Visiting Korea in November 2024 | Weather, What to Wear + Best Festivals

Many consider October in Korea to be the height of autumn, but it’s still possible to find spectacular fall foliage in Korea in November in the first half of the month. The kaleidoscopic colours all but disappear soon after, so you should be prepared for a dramatic change in landscape and climate by month’s end.

There’s a dramatic change in landscape in Korea in November.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• what the November weather in Korea is like
• the Seoul weather in November and other major cities and tourist hotspots, including Busan, Jeju, Pyeongchang and Gangwondo
• the best autumn festivals to attend in South Korea in November
• what to wear and the best things to pack for a successful trip to Korea in November

Visiting Korea in November

If you’re planning your trip to South Korea for November, you’ll have to pay extra attention to the climate and weather. November is a shoulder month between autumn and winter in Korea, so the end is vastly different than the beginning.

There’s still tons of fall foliage to enjoy in November in Korea. This is at Hwadam Botanic Garden.

Aside from the first few weeks when fall foliage fever in Korea is at its peak, this is a quieter month travel-wise. It’s easier to book good value accommodation in popular neighbourhoods like Myeongdong and Hongdae, festivals and attractions are a little less crowded, and you’ll likely avoid major queues at the airport if you travel to South Korea in November.

It starts to cool down, but the weather is still decent enough to explore without totally freezing, especially in the first week of the month. Overall, it’s a very pleasant time to see places in relative comfort and peace, before travel picks up again for winter vacations and Christmas in Korea.

Christmas is another busy travel season in Korea.

READ NEXT: The 7 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul for Travellers (with Hotel Recommendations)

Korea in November | Weather

November in Korea is a shoulder month, as autumn transitions fully into winter. Average temperatures range from a chilly 3°C | 38°F to 12°C | 53°F.

The Korea weather in November is still pretty decent for the first few weeks, and there are even days that are pretty warm. I’ve been out as late as mid-November in just a sweatshirt and jeans, and been perfectly comfortable.

Perfectly comfortable in jeans and a sweatshirt at Asan Ginkgo Tree Road in mid-November in Korea.

Despite the odd warm day however, this is definitely a month where you should be prepared with thicker weight clothing and gear. After mid-November in Korea, it cools down significantly, with freezing winds adding to the chill. This is just a small taste of what the next 2 months of winter in Korea will be like weather-wise.

Korea Weather in November Quick Guide

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Korea Weather in November | Busan

November is a pleasant month to visit Busan, before temperatures drop too much in winter. Unlike Seoul, it doesn’t get overly cold in Busan, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C | 50°F to 15°C | 58°F during November in Korea.

Busan is perfectly lovely in November © IR Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

Strangely, this is the month with the most chance of snowfall in Busan. You’d have to be extremely lucky to catch it though, since the snowfall in Busan totals just 1-mm for all of November.

Korea Weather in November | Pyeongchang (Gangwon-do)

The Korea weather in November in the province of Gangwon-do is typically quite a bit cooler than in other parts of the country. Pyeongchang in November has average temperatures ranging from just -3°C | 27°F to 7°C | 45°F.

Trees lose their leaves fastest in Gangwon-do and Seoraksan National Park.

In my experience, it can feel a lot colder, with freezing winds that blow right through you, so be prepared with some seriously heavy weight clothing to deal with the sub-zero temperatures.

Despite Gangwon-do being the province where most ski resorts in Korea are located, there isn’t a ton of snowfall in November. While it usually snows for the first time in Pyeongchang in November, it’s not significant – totalling under 10-mm over the course of the month.

You’ll have the most chance of experiencing snow at places like Snowy Land in Gangwondo.

Korea Weather in November | Jeju Island

In November, Jeju Island has a similar climate to Busan, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C | 50°F to 16°C | 70°F. It’s an ideal climate for hiking and exploring the many stunning natural and UNESCO sites on the island.

November in Korea is the perfect time to explore Jeju’s UNESCO sites © Korea.net / Korean Culture and Information Service (CC BY-SA 2.0)

It does rain a bit in Jeju in November, with just over 60-mm of precipitation falling over the course of the month.

Korea in November | Public Holidays 2024

There are no major public holidays in Korea in November 2024.

