Where To See Autumn Foliage in Seoul

Wondering where to see the best autumn foliage in Seoul? Look no further my fellow leaf peepers and never stop beleafing Gina Bear has got you covered. During the pandemic in 2020, I was super bored so I extensively explored Seoul and know it like the back of my hand. If you’re looking for the best photo spots for fall leaves in Seoul, everything you need to know will be right here.

This post will have a map of all the best places for autumn leaves in Seoul, the best places to see fall flowers in Seoul, and tips on how and where to take pictures.

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• What To Wear And What To Pack For Korea in Fall
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• Where To See Fall Foliage in Korea

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I visit during Autumn in Korea?

South Korea in September is warmer with average temperatures being 26°C(79°F) during the day and 17°C (62°F) at night. Seoul weather in October ranges from 68°F during the day and 49°F at night. Next Seoul weather in November gets super chilly with temperatures dropping down to to 53°F during the day and 35°F at night.

2. Is it cold in Korea during Autumn?

It starts to get chilly around mid October. The weather is cool during the day and gets cold at night. Despite this, I think its very comfortable.

3, Where can I see Autumn foliage in Seoul?

My favorite places to see fall foliage in Seoul are Olympic Park, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Seoul Forest.

4. What can you do in Autumn in Korea?

There are a lot of fall festivals in Korea during this time. Some of the most popular activities include going to Seoraksan Mountain, Naejangsan, and spending a weekend in Gyeongju.

5. When do leaves start falling in Seoul?

The fall leaves in Seoul start falling around mid-November.

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 with your purchase.

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 hours.

How To Stay Connected

Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer wifi for free and you can connect to various free spots around the city. However, if you don’t want to be reliant on that, you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone.

What To Wear in Autumn in Korea

I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way 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, carryon, and checked luggage. Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account.

Autumn in South Korea is my favorite time of year. I love the fashion, the changing of the leaves, and most of all Halloween. Even though Halloween in Korea isn’t as widely celebrated as in the states, you’ll definitely see cafes put up some cute decor.

What To Wear in Fall in Korea

Below are some of my favorite staple pieces I wore during fall in South Korea. These are pieces that are versatile and will really bring that edge to your wardrobe. For an extensive guide on what to wear in fall in Korea and what to pack for autumn in Korea, click here.

• American Eagle Curvy Skinny Jeans – I basically live in high waisted skinny jeans all autumn. I especially love the Curvy Jeans from American Eagle. They stretch and fit in all the right places.
• Biker Jacket – This is an effortless and staple piece that should be in any wardrobe. You can dress it up or down and goes with most things in your wardrobe.
• 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 – If you plan on going out to dinner at night or you just like to be flirty or girly, then you should definitely have a few dresses like this in your wardrobe
• Trenchcoat Light Jacket – These are always super popular in Korea and I see people rocking them year after year. They dress up any outfit and are perfect when the temperature starts to drop in the evening.
• Sheertex Rip Resistant Tights – If you have a fur baby like I do, these are a godsend. Trust me, these are HARD to destroy and totally worth the investment.
• Warm Scarf – The weather gets a bit chilly in Korea at night in Autumn. I always keep my long scarf in my bag for when that happens.
• Fedora Hat – This hat automatically makes your outfit cuter and doubles in keeping you warm.

South Korea Fall Foliage Forecast 2023 

The official forecast has not been released yet. These are the dates for the Korea autumn foliage forecast 2022. Be sure to bookmark this page because as soon as I know, I’ll definitely be updating you! Autumn foliage in Korea starts around late-September in northern parts of Korea, peaks in mid to late-October. Fall foliage ends in southern Korea by mid-November with the arrival of colder winter weather.

• Seoraksan – September 29 – October 21
• Bukhansan – October 17 – October 30 
• Seoul – October 18 – October 31
• Naejangsan – October 30 – November 5
• Busan – October 20 – October 30
• Hallsan – October 20 – October 31

Map of Autumn Foliage in Seoul

1. Bongeunsa Temple

Located across the street from the CoEx Mall, Bongeunsa was constructed in the 10th year of the Silla Dynasty. It’s surrounded by lush forest and makes for a perfect stroll. You can see beautiful fall leaves during Seoul in autumn at this serene and peaceful property.

