korea travel peak season

Best (and Worst) Times to Visit South Korea in 2024/2025

South Korea experiences four distinct seasons. Generally, the best times to visit South Korea are in spring (March to May) for the cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for the fall foliage . Both periods have mild temperatures with an average range of around 10–16°C (50–61°F), with more clear days than summer/winter.

The best time for you to visit South Korea could be different however, depending on what you want to see and your travel preferences. Read our article to find out the best times to visit South Korea based on different factors.

• 1.South Korea Weather and Climate
• 2. The Worst Times to Visit South Korea
• 3. Best Times for Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds
• 4. The Cheapest Time to Visit South Korea
• 5. South Korea Travel Guide by Month

South Korea Weather and Climate

South Korea has four distinct seasons:

Spring (March to May): Being one of the best times to visit South Korea, the average temperature ranges from 8–16°C (46–61°F) , providing pleasant weather to enjoy the cherry blossoms and outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August): The sweltering conditions may make it uncomfortable for you to explore sightseeing spots during summer in South Korea. The average daily high during this season is 30°C (86°F) and there is frequent rainfall due to the rainy season. June is a better time to travel compared to July and August as it's cooler and has fewer crowds, with an average daily temperature range of 18–27°C (64–81°F).

Autumn (September to November): This is another one of the best times to visit South Korea. Cooler temperatures and decreased rainfall are the main features of this season. The average night-day temperature range is from 10 to 18°C (50–64°F). Many locals choose to go hiking during fall.

Winter (December to February): It is the coldest and driest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 3 to 5°C (37–41°F) on a typical day. We don't usually advise visiting South Korea during this period because it is too cold for comfort. However, if you are going for skiing or snowboarding activities, it's a different story. A Japanese skiing/ winter experience is even better though.

Suggested reading: How to Plan a Trip to South Korea >>>

The Worst Times to Visit South Korea

The summer months (July to August) in South Korea are the worst time to visit. High temperatures usually reach up 35°C (95°F) on the hottest days, and two-thirds of the annual rainfall occurs during this season, making heavy rainfall common. Therefore, you're recommended to avoid this period if you have a flexible schedule.

The second worst time to visit South Korea is in winter , from December to February. January is the coldest month of the year, with temperatures in Seoul sometimes dropping below -10°C (14°F) and occasionally falling below -15°C (5°F).

Suggested reading: Plan a Family Trip to South Korea >>>

Best Times for Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds

Late April to May has mild weather in South Korea , with average daily temperatures ranging from 13 to 23°C (55–73°F), and there are more sunny days before the rainy season arrives. The crowds of people viewing the cherry blossoms have disappeared and the summer vacation has not yet started, making it a perfect time to do outdoor activities and go sightseeing.

June is the start of summer and the rainy season in South Korea. The night-day temperature range is about 18–27°C (64–81°F) and rainfall typically consists of steady drizzles, but it doesn't rain every day.

September marks the tail end of the summer crowds and the rainy season. The weather tends to be drier and cooler, with an average daily temperature range of 17–26°C (63–79°F). More crowds arrive in October and November for the colorful autumn scenery. South Korea usually has a 3-day holiday in September for the important Chuseok (Mid-Autumn) festival and some stores may close or open late. Chuseok would not affect your trip and could be a chance to see more of Korea's culture.

Suggested reading: Plan a 2-Week Itinerary in Japan and South Korea >>>

The Cheapest Time to Visit South Korea

Winter (December to February) is the cheapest time to visit South Korea, except during Christmas and New Year (usually from December 23rd to January 5th). Not only could you benefit from lower hotel prices and better deals on international flights, but also you would see fewer crowds. However, be prepared for the chilly weather!

South Korea Travel Guide by Month

January and february: cold and dry.

• Average temperature: -4–5°C (25–41°F)
• Average rainfall: 23 mm (1 in)

January and February in South Korea have the coldest and driest weather of the year, with temperatures dropping as low as -10°C (14°F). It's quite cold and it may not be an ideal time for you to visit the country.

Festivals and events: Seollal, Korean Lunar New Year, is the most important festival in South Korea. During this time, you could immerse yourself in Korean culture at a temple fair to experience traditional Korean performances, sample local cuisines, and pray for the coming year.

March to April: Best Time for Cherry Blossoms

• Average temperature: 5–14°C (41–57°F)
• Average rainfall: 56 mm (2 in)

The cherry blossom season, from March to April, is one of the best times to visit South Korea due to the pleasant weather and increased number of sunny days. The cherry blossoms are usually in full bloom from late March to early April.

Festivals and events: Cherry blossom festivals are held in many cities in South Korea to view the charming pink blossoms, and it's the most popular event in spring.

May: Warm with Clearer Days

• Average temperature: 13–23°C (55–73°F)
• Average rainfall: 106 mm (4 in)

May offers an excellent opportunity for travel in South Korea due to its pleasant climate and sunny days. It's a perfect time to travel, particularly if you have a flexible schedule , as the rainy season and summer vacation crowds have yet to arrive.

June: Coolest Summer Month

• Average temperature: 18–27°C (64–81°F)
• Average rainfall: 133 mm (5 in)

June marks the beginning of summer in South Korea and is considered to be the coolest month to travel during the summer season. However, it is also the start of the rainy season, which typically means a steady drizzle rather than downpours.

June is a better month for families with school-age children (if you can get time off school) compared to July and August because you could enjoy fewer crowds and lower costs.

Festivals and events: South Korea celebrates the Dragon Boat Festival. As well as seeing dragon boat races, you could also eat aizi cake (wormwood rice dumplings) and appreciate captivating traditional performances.

July to August: Hot and Humid

• Average temperature: 22–31°C (72–88°F)
• Average rainfall: 380 mm (15 in)

July and August are the hottest months of the year, and the rainfall is very high and sometimes stormy. However, it does not rain every day. High temperatures could exceed 35°C (95°F), creating an uncomfortable feeling of heat and humidity while doing outdoor sightseeing on some days. There are also the summer vacation crowds. If you are flexible with when you can go, it is suggested that you avoid this period.

September: End of the Rainy Season with Fewer Crowds

• Average temperature: 17–26°C (63–79°F)
• Average rainfall: 169 mm (7 in)

The weather becomes cooler and drier in September. You could expect fewer crowds and cheaper costs when traveling to South Korea during this month.

Festivals and events: The Chuseok festival is another important festival in South Korea where you could appreciate the full moon and enjoy traditional performances, immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.

October to November: Best Time for Autumn Foliage

• Average temperature: 7–16°C (45–61°F)
• Average rainfall: 52 mm (2 in)

October to November is one of the peak times to travel to South Korea due to the comfortable weather and sunny days. The whole country explodes with colors and you could enjoy the stunning red and yellow fall foliage scenery.

December: Celebrating Christmas

• Average temperature: -3–4°C (27–39°F)
• Average rainfall: 22 mm (1 in)

December is cold and dry in South Korea. Although it's not quite as cold as January, it's too cold for travel without being encumbered by lots of warm clothing. If you want to celebrate Christmas with your family in South Korea, remember to book your Christmas feast in advance.

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The Best Times to Visit Korea: A Comprehensive Season-by-Season Breakdown

Are you planning a trip to Korea but not sure when to go? From the stunning cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant autumn foliage, the snow-capped landscapes of winter to the sunny, beach-friendly days of summer, Korea truly is a destination for all seasons. However, each season in Korea has its own unique charm, attractions, and sometimes, challenges, making it crucial to plan your visit according to the time of year that aligns best with your interests.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the beauty of Korea, season by season. We’ll dive into the weather, the must-visit spots, the not-to-be-missed festivals, and events of each season, along with the pros and cons of visiting during these times. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, an adventure-seeker, or a culture enthusiast, you’ll find valuable insights to help you decide the perfect time for your Korean expedition. So, let’s embark on this journey through the calendar and discover the best times to visit the Land of the Morning Calm.

The four seasons of South Korea

Spring (March – May)

Spring in Korea is a time of rebirth and renewal, as the harsh winter gives way to warmer temperatures and blossoming flora. The season is particularly famous for the stunning display of cherry blossoms that bloom all over the country, especially in cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities and attending various flower festivals.

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Korea is hot and humid, with temperatures often soaring above 30 degrees Celsius. This is also the season of the monsoon or rainy season, known as “jangma,” typically occurring in late June to late July. Despite the heat, summer is a vibrant time in Korea, with lush green landscapes, and many Koreans heading to the country’s beautiful beaches and mountain areas. Various music and cultural festivals are also a staple of Korean summers.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is often cited as the best season to visit Korea. The heat of summer dissipates, replaced by crisp air and clear, blue skies. The true highlight of Korean autumn, however, is the spectacular color change of the leaves, painting the country’s landscapes in hues of red, orange, and gold. The temperatures range between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, offering comfortable weather for outdoor exploration. Autumn is also the season for harvest, leading to many food-related festivals.

Winter (December – February)

Winter in Korea can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in the northern regions. The landscapes are transformed into a winter wonderland as snow blankets cities and countryside alike. Despite the cold, it’s a magical time to visit, especially for winter sports enthusiasts who can take advantage of Korea’s many ski resorts. Winter festivals, like the famous Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, also provide unique experiences.

Each season in Korea has its own unique charm and beauty. The best time to visit will largely depend on your personal preferences and the type of experiences you seek.

Spring is often considered one of the most beautiful and enjoyable times to visit Korea. As the winter chill thaws, the country starts to shake off its winter slumber and begins to burst into life. With an average temperature range of 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, the weather is comfortably mild, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and various outdoor activities.

The highlight of Korean spring is undoubtedly the explosion of vibrant colors as flowers bloom across the country. The cherry blossom season, in particular, is a spectacle not to be missed. From late March to mid-April, cherry blossom trees turn various locales into dreamy landscapes adorned in shades of soft pink and white. Popular cherry blossom spots include the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival in Changwon, Yeouido Spring Flower Festival in Seoul, and the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival.

Apart from cherry blossoms, other flowers like azaleas, forsythias, and royal azaleas also bloom, transforming the Korean landscapes into a picturesque paradise. There are numerous flower festivals, such as the Taean Tulip Festival and the Goyang Korea Flower Show, where visitors can immerse themselves in the sea of colors and fragrances.

Spring in Korea also marks the start of the hiking season. With over 70% of the country being mountainous, Korea offers a vast selection of hiking trails for every level of hiker. The mountains, adorned in spring blossoms and offering panoramic views of the lush landscapes, attract locals and tourists alike.

Food enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of seasonal specialties during spring. Dishes like Bomnamul Bibimbap (a mixed rice dish with spring wild greens) and Yeongeun Jorim (candied lotus roots) are popular traditional spring dishes.

In conclusion, spring in Korea offers a perfect balance of delightful weather, stunning natural beauty, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine, making it a fantastic time for any traveller to visit and explore the country.

Summer in Korea is a season of warmth and vitality, characterized by long, sunny days, high temperatures, and an energetic ambiance. It’s a time when the landscapes of the country are drenched in sunlight and the vibrancy of summer life is on full display. However, it’s important to note that summers in Korea can be hot and humid, with temperatures frequently rising above 30 degrees Celsius.

Early summer, specifically late June to late July, sees the monsoon season, locally known as “jangma.” During this period, the country experiences bouts of heavy rainfall which, while it brings a respite from the heat, it might disrupt outdoor activities.

Despite the heat and the rain, summer in Korea has plenty to offer. The nation’s beaches become prime destinations, with locals and tourists flocking to places like Haeundae Beach in Busan, Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung, and the beaches of Jeju Island for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

For those seeking respite from the heat, the mountains provide cooler temperatures and beautiful green landscapes. Hiking remains popular, with trails offering lush, verdant vistas and refreshing mountain streams.

Summer is also the season for a myriad of cultural and music festivals. Boryeong Mud Festival, held in July, is one of the most popular summer festivals where participants enjoy mud games, mud wrestling, and even mud sliding. The Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival and the Seoul Summer Dance Festival also draw large crowds, offering a feast of music and dance.

Summer cuisine in Korea is all about beating the heat. Dishes like Naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles), Patbingsu (shaved ice with sweet toppings), and Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) are common dishes enjoyed to cool down and replenish energy.

In summary, while summer in Korea might be hot and humid, it’s also a season filled with lively outdoor activities, exciting festivals, and refreshing foods. Whether you’re a beach lover or a festival-goer, there’s something for everyone in a Korean summer.

Autumn in Korea, often referred to as the golden season, is truly a feast for the eyes. The sweltering heat of the summer gives way to cooler temperatures and clear, azure skies. With temperatures comfortably sitting between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, it’s an ideal time for outdoor exploration.

The most iconic aspect of Korean autumn is the brilliant foliage. From the end of September to mid-November, the country is awash with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow as the leaves change color. This natural spectacle breathes a unique charm into the country’s mountains, parks, and historical sites.

There are numerous destinations to witness the beauty of Korean fall. Seoraksan National Park, Naejangsan National Park, and Gyeongju are some of the top spots for leaf peeping. Also, the streets of Samcheong-dong in Seoul lined with ginkgo trees provide a stunning urban autumn view.

Autumn is also the season of harvest, which brings with it an array of food festivals. The Andong Mask Dance Festival in Andong and the Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival in Jinju are notable events. These festivals combine cultural performances with local culinary delights, giving visitors a chance to delve into the heart of Korean tradition and gastronomy.

Speaking of gastronomy, autumn in Korea offers a variety of seasonal delicacies. Persimmons, apples, Korean pears, and ginseng are harvested during this period, and dishes like Songpyeon (half-moon rice cakes) and Baek Kimchi (white Kimchi) are commonly prepared and enjoyed.

In conclusion, autumn in Korea stands out with its picturesque landscapes, pleasant weather, cultural festivals, and delectable cuisine. It’s no wonder that many consider autumn the best time to experience the allure of Korea.

Winter in Korea is a season of stark contrasts, marked by frigid temperatures and stunningly beautiful snowy landscapes. The country transforms into a winter wonderland, especially in the northern and mountainous regions, where snowfall is heavy. Temperatures often drop below freezing, with the northern regions experiencing lower temperatures than the south.

Despite the cold, winter in Korea has a unique charm and offers a range of activities and experiences. Skiing and snowboarding are among the most popular winter activities, with many local and international tourists visiting the numerous ski resorts spread across the country. Resorts such as Yongpyong Resort, Alpensia Resort, and Vivaldi Park are among the best places to enjoy winter sports.

Ice fishing festivals are another highlight of a Korean winter. The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is one of the most famous events where visitors can try ice fishing, sledding, and ice sculpture exhibitions. Other festivals like the Pyeongchang Trout Festival and Inje Icefish Festival also draw large crowds.

Exploring Korea’s beautiful winter landscapes is an activity unto itself. The snow-covered traditional Korean houses (Hanok) in Bukchon Hanok Village and Jeonju Hanok Village offer a scenic and serene atmosphere. Furthermore, the royal palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung in Seoul look particularly enchanting under a layer of snow.

Korean winter cuisine is all about warmth and comfort. Dishes like Kimchi Jjigae (kimchi stew), Galbitang (short rib soup), and Bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastry) are beloved comfort foods during the season.

In conclusion, winter in Korea might be cold, but the charm of snow-covered landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, vibrant festivals, and comforting cuisine make it a season worth experiencing.

My name is Sonia and I have been watching Kdramas and learning the Korean Language since 2009 and still haven't gotten bored of it at all! At first, I fell in love with the dramas but soon enough I fell in love with Korean language and Korean culture.

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Best time to visit South Korea

South Korea  is prone to experiencing extreme temperatures and weather conditions in both summer and winter so the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. During this time the weather is moderate with mild conditions (less chance of rain and low humidity levels), making it comfortable enough to spend long periods of time exploring this country’s bustling cities and beautiful landscapes. 

The best time to visit Seoul is during the spring season when temperatures are at an average of 60°F and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Unsurprisingly, this is also one of the most popular times to visit the buzzing city, so you expect larger crowds at popular sites and increased prices. But there really isn’t a ‘bad’ time to visit Seoul as there’s always so much going on regardless of the season. 

The best time to visit Busan can often be split between April (if you’re after cool to mild weather and cherry blossoms) and June (if you’re looking for warm temperatures and beach time). But generally, the months of May and June will give you the most agreeable weather conditions with little chance of rainfall and moderate humidity levels. 

