Originally published September 2020. Updated September 2026.

Autumn in Korea is hands down my favorite time of year. After living in South Korea for nearly six years, I experienced every season multiple times, and nothing compares to fall.

Summer’s heat and humidity finally disappear, the air turns cool and crisp, and mountains, palaces, parks, and city streets transform into shades of red, orange, and gold. It’s also when I finally get to break out my fall wardrobe without sweating through it five minutes after leaving my apartment.

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in September, October, or November, this guide covers everything you need to know about autumn in Korea, including the best time to visit, the 2026 fall foliage forecast, weather, what to wear, autumn festivals, seasonal foods, and the best places to see fall foliage around the country.

And if you’re wondering how to say autumn in Korean, it’s 가을 (gaeul).

Quick answer: If you’re traveling specifically for fall foliage, I recommend visiting from late October through early November. The exact timing changes every year and varies depending on where you travel in Korea.

When is autumn in Korea?

Autumn in South Korea lasts from September through November, but each month feels completely different.

September can still feel like an extension of summer, especially at the beginning of the month. October brings cooler temperatures and the beginning of Korea’s famous fall colors. By November, the weather becomes significantly colder, and peak foliage moves into southern Korea.

September in Korea 

Don’t pack your sweaters just yet.

September can still be hot and humid, especially during the first half of the month. When I lived in Korea, I was often still wearing shorts well into September.

As the month progresses, temperatures become more comfortable and the summer humidity starts disappearing. September is a great time to visit if you want fewer crowds and warmer weather, but it’s generally too early for Korea’s famous fall foliage.

October in Korea 

October is my favorite month in Korea.

The humidity drops, daytime temperatures become much more comfortable, and the leaves begin changing across the mountains. Early foliage starts in northern and mountainous areas first before gradually moving south.

If you enjoy hiking, festivals, outdoor sightseeing, or simply walking around Seoul without melting into the pavement, October is a fantastic time to visit.

November in Korea

November is colder, but don’t overlook it!

In fact, early November can be one of the best times to see fall foliage in Seoul, depending on the year. In 2026, Bukhansan Mountain isn’t expected to reach peak color until November 4.

As November progresses, peak foliage moves farther south. You’ll want a proper jacket because nighttime temperatures can get very cold, especially toward the end of the month.

Best Time To Visit Korea in Autumn

The best time to visit Korea in autumn depends on what you want to experience.

For comfortable weather and outdoor activities, I love October. For peak fall foliage, I’d choose late October through the first half of November.

Travelers sometimes assume October is automatically peak foliage everywhere in Korea, but that’s not how it works. Korea stretches north to south and has a mountainous landscape, so the leaves change at different times throughout the country.

In 2026, for example, Seoraksan is expected to peak on October 25, while Bukhansan in Seoul is expected to peak November 4, Naejangsan on November 11, and Hallasan on Jeju Island on November 13.

That means you can actually follow the foliage south if you’re traveling around Korea for several weeks.

Autumn Weather in Korea

One thing I learned from living in Korea is that you really can’t pack for “Korean autumn” as if it’s one temperature.

September, October, and November are completely different.

September Weather in Korea

September is the warmest autumn month. Early September can still feel very summery, with warm temperatures and lingering humidity.

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 thin out, and most people return to school and work. 

As the month progresses, the weather becomes noticeably more comfortable. If you’re visiting during September, I’d pack mostly summer clothing with a light layer for cooler evenings.

October Weather in Korea

October brings that dreamy fall weather everyone wants.

Days are generally comfortable for walking and hiking, while mornings and evenings become chilly. Layers are your best friend.

This is also when foliage begins appearing throughout northern and mountainous parts of Korea.

Daytime temperatures range from 18°C (64°F). October weather in Korea brings cooler nights, and temperatures can drop as low as 7°C (45°F). Weather conditions toward the end of October start to get colder. 

November Weather in Korea

November is considerably colder.

By then, you’ll want sweaters, long pants, and a proper jacket, especially at night. The upside? Some of Korea’s most spectacular foliage doesn’t peak until early or even mid-November.

Daytime temperatures usually average about 10°C (50°F). Bring a warm jacket for the night, as temperatures drop 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 2026

The official 2026 Korea fall foliage forecast is here!

According to the Korea Tourism Organization’s September 2026 forecast, the first foliage is expected at Seoraksan Mountain on October 3, followed by Bukhansan on October 23, Jirisan on October 28, and Hallasan on October 31.

