Here are the five best places and Festivals to visit in South Korea during autumn, each offering unique attractions and activities amidst breathtaking landscapes:
Seoul: Throughout Seoul, skyscrapers and contemporary structures provide a striking contrast to the natural fall scenery, creating a unique and captivating urban cityscape. Whether wandering through historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, exploring urban parks, or hiking in nearby Bukhansan National Park, visitors to Seoul are treated to a vivid and unforgettable experience that showcases the city’s diverse beauty and cultural richness.
Busan: Vibrant foliage harmonizes with the city’s coastal vibe and urban charm. From the serene Haeundae Beach and Gamcheon Culture Village to the rugged cliffs of Geumjeongsan Mountain and ancient Beomeosa Temple, every corner of Busan offers a unique and breathtaking experience. The city’s vibrant landscape, combined with its rich cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination during the fall season. The world-famous Busan Fireworks Festival (Nov. 9, 2024) also takes place every autumn along Gwangalli Beach. The festival’s diverse programs of cultural events, high-tech laser light shows, and myriad of unique and colorful fireworks make this one of the area’s most popular festivals.
Gyeonggi Province: Gyeonggi Province in Fall is a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural sites. The region’s historical views, traditional villages and botanical gardens are all enhanced by the vibrant colors of the season. Whether exploring relaxing Nami Island, beautiful Hwadamsup or hiking Namhansan Mountain to reach Namhansanseong Fortress, visitors to Gyeonggi Province are treated to an unforgettable autumn experience. Music lovers can enjoy the 21st annual Jarasum Jazz Festival (Oct. 18-20, 2024) celebrating all genres of jazz music.
Jeju Island: Fall in Jeju Island is a time of transformation, where the volcanic island’s natural beauty is enhanced by a myriad of rich hues. From the towering heights of Hallasan Mountain to the serene coastal paths of the Olle Trails, every corner of Jeju offers a stunning display of autumn colours. The island’s unique volcanic formations, lush forests, and tranquil beaches create a diverse and magical backdrop for any trip. Witness the TransJeju by UTMB (Oct. 12-13, 2024) the biggest ultra-distance trail event on Jeju Island where participants run through the Hallasan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Gangwon Province: A perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the midst of autumn, Gangwon Province offers a variety of fall experiences from hikes to unique cultural encounters and scenic coastal views. The province boasts splendid mountains, such as Seoraksan in the renowned Seoraksan National Park and Odaesan in Odaesan National Park, both adorned with colorful foliage, making them prime spots for leaf peeping. The Gangneung Coffee Festival, (Oct 12-15, 2024) is held each year in Gangneung, the City of Coffee, where visitors can taste coffee from around the country, in addition to enjoying concerts and cultural events.
To learn more about the best places to experience fall foliage in South Korea and to plan your trip, visit the Korea Tourism Organization’s official website at english.visitkorea.or.kr.