Photo Tip: In my experience since Bongeunsa is a place of worship, people are usually really chill and quiet here. You can go at any time to get photos like I did.

2. Deoksugung Palace

Another great location of where to see fall foliage in Seoul is Deoksugung. Surrounded by a lot of trees, this modern palace makes a great Seoul photo spot. I visit Deoksugung in the afternoon and while there were a lot of people there, it wasn’t overwhelming. This palace also has a changing of the guard ceremony which is amazing to see with all the bright autumn foliage in Seoul.

Photo Tip: Since this isn’t the most popular palace in Seoul, if you go late afternoon you’ll get great photos here.

3. Deoksugung Stonewall Walkway

Another amazing place to see autumn leaves in Seoul is Deoksugung Road. This is a picturesque pedestrian walkway with over 20 benches and 130 trees along the road. It’s a popular spot for couples to walk around. It is a particularly popular spot for fall foliage in Seoul.

Photo Tip: If you go during the morning or early afternoon, you can get undisturbed photos like I did. Go during the week right after the morning commute and before the lunch rush.

4. Gyeongbokgung Palace

This is one of my favorite Seoul Autumn activities is going to Gyeongbokgung. To be honest I frequent almost every year. I love going there and taking photos with the changing leaves while I rent a hanbok. This is the best way to get really immersed in Korea’s old culture. I highly suggest doing a hanbok rental and photoshoot for the best souvenirs.

Photo Tip: This bench is located in the back of the palace close to the pagoda. It is very popular for photos so you are going to have to wait a bit for it. I promise its 100% worth it. If you don’t want to wait, I recommend being the first person at Hanboknam’s Rental Shop and going right when Gyeongbokgung has opened.

5. Haneul Park

One of the most popular places to see silver grass in fall in Korea is at Haneul Park. Many couples, families and friends often come. It’s also a great place to see the pink muhly grass in Seoul. This park is dog friendly so I recommend bringing your fur baby for pictures. Haneul Park can be really difficult to get to since its far out on the brown line. Try this Eunpyeong Hanok Village and Haneul Park tour to visit much more easily.

Photo Tip: Haneul Park is insanely busy during the weekend. The only reason I was able to get a photo without so many people in it was because I woke up really early. I recommend going during the week in the afternoon.

6. Namsan Moutain & Tower

As you’ve figured out, the autumn foliage around Seoul is quite stunning. There’s so many places I’m inspired by and I want to go and photograph them all! One of the best ways to get a bird’s eye view of the trees is to take the cable car going up and get a Namsan Tower observation deck ticket.

Photo Tip: No matter when you visit Namsan Tower, it is almost always going to be packed with tourists and locals alike. My best suggestion is to hike along the wall for a picture similar to this one. Have patience because you’re going to need it. It’s slightly less busy during the week.

7. Olympic Park

Olympic Park was once the site of the 1988 Olympics. The park has since then repurposed as a family friendly environment. Also many concerts are held here because of the dome space. I rented a Seoul Bike nearby for the photo. To me, nothing screams Seoul Pride like the Olympic arches in Jamsil. Fall in South Korea is really something out of a fairytale.

Photo Tip: To get a beautiful golden glow in your photos like I did, go close to sunset.

8. Cosmos Field at Olympic Park

Autumn in South Korea not only brings gorgeous foliage, but seasonal blooms. I had the opportunity to visit the Cosmos Garden one morning during the week to snap this gorgeous photo.

Photo Tip: Go during the week in the morning around 8am for the best lighting. Besides the occasional ajhumma doing her exercise you’ll have the field to yourself. Avoid going during the weekend at all costs because everyone and their brother will be here. I also recommend wearing something orange.

9. Lake at Olympic Park

Korean autumn is like stepping into another world if you know where to look. This place isn’t too popular and the views are stunning.

10. One Tree Hill

One Tree Hill is a quintessentially famous picture spot in Seoul. It’s always popping.

Photo Tip: Visit during the week. If you do find yourself going on a weekend, be good at removing unwanted people from your photo.

11. Lotte World 6th Floor Stairs

I like Seoul in fall most of all because it is so dreamy. Koreans know how to go all out with an autumn leaves aesthetic. Every season or for special promotional events, the 6th floor stairs at the Lotte World Mall get decked out.

