Autumn in Korea: A Spectacular Display of Fall Foliage
Korea's autumn season, though brief, offers a breathtaking spectacle of fall colors that shouldn't be missed. If you're planning to visit Korea in October or are currently in the country, consider embarking on a journey to witness the stunning autumn foliage. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of this beautiful season.
When to See Fall Foliage in Korea
The 2024 autumn foliage season in Korea is expected to be slightly delayed compared to previous years. According to the Korea Forest Service's "2024 Forest Autumn Foliage Prediction Map," the peak foliage times across the country will be later than usual.
• First appearance of autumn leaves: September 29th at Seoraksan
• Central regions: October 15th • 17th
• Southern regions: October 14th • 24th
The autumn colors typically spread from north to south at a rate of about 20-25km per day.
Peak Foliage Times by Region
• Seoraksan and Odaesan: October 17th • 20th
• Central regions: October 28th • 30th
• Jirisan and southern regions: October 23rd • November 5th
Top Autumn Foliage Destinations
Gangwon Province
• Seoraksan National Park: First foliage Sept 29, peak Oct 22
• Odaesan National Park: Peak Oct 17-20
• Chiaksan National Park: Peak late October
• Naksansa Temple: Peak late Oct • early Nov
Seoul/Gyeonggi Province
• Bukhansan National Park: Peak late Oct • early Nov
• Namsan Seoul Tower: Peak late October
• Seoul Forest: Peak late Oct • early Nov
• Namhansanseong Fortress: Peak late October
Chungcheong Province
• Songnisan National Park: Peak Oct 24
• Daecheongho Lake: Peak late October
• Gyeryongsan National Park: Peak late October
• Deogyusan National Park: Peak late Oct • early Nov
Gyeongsang Province
• Jirisan National Park: Peak Oct 25
• Juwangsan National Park: Peak late October
• Palgongsan Provincial Park: Peak late Oct • early Nov
• Gayasan National Park: Peak late Oct • early Nov
Jeolla Province
• Naejangsan National Park: Peak Oct 27
• Damyang Metasequoia Road: Peak early November
• Mudeungsan National Park: Peak late Oct • early Nov
• Jirisan Nogodan Peak: Peak late October
Jeju Island
• Hallasan National Park: Peak Nov 6
• Saryeoni Forest Path: Peak early-mid Nov
• Halla Ecological Forest: Peak early-mid Nov
• Bijarim Forest: Peak mid-November
Tips for Your Autumn Foliage Trip
1. Visit popular spots on weekdays to avoid crowds.
2. Plan your trip about two weeks before the expected peak time.
3. Arrive early in the morning for a more peaceful experience.
4. Check the weather forecast • clear, warm days are ideal for leaf-peeping.
Korea's autumn offers a mesmerizing palette of reds, oranges, and yellows that paint the landscape in vibrant hues. Whether you're hiking through national parks or strolling in urban forests, the fall foliage in Korea provides a feast for the eyes and a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magical transformation of Korea's landscape. Plan your autumn adventure now and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Korea's fall season!