2026 Peak Fall Foliage Dates

These dates are forecasts, not guarantees. Temperatures and weather conditions can cause the leaves to change earlier or later.

My tip: Give yourself some flexibility. Don’t plan an entire international trip around one exact “peak foliage” date. There will usually be beautiful fall color before and after the predicted peak.

Where to See Autumn Foliage in Seoul

You don’t have to leave Seoul to experience gorgeous Korean fall foliage. If Seoul will be your home base, use my Seoul itinerary to plan your sightseeing around your foliage adventures.

From mountains and palace grounds to enormous city parks, Seoul has some incredible places to watch the leaves change.

Seoul has way more foliage spots than I could possibly fit into one guide. Check out my best places to see autumn foliage in Seoul for even more parks, palaces, mountains, and hidden fall photo spots.

1. Bukhansan National Park

If you want mountains covered in red, orange, and yellow leaves without traveling across the country, head to Bukhansan National Park.

It’s one of Seoul’s most popular hiking destinations, and autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit.

You’ll also see something I always loved about hiking in Korea: Korean hikers decked out head-to-toe in serious hiking gear, often carrying enough snacks, food, and makgeolli to survive on the mountain for approximately six months. 😂

In 2026, Bukhansan’s first foliage is forecast for October 23, with peak color expected around November 4.

Address: 262 Bogukmun-ro, Jeongneung-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

2. Seoul Forest

Seoul Forest is magical during autumn.

You get colorful trees, walking paths, gardens, and plenty of places to take photos without committing to an actual mountain hike.

It’s also one of the Seoul locations VisitKorea specifically recommends for autumn foliage.

Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongsu-dong 1(il)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

3. Olympic Park

Olympic Park was one of my personal favorite fall destinations when I lived in Seoul.

The park is enormous, so you can easily spend a few hours walking, biking, having a picnic, and photographing the changing leaves.

Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Oryun-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul

4. Seoul City Wall 

For fall foliage mixed with incredible city views, walk part of the Seoul City Wall.

The Seoul City Wall was originally built in 1396, surrounding Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897). The wall stretches for 18.6km along the ranges of Bugaksan Mountain, Naksan Mountain, Namsan Mountain, and Inwangsan Mountain.

The historic wall follows the mountains surrounding central Seoul, giving you a completely different perspective of the city.

Address: 283 Yulgok-ro, Jongno 5(o).6(yuk)ga-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

5. Haneul Park

Autumn at Haneul Park isn’t just about colorful leaves.

It’s famous for its vast fields of silver grass, which make the landscape one of Seoul’s prettiest fall photo spots.

Address: 487-48 Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

6. Deoksugung

If you want Korean architecture framed by fall foliage, add Deoksugung to your itinerary.

Another of Seoul’s beautiful grand palaces, this one is so underrated. The grounds are decorated spectacularly and make for a great late-afternoon stroll. It only costs 2,000 won to enter.

Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul

7. Changdeokgung

I personally love going to the Secret Garden because there’s nothing better than frolicking in nature. Note that you have to pay 5,000 won to enter, and it’s usually with a tour, but they give you time to take photos.

During peak foliage, make sure you go early to reserve your tickets; otherwise, you won’t be able to get in.

Address: Myeongdong 3(sam)ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul

8. Namsan and N Seoul Tower

Namsan gives you the best of both worlds: foliage and skyline views.

You can walk up the mountain or take the cable car and look over Seoul as the city turns red and gold.

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

9. Cheonggyecheon Stream

If hiking isn’t your thing, walk along Cheonggyecheon.

The stream runs through central Seoul and makes an easy addition to a day of sightseeing around Jongno and central Seoul.

Address: 1 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Seorin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Where to go for Korea’s Fall Foliage? | Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Korea

Seoul is wonderful during autumn, but some of Korea’s most spectacular foliage requires leaving the capital.

If fall colors are the main reason for your trip, these are some of my favorite autumn foliage destinations in South Korea. Popular attractions include visiting national parks like Seoraksan Mountain to see its natural beauty. 

I also have a Korea Autumn Bucket List complete with a checklist of all the best fall foliage destinations, my favorite places, and what to do during fall in Korea.

Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan is one of Korea’s most famous autumn destinations — and for good reason. If you’re visiting South Korea for the first time, the easiest way to book a Seoraksan National Park Autumn tour.

