked and ready to bring you another awesome guide to fall in Korea.
So grab your passport and my hand because we’re about to have a fun season!
Blog Posts You Might Like
- How To Celebrate Halloween in Korea
- What To Wear During Fall in Korea
- Where To See Fall Foliage in Seoul
- Where To See Autumn Foliage in Korea
Where To Go To Autumn Festivals in Korea?
There’s a variety of festivals to choose from during autumn in Korea. This is one of my favorite times of year to travel to see the beautiful maple trees, check out annual festivals, and go on day trips to Nami Island, Gyeongju, and Jeonju.
Peak season for fall foliage is mid-October and a great way to see it is via national parks. If you’d like to know more, I have a complete guide on 33 Amazing Places To See Fall Foliage in Korea.
1. Bongpyeong Buckwheat Flower Festival
When: September 6, 2024 – September 20, 2024
If you’re looking for stunning and picturesque scenery you have to check out the Bongpyeong Buckwheat Flower Festival in Pyeonchang. You’ll be able to feast your eyes on endless fields of stunning white blooms along mountains.
If you’re familiar with the Korean drama, Goblin, these blooms have powerful symbolism because they are meant to be given by a lover.
2. Jeju Island Hueree Pink Muhly Festival | 휴애리 핑크뮬리축제
When: September 2024 – November 2024
When September rolls around Located at the Hueree Natural Park at the foot of Hallasan Mountain, it’s the perfect atmosphere to take impressive photos for your social media feed. You need a ticket to enter Huree Park so grab your discount tickets here.
This is one of the best places to see pink muhly because many of the Seoul parks no longer have them having deemed pink muhly was too invasive.
3. Chuseok (Mid-Autumn Festival) | 추석
When: September 16, 2024 – September 18, 2024
This annual festive event changes yearly because it goes by the Lunar Calendar. Chuseok is the Korean equivalent to Thanksgiving in America where we celebrate a good harvest.
This is one of the biggest national holidays so many Koreans will take international trips. Others will return to their hometowns where they celebrate by paying respect to their ancestors, eating lots of delicious food, and spending time with family members.
4. Oktoberfest
When: September 21, 2024 – October 6, 2024
Believe it or not, there is an Oktoberfest in Korea. And yes, you read that right. Korea Oktoberfest. Say WHUT?
I love meself a good beer, and I hope you folks do too. There is imported German beer and bratwursts served at the Oktoberfest Festival on Namhae Island off the south coast of Korea.
Fun Fact. Back in the 60s and 70s a bunch of Koreans skipped town to look for work in Germany. To coax Koreans who settled in Germany back, the government offered super cheap land in Namhae and they began building a very German village.
5. Nari Park and Pink Muhly Festival | 나리공원 핑크뮬리 축제
When: September 23, 2024 – October 18, 2024
When I tell you the pink muhly makes for amazing photos… I had a chance to see the pink muhly in full bloom and it was fabulous frolicking around.
Go on a day tour to the Nari Park and Pink Muly Festival mid-week to skip the large crowds and enjoy a fall festival in South Korea.
Autumn in Seoul & South Korea Ebook
Autumn in Seoul is one of the best times to visit South Korea. This is a completely done for you itinerary complete with a map!
What You Will Get In This E-Book:
🏩 Where to stay in Seoul?
🥘 Best restaurants in Seoul?
🇰🇷 Must-see sites & can’t-miss activities?
🍁What to pack for Korea in autumn?
🚆 What transport do I use to get around the city?
🧧 Plus insider travel tips, photo spots, and deep dives you won’t see on my blog.
6. Andong International Mask Dance Festival | 안동국제탈춤페스티벌
When: September 27, 2024 – October 6, 2024
One of my favorite South Korean October festivals is the Andong Mask Festival. This is one of the most popular fall festivals held yearly in the Andong Hahoe Village in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do.
