Fall in South Korea is the absolute perfect time to visit. In fact, Korean autumn is so magical, I have dedicated this comprehensive guide on all my favorite places to see autumn foliage in Korea.
So why should you listen to instead of all the other bloggers out there? Easy! I lived in South Korea for almost six years.
I know how to travel the country like a local and have the best fall foliage spots plus local travel tips you’re not gonna find anywhere else. Autumn in South Korea truly feels like a magical fairytale land and I want to share all the best places with you!
Because… Hot girls don’t gatekeep.
Blog Posts You Might Like
- How To Celebrate Halloween in Korea
- Where To See Fall Foliage in Seoul
- What To Pack For Autumn in Korea
- The Ultimate Guide to Fall in Korea
Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn in Korea
1. Where to see autumn leaves in Korea?
Some of the best places to see fall foliage in Seoul are the grand palaces like Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung. I also recommend going on day trips to Korea’s national parks for the best fall foliage.
2. Where to visit in Korea in autumn?
Seoul is one of the top destinations most travelers go to visit in Korea in Autumn. However, I recommend going to traditional cities like Gyeongju and Jeonju.
3. Where is the best place to go for fall foliage?
The absolute best place to go for fall foliage in Korea is Seorak Mountain. There are gorgeous scenic viewpoints, a cable car for viewing, and a famous Buddhist Temple called Sinheungsa Temple.
4. Is South Korea good to visit in October?
Peak season for fall foliage is mid to late October.
5. When is the best time to visit Korea in fall?
The best time to visit Korea in fall is during October. The weather is perfect during the day and just a little chilly at night.
Where To See Autumn Foliage in Seoul?
Autumn in Seoul changes the vibe of the city. The city comes alive in fall with the leaves in Korea changing to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple.
For a complete guide of all my favorite autumn foliage spots in Seoul, check out my blog post!
1. Olympic Park
One of my favorite fall foliage spots in Seoul is Olympic Park. This park that was built for the 1988 Olympics has become the perfect place to picnic, walk around, and take the best autumn foliage pictures.
The top spots to go are the Cosmos Garden, One Tree Hill, and 84 Lake.
2. Deoksugung
If you’re curious about my autumn outfit in Korea, then check out my blog post on what to wear in Seoul during fall. Deoksugung is a great place to see fall foliage in Seoul because of all the ginkgo trees lining the property.
It’s especially charming if you to see the changing of the guard ceremony. The Deoksugung Stonewall Path outside is a popular spot to take a stroll.
This home is one of the grand royal palaces in Seoul and one of the last residences of the Joseon Dynasty royalty.
3. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung is an excellent place to see autumn foliage in Seoul. If you rent a hanbok in Seoul you can get free entrance to all the grand palaces.
I recommend doing this for amazing photo souvenirs. This Seoul photo spot is located toward the back where the floating pagoda is..
4. Changdeokgung Palace
The Secret Garden at Changdeokgung is fantastic for autumn foliage around Seoul. Get tickets in advance because the Secret Garden is especially gorgeous during autumn in Korea.
5. Haneul Park
Fall in Seoul is marked by silver grass. It truly feels like stepping into a movie scene while walking through these fields.
The property is quite large so you can take photos and visit whenever. I do recommend you go in the morning to avoid as many people as possible.
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. Seokchon Lake
Seokchon Lake isn’t just wonderful in spring. The trees turn a vibrant shade of orange in the fall.
I recommend checking out Knotted World Cafe in the Lotte World Mall to get a stunning bird’s eye view of the foliage around the lake. My photo was taken along the upper walkway and not the walking track.
7. Seoul Forest
Seoul Forest is a great place to experience fall in Korea. Many people come to picnic and spend the day outside before the long winter. You can see many Korean maple trees here too.
8. Namsan Park & N Seoul Tower
As you’ve figured out, the autumn foliage around Seoul is quite stunning. There are 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.
Hiking up the mountain is worth it because of all the beautiful scenery and autumn colors.
9. Yongma Land
Yongma Land is great for autumn vibes or Halloween in Seoul photos. This amusement park got shut down ages ago and found new life as a photographer’s haven. I came almost every year to take stunning fall photos in Seoul.
10. Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan Mountain is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Korea. You’ll run into a bunch of older Korean folk dressed head to toe in hiking gear, carrying packs of food, snacks, and of course makgeolli!
Where To See The Best Autumn Foliage in Korea?
Now we’re getting into the meat and potatoes of the best fall foliage in Korea. Honestly, there’s so many gorgeous spots, I should totally write a book about it!
Oh wait! I did. If you want a completely done-for-you Fall Foliage trip to Korea then you need to get my e-book!
11. Yangju Nari Park and Pink Muhly
Korea in the fall also brings the pink muhly grass. Autumn is a great season to go to Yangju Nari Park for Pink Muhly.
12. Namhansanseong
One of the best places to see autumn foliage near Seoul is Namhansanseong. If you hike the mountain, you see a gorgeous view of Lotte World Tower.
It’s a bit tricky to get here if you’re coming from Seoul. You can either rent a car in Seoul or do a day trip to Namhansanseong for the foliage.
I promise you won’t be disappointed with this charming and traditional Korean town. It’s really popular with Koreans so you know its especially good since this is where the locals hang out.
13. Eunpyeong Hanok Village
Another great place to see the best autumn foliage in Korea is Cafe 1인1잔 at Eunpyeong Hanok Village. Make sure to wear a cute autumn in Korea outfit so you can get stunning pictures like mine.
For all the top attractions during fall in Korea book this one-day tour to Eunpyeong Hanok Village.
14. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this proud fortress is a testament to Korea’s military power. Around the temple, you can take a hot air balloon ride, do archery, and enjoy drinks at various cafes.
There’s also a bunch of open fields where you can go and fly a kite. You can book a Korean fall foliage Suwon day trip that includes a hanbok rental here.
15. Byeokjoji Gardens Paju
Korea in the fall really shows vibrant colors t the Byeokjoji Gardens in Paju. This garden has really great European vibes.
I went here in 2020 to feel like I was in Europe because we couldn’t leave Korea during the pandemic. I don’t recommend using public transport to get here.
The only way you can truly experience the Byeokjoji Gardens in Paju is if you rent a car in Seoul and make it a day trip.
16. Korean Folk Village
Every year the Yongin Korean Folk Village puts on a really cool display for Halloween. The actors dress up as characters from scary urban legends and will pose for photos as well.
17. Everland Amusement Park
In my not-so-humble opinion, the best time of year to visit Everland is when they put up Halloween decorations. You’ll see pumpkins, bats, and ghost decor everywhere.
Everland’s Spectacular Halloween spares no expense because you can also get on horror-themed rides like the Horror T-Express, the Horror Village, and most excitingly, the Horror Maze.
18. Hwadam Botanic Garden
Hwadam Forest is a popular destination for cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage season. It’s totally easy to see why!
I highly recommend doing a Hwadam Botanic Fall Foliage excursion because it is a bit of a hike outside Seoul. Some of the most beautiful autumn foliage can be found here.
19. Asan Gingko Tree Road
This is one of the most famous fall foliage destinations in Korea and for good reason! It’s off the beaten path because it’s located in Chungcheongnam-do Province, which runs through the middle of Korea.
20. Pocheon Art Valley
One of the best places for a day tour in Korea is Apple Picking in the Pocheon Art Valley. Two popular K-dramas have been filmed there so make sure you snap a few photos.
After you explore, you’ll be taken to an apple farm where you can pick your own apples and take home 1kg of this delicious fruit.
21. Garden of Morning Calm
In fall, the Garden of the Morning Calm is surrounded by Chukryeong Mountain which turns fruity pebble shades of yellow, red, and orange. With all the beautiful plants and flowers, you can definitely see seasonal blooms.
22. Nami Island
When you think autumn foliage in Korea, Nami Island definitely comes to mind. It’s one of the most famous spots in Korea due to being featured in Winter Sonata.
I recommend you book a tour to experience autumn on Nami Island because public transport from Seoul takes forever. I recommend visiting because of the stunning autumn scenery with the gingko trees.
23. Baekyangsa
This temple is located in Naejangsan National Park. It is owned by Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism where you can see Korean red maple during autumn.