Best for: snow-based activities and winter festivals 

If you’re traveling to South Korea in January, remember to pack your thermal clothing, a beanie, gloves, thick socks and scarves because the weather will be cold – like freezing cold. January is the coldest month of the year in South Korea which makes sense with average low temperatures sitting at 20°F.

Unfortunately, average high temperatures aren’t much better at 36°F but you will have the larger cities and popular sites largely to yourself which is a silver lining. If you want to make the most of the snow, head to ski resort towns around Pyeongchang or visit various winter festivals around the country such as the Seogwipo Penguin Festival on Jeju Island or Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival in Taebaek.  

Best for: hanging out in bathhouses and café hopping 

South Korea’s still well and truly in the middle of winter in February (although it’s technically the last month of the season) with temperatures at a chilly 40°F average (slightly warmer than previous months so there’s light at the end of the snow-covered tunnel). Weather conditions themselves aren’t too bad with clear, sunny mornings (albeit cold ones) that turn into cloudy afternoons, especially as the month goes on. 

Best for: flower festivals, bamboo forests and historical sightseeing 

Frozen landscapes are thawing out in South Korea in March with the first signs of spring right around the corner. While avid snow-seekers can still catch some of the fluffy white stuff at the beginning of the month, temperatures will increase as the month goes on with high averages around 52°F. Daylight hours are also getting longer with an average of 11 hours experienced per day, perfect for exploring historical sites in Gyeongju and wandering around the bamboo forests of Damyang.

Best for: hiking and the cherry blossom festival 

Spring is here in South Korea in April and so are the flowers! One of the most popular months to visit because of the cherry blossoms, April sees plenty of travelers so expect large crowds wherever you go and increased flight prices and accommodation. The mild weather experienced is also favorable for spending long periods of time outside with warmer days of 65°F scattered throughout the month.

To make the most of the nice weather after the long months of winter, hiking through South Korea’s national parks is a popular activity, especially with flowers in full bloom and relatively clear days to take in the magnificent scenery. But most people travel to South Korea in April for the famous Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival on the country’s south coast for a closer look at the beautiful flowers. 

Best for: tea plantation visits and wandering ancient palaces

May is a fantastic time to visit South Korea as the cherry blossom crowds have largely disappeared but the peak summer crowds haven’t yet arrived, so you won’t be faced with higher prices or low availability. Temperatures are also getting warmer with averages of 68°F but there’s an increased chance of rainfall, especially towards the end of the month.  While the nice weather conditions suit outdoor activities, air quality can be affected by dust storms and soil particles, so be mindful of any allergies you have that may be worsened by the smogginess in larger cities. If you want to stay inside, ancient palaces such as Changgyonggung and Gyeongbokgung. 

Best for: water-based activities and picnic lunches in city gardens

While June might be the start of summer in South Korea, it’s also the beginning of monsoon season with heavy rains and high humidity levels expected. For this reason, large crowds tend to steer clear of traveling during the month so the bigger cities and popular sites should be relatively quiet.

Temperatures can reach a warm 78°F during the month, but humidity also climbs to 70%, which can make it feel hotter than it is. To escape the often oppressive-feeling heat, many travelers flock to the country’s coastal areas in search of golden sand and clear waters. Beachgoing is a popular pastime in June as the beaches are less crowded than in the coming months and resort prices aren’t yet at their peak.

Best for: island hopping, swimming and beach lounging 

Summer is at its peak in July in South Korea but so are the humidity levels which sit at a sweltering 90%. So it makes sense that holiday-makers flock to destinations like Jeju Island in search of ways to cool off (read: lounging on the beach and going for a swim). But be sure to stake out a spot early in the morning before summer holiday crowds descend.

Temperatures rarely dip below 68°F in July, instead averaging around 80°F during the day, so ensure you’re packing lots of lightweight, breathable clothing and sun-protective items such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. 

Best for: dolphin spotting and water sports 

August in South Korea starts off just as hot and humid as July, but weather conditions start to level out as the month draws on until temperatures sit at a more comfortable average of 68°F. But it’s still a popular month to leave the busy cities behind in favor of sandy shores and clear waters, so you can expect large crowds in beachside destinations. You might even spot a bottlenose dolphin or two if you’re heading to Jeju Island. 

Best for: exploring national parks and camping 

Say goodbye to summer and hello to autumn as hot and sticky temperatures give way to cooler conditions. The large crowds of summer have gone and with it, the consistent heavy rainfall (although a few showers here and there can still be expected). Temperatures average around 66°F, which is perfect for exploring the great outdoors, especially when the landscape starts to turn an array of reds, oranges and golden browns. 

Best for: appreciating the autumn scenery and Halloween celebrations 

It might not be as iconic as the cherry blossom season, but the autumn colours that descend upon South Korea in October deserve just as much love and appreciation. Whether it’s exploring a national park, a day trip to Nami Island or a walk through a lively city garden, there’s beautiful autumn foliage to be seen everywhere you go.

The weather’s very comfortable too with conditions staying dry and temperatures averaging a cool 64°F. While you can still do all of the normal ‘touristy’ things like visit the Demilitarised Zone and other historic areas, October sees a whole heap of festive Halloween celebrations including parades, haunted houses and parties. 

Best for: tasting traditional food and museum visits 

While it’s still technically autumn, the oranges, reds and browns of October aren’t as crisp and temperatures are getting colder as the season makes way for winter. If you’re keen to stay out of the 40°F weather, November is a good month for museum wanderings and tasting some of South Korea’s most traditional food – think ddukbokki, bibimbap and kimchi. 

Best for: holiday festivals and Christmas celebrations 

Forget Europe or North America’s east coast, South Korea is where you want to be when December 25th rolls around! Large cities like Seoul and Busan really go all out with their Christmas decorations – think lanterns, colorful fairy lights and festive displays – and there’s nothing like a white Christmas with temperatures of around 37°F and lots of snow predicted during the month.

And just when you think it couldn’t get any more magical, there are plenty of holiday activities to keep you occupied during your visit such as ice skating at the Seoul City Hall or watching the annual Christmas Tree Festival in Busan. You can also head to the slopes outside of the city to participate in various snow sports like skiing and snowboarding. 

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When to go to South Korea

When is the best time to visit South Korea?

The best time of year to visit South Korea is generally considered to be the spring months of April, May & June, and the autumn months of September, October & November. During these two seasons days are typically sunny and dry with comfortable average temperatures. 

South Korea weather & when to go

Pick a month below.

Weather seasons are becoming less predictable but peak visitor months remain more certain.

Unfollow the herd - avoid the peak months to enjoy fewer crowds, better availability, often lusher countryside and help to spread the economic benefits of tourism.

Weather overview

Unlike many other Asian destinations, South Korean weather is fairly straightforward and easy to understand. There are only minimal regional variations throughout the country, and the year divides neatly into four distinct seasons.

There is a delightful spring (April to June), a muggy and wet summer (July to August), a refreshing autumn (September to November) and a freezing cold, snowy but dry winter (December to March). The main regional temperature differences in South Korea are accounted for by the country’s altitudinous interior and its warmer, but windier, coastline. Japan and China protect South Korea from most of the area’s typhoons, but one or two still manage to get through each year during the summer months.

April to June

Typically lasting from April to June, spring is often seen as the best time of year to visit South Korea, with average daily temperatures a pleasant 15 - 18°C. During this time the flowers are in bloom and green spaces are bathed in the delightful hues of the pink cherry blossom, especially the city of Gyeongju. The weather is the least likely to be inclement and, as a result, many festivals and events can be found taking place.

Join the locals in heading for the hills and making the most of the many National Parks, such as Songnisan, Seoraksan and Jirisan. You can expect sunny days but you should also count on destinations being more crowded as it is the most popular time to visit South Korea.

July to August

The brief summer lasts from July to August and is the hottest time of the year in South Korea. Temperatures may range between 23°C and 30°C but this is also the wettest time of the year, with the monsoon rains bringing half of the country’s annual rainfall during these months.

It can be incredibly humid so you may find yourself seeking sanctuary in the many air-conditioned spaces of Seoul or relishing the sea breezes of coastal cities like Busan, where the famous Haeundae Beach is packed with people and parasols, and the southern holiday island of Jeju.

September to November

Once the muggy heat and rains of summer have passed, South Korea once again bursts into colour and festivals come to the fore. Stunning shades of orange and red pepper the autumnal landscapes - particularly throughout the country's National Parks such as Songnisan, Jirisan and Seoraksan. Long into October the weather is usually mild enough to sport a t-shirt during the day in the seaside resorts of Jeju - and even higher in the hills - but after this you will need to think about packing some extra layers. The mild temperatures (avg temp: 19-21°C), low rainfall and natural beauty make autumn a strong rival to spring as the best time of year to visit South Korea.

December to March

South Korea is indeed a land of extremes and nowhere is this more apparent than in the sudden drop of temperature that winter brings. From summer highs of 30°C the temperatures in winter can plummet to as low as -20°C on occasion in the northern regions of the Gangwon-do Province, although it can be significantly milder along the southern coast and on the holiday island of Jeju in the far south.

Falling between December and March, the long winter is freezing cold but relatively dry, and certainly charming. Crisp, white snow can be expected creating romantic views you can enjoy without the madding crowds of spring. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy ski-ing and snowboarding at the ski resorts in the Gyeonggi-do Province and in Gangwon-do which sees a higher than average annual snowfall.

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• South Korea

When is the best time to visit South Korea? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to visit Korea

Korea is a country with an extremely strongly developed tourism industry, every year it welcomes millions of international visitors to explore. Coming to Korea, each season you can witness different beauty. You will be overwhelmed by the scenery of bright cherry blossoms in spring, admire the romance of streets filled with red maple leaves in autumn, or immerse yourself in the cold of the white snowflakes in the winter, basking in the sun at stunning beaches in summer. Don’t forget to learn about the weather of four seasons of the year in Korea to make your own trip!

• 21+ best places to visit Korea in autumn
• Explore Hallasan National Park. The fullest guide to the famous mount Hallasan on Jeju Island
• The ultimate guide to Hongdae. Seoul’s HOT Shopping, Dining & Entertainment Neighborhood
• Hongdae travel blog — How to visit, what to do in Hongdae & what to eat in Hongdae?
• 15+ most famous & best temples in Korea

So, what is the best month to travel to Korea, what is the best time to travel to Korea, when is the best time to visit Korea (when is the best time to visit South Korea). Let’s check out our suggested best season to go Korea, best season to travel to Korea, best season to visit Korea, best season to visit South Korea, cheapest time to visit Korea as well as worst time to visit South Korea as follows!

Planning a trip to Korea but don’t know “which season or month is best to travel to Korea”, this article will help you clearly understand the climate, weather, and scenery of Korea in 4 seasons and in 12 months.

Korea brings many feelings about traditional Asian features but no less modern with many beautiful scenery, rich history, delectable cuisine. This country attracts tourists around the world with its beautiful four-season nature, each season has a different characteristic, and therefore, which month is the best time to travel to Korea, you also need to find out information and rely on your preferences.

Some information about Korea

Korea is located in Northeast Asia, the terrain has many hills and mountains mixed with plains along with a long and beautiful coastline. This country has an extremely developed entertainment industry, through music and movies, the image of the beautiful country of Korea has been promoted worldwide.

Korea is one of the countries with an extremely unique culture with diverse tourist destinations. There are rarely any countries in the world where traditional and modern features are strangely harmoniously interwoven, cultural beauty remains intact after a long history, and everyone has a special affection for art and beauty.

Overview of Korean climate (# when is the best time to visit south korea)

Korea is located in a temperate zone so there are four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Spring and autumn have the most pleasant weather. Meanwhile, the summer is hot and humid while the winter is cold and long with lots of snow falling at the end of the year.

• Spring usually starts in mid-March and ends in May.
• Hot and humid summer starts from June to August.
• Autumn starts from September and ends at the end of November.
• Winter is cold from late November to mid-March.

Except in the mountains, the average annual temperature is between 6 and 16°C. The hottest month is August, the coldest month is January. Thunderstorms often appear in the summer months, but there are fewer storms here than in neighboring countries. You also don’t need to worry about natural disasters when traveling to Korea, because this country rarely has earthquakes or tsunamis.

Average monthly temperatures range from 23 to 27°C in August and -6 to 7°C in January. The annual rainfall in Korea is 1,000 mm to 1,800 mm, and in the central area is 1,100 mm to 1,400 mm.

Rainfall in winter is less than 10% of the total rainfall each year. Precipitation in winter occurs mainly in the form of snowfall, with the T’aebaek Mountains receiving the most precipitation.

July has the highest humidity, reaching 80 – 90% across the country. In contrast, January and April have the lowest monthly humidity ranging from 30 – 50%. Low relative humidity from September to October contributes to good harvests.

Korean climate characteristics by each season

Spring (march to may) (# when is the best time to visit south korea).

Like other countries around the world, spring in Korea is a warm season, no rain, bright sunshine, and extremely pleasant weather. The scenery is especially beautiful in spring, which is the season of flower festivals. In spring, Koreans often go to cherry blossom viewing spots with their families to chat, enjoy the flowers, eat, drink and have fun, or climb mountains to enjoy the scenery. Some mountains in Korea are very beautiful in spring, such as: Hallasan Mountain, Sobaeksan, Jirisan and Taebaeksan Mountain.

Spring in Korea starts from late March and ends from early May, with mild, pleasant temperatures. In the ideal space of spring, when visiting Korea, we will have the opportunity to enjoy cherry blossoms, forsythia, magnolia and lilac blooming on the streets and gardens.

When coming to Seoul, visitors will be amazed by the cherry blossoms blooming on the Yunjung-ro flower road around the National Assembly Building. On both sides of the road there are more than 1,400 cherry trees about 30 to 40 years old. Around April every year, this nearly 6 km long road will be full of life, welcoming millions of tourists to visit and admire. The pale pink and pure white colors of cherry blossoms in full bloom brighten up the entire sky, captivating visitor’s hearts.

However, spring is not the most beautiful and best season to travel to Korea, because April and May are months when Korea experiences yellow dust storms, you will feel uncomfortable with this phenomenon and encounter many problems when going out.

Summer (June to August) (# when is the best time to visit korea)

Summer in Korea begins from June to early September. Summer will be very hot and rainy, especially at the end of July. During this season, the temperature and humidity both increase extremely high, sometimes the temperature heats up to 38 – 40 degrees Celsius. However, in return, Korea’s summer beaches are very beautiful, especially in the summer with many special festivals.

The weather at this time is quite hot, but beach tourism in Korea is extremely exciting with clear skies and blue sea. This is also the time in Korea where many exciting summer festivals take place.

If you come to Korea in the summer, you can go to Busan, where Haeundae beach is famous for its beauty. Coming to Busan, visitors can admire camellia anywhere in the city and meet hospitable, enthusiastic and friendly people.

There are many hot springs near the beach and there are many activities such as Haeundae Sand Festival, Busan Beach Festival and World Beach Volleyball Competitions. Usually in early summer, the Sand Festival attracts tourists from around the world with sculptures of famous figures, beautifully displayed castles and sandboarding activities.

Although tourists who have had fun and visited in Korea also remind that summer is not the most suitable season to travel to Korea, because both plans, mood and health will be affected by the hot and humid weather. But if you want to travel to Korea this season, go to Mangsang, Naksan, Seokcho, Gyeongpo, Hwajin, Gyeongpodae, Haeundae Beach and Jeju Island to escape the summer heat.

Fall (September to November)

It can be said that autumn is the best time to visit Korea. Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year in the land of kimchi and lasts from September to November. It is pleasantly warm during the day and slightly chilly at night. The mountain roads began to be carpeted with bright red leaves, creating an extremely impressive sky.

The weather at this time is extremely cool, very suitable for tourist activities. In autumn, nature puts on an extremely brilliant red-yellow color.

The most interesting thing is to see the scenery on top of Naejangsan Mountain in Jeongeup-si Province, Jeollabuk-do. This mountain peak will be an extremely popular tourist destination in the fall. The entire landscape around Naejangsan is covered in the brilliant yellow and red of dense forests. This place has become a national park. Besides, you can also visit Seoul city – the largest city in Korea, where the famous royal palace is located and Nami Island, where the movie “Winter Sonata” was filmed. Ginkgo trees sheds yellow leaves in the cool autumn breeze.

