This guide to visiting Seoraksan shows you what to see & do in the park, including the giant bronze Buddha, Sinheungsa Temple, Geumganggul Cave, and the Seoraksan Cable Car. There’s also full details about how to get to Seoraksan by car, public transport, or guided tour, and where to stay.

There’s something for all ages and abilities at Seoraksan National Park, with many great hiking trails available. This article will introduce six trails that range from beginner to advanced and I’ve included lots of practical hiking tips based on my own experience hiking Seoraksan to help you, too.

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Why Should You Hike Seoraksan National Park?

Seoraksan National Park has something for everyone; hiking and trekking trails for all levels, a cable car, Buddhist temples, cafes, restaurants, and charming sights. Seoraksan can be accessed by car, public transport, or day tour from Seoul, and is one of the most beautiful of Korea’s national parks.

Here are 5 reasons you’ll love visiting Seoraksan National Park:

Accessible to all: You don’t have to be a hiker to visit Seoraksan National Park and many people who visit probably don’t even hike at all. There are valley walks that you don’t need any special preparation for, as well as a cable car that will lift you up to a mountaintop temple with great views.

Autumn leaves: Seoraksan National Park is the first place to see stunning autumn foliage in Korea, which starts in Seoraksan from early October each year. Of course, any time is a good time to visit Seoraksan National Park. See snowy peaks in winter, spring flowers, and leafy sights in summer.

Traditional Korean culture: You’ll be amazed at the Buddhist temples and other traditional sights in Seoraksan National Park, including a giant bronze Buddha statue. This park is rich in history and is famous for the legend of Gwongeumseong, which was apparently built overnight by two brothers.

Breathtaking hiking routes: If you dream of hiking in Korea, there are several options for hiking in Seoraksan National Park, including 1-day, 2-day, and even 3-day hikes. You can sleep in a mountain lodge – perfect for those who want to wake up with a sunrise over the mountains and East Sea.

A park of natural beauty: There are over 2,000 animal species living in Seoraksan National Park, including the Korean goral, musk deer, otters, and maybe some bears! Seoraksan was designated a Biosphere Preservation District by UNESCO in 1982 due to it’s abundant plant and animal life.

There’s so much more to love about Seoraksan National Park, which will be covered in this article. After reading this article, you’ll see why it’s one of the most popular day trip destinations from Seoul, especially during October, and a must-add for your South Korea bucket list.

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.

What to see & do

Discover all of the best things to see and do at Seoraksan National Park, besides the hiking trails.

How to get there

Find out how to get to Seoraksan National Park from Seoul by bus, car, and organised tour.

Hiking trails

Learn about the 6 best hiking trails in Seoraksan National Park that start from the Sogongwon entrance.

What To Prepare

What to prepare to hike Seoraksan National Park, when’s the best time to visit, and more useful info.

Where To Eat

Restaurant and cafe options in Seoraksan National Park and recommendations for where to eat.

Where To Stay

Accommodation options in Seoraksan National Park and in nearby Sokcho City for those staying longer.

What To See And Do At Seoraksan National Park

Whether you’re a hiker, or just want to experience the natural wonders of a Korean national park, you won’t be disappointed with a day trip to Seoraksan National Park. There is plenty to see at Seoraksan National Park; from the peaks and hiking trails, to traditional buildings and natural wonders.

Here are 7 of the best things to see at Seoraksan National Park:

1: Ulsanbawi Peak

Ulsanbawi is one the most famous peaks in Seoraksan National Park. It’s known for its formation of rocks that begin at the foot of the mountain all the way to its peak at 900m. As you reach the top, its 6 peaks form a spectacular view as well as the surrounding mountains. There are other hiking trails at Seoraksan, but this is one of the best from the main park entrance.

2: Seoraksan Cable Car

If you are not a hiker, or need a rest day for those legs, then the cable car is a great option for you and offers the easiest views of Seoraksan from above. The ride only lasts a few minutes, but treats you to wide valley views and birds-eye views of the other attractions at Seoraksan.

