Autumn in South Korea: Must-See Destinations
Autumn is one of the best times to visit South Korea when the landscapes take on their most spectacular colors.
Autumn is one of the best times to visit South Korea when the landscapes take on their most spectacular colors. A season equally cherished by tourists and Korean locals who flock to temples and parks across the country to admire the blazing foliage and vibrant hues.
In this article, we share the most beautiful destinations in South Korea to discover in autumn.
Seoraksan National Park
Just three hours from Seoul lies Seoraksan National Park, one of the country's most beautiful natural parks. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1982, it is considered a true national treasure and renowned for its pine forests and magnificent landscapes.
Extremely popular with both locals and visitors, it is an unmissable destination in South Korea for admiring autumn foliage. The park encompasses 30 peaks, the highest being Daecheongbong at 1,708 meters above sea level. Numerous hiking trails traverse the park, allowing you to discover spectacular autumn colors along the way.
Naejangsan National Park
Located in Jeolla-do Province, Naejangsan National Park ranks among the most beautiful places to experience autumn in South Korea.
It is particularly appreciated for its sublime canopies of colored foliage that captivate nature lovers and photographers alike.
For an unobstructed view of the park's shimmering tree colors, don't miss the cable car ride to the observation deck at Yeonjabon Peak.
Naejangsan Temple and Hwajeong Pavilion are two magnificent architectural ensembles offering enchanting views of the surrounding trees with their vivid red foliage.
Seoul's Royal Palaces
Seoul is home to five palaces, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic in the country. Built in 1395, it is one of the major sites of the Joseon Dynasty. An essential site to visit in South Korea in autumn, when the landscape transforms into a veritable postcard scene.
Changdeokgung Palace, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is a place of great architectural beauty, and is sublimated when surrounded by beautiful autumn colors. The most beautiful spot in the palace is undoubtedly the Secret Garden, a place where members of the royal family came to rest. Between the beauty of autumn foliage and the serenity of the surroundings, it is impossible not to succumb to the charm of this little corner of paradise.
Garden of Morning Calm
The Garden of Morning Calm, spanning 30,000 m², is South Korea's largest private garden. A true haven of peace and nature, it is one of the most popular destinations in the country.
The garden features nearly 5,000 different plants and has 26 themed gardens offering a unique spectacle in every season. Autumn presents a breathtaking backdrop when the tree leaves don vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds. If you're fortunate, you may witness the flowering week of chrysanthemum bonsais adorned in magnificent autumn colors.
Yangju Nari Park
Seoul boasts numerous parks scattered throughout the city and surrounding areas. Yangju Nari Park, located north of Seoul, ranks among the most beautiful parks to explore in autumn.
Still relatively unknown to tourists, it should nonetheless appeal to flower enthusiasts and photographers. During the season you can admire the color change of the summer cypress fields, or Kochia scoparia, delicate little flowers that turn deep red. An enchanting spectacle attracting numerous Korean families who come to be photographed amid this magnificent expanse of blooms.
Nami Island
Located near Chuncheon in Gangwon-do Province, Nami Island is an essential destination for experiencing autumn in South Korea. This small island with a circumference of 5 kilometers and shaped like a crescent moon is well-known among locals as it was the filming location of the famous Korean drama Winter Sonata.
Nami Island also attracts tourists and Korean visitors during the autumn season, when nature offers a majestic natural setting full of color.
To fully appreciate the beauty of this place, head to Maple Avenue, a magnificent path lined with these trees that blaze brilliant red. Metasequoia Avenue is the crowning glory, enchanting all visitors with its forest of orange-hued trees stretching to the horizon.
On Nami Island you can also visit several traditional gardens, which likewise display spectacular vibrant colors.
Frequently asked questions
Autumn colors in South Korea are generally at their peak between mid-October and mid-November. The first hues appear in northern mountains like Seoraksan Park as early as the beginning of October, then gradually descend southward through the end of November.
From Seoul, you can reach Naejangsan National Park by KTX train to Jeongeup Station, then by local bus to the park entrance. The journey takes about 2 hours. It is advisable to book train tickets in advance during the busy autumn season.
Yes, Nami Island is easily accessible as a day excursion from Seoul. Allow approximately 1.5 hours by ITX (express train) from Cheongnyangni Station to Gapyeong, then a short bus or taxi ride to the ferry terminal. A shuttle boat connects the island in just a few minutes.
Yes, entrance to Seoul's royal palaces is paid. Gyeongbokgung Palace costs approximately 3,000 won per adult, while Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden require separate reservations. In autumn, advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly for the Secret Garden visit which is extremely popular.
Beyond Seoul, several destinations merit a visit in autumn: Naejangsan National Park in Jeolla-do Province, Seoraksan Park in the Gangwon region, or Nami Island near Chuncheon. These places offer spectacular landscapes of orange and red foliage.