In particular, autumn in the land of kimchi is the season of abundant fruits, food and agricultural products. Therefore, traveling to Korea on your own with accommodation or travel in the fall can both satisfy and fill your stomach. In short, there is no fall travel destination as special and attractive as autumn in Korea.

Winter (December to February) (# best season to visit korea)

Winter in Korea is usually cold and dry, begins from December to early March of the following year. The land of kimchi not only has golden autumn colors but also has the beauty of white snowflakes that cover the entire sky. Many tourists like to travel to Korea in winter, watching romantic snowfall and skiing in Korean movies, or participating in unique ice fishing festivals. Relaxing in hot springs, exploring snow-capped mountain peaks, strolling through famous amusement parks, or enjoying hot dishes for winter days are all wonderful and enjoyable experiences for tourists. visitors come to explore the land of kimchi.

Winter is not the most ideal time to travel to Korea, but it is a special choice and interesting experience. You will be able to soak in the hot springs at Asan Spavis Water Park, ski at Vivaldi Park, Mujukyusan, Pheonix, Yongpyong Resort in Gangwon, or participate in the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival, Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival and ice fishing festival at Hwacheon Sancheoneo…

Which month (which season) should I travel to Korea? (# when is the best time to visit korea)

It can be seen that every month in Korea has its own beauty and it is very difficult to choose which season is the best time to visit Korea.

However, the most suitable time for you to travel to Korea is probably spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November) when the weather is cool and pleasant, not too hot. cold, not too hot, little rain and lots of sunshine, poetic and romantic natural scenery.

The peak tourist season in Korea is spring and fall, however Korea is actually beautiful in all four seasons. Each season has its own beauty and excitement for you to explore. From the scene of cherry blossoms blowing in the wind in spring, the cool atmosphere in summer to the carpets of colorful leaves in autumn, they all bring you many different emotions, even in winter despite being extremely cold but it will be an interesting experience if you want to see beautiful Korea covered with layers of white snow.

Which is the cheapest time to travel to Korea ?

Which season is the cheapest to go to Korea is always a question and curiosity of many tourists. With its painting-like beauty, autumn is considered the peak tourist time in Korea. So if you go to Korea in the fall, the cost will be a bit higher.

Because of some typical weather and climate characteristics, spring, summer and especially winter in Korea often not crowded with visitors. Therefore, the cost of traveling in these seasons will also be much cheaper than going to Korea in the fall.

Which month should I go to Korea?

If you still don’t know when to travel to Korea, April, October, or December will be great choices. The weather and scenery in Korea during these months are extremely suitable for typical experiences here.

• Average temperature: minus 7°C – 3°C
• Suitable tourist destinations: Northern provinces Gangwon-do, Gyeonggi-do

The weather in January in Korea is very cold, the average daily temperature is quite low, there is a lot of snow but the advantage is that there is often little rain. Such weather conditions make January a suitable time to go skiing.

The coldest month of the year, the weather in Korea is often very cold. The average temperature is – 2.1°C, average humidity is 55%, it is dry, there may be snow. This is the right time to travel to Korea in winter with fun activities such as skiing.

February (# what is the best month to travel to korea)

• Average temperature: minus 7°C – 24°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Seoul, Yongpyong and Alpensia Ski Resorts.

The Korean weather in February is still quite cold, there is a lot of snow and everything is often frozen. Therefore, if you intend to go to Korea in February, prepare lots of warm clothes and thermal bags.

Normally, February is the time when some Asian countries celebrate the traditional Lunar New Year. If you come at this time, you will be immersed in unique festivals such as Lunar New Year or the winter sports.

• Average temperature: minus 1°C – 9°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Ski resort north of Pyeongchang

The weather in Korea in March is still chilly and snowy in some places. If you want to take photos with snow but don’t want to experience cold weather, come to Korea in early March, and if you want to catch the spring breeze, come here at the end of March, because at this time the weather will be cold. It’s getting warmer and the flowers are starting to bloom again!

The weather is cold. The average temperature is minus 1°C – 9°C. When the weather in Korea begins to warm up, it is also the season when spring flowers begin to bloom. The most famous is cherry blossoms. Coming to Korea at this time, you will be walking under romantic and poetic flower streets.

• Average temperature: 5°C – 16°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Seoul, Busan, Nami Island, Yeouido…

Saying goodbye to the cold, April welcomes the return of spring throughout the Land of Kimchi. If asked which season is beautiful to travel to Korea, the answer is definitely April, is the middle of spring, if you miss the cherry blossoms in March, you can still go to Korea to see the flowers in April, especially the weather will be much less cold with an average temperature of about 5°C – 16°C.

The weather in Korea in April is milder, the temperature is very stable and suitable to welcome bright pink cherry blossoms all over the streets. This is also the most popular time of year to visit Korea.

• Average temperature: 11°C – 22°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Jirisan National Park, Jeju Island…

May is also considered one of the good time to go to Korea during the year. This is the transition time between spring and summer, the weather gradually becomes warm, not too cold nor too hot, very suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The weather in Korea in May gives you a refreshing feeling as if your fatigue has been washed away. Try the feeling of walking on the streets watching the late blooming cherry blossoms and the freshness of young buds on the trees, it will definitely be an unforgettable experience.

The weather is starting to get warm. The average temperature is around 11°C – 22°C. This is the transition time between summer and spring in Korea. At this time, visitors can easily see the fragile beauty of late blooming cherry blossom petals on young green foliage. The weather is not too cold or too hot, extremely suitable for sightseeing activities.

• Average temperature: 16°C – 26°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Han River camping area, coastal city of Busan.

Korean weather in June gradually bids farewell to spring to welcome summer, temperatures begin to rise everywhere. However, the typical summer showers have not yet arrived, which is also the reason why this is a quite suitable time to travel to Korea. This is the ideal time for you to visit coastal cities in the Land of Kimchi.

The weather in Seoul is usually warm to hot, with occasional showers. At this time, the temperature increases somewhat (average temperature is from 16°C – 26°C), suitable for many interesting outdoor activities such as picnics, swimming, etc.

• Average temperature: 21°C – 28°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Beaches.

In July, the weather in Korea is hotter and rainy, the humidity in the air is high, making you always feel wet. Take advantage of this time to go swimming and visit major amusement parks in Korea like Everland Park.

The weather in Seoul is often hot, humid and rainy. The average temperature is 21°C – 28°C. This is the time when many summer festivals are held in Korea.

August (# what is the best time to travel to korea)

• Average temperature: 23°C – 30°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Southern Korean resorts.

This is the hottest month of the year in Korea, the weather is hot and rainy, but the weather in the night is relatively pleasant. If you intend to travel to Korea in August, always remember to bring an umbrella with you.

This time in Korea is the most suitable for nighttime exploration and fun activities. The most popular activity that cannot be missed is exploring the bustling night markets in this city. We suggest everyone to visit Dongdaemun night market, the food here is very delicious.

• Average temperature: 17°C – 26°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Seoul, Seoraksan, Busan…

September sees the beginning of the autumn of red leaves in the Land of Kimchi. The weather in Korea is no longer hot and can still rain, but not as much as the previous month. The pleasant atmosphere combined with beautiful natural scenery is ideal conditions for tourist activities.

If you choose September to come to Korea, you should participate in the Jinju Namgang Yudeung festival – the largest lantern festival held at the end of September every year. Release your own lantern and pray for luck, health and peace.

October (# what is the best month to travel to korea)

• Average temperature: 9° – 19°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Beopjusa Temple, Songnisan, Seoul…

If you don’t know which month to go to Korea, choose October. The weather in Korea in October is extremely mild, making it one of the best months to admire the beautiful scenery of yellow and red leaves in this country. The climate in Korea at this time is quite pleasant, the days are mildly sunny but the nights are still a bit chilly, so remember to bring some warm clothes for the evening.

In October in Korea, many major events and festivals take place such as: International Fireworks Festival, Seoul Arirang Cultural Festival, Andong International Mask Dance Festival,… Come here at this time. There will be no need to worry about whether there will be anything to do in Korea or not.

November (# best season to visit south korea)

• Average temperature: 7° – 16°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Nami Island, Changdeokgung Palace, Everland Park, Bukchon Hanok Village.

The Korean weather is now starting to get colder as it has entered the last days of autumn, but the weather is still warm and favorable to visit tourist destinations. Take advantage of the opportunity to capture the last moments of the maple leaves dyeing red in this extremely poetic Korean landscape.

In addition to enjoying the romantic scenery of Korea, at this time there are many traditional festivals for you to participate in such as: Gwangju Kimchi Festival, Seosan Chrysanthemum Festival, Jangdan Soybean Festival…

Traveling to Korea in November, the weather in Seoul starts to get colder because it is late fall and early winter. The average temperature is 7.2°C, but it is sunny, very favorable for visiting tourist attractions. The Korean landscape at this time is filled with extremely poetic red and yellow leaves.

• Average temperature: minus 7°C – 3°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Lotte World, Busan, Namsan.

Winter comes, the weather in Korea in December becomes cold. Snow and ice can also appear during this time, so you still need to prepare plenty of warm clothes when traveling to Korea in December. This is also a good time to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of year-end festivals, especially Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Furthermore, you can also experience the Pyeongchang Trout Festival and Ice Fishing – one of the largest ice festivals in Korea.

Traveling to Korea in December, the weather begins to enter winter, it is very cold with an average temperature of only about minus 7°C – 3°C and it starts to snow. This is the right time to realize the “white snow dream” and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of year-end festivals such as Christmas…

Suggested some places to visit all year round in Korea

Changgyeonggung palace, seoul in spring.

Located in the capital Seoul, Changgyeonggung Palace is a destination that you should not miss when traveling to Korea. With a total area of up to 580 thousand square meters, Changgyeonggung Palace is divided into four main areas.

The architecture at Changgyeonggung Palace is extremely unique, representing traditional Korean architectural style. If you come here in the spring, you will see Changgyeonggung Palace even more brilliant with the decoration of cherry blossoms, sansuyu, azalea, apricot blossoms…

Jeju Island in winter and spring

Jeju Island is a tourist paradise in Korea. Jeju Island is located about 130km from the mainland, the flora and fauna system is extremely lush and green. Coming here, visitors will visit and experience many interesting activities such as: admiring Cheonjiyeon waterfall, exploring Manjanggul cave, kayaking, scuba diving to see coral…

The appropriate time to travel to Jeju is from November to May of the following year because this is the time when the weather here is dry and cool, convenient for surrounding tourist activities.

Beomeosa Temple, Busan in autumn

This is one of the oldest temples in Korea with a history of more than 1300 years. After many restorations, Beomeosa Pagoda still retains its traditional architectural features mixed with modern elements. Coming here, visitors will have a quiet feeling far away from the bustle of the city. Especially in the fall, Beomeosa Pagoda becomes even more ancient when the surrounding trees turn a bright yellow color.

The ideal time to travel to Beomeosa Temple as well as Busan is from spring to autumn. This is the time when the weather in Korea is extremely pleasant and warm for traveling as well as viewing cherry blossoms around March and April.

Nami Island, Gangwon-do

Nami Island with its beautiful natural scenery is the setting in many famous Korean movies. On the island there are rows of many years old redwood trees. Walking under the trees, visitors will feel like they are lost in a fairy tale land. In winter, white snow covers everywhere on Nami Island, creating an extremely poetic scene.

Notes before traveling to Korea

• Before traveling, check the weather forecast carefully so you can prepare the most suitable luggage for your trip to Korea.
• Korean weather is somewhat colder than other Asian countries, so you should prepare more warm clothes and thermal bags to avoid catching a cold.
• In early spring, there will often be a lot of fine dust in Korea, so choose a hotel with an air purifier to ensure your health.
• Regarding clothing, you should monitor the weather in Korea in advance when traveling to prevent the climate from changing compared to your country.
• Plan a trip that fits your stay in Korea. Please pay attention to your tourist destination to choose appropriate clothing, such as visiting a temple or sacred place, choose long and discreet clothing.
• In general, the food here in the land of kimchi is mildly spicy. If you are someone who can eat spicy food, be prepared to enjoy it. If you can’t eat spicy food, you can prepare some instant foods and seasoning.
• Use an international credit card to pay (most restaurants in Korea today accept this payment method).

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Seoul you can refer to

• Private Incheon International Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Private Incheon Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Incheon International Airport (ICN) Limousine Bus Transfers for Seoul (Gangnam District)
• Klook Exclusive Seoul 5 Day Pass
• Discover Seoul Pass (BTS Edition Available)
• [SALE] Instant Ticket! Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS) 2/3/4/5 Days to travel around the cities in Korea
• Private Incheon Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport (GMP) Transfers for Seoul by S.A Tour
• Everland Private Car Charter with Admission Ticket by Wondertrip
• KAL Limousine Bus Ticket for Seoul
• [Limited Offer] AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul
• Bukchon Oneday Hanbok Rental Experience (4/24 Hrs)
• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Seoul City Sightseeing Bus (Downtown Palace Namsan Course/Seoul Panorama Course)
• [Limited Offer] Incheon International Airport (ICN) Luggage Services (Between Airport and Hotel) by Safex
• 4G Prepaid SIM Card (SK Airports Pick Up) for South Korea
• [Sale] Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store) with Korean Hairstyling
• [SALE] South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT Olleh
• 4G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for South Korea (Unlimited Data)
• 4G Portable WiFi for South Korea from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)

Are you finding more top things to do in Seoul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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When is the Best Time to Visit Korea?

Last modified: Jul 12, 2024 | 6 min read | By Sarah Wigg

When is the best time to visit South Korea ? You probably had this question in mind when you decided to visit South Korea.

You’re about to embark on a magical journey full of amazing food , vibrant culture , and some of the friendliest people you’ve met in your life. Who knows – you may love it so much that you decide to move to South Korea and live here permanently !

Read on for some insight into when you should travel to South Korea, and good luck planning your upcoming vacation!

• 1.1 Visit South Korea in Spring
• 1.2 Visit Korea in Summer
• 1.3 Visit Korea in Fall
• 1.4 Visit Korea in Winter

When should I visit South Korea?

The best time to visit Korea is whenever you can! The country has four seasons , namely spring, summer, fall, and winter. Whether you’re visiting Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, or any part of Korea, each season has something different and exciting to offer visitors.

However, they also highlight different events, so it’s important to try to determine which season and activities would be in your best interest. This will set you up for success, so make sure that you have the vacation of your dreams.

Visit South Korea in Spring

Birds chirping , cherry blossoms blooming , long and warm days – what’s not to love about spring? Korea has four distinct seasons, so they experience a true spring (rather than a couple of temperate weeks between winter and summer). You can generally experience the best parts of Korean spring anytime between early April and mid-June.

In those months , you’ll see cherry blossom trees blooming everywhere you look, and you’ll enjoy warm (but not too hot!) weather, so you’ll be able to explore national parks and outdoor markets without sweating your face off.

Korea is also home to some pretty amazing outdoor festivals out in the hills away from the cities. Many of them coincide with the spring because it’s the best time to be outside without worrying about extreme heat or inclement weather.

You should visit Korea during the spring if your interest is split between indoor and outdoor activities — it’s the perfect season to enjoy shopping and restaurants and then head out for a hike or festival to wrap up your trip.

Visit Korea in Summer

Summer temperatures will leave you drenched in sweat and running for the air-conditioner every chance that you get. With that said, do do not book a summer trip if you’re not a fan of the heat (especially since Sambok occurs during this season). Not to mention, most of the best Korean dishes are spicy , so you won’t have much relief from the sweat while you’re indoors, either!

The latter half of summer is known as the monsoon season, which usually affects China and Japan far more than South Korea. That being said, South Korea still traditionally experiences at least two or three big storms in this period.

Fear not, though! Even though you’re on vacation during the monsoon season doesn’t mean it’s ruined by any means – it just means you’ll have more time to shop, enjoy restaurants , and spend time experiencing the best indoor parts of Korean culture.

There are some benefits to summer travel — due to being an off-peak season, summer flights are usually much less expensive than spring and fall flights from most parts of the world. You should visit Korea during the summer if you’re not afraid of the heat and you’d like to save some money on plane fares, so you have more to spend while you’re in Korea! You’re still bound to have the best time!

Visit Korea in Fall

While spring is definitely a popular time to visit Korea, fall is even more popular. The trees turn brilliant colors ranging from rich red to vibrant yellow , the summer heat dissipates, and autumn leaves cool, and crisp days and festivals are even easier to come by .