Photo Tip: Go during the day during the week. It’s hard to get pictures here on the weekend due to people walking up and down the stairs.

12. Changdeokgung

I learned the hard way its nearly impossible to get into the Changdeokgung Secret Garden during autumn if you haven’t booked tickets ahead of time. Don’t make the same mistake I did and book them at least two weeks ahead of time. Peak fall foliage in Seoul is in October. You’ll definitely get a chance to experience how pretty it can be.

Photo Tip: Visit Changeokgung during sunset on the weekends for less crowds. Go in the late afternoon to Changdeokgung and also do the Secret Garden tour.

13. Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Seoul. Most seasons they have a special event going on and really celebrate nature. Autumn is no different. In 2020, they have a chrysanthemum dinosaur flower theme. And in case you were wondering, yes it was awesome.

Photo Tip: Come during the week for less crowds. If you do come during the weekend, just an hour before sunset Jogyesa Temple really clears out and you can take great photos.

14. Seokchon Lake

I find myself falling for Seoul especially when walking around Seokchon Lake in autumn. A lot of people come to the Lotte World Magic Island to get their spooky Halloween vibes on. To walk around is completely free.

Photo Tip: While the track around Seokchon Lake gets you close to the foliage, there’s always a lot of people around. Try taking photos at the photo spot on the deck or at the walkway above for an aesthetic fall photo.

15. Seoul Forest

Seoul Forest fall foliage is so picturesque and perfect. I’ve spent hours in this park with a friend just laughing, filming videos, and taking photos. You can even picnic there if you choose.

Photo Tip: You can go at any time of day to take great photos. The park is huge and even though there’s a lot of people, you can still really enjoy yourself.

16. Jahayeon Pond At Seoul National University

One of my friends told me about this Seoul picture place and I knew I had to go. It is so romantic. I will admit it is a bit of a hike to get here since the Seoul Nation University Campus is huge.

Photo Tip: This Seoul photo spot isn’t that popular so you can go whenever.

17. Yongma Land

Yongma Land is an abandoned amusement park that found new life. It’s popular for photographers to come take wedding photos of couples in front of the carousel at night. It’s also great for creating spooky photos around Halloween.

Photo Tip: Come in the afternoon so you get the perfect golden hour light.

18. Suguksa Golden Temple Seoul

This golden temple is a jewel but also a bit of a hike to get to. It’s well worth it for a creative fall photo.

Photo Tip: Come here at any time (even on the weekends) because it’s not too crowded.

19. Namhansanseong

This fortress is located just outside of Seoul but the picturesque small town surrounding the mountain is so much fun to explore. If you hike up the mountain, you get amazing views of the Lotte World Tower.

Photo Tip: I found the hike up is normally free from a lot of people.

20. Cafe 1인1잔 Eunpyeong Hanok Village

Cafe 1인1잔 is one of the best places for fall photos in Korea. You can see the traditional hanok village along with the mountains. It makes for a very romantic setting. There’s a great tour that will take you to Eunpyeong Hanok Village in Fall as well as Haneul Park for the silver grass and pink muhly.

Photo Tip: Go right when this cafe opens. This window space is on the second floor and one of the most popular Korea photo spots in all seasons. It overlooks Eunpyeong Hanok Village.

21. Byeokjoji Gardens Paju

I was really bored during the pandemic so I took a girl’s trip to Paju. This city is right under the North Korean border. It’s very difficult to get here by public transport and explore. I highly suggest renting a car. The Byeokjoji Gardens are insanely popular.

Photo Tip: This photo was taken right as the park was about to close and the sun was setting.

22. Nami Island

You’ll find everyone and their brother at Nami Island in Autumn. But this is honestly because of the ginkgo tree road and the many random activities the island provides. It’s also a little bit of a hassle to get here so I recommend booking a Nami Island Fall Foliage tour here.

Photo Tip: Visit Nami Island during the week if you can and go right when the first ferry sets sail. It gets really crowded around mid-morning.

Now you know where to see autumn foliage in Seoul! Bring your best fall fashion, smile, and camera because you’re gonna have a blast. Let’s enjoy the fall season in Seoul because winter comes way too fast! Let me know down in the comments which location you’d visit first.

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