Visitors can enjoy watching traditional Korean mask dance performances. The Andong Mask Dance Festival features foreign artists showcasing their dances from their home countries. Check out the official website for more on the events and line up.
7. Changdeokgung Palace Moonlight Festival | 창덕궁 달빛기행
When: September 27, 2024 – September 29, 2024 & October 25, 2024 – October 27, 2024
This festival takes place in the downtown area of Seoul and starts at Changdeokgung. It runs twice a year in spring and in autumn.
Make sure you grab your tickets ASAP because this event is super popular and sells out quickly.
8. Goyang Autumn Flower Festival | 고양가을꽃축제
When: TBA September – October 2024
I did look through the Goyang Official Website and was unable to find festival dates for the autumn floral exhibition.
Located at Ilsan Lake Park, visitors can get a view of diverse autumn flowers. This Korea Flower Park is so special because groups of flower producers in Goyang participate directly in planting, designing, and decorating the garden with a lake in the background.
This large-scale flower garden truly is a feast for the eyes.
9. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Cultural Festival | 수원화성문화제
When: October 2024
This festival takes place in October and features many cultural performances. The Hwaseong Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition, you can watch the King Jeongjo Tomb Parade which is a reenactment of the funeral procession. The procession will start at Gyeongbokgung Palace and go all the way to Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
10. Jeongseon Arirang Festival | 정선아리랑제
When: October 2nd – 5th, 2024
Arirang is a Korean folk song. This style of music was registered on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2012.
At the Jeongsan Arirang Festival, you can hear Arirang from different regions in Korea, play traditional folk games, and watch a parade.
11. Busan Film Festival | 부산국제영화제
When: October 2, 2024 – October 11, 2024
This year, the 29th Busan Film Festival is in full swing! This is one of the biggest film festivals in Asia.
You can expect countless films in different genres to be screened. Thirty screens in seven different theaters will be featuring these films.
If you’re a movie buff, you can’t miss this fall festival in Korea.
12. Busan Rock Festival | 부산국제록페스티벌
When: October 4, 2024 – October 6, 2024
The lineup for the Busan Rock Festival 2024 is gonna be freaking amazing so go get your tickets! The lineup for the 2024 Busan Rock Festival will feature KASABIAN, starsailor, Anne-Marie, AKMU, and HYDE.
When I saw this lineup, I legit screamed. I’ve been a fan of Hyde’s since the 2000s and J-Rock was actually good. With this fun festival, I think there will be too much rock for one hand.
13. Seoul International Fireworks Festival | 서울세계불꽃축제
When: October 5, 2024
This extravagant fireworks festival usually takes place beginning of October in Korea. Fireworks technicians from all over the world put on a fabulous fireworks display sponsored by Hanhwa Group.
This festival attracts over one million visitors per year and you’ll see spectators lining up early in the day to catch this glorious show. I went once and even though it was shoulder-to-shoulder crowded, it was #worthit.
14. Jinju Namgang Yudeung Lantern Festival | 진주 남강유등축제
When: October 5, 2024 – October 20, 2024
Held in a small town in Jinju, the Jinju Lantern Festival attracts thousands of guests each year. You’ll encounter super-sized and traditional lanterns made with Buddhist influences, famous scenery, and much more.
This festival was born from the practices in the 1500s. The area of Namgang river & Jinjuseong is where you can add your own wish lanterns to the river.
15. Yeouido Hangang Park Autumn Festival | 여의도 한강공원 가을축제
When: October 11, 2024 – October 20, 2024
There’s always something going on at the Hangang River. This is a great place to see the best fall foliage around the river due to the surrounding mountains.
The easiest way to get there is by public transport. There are two main areas where people picnic. One is by Ttukseom Park and the other is Yeouido Hangang Park.
For more information, check out Seoul’s official Hangang River Festival website.
16. Icheon Rice Cultural Festival | 이천쌀문화축제
When: October 16, 2024 – October 20, 2024
I’ve been to this rice festival twice with my students because of school field trips and I can tell you, it’s one of my favorites during the autumn season. The land in Icheon is very fertile and the rice there was grown with such care that it is said to have been fit for a king.