READ NEXT: 48 Breathtaking Places to See Autumn Foliage in South Korea

Limited Edition Autumn / Winter Tours in Korea

If you’re visiting Korea in November, you can take advantage of these limited edition autumn tours. It’s still possible to see some of the best fall colour in southern parts of the country, before we head into a new season. And I dare say, gingko trees might just be at their best in Korea in early November.

Ginkgo trees turn gloriously golden during November in Korea.

Day Tours from Seoul

• Wondae-ri Birch Forest + Seasonal Flower Festival | September 13th – November 15th, 2024
• Seoraksan (Osaek Autumn Foliage) + Nami & Garden of Morning Calm OR Alpaca World  |  October 2nd – November 29th, 2024
• Hwadam Botanic Garden + Namhansanseong Fortress (UNESCO)  |  October 15th – November 5th, 2024
• Seoraksan National Park with Cable Car Day Tour from Seoul | October 15th – November 8th, 2024
• Seoul City Autumn Tour (Gamaksan, Eunpyeong Hanok Village, Haneul Park + Jingwansa)  |  October 16th – November 24th, 2024
• Jangtaesan and Jeonju Hanok Village Day Tour from Seoul | October 28th – November 22nd, 2024
• Classic Naejangsan National Park Tour |   October 25th – November 15th, 2024
• Naejangsan National Park + Jeonju Hanok Village from Seoul  |  November 1st – 13th, 2024

Day Tours from Busan

• Jirisan National Park Autumn Tour | October 21st – November 4th, 2024
• Bulguksa Temple and Gyeongju Hwangnidan-gil Autumn Tour | October 24th – November 12th, 2024
• Naejangsan National Park Autumn Foliage Tour | October 25th – November 10th, 2024
• Naejangsan Autumn Tour with Transfer from Seoul to Busan | October 25th – November 11th, 2024
• Gyeongju Autumn Foliage One Day Tour | October 28th – November 15th, 2024

Winter Tours in Korea

Sure, winter in Korea might feel downright brutal, but there’s still plenty of fun things to do to help you forget the cold. Don’t miss these special events and activities that are only available for 2 or 3 months of the year.

You can channel your inner Elsa at the excellent Alps Village Ice Fountain Festival

• Yongpyong Resort Balwangsan Cable Car + Samyang Ranch | December 3rd, 2024 – February 20th, 2025
• Elysian Ski / Snowboarding / Sledding One Day Tour | December 5th, 2024 – March 5th, 2025
• Vivaldi Park Snowy Land Sledding Tour | December 10th, 2024 – February 28th, 2025
• Eobi Ice Valley + Strawberry Picking + Snow Sledding | December 15th, 2024 – February 28th, 2025
• Eobi Ice Valley, Nami Island, Alpaca World + Garden of Morning Calm  | December 16th, 2024 – February 19th, 2025
• Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival, Snowy Land + Strawberry Picking | December 16th, 2024 – March 3rd, 2025
• Cheongyang Alps Village Ice Fountain Festival + Strawberry Picking | December 23rd, 2024 – February 13th, 2025
• Cheongsong Ice Valley + Pohang Space Walk Tour  + Hometown Cha-Cha Market | December 25th, 2024 – February 12th, 2025
• Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival Tour from Seoul | January 25th, 2025 – February 2nd, 2025
• Skiing, Snowboarding, and Sledding Tours across Korea | December 2024 – March 2025

The Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival is one of Korea’s best winter events.

Korea in November | Best Festivals and Events

There’s an ever so slight pause in the crazy festival schedule in Korea in November, as if people are saving their energy for the incredible variety of activities coming up in the busy winter months of December and January.

Not to worry though – even at its quietest, there’s still way more to do in Korea in November than humanly possible.

Cherry blossom festivals take over Korea in spring ⓒ Live Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

Visiting Korea at another time of the year? Learn about weather and festivals for other months in Korea, in the following detailed guides.

• Korea in January: The Coldest Month of the Year
• Korea in February: The Final Month of Winter
• Korea in March: First Signs of Spring
• Korea in April: Chasing Cherry Blossoms
• Korea in May: In Full Bloom
• Korea in June: The Best Month of Summer
• Korea in July: The Peak of Summer
• Korea in August: Summer Vacation for EVERYONE!
• Korea in September: Autumn Relief
• Korea in October: Full on Fall Foliage
• Korea in December: Christmas Lights Galore

Winter in Korea brings sledding fun at Vivaldi Park Snowy Land.