Fall in Korea is usually warm enough that you can enjoy a stroll about town in a tee shirt and jeans, but it’s also cool enough that you won’t be uncomfortable and can pop on a sweater if you’re so inclined.

One of the best parts of visiting Korea is wandering around the city streets to check out different shopping districts and generally exploring. There is no better time to do that than September through November when the days get shorter and cooler.

If spending time outdoors on your upcoming vacation is important to you, consider making your trip to Korea in September or October. Both months have an average temperature ranging between 50 and 75 degrees, so it’s the best time to get outside and see what this interesting country is all about !

Visit Korea in Winter

I’m not going to sugarcoat it – winter sinks its claws into Korea at the beginning of December, making it pretty miserable to go outside for a solid three months. While it’s not impossible by any means to venture outside in this period, your skin will definitely be a bit red from the brisk temperature when you make it to your final destination!

Because Korea has so much to offer in terms of music, movies, and indoor shopping, there’s still plenty to do in the winter – if you’re not afraid of the cold and come well-equipped with multiple layers and a good winter coat , you’ll have an amazing time.

Also, don’t forget that most Korean food is pretty up there in terms of spiciness – eating spicy food is one hundred times more fun in the winter than it is in the summer, so you’ll definitely have to eat your way around town to counteract the cold.

Winter is also an off-peak time to travel, so you’re bound to find similar deals on airfare and lodging as you would traveling in the summer. Consider making your trek to Korea in the winter if you’re used to winter and can’t be scared off by a little snow – you won’t be disappointed! You’ll get to enjoy some winter sports during this time too!

Whether you’re a lover of sky-high temperatures or would rather stroll around while it’s snowing, a well-timed Korea trip will give you everything you want (and more). When do you think is the best time to go to Korea? Please let us know in the comments below – there’s no wrong answer!

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8 thoughts on “When is the Best Time to Visit Korea?”

I would love to visit Korea next May 2021!

Amazing! You’ll have a lot of fun here! ^^

This information is so useful! I am hoping to visit both Japan and South Korea in one holiday! Because I really want to see the famous blossom in Japan, I am hoping to visit in both Japan and South Korea in Spring at around April! Thank you for your advice!

Great idea, Hannah! Hope you have fun. ^^

Visit in Korea

That’s right! ^^

a owuldd stay 4 seasons there so i can enjoy the whole of them

Great idea! ^^

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Choose your skill level and start getting fast results with your Korean:

• South Korea Tours
• South Korea Travel Guide
• When to Go to South Korea

Best Time to Visit South Korea

• Jan Avg Daily: 1 ° C Avg Nightly: -9 ° C
• Feb Avg Daily: 4 ° C Avg Nightly: -7 ° C
• Mar Avg Daily: 9 ° C Avg Nightly: -2 ° C
• Apr Avg Daily: 17 ° C Avg Nightly: 5 ° C
• May Avg Daily: 22 ° C Avg Nightly: 11 ° C
• Jun Avg Daily: 26 ° C Avg Nightly: 16 ° C
• Jul Avg Daily: 27 ° C Avg Nightly: 20 ° C
• Aug Avg Daily: 28 ° C Avg Nightly: 20 ° C
• Sep Avg Daily: 24 ° C Avg Nightly: 14 ° C
• Oct Avg Daily: 18 ° C Avg Nightly: 7 ° C
• Nov Avg Daily: 10 ° C Avg Nightly: -1 ° C
• Dec Avg Daily: 3 ° C Avg Nightly: -7 ° C
• ~ mins read

South Korea is a unique country. One on hand, its modernization is incomparable to any other country on the planet. On the other hand, it still maintains its age-old traditions and culture, proving that you do not have to choose between one or the other. Head over to South Korea, where you can enjoy dinner at the top floor of a glittering skyscraper, and then head over to a 600-year-old monastery for a meditative session. Who says you cannot have it all? But before you plan your trip to South Korea, there are a few things you should consider — first of all, what is the best time to visit South Korea?

• Sheila Gray
• Alex Reynolds
• Mrs. Linda Leng-Ball in the group of 8 pax

Quick Facts

• High Season: April - May, September - October
• High Tourist Season: June - September
• Low Season: November - March
• Ski Season: December - February
• All Seasons: April - May (spring), June - August (summer), September - October (fall), November - March (winter)
• The best time to visit South Korea is between April - May, and September - October, when the weather is perfect, and the tourist numbers are low.
• The high season is between June and August, and this is when most of the local and international tourists visit the country, so expect higher prices, and sweltering heat.
• July is a bad time to travel as the weather will be hot and there is heavy rainfall throughout the peninsula.
• November to March is winter, which is rather cold. But, if you are a fan of skiing, you should definitely visit the country between December and February, when there is sufficient snowfall for sporting activities.

South Korea is a spectacular country, one that has maintained its culture and tradition for hundreds of years, safe from foreign invasion for a long time. Sure you’ve heard about chic and modern South Korea thriving metropolises like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju-si. However, there is more to the country than just that. South Korea is also about rice paddies and mountains studded with pine trees. It is full of immaculately constructed monasteries and temples, and beautifully touching Confucian ceremonies. To explore all of this and more, you need to know when to visit South Korea.

The weather in South Korea is best during spring (April - May) and fall (September - October). During these months, the tourist footfall is lower, and the summer heat and the winter cold are both distant dreams. You can explore the country in peace if you travel during these months. Another good time to travel to South Korea is between December - February when the Taebaek Mountains get their snowfall. This is the ideal time to go skiing, and indulge in other winter sports!

Seasonal Overview

March to may — spring / good season.

The spring weather in South Korea is close to being perfect. The sun is out, and there are some scattered showers, but not enough to spoil your day. The weather in the hills is also very pleasant, right after the winter, so most of the locals tend to head towards the mountains during this period. This is a popular period, but the tourist numbers are still low, so you won’t have to worry about being stuck in queues for too long.

• Avg. Temperature: 69 – 77° F / 21 – 25° C (in Seoul)
• Rainfall: 47 – 132 mm
• Season: Spring
• Highlights: This is one of the best times to visit South Korea as the cherry blossoms will be in full bloom, even in cities like Busan. Since the weather is this good, this is the perfect time to explore popular landmarks such as Incheon, Suwon, or explore the beautiful national park of Seoraksan. You can even head to Dosan Seowon, to experience the Confucian lifestyle, in a traditional academy.

June to August — Summer / High Season

The weather in South Korea can get incredibly warm during this period. The weather will be hot and humid, as there is quite a bit of rainfall in July (which is the wettest month). Japan and China shield Korea from heavy storms of typhoons, but some of them do get through sometimes, so keep a lookout for the weather if you’re traveling during the monsoon period. This is the high season, as schools break for summer around the world, so expect a slight hike in the prices.

• Avg. Temperature: 84 – 90° F / 29 – 32° C (in Seoul)
• Rainfall: 32 – 283 mm
• Season: Summer
• Highlights: If you are visiting South Korea only to explore the metropolitan lifestyle offered in big cities like Seoul and Busan, this is a good time, for you will definitely need the air conditioning and protection from the rain. However, this period has some amazing festivals happening in the country - from the Gangneung Dano Festival in June (a UNESCO recognized local cultural celebration) to the Boryeong Mud Festival in July.

September to October — Fall / Good Season   

Fall is when to visit South Korea if you want to explore the countryside at its most beautiful. After the rains, the paddy fields come alive in the most vibrant shade of green. The fall colors become prominent throughout the country, even in the cities. The temperature is rather mild, and there is very little rainfall during this period as well.

• Avg. Temperature: 70 – 82° F / 21 – 28° C (in Seoul)
• Rainfall: 82 – 99 mm
• Season: Fall
• Highlights: This is the best time for you to explore the unexplored parts of South Korea - especially in the rural areas. Explore Gangwon at its beautiful best, with its numerous national parks. Head over to the trekking trails and Buddhist temples of Namsan, or Ulleungdo’s volcanic landscape, or the romantic Jeju. This is also the best time for you to hop on the ferries to the many islands in the West Sea, where you can enjoy the best seafood of your life, and great beaches as well.

November to February — Winter / Ski Season

Winter is a traditionally low season but if you are a fan of winter sports, this is when to visit South Korea. The winter can be bitingly cold, and there is a lot of snow. This must restrict your access to a few of the more remote areas in the peninsula, but all the cities will still be well connected. This is the best time to visit South Korea if you want to avoid the crowds entirely! The weather in South Korea can get really cold, and the snow can go out of hand. Before you travel, check the news to see if the roads are still open.

• Avg. Temperature: 33 – 53° F / 1 – 28° C (in Seoul)
• Rainfall: 2 – 47 mm
• Season: Winter
• Highlights: The weather in South Korea is conducive to skiing at this point. This is a good time to visit Seoul or Busan at a highly discounted rate as well. For those who are more adventurous, ski resorts await you in this beautiful country. Head to the Gangwon-do region in South Korea, which is where most of the snowfalls. You can also head to Pyeongchang county, which is where the 2018 winter Olympics are going to be held (imagine boasting about that once the Olympics are over)!

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The seasons of Seoul: the best times to visit

Feb 11, 2024 • 3 min read

Seoul has something to offer visitors every month of the year © Nghia Khanh / Shutterstock

With a temperate continental climate, Seoul is known for its biting winters and blistering summers.

In between are the long-awaited but all-too-fleeting pockets of perfectly enjoyable weather, perhaps the best moments to visit. Even so, every season in South Korea ’s capital offers something worth traveling for  – with excitement in the calendar all year long – which might make for a difficult decision when it comes to planning your trip.

Customarily, summer brings the most international visitors to Seoul, further congesting an already packed city. Yet in recent years, spring and fall – with fetching foliage and ideal weather – have caught on as in-demand times to visit, too. 

As you make your own plans, here’s our guide to the best times to visit Seoul.

March to May and September to November are the best times for outdoor attractions

Unquestionably the most agreeable seasons in Seoul, spring and fall are also the best times to soak up the city’s great outdoors, from the natural wonders of its national and city parks to the back-alley treasures of its traditional villages, temples, markets and street-food stalls . A prized spot, the Han River is where visitors can paddle around on swan boats or have a chimaek picnic of fried chicken and beer ( chimaek is a slang portmanteau that combines “chicken” with the Korean word for beer, maekju ).

Every March, the Seoul Marathon  welcomes some 35,000 runners, from expert to amateur. Unlike some other races, anyone who signs up ahead of time is qualified to participate. April arguably presents Seoul’s loveliest face, when spring bursts forth in a palette of pinks and whites and the cherry blossom trees bloom in cotton-candy swirls. Two favorite viewing spots are Yeouido Park and Namsan Park , where spectators stroll down petal-lined paths and picnic beneath flowering canopies.

Fall heralds the arrival of favorite annual traditions. South Korea’s fall harvest holiday, Chuseok, generally takes place in September: get into the harvest spirit by observing the ceremonial ritual of Sajik Daeje, a 50-minute procession that winds its way through the city near Gyeongbokgung station, paying homage to the ancient gods of earth and grain.

The crisp, dry weather continues through November and the temperature drops considerably, making this month a less expensive time to visit than September and October. The most notable happening this month might be the Seoul Lantern Festival, which sets Cheong-gye-cheon ablaze with paper lanterns and LED sculptures.

June to August are best for indoor activities

While June can be pleasant, July and August bring unbearable heat and humidity, along with heavy rains that can last all day. Luckily, Seoul has plenty of things to do for keeping dry and cool inside. Go museum or gallery hopping , experience South Korea’s quirky cafe culture or get lost in Asia’s largest underground shopping mall,  COEX , where after you’re through browsing you can enjoy an aquarium, library, movie theater and casino. 

Save money and avoid the crowds from December to February

Despite its cold climate, with dry winds that wreak havoc on the skin and throat, Seoul is wondrous in the winter. The diminished crowds make the city feel smaller and more intimate, drawing into stark relief the sights, sounds and scents of everyday life. Think snow-dusted palaces, shopkeepers sweeping the flakes from their front stoops and roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes perfuming the air. You can also stretch your budget further, as the cold winter months are the most affordable time to visit.

If you enjoy winter sports, venture out for a day of skiing, snowboarding or ice fishing. Seollal, the Korean New Year based on the lunar calendar, typically falls between late January and mid-February. In the lead-up to the holiday, be on the lookout for special celebrations and traditional performances at folk villages and palaces.

This article was first published Feb 24, 2021 and updated Feb 11, 2024.

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In My Korea

Autumn Leaves In Korea 2024: Best Korean Autumn Foliage Spots

Seeing autumn leaves in Korea is an absolute must. Dazzling reds, burning oranges, rich golds, and lush greens paint the cities, forests and mountains of Korea in waves of splendour that shouldn’t be missed. The Korean fall foliage lasts for about 6 weeks and is definitely the best time to travel in Korea. There’s so many reason you’ll love the Korean autumn.

Not only does the Korean countryside come alive with autumn foliage; parks, palaces, fortresses, and other city sights display resplendent views of autumn beauty and provide the perfect backdrop for memorable photos. You don’t have to travel far to see incredible sights during autumn in Korea.

You’ll easily understand why fall is the most popular time to visit Korea and to travel out of the main cities. It’s a season where you can’t stay in, you’ve got to go out and embrace the gorgeous Korean autumn sights. That’s why I want to share this list of the 20 best places to see autumn leaves in Korea.

Table of Contents

Affiliate Disclaimer :  This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why You Should See Autumn Leaves In Korea

Autumn in Korea is peak travel season for many reasons. The weather is beautiful, with clear skies and warm temperatures. There are several public holidays where people can travel and enjoy this pleasant season. But the biggest attraction in Korea during autumn has to be the beautiful fall foliage.

Korea is a country that’s 70% mountainous and packed with hills, mountains, valleys, and rivers – all of which are blessed with a variety of leafy trees that display breathtaking sights during autumn foliage season. It’s so easy to find a picturesque scene of autumn foliage in Korea wherever you are.

Korean maple trees, golden gingko trees, and giant-leaved platanus trees are some of the stars of this season, producing multi-coloured paintings in the trees above, and crispy, crunchy carpets of leaves on the streets below. There’s also fresh harvest foods, traditional Korean dishes, and fun festivals.

When you mix the beauty of autumn foliage with Korea’s unique architecture and traditional buildings, you realise you don’t have to travel far to see incredible sights. Indeed, some of the best places to see autumn leaves in Korea is in the big cities, especially in the royal palaces and hanok villages.

My Favourite Autumn Foliage Spots Where should you see autumn foliage in Korea? There are so many places to choose from, all of which I’ll cover in this article, broken down by region. My personal top 5 places to see autumn foliage in Korea (which I’ve visited many times since moving to Korea in 2015) are as follows:

• Naejangsan National Park
• Nami Island
• The Secret Garden
• Seoraksan National Park
• Bulguksa Temple

These sights are just the tip of the foliage iceberg. There are many more wondrous sights awaiting you in Korea this autumn. Keep reading to find out what awaits you.

What Are You Looking For?

To help make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for, I’ve broken this article into the following sections. Click the quick links below to jump straight there or keep reading through all parts.

Autumn Leaves Forecast

Autumn Foliage Tours

Seoul’s Autumn Leaves

Best Foliage Day Trips

Korean National Parks

Busan’s Autumn Foliage

Gyeongju’s Autumn Foliage

Lesser-known Korean Foliage Sights

Guide To Visiting Korea In Autumn

Planning to visit Korea? These travel essentials will help you plan your trip, get the best deals, and save you time and money before and during your Korean adventure.

Visas & K-ETA: Some travellers to Korea need a Tourist Visa , but most can travel with a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). Currently 22 Countries don’t need either one.

How To Stay Connected : Pre-order a Korean Sim Card or a WiFi Router to collect on-arrival at Incheon Airport (desks open 24-hours). Alternatively, download a Korean eSIM for you travels.

Where To Stay : For Seoul, I recommend Myeongdong (convenient), Hongdae (cool culture) or Gangnam (shopping). For Busan, Haeundae (Beach) or Seomyeon (Downtown).

Incheon Airport To Seoul : Take the Airport Express (AREX) to Seoul Station or a Limo Bus across Seoul. Book an Incheon Airport Private Transfer and relax to or from the airport.

Korean Tour Operators : Tour companies that have a big presence in Korea include Klook , Trazy , Viator , and Get Your Guide . These sites offer discounted entry tickets for top attractions.

