Autumn in Korea is truly amazing and spectacular, with its vibrant foliage, crisp air and festive atmosphere. The season, which usually spans from late September to November, brings a dramatic transformation to the landscape.
Known as ‘The Land of Morning Calm,’ Korea defies its thousand-years-old reputation with vibrant mornings, lively nights, and a bustling cultural scene.
Each region in Korea offers its own unique autumn experience. So, whether you’re exploring vibrant cityscapes, ancient sites, or natural wonders, you’ll find plenty to enjoy during this beautiful season.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, culture buff, or foodie, there’s something special for everyone in Korea.
Here’s a guide to some of the best places and activities to enjoy Korea’s autumn experience:
Fall Foliage
Namsan Seoul TowercColor:> It offers panoramic views of the city surrounded by vibrant autumn colours.
Seoraksan National Park: Known for its stunning mountain scenery and rich fall foliage. The park’s peaks and valleys are ablaze with shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Naejangsan National ParkcColor:> Famous for its beautiful maple trees and serene landscapes.
Festivals and Events
Jinju Lantern FestivalcColor:> Held in Jinju, this festival features thousands of colourful lanterns floating on the Namgang River and in the city’s streets.
Busan International Film Festival (BIFF): This event usually takes place in early October and is a major cultural event attracting film enthusiasts from around the world.
Dive into the vibrant art scene at the upcoming Korea International Art Fair (KIAF) at COEX, where you can immerse yourself in contemporary creativity.
Traditional Foods
SongpyeoncColor:> A traditional Korean rice cake shaped like a half-moon, often filled with sweetened red bean paste or sesame seeds.
Kimchi JjigaecColor:> A comforting kimchi stew that’s especially enjoyable as the weather cools.
BungeoppangcColor:> A fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste, perfect for enjoying on a crisp autumn day.
Scenic Drives and Hikes
The Korea Tourism Organization’s "Autumn Color Road”: A scenic drive route that takes you through some of the most picturesque autumn landscapes.
Hiking Trails: In addition to Seoraksan and Naejangsan, other popular hiking spots include Bukhansan and Hallasan, each offering beautiful autumn vistas.
Cultural Experiences
Hanok Villages: Places like Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul and Jeonju Hanok Village provide a glimpse into traditional Korean life amid the autumn backdrop.
GyeongjucColor:> Known as "the museum without walls,” this city is full of historical sites and temples that look especially beautiful surrounded by autumn colors.
Shopping and Markets
Gwangjang Market: This market in Seoul is famous for its street food and traditional goods. Autumn is a great time to sample seasonal specialties.
Insadong: This cultural district offers a range of traditional Korean crafts and tea houses, perfect for exploring in the fall.
Solo Traveller’s Must-See Locations:
For those venturing through Korea solo, or seeking a personal retreat from family travels, there are two must-visit destinations. Dive into the dynamic world of Myeong-dong, where you can indulge in a premier shopping experience and savor local street food. Then, unwind and rejuvenate at the Taepyeong Salt Farm Healing Spa, where innovative salt therapies offer a unique path to relaxation and well-being.
Myeong-dongcColor:>
Discover Myeong-dong, a must-see shopping destination in Seoul. This lively street is filled with trendy clothing and cosmetics stores, promising an enjoyable shopping spree for everyone.
Taepyung Salt Farm - Healing Spa:
Jeungdo Island, recognized as Asia’s first Slow City, offers many reasons to visit, with sea salt being a highlight. The Taepyeong Salt Farm Maritime Healing Spa showcases unique uses of the sea salt from Taepyeong Salt Farm.
An itinerary for the family
This itinerary explores Gyeongju’s premier attractions with your family.
1. Glimpse the world of ancient astronomy at Cheomseongdae Observatory
2. Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex
3. Discover the cultural heritage of Silla at the Gyeongju National Museum
Cheomseongdae Observatory
Silla, the ancient kingdom that flourished on the Korean Peninsula for a millennium, has its historic capital in Gyeongju. Step back into its golden era by first exploring Cheomseongdae Observatory, where you can admire ancient astronomical achievements.
Next, visit the Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex to experience the grandeur of Silla through artifacts discovered in the royal burial sites.
Gyeongju National Museum
The Gyeongju National Museum showcases the height of Silla’s refined culture and heritage, with an additional Children’s Museum on-site. Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, former residence of Silla’s crown prince and a top venue for royal banquets, are renowned for their breathtaking night views. For an overnight stay, visit Pohang’s Homigot Sunrise Square (one and half hour by car from Gyeongju) to witness the sunrise and capture a memorable photo with the Hands of Harmony sculpture, a notable local landmark.
SEOUL: The Global Art City
Galleries from around the world have been participating in KIAF SEOUL since 2002.
KIAF SEOUL also has been annually presenting special exhibitions and talk programmes regarding different global art scenes and issues.
Attractions near COEX
Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs
UNESCO World Heritage in the middle of Gangnam, relax in a forest in the middle of a city For more info.
COEX Aquarium
Over 20,000 sea life waiting to make your day more bright!
Bongeunsa Temple
Temple with more than 1,200 years of history that is more beautiful at night.