3: Korean Buddhist Temples

Seoraksan National Park is the home of several temples including: Sinheungsa Temple, Gyejoam, Geumganggul Grotto, Baekdamsa and Oseam Temple. Each of these temples have their own unique features and history which makes each one worth visiting. The biggest is Sinheungsa Temple, located close to the park’s entrance, and is the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

4: Giant Bronze Buddha

One of the most famous sights of Seoraksan National Park is the giant bronze Buddha statue, which is the world’s largest seated bronze Buddha statue. It stands 14.6 metres high with forested slopes behind and around it. This is part of Sinheungsa Temple and there’s actually a small temple under the statue where you can see a statue of Bodhisattva Guan Yin.

5: Biryong Falls

There are several waterfalls in Seoraksan National Park, but Biryong Falls is arguably the most beautiful. The story behind Biryong Falls is that the crashing of water rushing over the rocky slopes and landing in the pool below is like the sound of dragons flying towards heaven. Bi-ryong (비룡) literally means ‘flying dragon’ in Korean. This waterfall looks best when frozen over during the cold Korean winter.

6: Gwongeumseong Fortress

A short, but breathtaking, journey up in the Seoraksan Cable Car will take you to Gwongeumseong Fortress. Although the fortress no longer stands, you will be taken away by the views of Seoraksan National Park from 670m above. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the East Sea and nearby city of Sokcho. Marvel at the views looking down, including steep drops!

7: Geumganggul Cave

The Geumganggul Cave is a small cave and holy site that contains a stone Buddha statue and was a former place of worship for Seoraksan’s Buddhist monks. This is a mountainside cave that sits 600 meters above sea level and can be reached by a steep climb up stone steps and over bridges in a couple of hours.

Not only can you enjoy seeing incredible views as you hike and walk around Seoraksan National Park, there are also lots of fun activities to do that are suitable for all ages and travellers. Explore and discover traditional Korean culture, dine on Korea’s favourite post-hiking dishes, and more.

Here are 5 great things you can do at Seoraksan National Park any time of the year:

1: Take In The Stunning Views

Although each trail reaches different heights, the views are always mesmerising. You can see all the way out to Sokcho and the East Sea from the peaks or cable car station. Yet, you do not need to reach such heights to enjoy the nature at Seoraksan National Park for the views are all around.

2: Trek Scenic Valley Paths

Whether you’re an expert hiker who wants a challenge, or a novice hiker who wants to enjoy a slow, steady walk, there is an option for you. There are trekking trails that wind through forests, beside streams and waterfalls, and past historic temples.The natural environment enhances all your senses as you smell, hear and, feel the world around you.

3: Enjoy Traditional Food

One of the best things to do after a hike in a Korean national park is to sit down to a big traditional Korean meal, such as haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), bibimbap (mixed rice), or dotori-muk (acorn jelly salad). Don’t forget to add locally made makgeolli (rice wine), which is made with sweetcorn in this part of Korea.

4: Buy Unique Souvenirs

Korea’s national parks are wonderful places to pick up unique souvenirs, and Seoraksan is no exception. As well as traditional hiking souvenirs, such as towels with maps of the park on them, there are also Buddhist souvenirs such as prayer beads and paintings. At Sinheungsa Temple you even can buy a roof tile and write a personal message on it, but sadly you can’t take this home with you.

5: Make New Memories

Whatever you do in Seoraksan National Park, you’re sure to create some unforgettable memories of your time there. Perhaps you added a wishing stone while walking a valley path, ate a delicious Korean meal under golden autumn foliage, or even made it to Ulsanbawi Peak after a long, yet rewarding trek. This will surely be a journey you’ll never forget.

However you spend your time at Seoraksan National Park, I’m sure you’ll enjoy all there is to see and do. My personal favourite is hiking the trails, especially to Ulsanbawi Peak, which is covered later in the Hiking Trails Section of this article. Next up is how to get to Seoraksan National Park from Seoul.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park From Seoul

Seoraksan National Park is one of Korea’s largest national parks and spreads over nearly 400 square kilometres in Gangwon Province in north-eastern Korea. The park is so large that you can spend several days hiking from one side to the other, going from peak to peak and staying in lodges.