They have all sorts of rice dishes, cakes, and even ice cream. Honestly, I think I enjoyed myself more than my students did. Check out the Icheon Rice Festival official tourism page for more information and updates.
17. Jarasum Jazz Festival | 자라섬 국제 재즈 페스티벌
When: October 18, 2024 – October 20, 2024
Korean fall festivals are incredible and you definitely can’t miss out on the Jarasum Jazz Festival. Located on Jarasum Island in Gapyeong, you’ll feel like you’re jamming out on Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
I love soulful music, you feel me, fam? Renowned jazz artists from all over the world perform on Jarasum Namdo and it makes for a great festival. One-day tickets start at 80,000 won. You can check the official website for more tickets and details.
18. Haneul Park Silver Grass Autumn Festival | 하늘공원 억새 가을축제
When: October 19, 2024 – October 25, 2024
I don’t feel like it’s fall in Seoul unless I have a photo or five with the silver grass. If you love a good photo opportunity, check out this Haneul Park and Eunpyeong Hanok Village Tour.
This year, they will put on a Lighting Ceremony. Hanuel Park is one of the most popular places along the Han River.
19. Busan International Fireworks Festival | 부산국제불꽃축제
When: November 9, 2024
In response to Seoul’s beautiful fireworks festival, Busan also puts on the spectacular Busan Fireworks Festival over Gwangalli Beach. I love nothing more than watching the sky light up with pretty colors and beautiful lights. This is an event you don’t want to miss!
20. Cheonggyechon Seoul Lantern Festival | 서울빛초롱축제
When: This is now a winter festival. Last year it was held from December 15, 2023 – January 21, 2024
Every year, nearly 3 million visitors check out this insanely beautiful display of lanterns. You’re in luck because it’s free and it’s got some of the coolest lights around. It looks like this year’s theme is fairy tales from abroad and South Korea.
An autumn festival in South Korea is something you definitely cannot miss. I feel like The Land of the Morning Calm really comes alive during this time.
Public Holidays in Korea During Autumn
There are lots of notable public holidays in Korea during fall. The most famous is Chuseok aka the Harvest Festival.
These holidays do affect business hours. Since many people have off during all these public holidays you’ll see many people traveling during this time.
It’s also a great opportunity to learn and experience Korean culture. In 2024, the Korea public holidays are:
- Harvest Festival Holiday (Chuseok) – September 16 – September 18, 2024
- National Foundation Day – October 3, 2024
- Hangul Day – October 9, 2024
If you’re visiting during Chuseok, a lot of places will be shut down. The Harvest Festival is kind of like American Thanksgiving. Families opt to spend time together in their “hometown” or go on a trip somewhere in Asia.
How To Get Around
The best way to get around Korea is by purchasing a T-Money card at any convenience store and loading it with money. You can also purchase the mobile version via Klook and get a 5,000 won top off coupon to use.
I also recommend getting the Discover Seoul Pass so you can visit the major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discounted price. It comes in increments of 24/48/72/120 hours.
How To Stay Connected
Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer free wifi and you can connect to various free spots around the city. If you don’t want to rely on that, you should book an e-sim card and download it to your phone.
What To Pack For in Autumn in Korea
I highly recommend packing as light as possible so when you buy all of your favorite Korean products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite travel suitcase brand is Béis.
I’m obsessed with their Weekender bag, carry-on, and checked luggage. Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account.
Travel Essentials for what to pack to Korea in fall:
- Passport – This should be a given, but please don’t forget it. Make a copy of your passport and hide it in your suitcase and leave one on your fridge at home.