Because of its northern location and elevation, it’s also one of the first major destinations to change color.

In 2026, foliage is expected to begin around October 3 and peak around October 25.

Nami Island

If your dream Korean autumn involves a tunnel of golden ginkgo trees, I recommend booking a Nami Island tour.

Made famous internationally by the K-drama Winter Sonata, the island is one of Korea’s most recognizable fall destinations.

It gets extremely popular during peak foliage, so I recommend visiting on a weekday or arriving early if possible.

Hwadam Botanical Garden

Hwadam Botanical Garden has become one of the most sought-after autumn destinations near Seoul.

It’s located about a 40-minute drive from Seoul, within Konjiam Resort in Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do. The closest bus stop is Gonjiam Terminal.

The landscaped forest, colorful maple trees, walking paths, and monorail make it particularly photogenic during peak foliage.

Because autumn admission can be extremely popular, plan this one in advance. It’s a bit of a hassle to go yourself from Seoul, so the easiest way is to book a Hwadam Botanic Garden tour.

Garden of Morning Calm

The Garden of the Morning Calm has events year-round. It is located about an hour and a half outside of Seoul, so it’s easier to go there by car.

It’s also easy to combine with other Gapyeong attractions if you’re planning a day trip from Seoul.

Asan Ginkgo Tree Road

If you love golden ginkgo trees, put Asan on your list. It’s off the beaten path because it’s in Chungcheongnam-do Province in the middle of Korea. 

Rows of mature ginkgo trees create a brilliant yellow tunnel during autumn and make this one of Korea’s most recognizable seasonal photo locations.

Gyeongju

I LOVE Gyeongju in autumn.

Gyeongju is one of my favorite places to experience fall in Korea. My guide to autumn in Gyeongju covers the best foliage spots, historic attractions, and everything you need to plan your visit.

You get fall foliage alongside temples, royal tombs, traditional architecture, and some of Korea’s most important historical sites… especially UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Bulguksa Temple is particularly beautiful surrounded by autumn colors. The countryside of Korea can be difficult if you don’t speak Korean, and there are one-day Gyeongju English tours available from Seoul.

Jeonju

Jeonju is famous for delicious bibimbap, street food, and makgeolli. Taeyang filmed his music video Wedding Dress at the old Catholic church.

Rent a hanbok, wander through Jeonju Hanok Village, eat an obscene amount of food, and enjoy the cooler weather.

This beautiful traditional city is gorgeous so if you also don’t want to DIY your trip, book a fall foliage Naejangsan and Jeonju tour. 

Naejangsan National Park

If you’ve ever Googled photos of autumn in Korea and thought, there is NO WAY Korea actually looks like that, you were probably looking at Naejangsan National Park.

It is one of Korea’s quintessential fall foliage destinations.

And because it’s farther south, it peaks later. The 2026 forecast has Naejangsan reaching peak foliage around November 11.

P.S. If you’re a book girly like me, it will remind you of the Autumn Court from Sarah J. Maas’s series A Court of Thorns and Roses.

Busan and Geumjeongsan

Yes, you can see beautiful autumn foliage in Busan too!

Geumjeongsan Mountain is one of the easiest options because it’s located right in Busan. Combine your hike with a visit to Beomeosa Temple, where traditional temple architecture looks especially beautiful surrounded by autumn foliage.

Because Busan is farther south, its autumn colors generally arrive later than Seoul’s.

Jeju Island

Jeju’s fall foliage season also comes relatively late.

For nature lovers, Halla Eco-Forest and the areas around Hallasan are excellent options. The official 2026 forecast predicts Hallasan will peak around November 13.

Namhansanseong Park and Fortress

Recently added as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this beautiful fortress truly is a site to behold in fall. The town is super cute and the mountain scenery around it makes for a great day trip out of Seoul.

One of the top attractions is climbing the mountain and seeing a spectacular view of Lotte Tower. A local told me about it, and once I knew it existed, I went every year. It’s popular with Koreans, so I recommend booking a Namhansanseong Fortress tour. 

Best Things to Do in Korea During Autumn

​Fall isn’t just about chasing leaves. Some of my favorite memories from living in Korea happened during this season because the weather finally makes being outside FUN again.

Go Hiking

Hiking is practically a national pastime in Korea, and autumn is arguably the best season to do it.

Try Bukhansan if you’re based in Seoul, Seoraksan for dramatic mountain scenery, Naejangsan for iconic foliage, or Geumjeongsan if you’re staying in Busan.