This guide won’t cover every entrance and hiking trail in Seoraksan, but will instead focus on the most popular and easy-to-reach entrance, which is the Sogongwon Park entrance (설악산소공원). As shown in the map below, the Sogongwon Park entrance is accessed from the park’s eastern border.

The Songwon Park entrance is the furthest entrance from Seoul but, thanks to it’s location close to Sokcho City, it’s one of the easiest entrances to get to by public transport. This section will cover how to get to Seoraksan by public transport, by car, and by tour, which can be the most practical way.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park By Bus

If you want to travel to Seoraksan National park by bus from Seoul, you will need to travel from one of two bus terminals in Seoul to Sokcho. From Sokcho, you should transfer to a local bus that goes to Seoraksan National Park. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting to Seoraksan by bus.

I’ve added Naver Map location pins for each of the locations in this guide. Naver Map is the recommended app for navigating in Korea and is more reliable than Google Maps in Korea.

Step 1: Seoul To Sokcho By Intercity Bus

Go to Dong-Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울종합터미널) or Seoul Express Bus Terminal (서울고속버스터미널) for buses to Sokcho Express Bus Terminal (속초고속버스터미널). Buses go frequently, but can be sold out in advance, especially on the weekend. You can book in advance online or at the terminal.

Step 2: Sokcho Bus Terminal To Seoraksan National Park

Once you have arrived in Sokcho, you need to transfer to a local (blue) bus to get to Seoraksan National Park. From the Sokcho Express Bus Terminal, you should cross the street from the entrance of the bus terminal and take bus #7 or #7-1 to the Sogongwon Bus Stop (설악산소공원)

The bus will go all the way to the entrance of the national park (pictured above) and will take around 35 minutes. The first bus from Sokcho Bus Terminal to Seoraksan leaves at 06:51 and the last bus from the park leaves at around 20:30. The buses run a couple of times each hour.

If you want to take a taxi, there is a taxi rank outside of the bus terminal. The taxi ride takes 20-25 minutes and costs 15,000 – 20,000 KRW depending on traffic. You can use Kakao Taxi to book taxis in Korea, but please note that it might be difficult to get a taxi back from the park.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park By Car

Travelling from Seoul to Seoraksan National Park by car is a convenient and fast option. If you have a car, or plan to rent a car in Korea, the drive to Seoraksan National Park takes just over 2 hours and is approximately 185km. Most of the journey is by Korean Expressway, which is charged in Korea.

If travelling by car, there are parking spaces at the entrance of Seoraksan national park. However, over the weekend they may be taken up quickly. In that case, you could park your car earlier, by the pensions and hotels, and either walk up to the park entrance or hop on the bus along the way.

If you’re driving to Seoraksan National Park, the address for the Seoraksan Sogongwon Car Park is shown below. I recommend using the Naver Map app to help navigate your journey.

Seoraksan Sogongwon Parking Lot, Seorak-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do
강원 속초시 설악산로 1032

Tip: If you don’t have a car or don’t want to travel so far to experience a great Korean National Park, then I recommend hiking Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park instead. It’s located in Seoul and offers incredible views of the capital. Perfect for a day hike while in Seoul.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park By Organised Tour

The most convenient way to get to Seoraksan National Park from Seoul is with an organised tour. Most organised tours to Seoraksan depart from Seoul and the tours available range from simple transport to the park, to private tours with mountain hiking, or even a weekend with a night in Sokcho.

If you just want transportation to Seoraksan National Park and then back to Seoul, then a day trip to Seoraksan is the cheapest option. These trips usually include another stop along the way, such as Nami Island, Alpaca World, or the Garden of Morning Calm. Prices start at 95,000 KRW.

During autumn (September to November), there are more tours to Seoraksan National Park as many people want to view the autumn foliage. As this is peak season for travelling in Korea and for visiting Seoraksan National Park, I recommend booking these tours at least 1-2 months in advance.