Seoul City Passes : Visit Seoul’s top attractions for free with a Discover Seoul Pass or Go City Seoul Pass . These passes are great for families and couples visiting Seoul – you can save lots.

How To Get Around : For public transport, grab a T-Money Card . Save money on Korea’s high speed trains with a Korea Rail Pass . To see more of Korea, there are many Rental Car Options .

Travel Money : Use money exchanges near Myeongdong and Hongdae subway stations for the best exchange rates. Order a Wise Card or WOWPASS to pay by card across Korea.

Flights To Korea : I use flight comparison sites such as Expedia and Skyscanner to find the best flights to Korea from any country. Air Asia is a good option for budget flights from Asia.

How To Learn Korean : The language course from 90 Day Korean or Korean Class 101 both have well-structured lessons and lots of useful resources to help you learn Korean.

Official Korean Autumn Leaves Forecast 2024

Please note : The 2024 autumn foliage forecast for Korea will be available from early September 2024. This 2023 forecast will give you a rough idea of when to visit various places.

When is the best time to visit Korea for autumn leaves in 2024? When does autumn foliage appear in Korea in 2024? Knowing when the fall foliage in Korea starts and peaks is the key to timing your journey around the country, catching the autumn foliage at the perfect time. Korean autumn foliage begins at the start of October in northern parts of Korea, peaks by mid to late October, and ends in southern Korea in early November with the arrival of colder winter weather and snow. The start, peak, and end dates change depending on which part of Korea you’re in.

The Korean autumn foliage dates were later than usual in 2023 due to higher average daily temperatures in September and October that were higher or slightly higher than usual. As a result, the first foliage date moved from September to October in 2023 and peak dates are slightly later, too.

The first place for autumn foliage in Korea is on the north-east coast, with Seoraksan National Park being one of the first and also most impressive places to see Korean autumn leaves. The autumn foliage in Seoraksan began at the start of October in 2023, but peaked 3 weeks later on October 23rd.

Seoul’s autumn foliage began on October 20th in 2023 and peaked by October 31st. There were still fall leaves on the ground in early November, but October is definitely the best time to visit Seoul for fall foliage. Bukhansan National Park and Nami Island saw autumn foliage at the same time.

In central Korea, including Daejeon , Songnisan National Park , and Woraksan National Park , the autumn foliage began and peaked from mid-October until late October, lasting until early-mid November. Fall foliage on the east coast of Korea started early October and peaked late October.

In Busan and southern Korea, including Jirisan National Park , the fall foliage began in mid-October and peaked by the end of October. Jeju Island autumn foliage also began in mid-October and peaked by the end of October. Late October is the best time to view autumn leaves in Busan and Jeju.

The last place to see autumn foliage in Korea is around Naejangsan National Park , where the autumn leaves appear at the end of October and peak in the first week of November. Naejangsan is one of the last places to see autumn foliage in Korea, but also one of the most beautiful places.

If you want to know more about travelling in Korea’s different seasons, check out seasonal articles . Also visit my guide to visiting Korea in October , which is arguably the best month to travel in Korea, for info about where to go, what to see, festivals, foods, and lots more.

Korean Autumn Foliage Forecast FAQs

The peak dates for the Korean fall foliage forecast don’t mean the end dates of the leaves, but the time when they are on display and most beautiful. The autumn foliage can remain for another week or more, depending on the weather and tree types. Autumn foliage can last for a long time – lying as golden blankets of gingko leaves or red rivers of maple leaves. You can still see autumn leaves in early November in some places, especially in the southern parts of Korea. Follow them from north to south to get the most of this season.

Here’s a table showing the Korean autumn foliage dates by national park:

According to the Korean weather service, this autumn is due to be hotter than average with rainfall also slightly above average. Here is the predicted weather outlook for autumn dates in September and October in 2023.

Source: Korea Meteorological Administration Seasonal Weather Information Manual

The official Korean autumn leaves forecast for 2024 is available from early September, and is based on the most up to date forecast information from the Korean forecasting service . The 2023 autumn foliage can be used to work out the 2024 Korean autumn foliage forecast dates.

In 2023, the Korean autumn foliage started to peak on October 20th at Odaesan National Park and finished peaking in Naejangsan National Park on November 6th, 2022. The autumn foliage in Seoul started on October 20th and peaked October 31st.

Recommended Korean Autumn Foliage Tours

This article introduces the best autumn foliage spots in Korea, starting with Seoul and covering the whole country, including Jeju Island. If you’re interested in booking an autumn foliage tour, here are some of the best tours available this autumn. Please note that tours book out quickly in this season.

Here are some of the best tours you can take in Korea this autumn:

Not sure if you need an autumn foliage tour in Korea or not? They can certainly save time and effort and help you avoid long journeys on public transportation. In this guide to the best Korean autumn foliage spots, I’ll include details about how to get to each place so you can see if it’s feasible or not.

Where To See Autumn Leaves In Seoul 2024

Seoul is one of the best places to visit during any trip to Korea and there are so many incredible things to do in Seoul all year round. Visiting Seoul in autumn is even better as you can see these sights with the added charm and magnificence of autumn foliage towering above or carpeting the streets below.

Here are 10 amazing places to see autumn leaves in Seoul:

1: Seoul’s Royal Palaces & Secret Garden

Marvel at the contrast between nature and history in Seoul’s Royal Palaces during autumn and see aesthetic delights provided by traditional Korean architecture blended with the natural beauty of autumn in Korea. All of the palaces in Seoul will offer incredible views of autumn leaves, but the best place to visit has to be the Secret Garden located inside Changdeokgung Palace. This hidden garden showcases some of the finest fall foliage in Korea.

There’s a beautiful pond where you can see the golden autumn leaves reflected in the water. Entry to the garden is limited each day, therefore get there early to book tickets and avoid disappointment. Don’t forget to hire traditional Korean hanbok for truly memorable pictures. Not only will you look great, you’ll get free entry to the royal palaces if you’re wearing it!

Here are the closest subway stations to each of Seoul’s 5 royal palaces: Gyeongbokgung Palace : Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3 – Orange) Changdeokgung Palace : Anguk Station (Line 3 – Orange) Changgyeonggung Palace : Anguk Station (Line 3 – Orange) Deoksugung Palace : City Hall Station (Line 1 – Dark Blue) Gyeonghuigung Palace : Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5 – Purple) The Secret Garden is inside Changedeokgung Palace. You will need to reserve tour tickets on the day you want to visit. I recommend getting there as early as possible as the tickets go quickly.

2: N Seoul Tower

The N Seoul Tower in the heart of Seoul is a great place to hike and see fall foliage on cool autumn days, as well as impressive views of Korea’s capital from up high. You can hike from Myeongdong Station all to the top, passing old stone walls, leafy trees, and views of Seoul to the sides. For an easier journey, take the Namsan Cable Car . Relax on the short journey to the peak and back, taking in the sights as you go.

Cable Car : Head out of Exit 3 from Myeongdong Station and walk towards the cable car station up the hill. Return tickets cost 14,000 KRW for adults and 10,500 KRW for children. The cable car runs from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm every day. Shuttle Bus : These are hop-on hop-off buses that also cover many of central Seoul’s top sights. Bus numbers 2 & 4 go to the N Seoul Tower. Here’s a guide to Getting To N Seoul Tower . Discounted Tickets : If you want to save money on entrance, you can buy discounted entry tickets from Klook and save over 20% on the entrance fee. Discover Seoul Pass : Want to see the N Seoul Tower and many other premium attractions in Seoul for free? Then why not purchase a Discover Seoul Pass and save a lot of money. Find out more in my article about Discover Seoul Pass itineraries .

3: Seoul Forest Park

With platanus trees dropping leaves the size of dinner plates, you’ll find some unique autumn foliage in Seoul Forest Park . This is a great place for families to spent time outside in Seoul. In the park you’ll find a petting zoo, deer, playgrounds, flower displays, and lots more. If you’re in the area, be sure to check out the trendy cafe and restaurant area north of Seoul Forest. You’ll find lots of delicious modern Korean cuisine here.

Take the subway to Seoul Forest Station (Bundang Line – Orange). You’ll see signs for the park as you exit. The cafe and restaurant area is above the northern entrance to Seoul Forest, closer to Ttukseom subway station.

4: Kyung Hee University

Kyung Hee University is my favourite campus to see autumn foliage in Seoul and features picturesque views of forested hills overlooking European style buildings. Walk along gingko tree-lined streets before discovering maple trees hanging low over stone bridges and forest paths. It takes 2 hours to explore the campus, seeing the beautiful scenery. After enjoying a tour around Kyung Hee University, visit the nearby student cafes and restaurants for cheap eats and relaxing views.

Take the subway to Hoegi Station and use exit 1. The campus is under the hills in front of you. Walk for about 10 minutes to get to the entrance of the university.

5: Gwanaksan Mountain

Located in the heart of the downtown Seoul area, close to Seoul National University, is Gwanaksan Mountain . This popular hiking area provides peaceful tree-lined streets and leaves you with a view overlooking the modern Gangnam area. It’s a great site and, above all, it’ll give you a chance to hike without leaving the city. Take some time out to visit Yeonjuam Hermitage , a temple located on the side of the mountain.

Take the subway to Gwacheon Station (Line 4 – Light Blue) and go out Exit 7. You’ll need to walk around the buildings towards the hiking trail entrance.

6: Seoul Grand Park

Located in the same area as Gwanaksan Mountain, the Seoul Grand Park is a place for families to have fun in nature and to enjoy autumn foliage sights in Seoul away from tall buildings and concrete. This sprawling park, surrounded by wooded slopes, includes Seoul Land, Seoul Zoo, a petting zoo, gardens, and a central lake that’s ringed by a long tree-lined walkway with small parks and benches to rest in while taking in the autumn leaves above.

Take the subway to Seoul Grand Park Station (Line 4 – Light Blue). You’ll see signs for the park as you exit. You don’t need a ticket to enter the park area, but there will be tickets available for Seoul Land and Seoul Zoo, which are inside the park.

7: Seoul Olympic Park

Seoul’s Olympic Park is a large open park in the Songpa district of Seoul that’s more peaceful than some of Seoul’s other parks. It’s a place for people to stroll slowly through the maze-like pathways, taking in the natural sights along the way. What makes Olympic Park such a nice place to visit in autumn is the combination of floral displays, patches of pink muhly, and the rows of trees with autumn leaves, as well as the impressive view of the Lotte World Tower in the background.

Take the subway to Olympic Park Station (Line 5 – Purple or Line 9 – Gold) and use exits 3 or 4. There are several entrances and exits to the park, but there are convenience stores, toilets, and some cafes near this entrance, so it’s more convenient.

8: Seokchon Lake

Seokchon Lake rests below the imposing Lotte World Tower in Jamsil and is the perfect place for an autumn foliage viewing break in Seoul after shopping in the tower or visiting Lotte World Adventure. Sit in one of the lakeside cafes and watch the rusty leaves fall or take a walk around the figure-of-eight shaped lake. There are many fall foliage sights at Seokchon Lake, so keep walking to find new sights with the Lotte World Tower as a unique background.

Take the subway to Jamsil Subway Station (Lines 2 & 8) and go out exit 2 or 3. Seokchon lake is visible in front of you. Walking around the park takes about an hour or more. If you plan to visit some of the other attractions in the area, such as Lotte World Adventure or the Lotte World Tower Observatory , I recommend booking tickets online, it’s cheaper.

9: Deoksugung Palace Stone-Wall Road

Not only can you see autumn leaves inside Seoul’s royal palaces, there’s a chance to see them creeping over the stone walls from the outside, too. The best place to see this in Seoul is the Deoksugung Stone-Wall Road outside of Deoksugung Palace. This street curves around the palace for 900 metres, lined by tall palace walls with Korean-style curved tiles on top. There are many leafy trees both on the road and inside the palace that create a stunning view as you walk along the peaceful roads.

Take the subway to City Hall station (Line 1 – Dark Blue). Use exit 1, 2, or 3 and Deoksugung Palace will be right in front of you. Walk around the outside of the palace for the stone-wall road. Address in Korean: 서울 중구 정동

10: Haneul Sky Park

Haneul Sky Park is one of the prettiest of the Han River riverside parks and really comes to life in autumn thanks to the ocean of tall silver reeds (Eulalia) that crowns this wide hilltop park. Not only can you see silver reeds at Haneul Sky Park, there are also long, stretching views across the Han River and the riverside parks, with some of my favourite autumn foliage views in the whole of Seoul. If you’re looking for pink muhly in Seoul, the Haneul Sky Park has a big garden full of it.

Take a subway to World Cup Stadium (Line 6 – Brown) and head towards the rivers. There are many parks in this area. Haneul Sky Park is on top of the hill – you can’t miss it. You can also find the Oil Tank Culture Park here, a free attraction in Seoul that is worth a visit.

Autumn Foliage Day Trip Locations Near Seoul

There are many beautiful autumn foliage spots in Seoul. However, some of the most spectacular spots are outside the city, located in the Korean countryside that surrounds the capital. These autumn foliage spots can all be reached from Seoul within an hour or two by car, tour, or public transport.

Here are 7 amazing autumn foliage day trips locations near Seoul:

1: Nami Island

Nami Island is famed for its year round natural beauty, but the best time to visit is definitely in autumn. With tree-lined streets of giant metasequoia and golden gingko, this is one of the most pleasant places to see autumn leaves in Korea. Known as a family-friendly eco-park, as well as a romantic day-trip spot, there’s something for everyone here. You can combine a day trip to Nami Island with the Garden of Morning Calm for a perfect day of fall foliage viewing.

There are many ways to get to Nami Island from Seoul, including a free shuttle bus, train (from Cheongpyeong Station), bus (from Cheongpyeong Terminal), or a guided tour. For details about how to get to Nami Island, as well as more pictures of Nami Island in autumn, check out my guide about getting to Nami Island from Seoul . Address in Korean: 경기 가평군 가평읍 달전리 145-2 Tour Options : The best way to see Nami Island’s autumn foliage is with a guided tour that will also take you to some of the other hot sights in the area, including Seoraksan, Garden of Morning Calm, and the Ganhchon Rail Bike. Here are some of the tours available for Nami Island:

• Nami Island & Mt. Seorak One Day Tour – ₩95,000
• Nami Island / Seoraksan / Alpaca World / Garden of Morning Calm – ₩98,100
• Nami Island & Alpaca & Rail Bike & Petite French Village & Legoland – ₩72,500
• Nami Island / Alpaca / Railbike / Petite France / Morning Calm Tour – ₩35,000

2: Garden Of Morning Calm

Close to Nami Island, this sculptured garden provides dozens of pathways through hundreds of beautiful plants, trees, and bushes. The Garden of Morning Calm also holds festivals throughout the year, including the gorgeous Maple Tree Festival. Strolling through this area provides dozens of opportunities to get close to nature, and take some amazing pictures, too. Coupled with Nami Island, this makes for a great day trip out of Seoul and a chance to really see a beautiful, natural side to Korea.

There are many ways to get to the Garden of Morning Calm from Seoul, including by train or subway (Cheongpyeong Station), by bus (Cheongpyeong Terminal), the Gapyeong City Tour Bus, or with a guided tour. Here’s a guide about getting to The Garden of Morning Calm . Tour Options : Tours to the Garden of Morning Calm from Seoul typically include a trip to Nami Island or nearby attractions, such as Alpaca World, Petite France & the Gangchon Railbike.

• Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Rail Bike Day Trip – ₩91,000

3: Asan Gingko Tree Road

Imagine yourself strolling down the beautiful, tree-lined streets of Asan Gingko Tree Road, with a carpet of golden leaves below, and lemony clouds above. Gingko trees are famous for their copious leaves and creating a golden carpet all around. In short, it really is magical and worth the trip. There are two trees that are perfect for seeing autumn leaves in Korea, they are the maple and gingko. The Asan Gingko Tree Road specialises in the latter and is the best place to see this gorgeous golden cascade of colours.

To get to Asan Gingko Tree Road, take the KTX from Seoul Station (40 minutes) to Asan Station, then change to the subway (Line 1 – Dark Blue) and travel 4 stops until you get to Onyang Spa Station ( 온양온천역 ). From Onyang Spa Station, take a taxi to Asan Gingko Tree Road ( 은행나무길 ). Address in Korean: 충남 아산시 염치읍 석정리

4: Namhansanseong Provincial Park & Fortress

A lesser-known autumn leaves hotspot in Korea is the Namhansanseong Provincial Park and Fortress . Located a short distance from Seoul, this is a great place to see fall foliage away from the city and the crowds. There are several hiking paths to enjoy, as well as cultural relics from Korea’s past. Hiking paths take as little as 90 minutes but pass through several historic and natural sights. Top sights include the tall fortress gates, Sueojangdae , the pine forest, and 12.4km of fortress walls.