- Credit/Debit Cards – There are ATMs all over Korea and most places accept credit cards.What To Wear in Fall in Korea
- Medication – Don’t forget your important medicine because I guarantee it will be a nightmare for you to navigate the hospital and then go to a pharmacy to try and get it.What To Wear in Autumn in Korea
- Korea travel adapter – Korea uses 220V plugs so you’ll need a universal travel adapter. You also find some at Daiso for 5,000 won.
- Unlocked phone – An unlocked phone is best for downloading an esim. If your phone isn’t unlocked, you can also use a portable wifi router.
- Toothpaste – Korean toothpaste sucks PERIODT. Bring your own from home.
- Important documents – Bring any important medical documents in case something happens.
What To Wear in Fall in Korea?
Autumn in South Korea is my favorite time of year. I love the fashion, the changing of the leaves, and most of all Halloween. If you have travel plans during this time, I have a guide on how Koreans celebrate Halloween in Seoul.
Below are some of my favorite staple pieces I wore during fall in South Korea. These are versatile pieces and will bring an edge to your wardrobe.
For fall season fashion inspiration in South Korea, I also have an extensive guide on What To Wear During Autumn in Korea.
- Warm Scarf – The weather gets a bit chilly in Korea at night in Autumn.
- Fedora Hat – This hat automatically makes your outfit cuter and doubles in keeping you warm.
- American Eagle Curvy Skinny Jeans – I especially love the Curvy Jeans from American Eagle. They stretch and fit in all the right places.
- Biker Jacket – A leather jacket is a staple piece and lightweight jacket in any wardrobe.
- Trench Coats – Having one of these coats is one of my best tips!
- Midi Skirts – I recommend these skirts for cooler days and more coverage.
- Long-sleeved shirts – These are a staple to go under spaghetti strap dresses.
- Denim Jackets – Get ones with pockets for versatility!
- Comfortable Sneakers – The streets of Seoul don’t always have the best paving. You need a good pair of walking shoes.
- Combat Boots – These are my all time favorite shoes during autumn. They can be layered with additional socks and look amazing with skinny jeans.
- Sweater Dress – These are great for dinner at night or if you just like to be flirty or girly.
- Sheertex Rip Resistant Tights – Trust me, these are HARD to destroy and totally worth the investment.
Fall Weather in Korea
Autumn weather in Korea honestly varies month by month. The months of September start hot and then it gets really cold by November. It is a gradual change, but the temperature variation can cause you to get sick.
September Weather in Korea
September still brings hot and humid temperatures. Honestly, I’m still wearing shorts until the end of the month.
Temperatures range from 25°C to 26°C (77°F to 80°F) during the day. September is a great month to visit Korea if you don’t like cold weather because the crowds get smaller and most people return to school and work.
October Weather in Korea
October is the best time to visit Korea in autumn. It cools down significantly and it’s a great time to see the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage in Seoul.
The temperature ranges from 18°C (64°F) during the day. October brings cooler temperatures at night and they get as low as 7°C (45°F). The weather conditions toward the end of October start to get cold.
November Weather in Korea
The temperature usually averages at about 10°C (50°F) during the day. Bring your warm jacket at night because the temperature gets down to -1°C (30°F). November is a great time to visit Korea because you’ll be able to catch the last of the fall foliage in Korea.
South Korea Fall Foliage Forecast 2024
These are the peak foliage times for South Korea last year. The Korea Autumn Foliage Forecast 2023 will help guide you on when to time your trip.
Be sure to bookmark this page because as soon as I know, I’ll be updating you! Autumn foliage in Korea starts around late September in northern parts of Korea and peaks in mid to late October. Fall foliage ends in southern Korea by mid-November.
- Seoraksan – October 1 – October 23
- Bukhansan – October 19 – October 30
- Seoul – October 18 – October 31
- Naejangsan – October 26 – November 6
- Busan – October 20 – October 27
- Hallsan – October 22 – October 29
People seem to be more chill and relaxed because the weather doesn’t make you want to throw your hand fan blowing hot hair through the wall. I personally love this time of year because my skin clears up and I no longer have acne because of the humidity.
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