Luminarie | 루미나리에

Festival Dates: October 25th, 2024 – February 28th, 2025

Address: 136, Samhaksa-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 송파구 삼학사로 136

This year, the theme of Luminarie is Dream, Universe and Love.  Expect sparkling light displays, photo zones, and, performances, and cultural experiences at Seokchon Lake Park throughout November in Korea.

Seokchon Lake is gorgeous in autumn © Kim Seung-rae, Photo Korea

This is a great opportunity to grab a hot chocolate and join the locals strolling the figure 8 walking path, while admiring gorgeous autumn leaves.

READ NEXT: Jangtaesan is the Autumn Foliage Hotspot of your Dreams

Masan Chrysanthemum Festival | 마산국화축제

Festival Dates: October 26th – November 3rd, 2024

Address: 80, Haean-daero, Masanhappo-gu, Changwon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do | 경상남도 창원시 마산합포구 해안대로 180 (월포동)

With fertile soil and a warm climate, Changwon (formerly Masan), is the biggest producer of chrysanthemums in Korea.

Chrysanthemums in Masan © Dodream, Korea Tourism Organization

At the Masan Chrysanthemum Festival, gawk at an exhibition of over 120,000 chrysanthemums artfully displayed in a massive garden, watch a cool drone light show and see a singing competition.

READ NEXT: 14 Magnificent Ginkgo Tree Avenues to Explore in Korea

Herb Island Pink Muhly Festival | 포천 허브아일랜드

FESTIVAL DATES: September 28th – November 11th, 2024

Address: 51, Cheongsin-ro 947beon-gil, Sinbuk-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 포천시 신북면 청신로947번길 35

Got pink muhly on the mind? Well, you’re in luck, because the pink muhly festival at Herb Island in Pocheon is on until November 11th!

Is pink muhly on your autumn wishlist?

Frolic on a pink sand mountain, ride a pink tractor, and enjoy everything else that Herb Island has to offer at the pink wonderland of your dreams.

Cheongsong Apple Festival | 청송사과축제

Festival Dates: October 30th – November 3rd, 2024

Address: Wolmak-ri, Cheongsong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do | 경상북도 청송군 청송읍 월막리

Every November in South Korea, crisp, juicy Cheongsong apples flood markets, streets, and grocery stores. At this time of year, you can be guaranteed a delicious apple, for a very reasonable price.

Cheongsong apples are crisp and sweet © Lee Bumsu, Korea Tourism Organization

At the Cheongsong Apple Festival, you can enjoy EVERYTHING apple – including an apple parade, apple contests, apple sculptures, and much more. And of course, there are Cheongsong apples available for purchase at the festival.

Yeosu Night Sea Fireworks Festival | 여수밤바다 불꽃축제

Festival Dates: November 2nd, 2024

Address: 383 Jungang-dong, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do

With a relaxed vibe, excellent food, and interesting things to see and do, Yeosu is one of my favourite cities to visit. Head there at the end of October in Korea, and be treated to an incredible fireworks display at Yi Sun Shin Square.

Arte Museum in Yeosu is worth a visit!

There’s a number of events and activities starting from 7:00PM, but fireworks are on from 8:00 – 8:35PM. Free to attend.

Jeju Olle Walking Festival | 제주올레걷기축제

Festival Dates: November 7th – 9th, 2024

Address: 22, Jungjeong-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 중정로 22

Jeju Island’s nature is simply glorious during November in Korea, and participating in the the Jeju Olle Walking Festival is one of the best ways to see it.

See the beauty of Jeju by foot in November © Lee Beomsu, Korea Tourism Organization

Walk along 23 different hiking routes around the island, with visitors from all over the world, while watching local performances and eating local food. This is one of the most interesting autumn festivals in Korea!

Anyone can register, including children and groups. Get more details here.

Seosan Chrysanthemum Festival | 서산국화축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, November 3rd – November 12th last year

Address: 320-1, Gobuk 1-ro, Seosan-si, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 서산시 고북면 복남골길 31-1

See flower tunnels, displays and other exhibits made up of colourful chrysanthemums and other wildflowers at Hannogwon Garden during November in Korea. There’s also a handicraft market, a showcase of traditional folk games, and food and tea made from chrysanthemum flowers available.

Ganworam is a unique temple that turns into an island at high tide.