From Samseong Station (Line 8 – Red), take bus 52, 9, or 9-1 directly to the fortress. From Seoul Station, take bus 9000 (red bus) and transfer to bus 9 at the Jongham Bus Terminal ( 종합버스터미널 ). I recommend using Naver Map from your start point in Seoul and using the Korean address (below) to search for more accurate directions on the day of travel. Address in Korean: 경기 광주시 남한산성면 산성리 935-1

5: Hwadam Botanic Garden

Hwadam Botanic Garden is a large, beautiful eco-friendly arboretum inside the Konjiam Resort, which is a popular ski and spa resort close to Seoul. Featuring over 4,300 types of trees and plants spread over 165,000 square metres, this is an impressive place to come and enjoy autumn foliage in Korea. One of the highlights of this botanic garden has to be the monorail path which takes you through the crispy canopies, offering the most incredible sights of the autumn foliage at eye level. If you visit Hwadam Botanic Garden, you really must take a ride on the monorail.

By Bus : To get to Hwadam Botanic Garden from Seoul, you will need to take a bus from Seoul to Konjiam Terminal. From the Konjiam Terminal, change to local bus 9 (green). This bus doesn’t run frequently, so you may need a taxi instead. Here are the departure points from Seoul to Konjiam Terminal.

• 1113-1 from Gangbyeon Station (t1:30 min)
• 500-1 from Jamsil Station (1:30 min)
• 500-2 from Samseong Station (1:40 min)

By Train / Subway : Take the Sinbundang Line from Seoul to Pangyo Station, then change to Gyeonggang Line and get off at Gonjiam Station. From there take the local bus 9 from Konjiam Terminal or a taxi. By Car : Hwadam Botanic Garden is about 40 minutes away from Seoul by car. It’s located in the Konjiam Resort (a popular ski resort during winter). Address in Korean: 경기 광주시 도척면 도척윗로 278-1

6: Yangju Nari Park

Yangju’s Nari Park isn’t a spot for autumn leaves, but I wanted to include it anyway as it’s a festival of colours and autumn flowers and a great place to spend a day out away from central Seoul. Nari Park in Yangju is a haven of autumn plants and flowers, including Mexican fire brush, globe amaranth, and the ever popular pink muhly. Take a stroll through the pinks, purples, and reds of these fall flowers and look out at the mountains.

Take the subway to Yangju Subway Station (Line 1 – Dark Blue). Take the local bus 2-4 and get off at Mansong-dong 1-tong, or take a taxi to this address – 경기도 양주시 만송동 산46. Address in Korean: 경기도 양주시 만송동 산46 Tour Options : There is a tour that combines Nari Park with a few other Korean sightseeing spots, including Dumulmeori.

Nari Park, Pink Muhly Grass, and Dumulmeori Day Tour – ₩63,000

7: Jeonju Hanok Village

Jeonju Hanok Village is Korea’s must-see hanok village outside of Seoul and features over 700 traditional hanok houses and other historic sights, such as the Jeondong Cathedral. Thanks to the traditional Korean architecture, wide streets, and numerous trees around the Jeonju Hanok Village, it’s especially pretty during autumn. You can see loads of golden leaves stretching out over the black-tiled rooftops of the low hanok buildings. For the best views, head to the Omokdae ( 오목대 ) hilltop lookout. Don’t forget to rent Korean hanbok for the ultimate Korean foliage pictures.

Train from Seoul : Take the KTX train from Yongsan Station in central Seoul to Jeonju Station. From outside the main entrance of the station (west), take any of the buses heading to Jeonju Hanok Village ( 전주 한옥마을 ). Bus to Jeonju Hanok Village include 6, 79, 108, 199, 535.

Bus from Seoul : Take a bus from Seoul Central Bus Terminal ( 센트럴시티터미널 ) to Jeonju Express Bus Terminal ( 전주고속버스터미널 ). From the terminal, take bus 8-2, 165, 350, 1001, 5001, or 6001 to the Jeonju Hanok Village. Alternatively, take a taxi as it’s a short distance.

Tour Options : Take a day trip from Seoul to Jeonju to see autumn leaves and try traditional Korean foods that Jeonju is famous for, such as bibimbap. Here are some available tours:

• Naejangsan & Jeonju Hanok Village One Day Tour from Seoul – ₩80,000
• Jeonju Hanok Village & Jangtaesan & Daedunsan Serenity Nature Tour – ₩117,800
• Jeonju Hanok Village Day Tour from Seoul – ₩81,300

Where To See Autumn Foliage In Korea National Parks

Korea’s national parks are without a doubt the best places to see foliage sights in autumn thanks to the abundance of tree-covered slopes and leafy valleys they have. There’s so much to see and do in these parks, too. You can hike, explore Buddhist temples, or just sit back and take in the views.

Here are 8 incredible national parks to visit in Korea for autumn foliage views:

1: Naejangsan National Park

Naejeangsan National Park is one of the must-see places for autumn leaves in Korea for many reasons. Naejang, meaning ‘many secrets’, is packed full of delightful presents. From the fiery colours you’ll see passing through the Maple Tree tunnel, to the golden gingko leaves surrounding Naejangsa Temple, this park has an impressive array of photo-worthy locations. You’ll also want to see the Uhwajeong Pavilion, located inside a crystalline lake and surrounded by leafy slopes of warm fall foliage. Besides this, you will find several waterfalls, wonderful Buddhist temples, and hundreds of different plants and animals.

To get to Naejangsan National Park, travel to Jeongeup Station ( 정읍역 ) on the KTX and then transfer to a local bus to get to the park. You can also book intercity buses to Jeongeup City or tour buses that will take you directly to the park. For more details about how to get to Naejangsan, as well as more pictures of Naejangsan in autumn, check out my guide about how to go to Naejangsan National Park . Tour Options : Take a day trip from Seoul or Busan and explore the beauty of Naejangsan and it’s hidden treasures as you walk around the park. Here are a few tours available this autumn:

• Classic Naejangsan National Park One Day Tour from Seoul – ₩64,000
• Naejangsan National Park & Jeonju Hanok Village One Day Tour from Seoul – ₩80,000
• Naejangsan National Park Autumn Day Tour from Busan – ₩81,300
• Essential Autumn Foliage of Korea 3-day Tour with Naejangsan and Odaesan – $1,333.34

2: Seoraksan National Park

Hiking Seoraksan is a real treat and this national park is one of the most convenient for beautiful fall foliage viewing from Seoul. Situated near the northeastern coast, this is also one of the first places to see the autumn leaves in Korea. Seoraksan is packed full with stunning rocky peaks, the most important Buddhist temple in Korea, and plenty of ways to explore it all. There’s a large range of trails for all levels and seeing it all from the bottom is worth the trip alone. If you want to explore the mountain range more comfortably, take the Seorak Cable Car .

Take an intercity bus from Dong-Seoul Bus Terminal or the Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal. From here, transfer to bus 7 or 7-1 towards Seoraksan National Park. For full details about getting there by car, bus, or tour, check out my guide to Seoraksan National Park . Tour Options : Tours from Seoul to Seoraksan also visit Nami Island and other attractions that are between the two locations. There are also tours that only go to Seoraksan, giving you more time in the park.

• Seoraksan / Nami Island / Alpaca World / Garden of Morning Calm – ₩98,100
• Breathtaking Autumn at Seoraksan National Park – $69
• [Premium Private Tour] Mt Seorak & East Sea or Nami island from Seoul – $129

3: Jirisan National Park

The largest national park in Korea offers so many chances to see Korean autumn leaves. Packed full of maple trees and other fall foliage, as well as small villages, wild animals, and mountains, this is an all-round experience not to be missed. Jirisan National Park is great for all levels of hikers & trekkers. There are many easy courses that anyone can walk, including a 16-stage loop around the national park.You can book lodges to stay overnight on the mountain and lower down the mountain which can be used as a stopping point between day hikes / treks.

Jirisan is best accessed from Busan or other southern cities, or by car from Seoul. You can also access the entrances to Jirisan by bus from cities such as Jeonju, Gwangju, Daegu, and Daejeon Bus from Busan & Daejeon: From Seobu Terminal in Busan take buses heading for Ssanggyesa ( 쌍계사 ) or Gurye Bus Terminal ( 구례공영버스터미널 ). From Daejeon Bokhap Terminal take a bus heading for Namwon Bus Terminal ( 남원공용버스터미널 )). Change to local buses to the park from those towns. I recommend using Naver Map to check the route for the day you want to travel, but be warned that there aren’t many buses in these areas.

4: Bukhansan National Park

Bukhansan National Park provides great options for hiking and enjoying fall foliage. There are several hiking routes, with each one providing stunning views of northern Seoul and autumn’s splendour. My favourite one is the hike to Baegundae Peak , the highest peak in Bukhansan. Hikes will take the best part of 3-5 hours to get to the top and back. The weather is cool at this time of year, which is perfect for hiking. If you’re only visiting Seoul, this is probably the most convenient place to see autumn leaves in Korea and try hiking at the same time.

Take the subway to Gupabal Station (Line 3 – Orange) and use exit 1. Take Bus 704 for Bukhansan-seong Fortress (or a taxi) and get off at the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance bus stop. For full details about how to get to the various entrances of Bukhansan National Park, as well as the best courses to take, how to prepare for the hike, and lots more, check out my guide to hiking Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park.

5: Odaesan National Park

Odaesan National Park is great for those who want to experience trekking and all the stunning autumn views you’d expect from a national park without having to hike up to the top of a mountain. Although you certainly can and should reach the peak if you’re up for it. Odaesan’s Seonjae-gil Road is a 10km trekking path that follows the valley floor through lush autumn foliage. The start location, Woljeongsa Temple , also includes another treat, a fir tree-lined street. Fans of K-drama may recognise it from the hit show ‘Goblin: The Great and Lonely God’.

Take the intercity bus from Dong-Seoul Bus Terminal to Jinbu Bus Terminal ( 진부시외버스터미널 ), which takes about 2 hours. From Jinbu Bus Terminal, take bus 225 or 226 towards Woljeongsa ( 월정사 ) or to the Sangwonsa Temple Bus Stop ( 상원사 ), which is closer to the hiking trails. Alternatively, take a taxi straight to the park entrance, which will cost about 30,000 KRW.

6: Gayasan National Park

Gayasan National Park is a great place to hike and see autumn leaves for people in Busan. This national park explodes with colour from mid-October, with grey boulders from the rocky mountains providing a stark contrast of views. Culture lovers will also enjoy visiting Haeinsa Temple , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and very impressive temple that’s worth the visit alone. Like Jirisan, the most prominent type of tree on display in autumn is the maple tree, with each tree showing off thousands of small, spiky leaves that can often include green, yellow, and red leaves on the same tree.

Bus from Daegu : Take the bus from Daegu Seobu Intercity Bus Terminal directly to Haeinsa Temple. Takes about 1 hour. Travellers from Seoul and Busan should transfer in Daegu to get to Gayasan. Bus from Daejeon : Take the intercity bus from Daejeon to Haeinsa Temple. Here’s more information about how to get to Gayasan .

7: Hallasan National Park

Hallasan Volcano, rising up out of the ocean to create Jeju Island, provides an incredible hiking experience. It’s also one of the last places to see the autumn leaves in Korea as the cold weather makes its way through Korea, touching Jeju Island just before winter sets in. Don’t worry, you won’t have to climb the highest mountain in Korea to see the fall foliage. Shorter routes around the base of the mountain will give you great views of autumn’s splendour and leave you enough energy to enjoy Jeju’s other sights.

There are 4 different paths to climb in Hallasan National Park and they can all be accessed by taxi or public transport from either Jeju City, Jeju Airport, or Seogwipo City. Here’s a quick summary of the 4 main trails:

• Gwaneumsa Trail: 8.7km (one-way) 8-10 hours total hike
• Seongpanak Trail: 9.6km (one-way) 7-9 hours total hike
• Eorimok Trail: 4.7km (one-way) 2.5 hours return hike
• Yeongsil Trail: 3.7km (one-way) 2 hours return

Wherever you go, make sure to start hiking early as the trails close to new hikers after 12:00pm. If you’re brave enough to hike to the top of Hallasan, you’ll need to make a reservation . Personally, I think winter is the best time to hike Hallasan, which I’ve done for the last couple of years. I’ve put together a guide to hiking Hallasan in winter with lots of pics of the snow-covered volcano. Here are some more ideas about what to do if you end up on Jeju Island in winter .

8: Songnisan National Park

Located in the heart of Korea, Songnisan National Park was one of the first national parks in Korea and remains one of the best, especially for an all-round autumn experience that includes hiking, traditional food, and an impressive Buddhist temple. The hiking trails take you from the historic Beopjusa Temple, with a gigantic standing golden Buddha, past shaded streams, a lush valley floor, and up into the moderately high peaks. There are lovely fall sights at every step and peaceful restaurants to enjoy the views in as you hike.

Bus from Daejeon : Take the intercity bus from Daejeon Bokhap Terminal ( 대전복합버스터미널 ) to Songnisan Bus Terminal ( 속리산터미널 ) and walk towards the restaurants and cafes that lead to the start of the hiking courses. From other cities, head to Daejeon and transfer there. When visiting Songnisan, why not stay in a Korean Buddhist temple? A Korean temple stay is an incredible experience and Beopjusa Temple is one of my favourite temples. You can book a weekend away sleeping in the temple grounds and wake up to see sunrise in the mountains.

Where To See Autumn Leaves In Busan 2024

Busan is a charming coastal city on Korea’s south coast that’s famous for summer activities like surfing, swimming in the ocean, and relaxing on the beach. However, there are also lots of places to see autumn leaves in Busan, especially in the mountains, parks, and temples that surround the city.

If you want to see autumn foliage in Busan in 2024, you don’t have to go far from the main areas of Haeundae or Seomyeon to find them. Wide riverside pathways that wind their way to the sea are lined by trees with colourful foliage on both sides. There are even autumnal scenes along the coast.

Here are some of the amazing places you can see autumn leaves in Busan:

Temples In Busan

Busan is famous for the stunning cliffside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, but if you want to see autumn leaves at a temple in Busan, you should visit Beomeosa Temple ( 범어사 ). You can see the foliage-covered slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain when you visit Beomeosa and there are golden gingko trees in the park, too. Another beautiful temple to visit in Busan during autumn is Samgwangsa Temple ( 삼광사 ), which provides clear views over Busan from Baegyangsan Mountain.

Eco Parks In Busan

Busan is has many eco parks and green spaces where people can reconnect with nature. During autumn, Busan’s eco parks are ideal for seeing autumn leaves, pink muhly, and silver reeds. Daejeo Eco Park ( 대저생태공원 ) and Samnak Eco Park ( 삼락생태공원 ) in Busan’s Sasang District are perfect for an afternoon walk through tall reeds and under leafy trees. Further down the river is Eulsukdo Eco Park ( 을숙도 ), located on a small island where the river flows into the sea. This park is perfect for picnics and watching the sun set.

As well as eco parks, there are hilltop and family parks where you can see autumn leaves in Busan. Busan Children’s Grand Park ( 부산어린이대공원 ) has the most impressive autumn views as it looks out over Seongjigok Reservoir and the slopes of Baegyangsan Mountain. Other parks to see autumn leaves include Yongdusan Park ( 용두산공원 ), home to Busan Tower, Yeonji Park ( 김해연지공원 ) in Gimhae, and Jungang Park & Democracy Park ( 부산민주공원 ), which has views of the whole city.

River & Coastal Views

There are several lovely waterside places where you can enjoy blue skies, flowing water, and autumnal views in Busan. One of my favourite is Oncheoncheon Citizen’s Park ( 온천천시민공원 ) – a tree-lined riverside pathway that runs all the way to Millak Park and Gwangalli Beach. There’s also Dadaepo Beach Park ( 다대포해변공원 ) that has millions of silvery reeds waving in the wind. For gorgeous autumn sunset views, visit this park in the evening.