To get to this Buddhist Temple, you have to walk about 30 minutes from the parking lot. The walk up the mountain is quite lovely.
24. Naejangsan
One of the best ways to travel around Korea is via tour groups. Many tour companies specialize in helping foreigners, so if you want to see the gorgeous fall foliage on this mountain, the best way to do it is to book a tour.
I’ve been to Naejangsan in Autumn before and it’s seriously as pretty as this photo. Located in Korea’s southern province Jeollabuk-do, this mountain literally becomes red in fall. There’s so many picturesque places.
25. Bohyeonsa Temple Stay
Bohyeonsa Temple is a stunning place for autumn foliage in Korea. On the temple grounds, you can find National Treasure 191 where the great Monk Nangwon was enshrined.
It’s also a great place to hang out with Monks and learn about finding inner peace and happiness. They offer programs such as making your own prayer beads and paper lotus.
My favorite experience was the early morning walk through the Korean fall foliage with a monk. If you’re interested, I recommend looking through the website, Temple Stay.
26. Gyeongju
Gyeongju was once the old capital of the Shilla Dynasty and is a top destination to see beautiful fall foliage. Known for all its historic sites, it’s the perfect spot to learn about Korean culture and history.
One of my most viral photos (as pictured below) was taken in early October at Bulguksa Temple. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to DIY your trip, I have A Complete Guide to Gyeongju in Autumn here.
27. Jeonju
Jeonju also has amazing autumn foliage in Korea. This traditional Korean town features delicious bibimbap, yummy street food, and one-of-a-kind chocopies.
It’s kind of tricky to get down to Jeonju yourself so I recommend this one-day Jeonju trip from Seoul. Another great experience is to rent a hanbok and take many pictures as a great souvenir.
If you’re a K-pop fan, the Catholic cathedral is the filming location of Wedding Dress by Taeyang. For more information, check out my Jeonju in Autumn Itinerary.
28. Seongju
Since this isn’t such a huge tourist hub, and I actually went there on a tour, I highly recommend renting a car and seeing it for yourself. This is a very traditional town with a hanok village, the royal placenta of Korea’s finest stored in a mountain, and even a botanical garden.
29. Seoraksan National Park
National parks in Korea offer the best views of fall foliage. Mount Seorak has one of the most famous Buddhist Temples in Korea and the incredibly scenic Cheonbuldong Valley.
Seoraksan Mountain is located in Gangwon Province. One of the top spots to take fall foliage pictures is at Sinheungsa Temple.
Seoraksan is a really popular fall foliage destination in Korea! I highly recommend you go for cool temperatures and clean Autumn air.
30. Jirisan National Park
Jirisan Mountain is located in Hadong Province and was the first designated national park in Korea in 1967. This park has some pretty rugged trails so if you’re a beginner hiker, this might not be the place for you.
31. Songnisan National Park
Songnisan Mountain and nine mountain peaks of the Sobaek Mountain range are part of Songnisan National Park. The hiking trail known as Munjangdae Rock Route is one of the most scenic ones.
32. Odaesan National Park
Odaesan National Park is a total treasure for nature lovers all around! It has some of the best hiking with lovely temples, forests, and seas of clouds.
The best time to go is early in the morning so you can beat all the tour buses there. This gorgeous forest is located in Pyeongchang Province, South Korea.
33. Halla Eco-Forest
Located on Jeju Island, nature lovers are going to LOVE it here. It used to be a neglected patch of land before it was restored as a forest.
If you miss the foliage rush on the peninsula, you can still experience fall foliage on Jeju until late November.
So are you totally ready to see the best fall foliage in Korea? Because I sure am. Fall in Korea is the best time of year. There’s so many stunning places to experience autumn in Seoul as well as throughout the country. Any places you would add to this itinerary?
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.
World Nomads Travel Insurance
A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? I always recommend travel insurance.
Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. There’s a family emergency.
When you use World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:
- Trip Cancelation – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
- Emergency Medical – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
- Medical Evacuation – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
- Trip Interuption – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
- Trip Delay – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- 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.
- Warm Scarf – The weather gets a bit chilly in Korea at night in Autumn.
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
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.
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