Visiting Korea during the fall offers a unique experience filled with vibrant colours, cultural festivals and cool weather.
This season, from September through November, is often considered one of the best times to visit the country due to the pleasant climate and the stunning natural beauty.
The season is highlighted by the fall foliage, which peaks in October and continues through mid-November. Domestic and international travellers flock to Korea to enjoy the vibrant landscapes, with hiking trails and national parks being particularly busy.
Despite this demand, autumn prices are still lower than that of the peak summer months and, with a bit of advance planning, it is not difficult to avoid some of the crowds.
Read on to learn more about fall in Korea, along with tips for what to see and do in Korea from September to November.
Weather
September begins to cool off, a trend that continues throughout the fall months. During the first half of the season, temperatures hover between 16-26 C (60-78F) and skies are clear. Humidity can still be high during September, but rarely uncomfortable.
By mid-October, the humidity has all but disappeared and temperatures continue to slowly cool off. By November, especially the second half of the month, the weather starts giving hints of winter with temperature dipping to 2-12 C (35-53F)
It’s important to note that, in the fall, temperatures can vary from place to place in Korea, with elevated regions and coastal cities cooler than urban centres and low-lying plains. And there are also significant drops, at times, between day time temperatures and evening. Therefore, for travel to Korea during the fall, EXO suggests packing layers to ensure comfort throughout the trip!
Where to go and fall highlights
Thanks to the mild temperatures and clear skies, fall is a great time in all corners of Korea. It’s especially a great season for outdoor adventures, such as hiking and cycling, in one of the country’s 22 national parks. Seoraksan National Park, Korea’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers the best variety of trails.
Fall is also the season when the trees throughout the country turn to brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow. The best places for spotting the autumn foliage are Nami Island, a river island near Chuncheon, and Hwadam Botanical Gardens in Gwanju.
The fall is also famous for another natural blossom: pink Muhly. This vibrant pink grass blooms normally in late September or early October, resulting in giant fields of swaying pink blossoms. The best place to enjoy this pink display is Anseong Farmland, a park located south of Seoul.
Fall Festivals
Chuseok (Nationwide): Also known as Hangawi, Chuseok is a major three-day holiday in Korea. Based on the lunar calendar, the festival celebrates harvest and abundance and is an important time for families to gather and give thanks to their ancestors.
Jinju Lantern Festival (Jinju): Taking place in October, the festival originates from the late 16th century when floating lanterns were used as a military strategy to prevent Japanese troops from wading the Namgang River. In modern times, the festival includes floating lanterns as well as fireworks, cultural performances and more.
Jarasum International Jazz Festival (Jarasum Island): Held every October, this annual , three-day festival features acclaimed international and local jazz musicians.
Yeouido Fireworks Festival (Seoul): Held annually along Seoul’s Han River near Yeouido Park, this festival lights up the night sky with an elaborate display of fireworks, drawing in crowds from all across the country and even international visitors
Hwadam Forest Fall Foliage Festival (Gwangju): a celebration of the autumn season as the forest turns into a stunning array of colors with its maples and other deciduous trees. Hwadam Forest is located in Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, and is known for its well-preserved natural environment, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Korea is a year-round destination, offering diverse travel experiences tailored to each season.
Spring (March to May) brings out the cherry blossoms, pleasant temperatures with clear skies and delicious fresh flavours in seasonal cuisine. Summer (June to August) offers verdant landscapes and the opportunity for soaking in the sun on Busan’s shores.
Come Autumn (Sept to Nov), the leaves begin to change, painting landscapes with vibrant foliage that form an ideal backdrop for trekking and other outdoor pursuits. Winter (Dec to Feb) transforms Korea into a snowy retreat, with mountain resorts beckoning skiiers and snowboarders to their powdery slopes.
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