Have a Picnic at Olympic Park

Cool weather + snacks + fall foliage = perfection.

Grab some food, find a patch of grass, and spend an afternoon at Olympic Park. When I lived in Seoul, I loved bringing my Pomeranian, Honey Bear, here.

Rent a Hanbok and Visit the Palaces

This is the best time to rent a beautiful Korean hanbok and visit the palaces. Hanboknam in Seoul is a great option because they are foreigner-friendly and offer different styles.

Autumn is one of the best times to wear hanbok around Seoul because you’re not fighting Korea’s summer humidity. You can even book a makeup and photo shoot session for priceless memories on your trip to Korea. 

Visit Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, or another Seoul palace surrounded by fall colors.

Go Apple Picking in Pocheon 

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.

Celebrate Halloween in Korea

I LOVE Halloween, and Korea has plenty of seasonal events during October. If you’re coming to Seoul during spooky season, I have a complete guide to celebrating Halloween in Korea. It includes spooky cafes, Halloween activities in Seoul, and much more!

Theme parks like Everland often introduce elaborate seasonal decorations and Halloween-themed entertainment. You get to ride the Horror T-Express, visit the Horror Village, and, most excitingly, the Horror Maze.

Important: Specific Halloween attractions and programs change every year, so check the current schedule before booking.

Take a Ghost Tour

As you know, Korea has thousands of years of deep and vibrant history. Did you also know as a result of a lot of bloodshed during the Korean War, there are also super haunted places in Seoul?

This Dark Side of Seoul Tour will take you to places and tell you urban legends only the locals know about. If you’re trying to be scared silly, then I highly suggest this tour! 

Autumn Festivals in Korea 2026

These are only a few of Korea’s seasonal events. Check out my complete guide to the best autumn festivals in Korea for even more festivals happening throughout September, October, and November.

Andong Mask Festival |안동국제탈춤페스티벌 

When: September 24, 2026 – October 4, 2026

If you’re ever up for making the trek into the countryside, I cannot recommend the Andong Mask Festival enough. The festival invites performers from several provinces across Korea and around the world.

The Andong Maskdance Festival is one of my favorite cultural festivals to recommend because it combines Korean traditions, performances, food, and the historic atmosphere of Andong.

Try Korean festival foods and take a walk around the historic and beautiful Hahoe Hanok Village. On weekends, you can experience fireworks.

Icheon Rice Festival |이천 쌀 축제

When: October 14, 2026 – October 18, 2026

The rice in Icheon was said to be so delicious and high quality, it was fed to the king of Korea. To this day, Icheon is known for producing the best rice in Korea.

I can attest that it is pretty darn good, having eaten it in sweet rice and bibimbap. The Icheon Rice Festival is definitely in one of my top three festivals for Korean culture appreciation.

Jarasum Jazz Festival | 자라섬 국제 재즈 페스티벌 

When: October 9, 2026 – October 11, 2026

The Jarasum Jazz Festival takes place in Gapyeong and features a variety of Korean and international jazz artists over three days of performances.

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 the day off during 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 2026, the Korean public holidays are: 

• Harvest Festival Holiday (Chuseok) – September 24 – September 26, 2026
• National Foundation Day – October 3, 2026
• Substitute holiday for National Foundation Day – October 5
• Hangul Day – October 9, 2026

If your trip overlaps with Chuseok, book intercity transportation as early as possible and check opening hours for individual attractions, restaurants, and businesses.

Don’t assume everything in Seoul shuts down — but don’t assume everything operates normally either.

What To Eat in Autumn in Korea

Korea in autumn is amazing because it brings all the seasonal fruits and veggies. Koreans value freshness above all else so be sure to eat these foods when you’re in Korea during fall.

• Apples, Pears, Persimmons
• Blue Crab – this is a great time to eat the female crabs filled with roe!
• Jumbo Prawns – If you’re a fish lover, you can’t miss out on eating shrimp when they’re most delicious.
• Gizzard Shad – This is a type of fish that tastes more delicious in fall because fish tend to store more nutrients during the long winter season.
• Starbucks – Believe it or not, Starbucks has awesome seasonal menu items and merchandise. The best way to get exclusive details is to check the official Starbucks Korea Instagram.

What To Wear in Fall in Korea?

This is where people get themselves into trouble because September Korea and November Korea require completely different suitcases.