I haven’t included directions to each of these locations, but I have linked the location of each place from Naver Map – the most reliable map app in Korea. You can use this link to help you plan how to get to each place either on the day or in advance. Download Naver Map and click the link, then plan your route from your desired start location. You can see routes by public transport, car, and by foot and the app will tell you how long it will take and when the next bus / subway is due. It will also show you the expected taxi price to get there.

Where To See Autumn Foliage In Gyeongju 2024

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Gyeongju for several reasons, not least of all are the magnificent autumn colours you can see at Gyeongju’s many famous sights. The blue skies and cool weather of autumn also make this the ideal time to visit Gyeongju, where most of the sites are outdoors.

Visitors to Gyeongju in autumn can see pink muhly next to Cheomseongdae Observatory, walk down a leafy pathway between Seokguram Grotto to Bulguksa Temple, and see silver reeds and autumn trees stretching around the wide Bomun Lake. That’s not to mention all the traditional hanok houses, too.

Gyeongju isn’t a large city and you can see most of the top sights in one or two days. I recommend a two-day stay if you want to visit Gyeongju in autumn so you can see more and enjoy the night sights that are available – both traditional and modern. Day tours from Busan are also convenient.

Here are the best places you can see autumn foliage in Gyeongju:

Autumn In Central Gyeongju

Gyeongju is known as an outdoor museum due to the wealth of historic artefacts on display in this UNESCO World Heritage City. The best place for autumn sights in Gyeongju is the sprawling Gyeongju Historic Area , home to Cheomseongdae Observatory (pictured). This area is packed with famous sights and is surrounded by nature, including pink muhly, silver reeds, and autumn foliage. You can spend several hours walking around this area and not get bored of the history, culture, and natural wonder on display.

Make sure to head to Woljeonggyo Bridge and the Gyochon Traditional Village for pretty pictures by the river. From here you can walk along the road to the hilltop Gyeongju National Museum for more autumn views below. A short walk from the museum is the Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond , which is best visited at night for illuminated autumn leaves and amazing reflections in the water. Another pleasing autumn leaves sights in central Gyeongju is Bunhwangsa Temple (pictured).

Autumn In Outer Gyeongju

The best autumn views in Gyeongju are outside the city centre, located in Bulguksa Temple ( 불국사 ) – a 1,500 year old temple complex in the foothills of Tohamsan Mountain. Bulguksa is blessed with autumn foliage sights inside and out. See weeping willows, vibrant maple leaves, and golden gingko trees contrast spectacularly with bright greens of traditional Korean temple architecture. I recommend starting at Seokguram Grotto ( 석굴암 ) at the top of Tohamsan Mountain and following the shaded path down to Bulguksa Temple.

The Bomun Tourist Complex in Gyeongju may be one of the best places to see Korean cherry blossoms , but it’s also beautiful during autumn and definitely worth visiting. The main attraction is Bomun Lake and the pathways that go around its edge. You’ll find some cosy cafes and restaurants on the lake’s shores, perfect for sitting and enjoying the autumn scenery. Also check out the unique Jungdo Tower ( 황룡원중도타워 ), a recreation of the gigantic 9-storey wooden pagoda of Hwangnyongsa Temple.

Train from Seoul : Take the KTX from Seoul to Singyeongju, then take a local bus to the Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal to get closer to the city centre. This takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes and costs around 50,000 KRW one way. Bus from Seoul : Take the bus from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal ( 서울고속버스터미널 ) – Gyeongbu Line – to Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal ( 경주시외버스터미널 ). This takes about 3 hours and costs around 42,000 KRW one way. You can book bus tickets on the KOBUS website . Bus from Busan : There are buses from Busan Central Bus Terminal ( 부산종합버스터미널 ) to Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal ( 경주시외버스터미널 ) every hour. The journey takes about 50 minutes and fares are around 6,000 KRW. You can book bus tickets on the KOBUS website . Tour Options : An easy way to see autumn foliage in Gyeongju is with a day trip from. Due to the distance between top spots in Gyeongju, a tour is much more convenient than public transport. Also, you can learn about the sites from the guide. Here are some available tours to Gyeongju:

• Gyeongju The Old Capital of Korea One Day Tour from Busan – ₩80,000
• Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Tour from Busan – ₩91,300
• Gyeongju One Day Trip from Seoul (Optional Drop off in Busan) – ₩159,400
• Gyeongju Small Group Tour from Busan – ₩105,000

Lesser-Known Autumn Leaves Spots In Korea

This final section to this guide to seeing autumn foliage in Korea is dedicated to the lesser-known autumn foliage sites outside of the national parks and big cities. These are foliage spots that I’ve discovered while hiking in Korea or been told about by locals that I want to share with you.

Here are 5 autumn foliage hotspots in Korea that are worth the journey:

1: Daedunsan Provincial Park

Daedunsan Provincial Park near Daejeon is a joy to visit for autumn leaves and the unique attractions you can see when hiking. For those only interested in the sights, take the cable car to the top of the mountain. Don’t worry, you won’t miss out on the best parts of the mountain, such as the suspension bridge passing between two rocky slopes with autumn views below. Just before the peak, you can climb a near vertical ladder over a sheer drop to another peak. Known as the Cloud Bridge , this is not for faint-hearted people, but provides amazing views.

Bus from Daejeon : Depart from Seo-Nambu Bus Terminal ( 대전서남부터미널 ) in southern Daejeon and take Bus 34 to the Daedunsan Rest Stop. Walk 10 minutes down the road to get to the park entrance. You’ll see a cable car running up the side of the mountain. If in doubt, head for that.

Another great option for autumn leaves close to Daejeon is Gyeryongsan National Park – one of my favourites. You can find out about hiking both these places from this guide to hiking in Daedunsan and this guide to hiking in Gyeryongsan .

• Daedunsan Autumn Maple Day Tour from Seoul – ₩92,500

2: Gangcheonsan County Park

A popular place with Koreans, but not well known by tourists, is the culturally and nature-rich Gangcheonsan County Park . Hidden away in Sunchang, this large park has lush valleys lined with thick, bushy trees that turn red, yellow, and orange during fall and tall hills bedecked with resplendent fall foliage. Inside Gangcheonsan you’ll find cultural wonders such as Gangcheonsa Temple, the Geumseongsanseong Fortress, and the Gancheongsan Five-story Stone Pagoda. The best site is the suspension bridge hanging above the valley, which offers trekkers the chance to see these autumn leaves from high above.

Bus from Seoul : Take a bus from Seoul Central Bus Terminal ( 센트럴시티터미널 ) to Sunchang Bus Terminal ( 순창공용버스터미널 ). From the terminal, take a local bus bound for Jeongeup or Gurim (순찬 – 정읍 – 쌍치 line) and get off at Gangcheonsan Mountain Bus Stop (강천산임시치안센터). Alternatively, ask a taxi driver at the Sunchang Bus Terminal to take to take you directly to the Gangcheonsan County Park by showing them this name – 강천산군립공원

3: Mindungsan Mountain Trail

There’s more to autumn leaves in Korea than maple trees and gingko trees. Autumn is also a time to see willowy silver grass – tall reeds that create white waves atop mountains, rivers, and lakes across Korea. These reeds are a symbol of autumn and you’ll find a whole mountain’s worth of them at the Mindungsan Mountain Trail , which has its own festival from mid-September to early November, celebrating these special reeds. There’s also plenty of autumn leaves to see on the hike to the top, which is where the reeds are on display.

Take a train from Cheongnyangni Station ( 청량리역 ) in Seoul to Mindungsan Station ( 민둥산역 ) – it’s on the Mugunghwa Line (slow train) to Taebaeksan. Exit the station and head down the hill towards the Mindungsan Trail Car Park ( 민둥산등산객전용주차장 ). The entrance is clearly signposted and starts on the opposite side of the road from the car park. It should take about 10-15 minutes to walk from the station to the trail entrance.

4: Seonunsa Temple

Located far away in Seonunsan Provincial Park is one of the best places to see autumn leaves in Korea if you have a car – Seonunsa Temple . This hidden temple is almost 1,500 years old and due to it’s remote location, feels like you’re transported back in time to a more natural past. During autumn, take a stroll along the picturesque Dosolcheon Stream and see fallen foliage floating by, see the bright reds and yellows spreading over the hills behind the temple, and see the many historic artefacts and treasures in the temple.

Bus from Seoul : Take a bus from Seoul Central Bus Terminal ( 센트럴시티터미널 ) to Heungdeok Bus Terminal ( 흥덕공용버스터미널 ) in Gochang. From the terminal, take a bus to Seonunsa Temple ( 선운사 ) on the 흥덕 – 해리 line. Get off at the Seonunsan Bus Stop ( 선운산버스정류장 ). Please note that by public transport the journey from Seoul will take about 4 hours. Driving is much faster and definitely recommended.

5: Damyang Metasequoia Road

The 8.5km Damyang Metasequoia Road is one of Korea’s loveliest pathways, especially in autumn when the trees turn golden brown and drop their leaves. Metasequoia are famed for their tall height, rising high above the road and creating a tunnel for people to pass under with rays of sunlight sneaking through to add a touch of illumination. This road is close to another top Damyang attraction – the Juknokwon Bamboo Garden .

Bus from Seoul : Take a bus from Seoul Central Bus Terminal ( 센트럴시티터미널 ) to Damyang Public Bus Terminal ( 담양공용버스터미널 ). From the terminal, take bus 13-4 towards the Metasequoia Road ( 메타세쿼이아 가로수길 ) Please note, the bus from Seoul takes 3:30. I recommend visiting this location from a closer city, such as Gwangju, or driving there.

Guide To Visiting Korea In Autumn 2024

If you’re interested in hiking during autumn, which I would really recommend, then check out my guide to hiking in Korea , featuring lots of great tips all about Korea’s number 1 outdoor pastime.

Here are a few more tips to help you get the most out of your time seeing autumn leaves in Korea, such as what the weather is like, what to wear, and how to travel to see fall foliage.

Why Autumn Is The Best Time To Visit Korea

Korea has 4 very distinct seasons, ranging from really hot and humid summer (40+ degrees) to a freezing cold winter (-18 degrees). Spring and autumn are short, but packed full of opportunities to travel.

Although spring has cherry blossoms to see, autumn is the best for me due to the better weather, lower air pollution (which peaks in spring), and the feeling of relief that comes with the cooler weather after a long, tough summer.

If you want to travel to Korea, September to early November are definitely the best times to travel. You’ll see autumn leaves, get to enjoy local foods and fresh produce, and witness a lot of festivals and public holidays.

Autumn Weather In Korea

The weather in autumn ranges from hot and humid in early September (30 degrees) to freezing cold by mid-November. October temperature range from 15 to 25 degrees during the day, but can fall below 10 degrees at night. November is much colder. Typhoons during September and October can change the weather very quickly, and rain showers or strong winds can appear one day and be gone the next, leaving the spectacular skies you can only see at this time of year.

What To Wear During Autumn In Korea

Because the temperature can change quite a lot from morning to night, I’d recommend packing a light jacket or sweater to keep you warm after the sun sets. Lighter clothes should be fine during the day until mid-October, after that it’s time for more layers.

How To See Fall Foliage In Korea

The best way to see fall foliage in Korea is to get out into the mountains and national parks and try hiking. You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to experience the best of the leaves, and in fact you don’t want to go too high as the best views are in the valleys.

Most national parks have walking trails through the valleys that can range from a couple of kilometres up to 10km (at Odaesan) of forest trails.

Alternatively, head to the historic sites across Korea, such as the royal palaces in Seoul, fortresses, or historic cities such as Gyeongju or Buyeo. Here’s a guide to visiting Buyeo in case you end up going.

Visiting Korea In Other Seasons?

Can’t travel to Korea in autumn?

No worries, Korea is an amazing country to visit any time of year and undoubtedly has four very distinct seasons with lots of other activities, sights, foods, and festivals waiting for you in each one.

Spring : Spring is all about the new blossoms and nature returning for the new year. The biggest thing to do in spring is to see  cherry blossoms in Korea . From royal palaces to riverside walkways, there are loads of places to enjoy the fresh nature. There are also lots of fun spring festivals in Korea .

Summer : A hot and rainy time of year, but perfect for getting out to enjoy the best Korean summer activities , such as water sports, camping by the beach, summer festivals, eating yummy Korean summer foods, and getting a tan. If the rain is too heavy, there are plenty of indoor activities in Seoul where you can stay dry and still have fun.

Winter : After the beauty of the fall foliage and the rains of summer, winter is the complete opposite – snowy white and extremely dry. Winter has very little rain, which makes it perfect for exploring outside and enjoying one of the many Korean winter activities . Just make sure you wrap up warm! If you’re visiting Korea in winter, I highly recommend check out my  Jeju Island winter itinerary .

Frequently Asked Questions

Finally, here are a few FAQs about where to see autumn leaves in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

Where Can I See Autumn Leaves In Korea?

The best places to see autumn leaves in Korea are without a doubt in Korea’s national parks. There are national parks spread across the country, as well as dozens of smaller areas of natural beauty where you can see fall foliage.

Where Can I See Autumn Leaves In Seoul?

You can find autumn leaves in Seoul very easily as there are many green areas throughout the city. Some of the most popular spots are in the royal palaces in the heart of Seoul, especially Changdeokgung Palace. Seoul has many other places to experience fall foliage, including Seoul Zoo, Seoul Forest, along the banks of the Han River, and Namsan Tower.

What Is There To Do In Seoul In Autumn?

There are many autumn festivals in Seoul that coincide with the major holiday of the season, which is called Chuseok in Korea. When the autumn leaves appear, many people go hiking in national parks and walking in nature. Autumn is cool and has low levels of pollution, making it a great time to get outside and enjoy nature’s blessings. The evenings are still warm in early autumn, so many people in Seoul visit night markets in various locations, too.

What Should I Wear To See Autumn Leaves In Korea?

Autumn leaves start falling in late September and the weather cools significantly after the hot summer. You’ll need at least a light jacket and something appropriate to cover your legs and arms. If you want to see autumn leaves in Korea, you should be fine with regular shoes for walking around a city. However, if you want to see Korea’s fall foliage in the national parks, then you should wear training or hiking shoes that are comfortable in rough terrain.

How Cold Is Autumn In Korea?

Autumn in Korea starts in September and is still warm and humid. However, the temperature drops quickly and by mid-October it can be windy and cold enough for a jacket. By November the temperature drops further and starts to get below zero as Korea approaches winter. During peak autumn season time (October), temperatures are around 10-15 degrees Celsius during the day. There can be typhoons during this season, so be careful as there can be strong winds and heavy rains for brief periods. Otherwise, the weather is mostly calm and sunny.

When Can I See Autumn Leaves In Seoul?

The best time to see autumn leaves in Seoul is around mid-October as the trees start to change colour. The autumn leaves in Seoul should stay for several weeks and reach their peak around the end of October. Places close to Seoul, such as Seoraksan National Park, usually peak before Seoul.

When Can I See Autumn Leaves In Korea?

Autumn leaves in Korea first appear at the end of September in the north-east of Korea, before moving down through the country and reaching Jeju Island around mid-October. The start date is not the same as the peak date, which is when the autumn leaves will be most colourful.

Can I See Autumn Leaves In Korea During November?

There are several national parks in the south of Korea, including Jirisan National Park, Naejangsang National Park, and Hallasan National Park on Jeju Island. These should all still have autumn leaves on their trees by early-mid November. The last time you’ll see autumn leaves in Korea is the middle of November. After that, the weather drops quickly and winter in Korea begins.

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Hi! My name is Joel, I'm the author of In My Korea and writer of this article. I've lived, worked and travelled in Korea since 2015 and want to share my insights, stories and tips to help you have the best experience during your trip to Korea.

I love learning more about Korean culture, hiking the many mountains, and visiting all the coolest places in Korea, both modern and traditional. If you want to know more about my story, check out the ' about me ' section to learn why I love living in Korea.

13 thoughts on “Autumn Leaves In Korea 2024: Best Korean Autumn Foliage Spots”

Hi May I know if there is a tour organised for Fall Foliage Spots?

Hi Emily, there are tours available for fall foliage sites across Korea. Are you looking for a one day tour, or a mutli-day guided tour to several locations?

I’m so thankful for everything I have, and Chuseok is a time to keep in mind that.

halo.. i hv plan go to korea in Nov 19 until 26 Nov 2023. There still can be see Autumn Foliage?

