Seasonal Focus
Autumn in South Korea
Autumn is definitely the season I look forward to most in Korea. In September, October, and November, landscapes are at their best. Fantastic fall foliage begins in mid October in Seoraksan National Park, and then paints all of Korea in dramatic reds, oranges, and yellows. Autumn gardens can actually be even prettier than in spring, with pink muhly and other wonderful grasses and plants creating a gorgeous canvas of colour.
The weather is pretty much ideal during autumn, with clear, blue skies, little humidity, and perfect sunlight. It doesn’t really get cold until the end of November, so it’s literally the BEST time of year to visit Korea.
What is the best time to visit?
There isn’t really a bad time to visit Korea in autumn. If you’re after the most epic fall foliage, my favourite weeks are the last week of October, and the first few weeks of November. This is when you’ll see those vibrant crimson reds, and gorgeous golden ginkgo leaves.
Best AUTUMN Day Tours AND EVENTS In Korea
Aside from the incredible nature everywhere, autumn also has some of the biggest, most popular festivals of the entire year. From Joseon palaces illuminated at night to film festivals to massive firework events, there’s almost too much to do!
Seoraksan National Park + Nami Island + Alpaca World
October – November
- Seoraksan National Park is the first place to change colour in Korea
- Autumn is undoubtedly the best season to visit Nami Island
- Add Alpaca World, the Garden of Morning Calm, or the Gangchon Rail Bike for a perfect autumn day
DMZ Tour + Suspension Bridge
October – November
- The DMZ between North and South Korea is must visit
- See the 3rd Invasion Tunnel, the Unification Village, and the Dora Observatory, with views into North Korea
- Meet with a North Korean defector and hear their escape story firsthand
- Visit in late October or November to see gorgeous autumn foliage over Majang or Gamaksan suspension bridge
Hwadamsup Day Tour
Year round
- Hwadamsup is one of the most sought after autumn hotspots near Seoul
- Entrance is reservation only, but you must have a Korean phone number to buy tickets
- This tour is incredibly convenient and includes tickets and transport
Naejangsan National Park
November
- Considered by locals to be one of the most spectacular autumn spots in Korea
- The most incredible mountain to see crimson maple leaves in November
- Hike through spectacular autumn foliage, see an ancient Buddhist temple, and gawk at a vibrant maple tunnel