Seoraksan National Park Tours

Below is a list of some of the organised tours to Seoraksan National Park that depart from Seoul. Several of these are only available during autumn, but some run throughout the year. There are many tour options from Klook, Get Your Guide, Trip Advisor, and Viator that go to Seoraksan.

Seoraksan National Park Entrance Fee

There is no entrance fee for Seoraksan National Park. There was a fee of 3,500 KRW to enter Seoraksan, which was actually a fee payable to Sinheungsa Temple. However, since May 2023, most Buddhist temples in Korea have agreed to waive all entrance fees, including Sinheungsa Temple.

If you travel to Seoraksan National Park, you shouldn’t have to pay an entrance fee to enter. However, there will be fees for parking, fees to ride the cable car, and fees for using other facilities, such as showers and camping sites. Click for a full list of Seoraksan National Park fees.

Seoraksan National Park Opening Hours

Seoraksan National Park opening hours are from 6:00am until 8:00pm every day. The Seoraksan Cable Car runs from 9:00am until 6:00pm. Buses to Seoraksan National Park from Sokcho begin at 6:51am and the last bus to leave Seoraksan towards Sokcho is around 8:30pm.

Best 1-Day Hiking Trails At Seoraksan National Park

There are many stunning 1-day trails to hike in Seoraksan National Park, including these 6 trails that start from the Sogongwon Park entrance. These hiking trails offer something for everyone with beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses available, each with unique views on offer.

Here are six 1-day hikes in Seoraksan National Park with difficulty, length, and time details:

Ulsanbawi Peak Trail

Difficulty: Advanced (3/4)
Length: 3.8km (1-way)
Time: 2:20 (1-way)

Biryong Falls Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4)
Length: 2.4km (1-way)
Time: 50 mins (1-way)

Cable Car Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4)
Length: 300m (1-way)
Time: 15 mins (1-way)

Biseondae Rock Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4)
Length: 3.0km (1-way)
Time: 1:20 (1-way)

Geumganggul Cave Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4)
Length: 3.6km (1-way)
Time: 1:40 (1-way)

Yangpok Shelter Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4)
Length: 6km (1-way)
Time: 3:50 (1-way)

The map below of the eastern part of Seoraksan National Park shows all of these hiking routes, the distances between each location, and the start point for each of these hikes – Sogongwon Park. The trails head out in three different directions and it’s possible to do several smaller trails in one day.

1: Ulsanbawi Peak Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Advanced (3/4) | Length: 3.8km (1-way) | Time: 2:20 (1-way)

The hike to Ulsanbawi Peak (876m high) is the perfect way to experience several attractions of Seoraksan National Park. This trail offers wonderfully unique views of both the valleys below and Ulsanbawi’s unusually shaped peak, which is formed of 6 rocks jutting upwards along a ridge.

The Ulsanbaw hiking trail begins in Sogongwon Park and is flat to begin with, leading you past the impressive Sinheungsa Temple before branching off right into the start of the actual hiking area. Follow the signposts for Ulsanbawi, which will have some cute Buddhist monk characters on them.

After Sinheungsa Temple, the route begins to get a bit steeper, but isn’t too difficult for this 2.1km stretch. You’ll follow a river for a while, passing a few bridges and walking over stone steps as you ascend towards Heundeulbawi and Gyejoam Temple. This is a beautiful walk under leafy trees.

Once you reach Gyejoam Temple and round Heundeulbawi boulder, the route gets serious, so take a break here if you feel tired. There’s a lookout point (pictured above) not far from Heundeulbawi which is a great place to look out over the park and at Ulsanbawi above and behind you.

The final 1km hiking path to Ulsanbawi from Gyejoam Temple is ‘advanced’. There are lots of stairs to the peak, which can be tiring for your legs, so go slowly and take breaks to enjoy the view and take pictures. The final ascent is tough but definitely worth it once you make it to the peak.

After what feels like a lifetime of gruelling steps up-and-up wooden staircases, you come out onto a viewing platform at the peak with breathtaking views all around, including the iconic Ulsanbawi Peak and Seoraksan’s highest peak, Daecheongbong. The peak definitely gives the best view in this area.