Hi, sorry, but autumn leaves are all gone by then and the winter weather begins. There might be a few leaves left on the ground, but not really much to see.

ah i see.. where the place might be i can see autumn foliage on that date?

There aren’t any places, sorry.

Hi! Are there still fall foliage during Nov 12 to 16 when we visit Korea?

That’s a bit late for fall foliage in most places. There may be some gingko leaves around by then in southern parts of Korea, but most will have dropped off and been blown away by then. Naejangsan National Park is one of the last places to see fall foliage in Korea, so that would be your best option.

Hi , I am going to Seoul and Jeju in 4th Oct week to first week of Nov, should I go to Jeju first then Seoul so that I dont miss the autumn foilage? Where is the best place to stay to have a nice view of the foilage for both Jeju and Seoul?

Hi, sounds like you’ve got a long time in Korea. If you want to see autumn leaves around Seoul, then maybe it would be best to visit Jeju first (early-October is a lovely time for Jeju). Seoul’s autumn leaves really shine later in the month, so visiting Seoul later would be a good option, yes.

I wouldn’t worry too much about staying in specific places to see the leaves, as you can see them all around and I would recommend choosing somewhere that’s convenient for travelling around to various places. Hongdae and Myeongdong are convenient neighbourhoods in Seoul, as well as Insadong (closer to palaces and autumn views near there). For Jeju, it depends on what you want to do. Jeju City and Seogwipo are convenient bases for visiting most places on Jeju, whereas beaches like Hamdeok Beach or Hyeopjae Beach are great for seaside views and staying on the shore.

Hi- thank you for your post. I’m planning to visit Seoul and Nami on Oct 15-22. Do you think the autumn leaves are around by then especially on Nami?

Thanks for reading my website on Travelling in Korea. For the question that you have regarding dates on Autumn leaves timings, it is difficult to predict actual timing for Autumn leaves, however if the weather patterns are similar to 2023 (warmer September and October), you can expect the Autumn foliage date to start in mid October and peak in the end of October for those places.

We’ll keep the website updated with official forecast nearer to September, and hope you manage to catch the spectacular Autumn foliage during your visit!

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When is the best time to visit South Korea?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit South Korea is between March and May if you want to see the vibrant pink of the cherry blossoms in bloom. If you want to see the landscapes come alive as the leaves change in the cooler weathers, then we’d recommend visiting between September and November. Temperatures during these times are generally pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

June, July and August offer the best conditions for hiking, but the weather is hot and humid away from the mountains.

Winters in South Korea are bitterly cold, so we wouldn’t recommend visiting in December, January or February.

It’s important to take local holidays into account when planning your trip. The Korean New Year is the first day of the lunar month, and Chuseok is the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. During these times, many residents head to their rural hometowns to celebrate and many businesses are closed.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling in South Korea

Visiting South Korea in January

South Korea typically sees its highest amount of snowfall this month. Tourist sites are less crowded, but it’s too cold to recommend as a good time to visit.

Visiting South Korea in February

Attractions remain less crowded, but snow is still possible in the north until the end of the month. The Korean New Year generally falls in January or February, so it’s best to avoid that time. The temperatures are still too cold to recommend visiting.

Events & Festivals

• Jeju Fire Festival (late February, early March): A giant bonfire, fireworks and K-Pop concerts are held on Jeju Island to celebrate the arrival of spring.

Visiting South Korea in March

Temperatures begin to increase during March, but overall, it’s still chilly. Depending on the weather, the cherry blossoms may begin to bloom near the end of the month.

Visiting South Korea in April

This is one of the best times to visit, when the cherry blossoms are likely to be in full bloom. However, the most popular destinations are busy. Additionally, the yellow dust from the Gobi Desert often covers South Korea at this time — people with allergies may want to avoid visiting in April.

Visiting South Korea in May

This month features warm, pleasant temperatures and plenty of sun. It’s an excellent time to try outdoor activities, such as climbing Mount Hallasan on Jeju Island. Do be aware, however, that the cherry blossom bloom will be completely over by May.

• Yeon Deung Hoe Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul (beginning of May): Entertainment, a parade and a procession of lanterns light up the Seoul streets.

Visiting South Korea in June

Crowds tend to die down in June, and popular attractions become less crowded. The caveat is that the upcoming monsoon season means rain is very common during this time of year.

Visiting South Korea in July

July is peak monsoon season, so we don’t recommend visiting then. Additionally, the temperatures are very high with lots of humidity. This is one of the worst months to visit.

Visiting South Korea in August

August is very hot and sunny, making it the best time to visit the beaches. However, restaurants, shops and popular sites will be crowded. South Korean schools are on break and there is a surge in domestic travel.

Visiting South Korea in September

The crowds dwindle a little as the schools head back into session. The weather is still very hot, and South Korea can sometimes be hit by typhoons, which deliver rainfall for a couple of days at a time. Chuseok often falls this time of year, so it’s best to avoid that week.

Visiting South Korea in October

This is one of the best months to visit — the weather is comfortably warm, making it pleasant for outdoor activities. Toward the end of the month, mountain ranges in the north start to show signs of autumnal hues as the leaves begin to change.

• Busan Fireworks Festival (October): Fireworks light up the sky and a laser light show dances among the stars at Gwangalli Beach.

Visiting South Korea in November

Temperatures this month are generally pleasant, though they start to get chilly toward the end of the month. It’s the best time to see the bright autumn leaves, particularly at the beginning and middle of the month.

• Seoul Lantern Festival (November): Large, bright lanterns are set in the Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul.

Visiting South Korea in December

We wouldn’t recommend December for a visit, as the temperatures can be quite cold. The weather isn’t as icy as January, but Seoul in particular can be frigid later in the month.

• Seongsan Sunrise Festival (New Year’s Eve): Concerts, fireworks, campfires and other festivities kick off the celebration as festivalgoers await the first sunrise of the New Year on Jeju Island.

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The Best Time to Visit Seoul

The best times to visit Seoul are during the spring (March to May) or fall (September and October). These months are generally considered the high season and for a good reason. With spring comes the delicate blush-colored blooms of the cherry blossom trees, while fall foliage makes the city glow with fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. Winter and summer have their charms but are not for the faint of heart, as temperatures plummet and soar, respectively.

No matter when you choose to visit, use this guide to help you delve into genteel temples, sprawling palaces and historical hanok houses juxtaposed with cutting-edge technology, a renowned food scene , and innovative architecture and design.

The Weather in Seoul

Each of the four seasons is distinct in Seoul. Winter can be bitterly cold, with icy blasts sweeping down from Siberia. Spring temperatures range from 50 to 70 degrees F, perfect for frolicking amid the pink blossoms of the cherry trees. Summer is hot and extremely humid, driving many Koreans into the city’s thousands of air-conditioned coffee shops. Keep in mind that June through September is also typhoon season, with high rainfall and a chance of heavy storms. Fall brings a return to mild weather ranging from 50 to 80 degrees F and makes for an excellent time to explore the many hiking trails within the city limits.  

Peak Season in Seoul

Boasting the most agreeable weather, spring and fall are naturally congested times in Seoul, though school holidays in the summer make it a fierce contender for the city’s busiest season award. However, with the plethora of cafes, museums, and galleries sprinkled near all the major attractions throughout the city, a refuge from the weather is never far away, meaning a visit to Seoul is enjoyable during any season.

The Seoul sprawling metropolitan area has a population of over 26 million.   With that number of people calling the city home, it ensures there’s no real “off” season—most major attractions even remain open during Korea’s national holidays. While outdoors landmarks such as palaces and temples are open year-round, they may occasionally close due to inclement winter weather or summer typhoons.

Though winter can be slightly cheaper, prices in South Korea’s capital remain steady during most of the year except for two main spikes—the national holidays, Seollal, and Chuseok, the dates of which fluctuate annually but generally occur during February and September. During these times, the entire country mobilizes, making train tickets, flights, hotels—you name it—more expensive.

Key Festivals and Events in Seoul

Korea has a deep love of festivals that range from traditional to kooky. Observing everything from history and film to food and music, Seoul is a city that loves a party. No matter what month you visit, you’ll find an event to suit your mood. It's impossible to avoid the citywide festivities and cultural events during the Seollal (the Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) holidays.

With Christmas festivities complete and the average temperatures hovering around 25 degrees F, you’d think the crowds would be minimal in January. But this month marks the winter school holidays in South Korea, which adds domestic tourists to the city’s already buzzing population. Seoul can get even more packed and expensive when Seollal falls at the end of January, which it does every few years.

It’s chilly and dry in Seoul in February, but the streets are packed with shoppers and visitors in anticipation of the Lunar New Year, which generally falls this month. Colorful displays in shop windows, performances in city squares, and special holiday menus at restaurants make February a fun time to visit South Korea’s capital.

Events to check out:

• Seollal is Korea’s Lunar New Year celebration, with traditional performances and activities taking place at Seoul’s major royal palaces.

Don’t put your coat away yet! Though spring technically begins this month, Seoul’s northern latitude means temperatures in March linger in the 40s. In recent years, however, warm temperatures have surprised everyone, including the trees, making an early cherry blossom season a real possibility.

• The Seoul International Marathon has taken place since 1931, making it Asia’s oldest marathon. The race begins at Gwanghwamun Palace and finishes across the Han River at the Seoul Olympic Stadium.

April is said to be Seoul’s most beautiful month, a time when cherry blossoms float through the air giving the city a whimsical pink glow. With temperatures mainly in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, it’s the ideal time to visit, which also makes it more crowded and expensive. It’s still possible to get good deals, though, since the weather can be fickle, and no one knows exactly when the cherry blossoms will make their highly anticipated appearance.

• Yeongdeunpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival consists of performances, activities, and exhibitions that take place amidst the cherry trees.
• Held in honor of Buddha’s birthday is the Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeon Deung Hoe) , which has taken place for over 1,300 years, and consists of a vibrant parade that lights up the city center. (Buddha’s birthday is observed on different dates each year, meaning this festival is sometimes held in May.)

May is Seoul’s Goldilocks window when it’s not too hot or too cold, kids are in school, and the rainy season hasn’t yet begun. It’s also a relatively inexpensive time to visit, as there are no major holidays or festivals in the city this month.

• Jongmyo Daeje is a remembrance of Korea’s royal ancestors and includes a parade, costumes, and traditional performances.

June is a weather wildcard, where temperatures can range from the 60s to 80s. It’s also the beginning of typhoon season, meaning rain becomes more of a possibility.

• The Seoul World DJ Festival draws music lovers the world over for a weekend of continuous mixing.
• Though not as widely celebrated as Seollal and Chuseok, Dano is another of Korea’s major holidays and is observed with traditional customs and costumes at the National Folk Museum of Korea.

Let the humidity begin. July is the start of Korea’s hottest and most humid months. If you do plan to visit during the dead of summer, plan outdoor activities in the morning and evening, and schedule indoor visits during the scorching midday heat.

• Cool off by participating in the Sinchon Water Gun Festival—always a crowd-pleasing favorite since July is one of the country’s hottest months.

Korean children have school holidays in August, and you’ll likely find them splashing in one of the city’s multiple fountains and streams. Temperatures peak around 90 degrees F, and August is also one of the rainiest months in the ROK. If the weather doesn’t scare you away, then you should be able to find good deals on flights and accommodation.

• Becoming more popular every year is the Seoul Fringe Festival, bringing both local and international artists and performers to the streets of Seoul.

Chuseok generally occurs in September, making it a bustling month in Seoul. While thousands of people depart the capital to visit their hometowns, thousands more spill in to celebrate the festivities. It’s a crowded and slightly more expensive time to visit, but the fall colors and the festive atmosphere make it worth the trade-off.

• Korea possesses a thriving film industry, with many movies making their debut at the Seoul International Film Festival.
• Traditional Chuseok celebrations are held at the city’s main palaces and temples.

Tourist numbers are relatively low in October, despite it being the time when the leaves begin to show off their brilliant hues. The city’s central focal point, Namsan mountain, is the perfect place for an autumn walk and features panoramic views from N Seoul Tower at its peak.

• The Hanwha Seoul International Fireworks Festival is one of the country’s largest festivals, drawing over one million people to Han River Park to watch the dazzling displays.

Seoul temperatures start to drop in November (think somewhere between 30 to 50 degrees F). Still, this month brings with it fewer crowds, autumn feasts, and the colorful lanterns that make up one of the city’s most anticipated and beautiful festivals.

• Kimchi is omnipresent in Korea, and there’s no better way to get acquainted with the ubiquitous side dish than by making and eating it at the Seoul Kimchi Festival .
• Millions of visitors flock to see the inventive displays at the Seoul Lantern Festival , where colorful lanterns stretch nearly a mile along the human-made Cheonggyecheon Stream winding through central Seoul.

Baby, it’s cold outside. By December, temperatures drop back into the 20s and 30s, which makes a visit to one of the city’s many teahouses or steamy bathhouses a priority. Christmas is widely observed in South Korea, and shops and department stores deck their halls accordingly. Combined with the country’s tax-free shopping program, it’s a busy time of year to visit.

• Korea’s two main theme parks, Lotte World and Everland (just south of Seoul), host Christmas celebrations with decorations, parades, and performances that rival anything produced by Mickey Mouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spring or fall is the best time to visit Seoul. Not only are the days comfortably warm, but the city is covered in spring cherry blossoms or fall foliage, making it one of the most beautiful times to be there.

In a city as big as Seoul, it's always bustling with people. However, the major holidays of Seollal (usually in February) and Chuseok (usually in September) are particularly busy travel times.

The summer months are intense in Seoul. Not only is the weather hot and muggy, but it's also typhoon season. Rainstorms are common throughout July and August, so be prepared to spend the day indoors.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Seoul, South Korea." Retrieved February 23, 2021.

World Population Review. "Seoul Population 2021 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)." Retrieved February 23, 2021.

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'Running Man PH' cast shares winter memories in South Korea during Season 2 filming

The cast of Running Man Philippines recalled their favorite winter moments when they filmed the second season of the show in South Korea.

Glaiza de Castro, Kokoy de Santos and Buboy Villar visited the 2024 Korea Travel Fiesta at Glorietta on Saturday, donning their runner jackets. The two-day event aims to promote winter tourism in Korea.

Kokoy said it was his first time experiencing winter.

"Ako excited ako sobra, sabi ko ‘wow winter!’” he said.

(I was really excited, I said ‘wow winter!’)

Likewise, Buboy said it was his first winter, and that he felt the cold the moment he stepped out of the airport.

“Paglabas mo palang sa airport, pagopen ng door, parang may blade 'yung hangin. Ramdam na ramdam ko na nasa Korea ako, and it’s a blessing,” he said.

(This is the first time I’ve experienced that when you exit the airport, as soon as you open the door, it’s like the wind has blades. I really felt that I was in Korea, and it’s a blessing.)

Glaiza recommended to future travelers to use moisturizers, lip balms, wear extra layers of clothing, and bring heat packs when visiting South Korea during the winter season.

Buboy joked, “[Gagamit ka ng mga] 35 packs in one day."

([You will be using] 35 packs in one day.)

They also shared their favorite locations that they visited during Running Man PH.

Buboy said that he liked the Yongpyong Ski Resort, which they visited during the first few episodes of the season.

“Sa videoke ko lang nakikita kasi 'yun eh. Pero dahil sa Running Man, naexperience ko po 'yung location, 'yung saya, once in a lifetime lang talaga siya. And it’s so amazing,” he said,

(I only saw that at the videoke before. But because of Running Man, I experienced the location, the fun, it’s only once in a lifetime. And it’s so amazing.)

Glaiza shared that she liked the “eerie feel” of the Sengdun School in Gangwon during the horror episode.

“Para siyang may eerie and cinematic feel. Para kami talagang nasa film. Sobrang cinematic nung lugar kasi mountain, may river,” Glaiza said.

(There’s like an eerie and cinematic feel. It’s like we’re really in a film. The location wannso cinematic because there was a mountain and a river)

As for Kokoy, he said he wants to bring his niece to Legoland Korea.

Kokoy and Buboy also recommended eating pork bone soup, with Kokoy adding that it was a different experience to eat cold treats during the winter season.

They also shared and recommended some favorite Korean dishes that they tried while filming in South Korea.

Gabby Eigenmann, who also guest-starred during Running Man PH Season 1, also made a special appearance as part of the audience.

Running Man PH will have their finale weekend with special guest star Ruru Madrid, one of the original runners from Season 1. —JCB, GMA Integrated News