Not sure what belongs in your suitcase? My complete guide to what to wear in Korea during autumn breaks down exactly what I recommend packing for September, October, and November.

What to Wear in September

Think late summer rather than stereotypical fall.

Pack breathable clothing, short sleeves, comfortable walking shoes, and a light layer for evenings.

What to Wear in October

Layers, layers, layers.

October is perfect for sweaters, cardigans, light jackets, jeans, skirts with tights, and comfortable boots or sneakers.

The afternoons can be gorgeous while mornings and evenings feel considerably cooler.

What to Wear in November

Bring the jacket.

You’ll want sweaters, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and warmer outerwear, particularly if you’re visiting toward the end of November or spending significant time outside at night.

What to Pack for Korea in Autumn

In addition to seasonally appropriate clothing, I recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes because you will walk a lot in Korea.

For everything beyond your fall wardrobe, use my complete Korea packing list to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

I would also pack:

• Comfortable sneakers
• Layers
• Light jacket or coat depending on the month
• Small umbrella
• Portable charger
• Universal travel adapter
• Day bag
• Reusable water bottle

Planning Your Autumn Trip to Korea

Now that you know when and where to experience autumn, let’s get down to the practical stuff.

How to Get Around Korea

Public transportation in Korea is excellent.

In Seoul, the subway and bus networks will get you almost everywhere you’ll need to go. For everyday transit, you’ll want a transportation card such as a T-money card.

I recommend the Discover Seoul Pass, which doubles as a T-Money card. You can visit major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discount. It comes in 24/48/72/120-hour increments.

For travel between major cities, Korea’s rail and intercity bus systems make destinations like Busan, Gyeongju, Jeonju, and other regions relatively easy to reach.

Get Travel Insurance 

A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance.

Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. There’s a family emergency. I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance.

How to Stay Connected

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in Korea, especially in cafés, hotels, airports, and many public areas.

I still recommend having mobile data because you’ll constantly use your phone for navigation, translation, transportation information, and reservations.

An eSIM is one of the easiest options if your phone supports it.

Autumn in Seoul & South Korea Ebook

Planning everything yourself can be overwhelming, so I’ve also created an autumn Korea itinerary to help you put everything together.

It includes recommendations for where to stay, what to eat, must-see attractions, transportation, packing tips, photo locations, and other insider advice for planning your trip.

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.

$0.00

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Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn in Korea

What month is best for autumn in Korea?

October and early November are generally the best times to visit Korea for classic autumn weather and foliage. October offers comfortable temperatures and early-to-mid-season foliage, while many destinations reach peak color from late October into November.

When is peak fall foliage in Seoul in 2026?

Bukhansan Mountain is expected to reach peak foliage around November 4, 2026. Actual timing can shift depending on weather conditions.

Is September too early for fall foliage in Korea?

For most destinations, yes. September is considered autumn, but it can still feel like summer. Korea’s major foliage season generally begins in October.

Is October a good time to visit Korea?

Absolutely. October is one of my favorite months in Korea because temperatures become cooler, humidity drops, festivals are underway, and foliage begins appearing throughout the country.

Is November too late for autumn foliage in Korea?

Not necessarily! Early November can actually be peak foliage season in Seoul and many southern destinations. In 2026, Naejangsan is forecast to peak around November 11 and Hallasan around November 13.

When does autumn start in Korea?

Meteorologically, autumn covers September through November. However, September can remain quite warm. In my experience, mid-October is when Korea really starts feeling like fall.

Where is the best fall foliage in Seoul?

Some of my favorite places include Bukhansan National Park, Seoul Forest, Olympic Park, Haneul Park, Namsan, Deoksugung Palace, and Changdeokgung Palace. VisitKorea also highlights locations including Seoul Forest, Olympic Park, N Seoul Tower, and Gyeongbokgung Palace for fall foliage.

Final Thoughts on Autumn in Korea

I’ve experienced Korea during every season, and autumn will always have a special place in my heart.

There’s something magical about watching Seoul’s mountains turn red and orange, walking through golden ginkgo trees, eating seasonal food, and finally enjoying the outdoors after Korea’s brutally hot and humid summer.

If this is your first trip to South Korea, October through early November is one of the best times I could recommend visiting.

Just remember that Korea’s fall foliage doesn’t peak everywhere at once. Watch the annual foliage forecast, give yourself some flexibility, and don’t be afraid to venture outside Seoul.

Happy leaf peeping! 🍁

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