I was pleasantly surprised by my visit to the quiet city of Seosan. There’s a ton to do! Be sure to stop into Haemieuipseong Fortress and check out the unique seaside Ganworam Hermitage while you’re there.

Busan Fireworks Festival | 부산 불꽃축제

Festival Dates: November 9th, 2024

Address: 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan | 부산광역시 수영구 광안해변로 219 (광안동)

The Busan Fireworks Festival lights up the sky above Gwangalli Beach every November in Korea. Aside from the epic fireworks display, you can also enjoy cultural programs, laser light shows and media facades.

Fireworks light up the sky in Busan in November in Korea © Seo Yeong-gyeon, Korea Tourism Organization

Grab front-row seats for Busan Fireworks Festival.

Taste of Seoul | 테이스트오브서울

Festival Dates: November 8th – 14th, 2024

Address: All over Seoul

If you’re visiting Korea in September, and don’t know where to eat, you’re in luck! Taste of Seoul will celebrate the city’s diverse and varied food scene, with 100 Taste of Seoul restaurants which have been selected by 20 gourmet curators to represent the city’s food scene.

Check out some of Seoul’s best restaurants during Taste of Seoul.

Vegetarians can rejoice. For the first time, a full half of these restaurants are plant-based. Figure out where to eat here.

Jeju Hueree Camelia Festival | 휴애리 동백축제

Festival Dates: typically starts from mid-November 20024

Address: 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan | 부산광역시 수영구 광안해변로 219 (광안동)

As mid-November hits Korea, camelia takes over Hueree Park in Jeju. There are literally thousands of gorgeous red blooms, and if you’re lucky a carpet of bright petals too.

Hueree is a pink muhly hotspot in autumn too © Dodream, Photo Korea

It’s also possible to pick Jeju tangerines, and feed animals at Hueree Park at the same time.

Korea in November | What to Wear

The Korea weather in November changes quite dramatically, with the end a lot colder than the start. For the first week, you could get away with jeans, hoodies, and sweaters during the daylight hours if you tolerate cooler temperatures well. However, a jacket is definitely needed by late afternoon and at night.

It’s a warmer at the beginning of November in Korea, but a jacket is still required.

By the end of the month, I don’t know many people who aren’t struggling with the deep freeze of Korea’s impending winter. HEATTECH inner layers, fleece-lined pants, warm boots, and a winter jacket are your best friend by the end of November in Korea. A lot of locals wear lighter-weight puffer coats with multiple layers underneath this month.

You’ll definitely need some kind of winter wear by the end of the month.

It’s helpful to have good running shoes or boots, for warmth, comfort, and convenience. I mostly wander around Seoul wearing sneakers and thick socks, and it’s enough, since I’m in and out of heated spaces.

On cooler days though, or if I’m planning to spend a full day outdoors, I wear waterproof Uggs to keep my toes toasty warm. There’s nothing worse than cold feet!

Wear warm shoes if you plan to spend lots of time outside © Lee Seong-u, Korea Tourism Organization

Make sure to pack for the cooler nights if you’re visiting Korea in November.

Visiting Korea in November | Packing List

Here’s a rough guideline of items to pack for the Korea weather in November.

Bring from Home

• travel documents: passport, itineraries, hotel reservations, plane tickets, travel visas, insurance
• international driver’s license if you plan to rent a car
• adaptor / plug
• long sleeved t-shirts, sweaters, hoodies, cardigans
• jeans, trousers, leggings, thick tights
• skirts or dresses
• jacket, or thin puffer style coat for the beginning of the month
• winter coat, gloves, scarf by the end of the month
• sunglasses, eyeglasses, contact lenses
• deodorant, feminine hygiene items
• comfortable shoes or boots for lots of walking
• any special medications you need

Buy in Korea

• umbrella if it rains
• hot packs (at the convenience store or DAISO)
• gloves and scarves are cheap and easy to buy everywhere
• HEATTECH inner layers for warmth (Uniqlo)
• disposable air pollution / medical masks
• batteries / charging cables (super cheap at Daiso)
• skincare products like sunscreen (high quality and cheap in Korea!)
• eyeglasses and contact lenses can be purchased just by walking into a store (a free eye test will be provided)
• birth control can be purchased over the counter, without a prescription (but all brands may not be available)

Shop for what you need at Daiso! © LERK (CC BY-SA 4.0)

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All ready for the perfect trip to Korea in November? What have you got planned?