2: Biryong Falls Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4) | Length: 2.4km (1-way) | Time: 50 mins (1-way)

The hike to Biryong Falls gives you the chance to walk amongst trees and spot animals living in the wilderness, passing by a couple of waterfalls on the way. There’s also the chance to extend the hike to see the towering Towangseong Falls from an observation platform looking out over the valley.

The Biryong Falls hiking trail begins at Sogongwong Park and goes in the opposite direction of the Ulsanbawi trail. You won’t pass by Sinheungsa Temple on this course, but the route is relatively short so you can visit there afterwards. This course isn’t that difficult, but gets harder after Yukdam Falls.

To get to Biryong Falls, you should take the first left after the entrance and walk along a bridge. As you walk across the bridge you are able to see the cable car moving up and down the mountain. The next 2km is a gentle gravel path that leads through forested pathways until you reach Yukdam Falls.

After Yukdam Falls, the path changes to intermediate level due to the increased incline and rockier pathways for the 400m walk to Biryong Falls. This section is short and still not that difficult, so I definitely recommend pushing ahead for this final section as the views of Biryong Falls are lovely,

Optional Extension: If you want to see more waterfalls and valley views, continue the trek to Towangseong Falls Observatory after Biryong Falls. The journey to Towangseong is classed as advanced, meaning it’s steeper and involves more stairs. This section is short – only 400m.

The path is not too difficult and you can take breaks along the way and enjoy the views. When you walk back, you can see wide views of the valley in reverse as you wind along the narrow natural path. This trail is perfect for those who want to enjoy nature, but without the strain of hiking to a peak.

3: Cable Car & Gwongeumseong Fortress Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4) | Length: 300m (1-way) | Time: 15 mins (1-way)

One of the most popular attractions at Seoraksan National Park is the cable car. After taking the cable car up the cliff face, there’s a short 15 minute hike to Gwongeumseong Fortress. This is a great way to enjoy the sublime views of Seoraksan without hiking. There’s also a small temple at the top to see.

The cable car course doesn’t offer much for hikers, but it’s the best way for visitors to Seoraksan National Park to enjoy high views without getting sweaty. An adult ticket for the cable car is 15,000 KRW. You can buy a ticket from the Seoraksan Cable Car Center near the park entrance.

Once in the cable car, you can take in views of the valley as you ascend up the mountain. When you arrive to the top, there is a cafe area where you can grab drinks and snacks. There are also toilets. As you go outside, there’s a viewpoint on the side of the building to look out at the beautiful scenery.

The hiking part of this trail begins once you leave the cable car station. Follow the path to the right from the cable car centre up some staircases and over rocks. After 15 minutes, you’ll come to a rocky peak, which is where the Gwongeumseong Fortress was said to have been. Sadly it’s not there now.

From this peak you can see all the way to Sokcho and out into the blue East Sea beyond. It takes 15-20 minutes to explore and appreciate the views here, which also look over Seoraksan’s other peaks and offer a scary sheer drop down on one side (pictured above). Take care when looking around.

Before heading down, be sure to visit the temple in the opposite direction of the fortress from the cable car stop. It’s less busy but has some nice views, too. When you decide it’s time to head back, go back to the cable car stop. There’s no set return time, so queue up and wait for an available ride.

4: Biseondae Rock Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4) | Length: 3.0km (1-way) | Time: 1:20 (1-way)

The Biseondae Rock trail is the perfect way to explore Seoraksan’s lower valleys without having to hike. This trail goes to Biseondae Rock, a mysterious giant rock that creates waterfalls when it rains. The tree-covered path to Biseondae Rock follows a lazy stream and has pleasant views all around.

The Biseondae Rock trail starts at the Sogongwon Park entrance, passing the giant bronze Buddha and Sinheungsa Temple and then crossing a small stone bridge. As you cross over the bridge you will find yourself walking through a forested pathway with a stream trickling down to the left of you.

The trail to Biseondae Rock follows one path, which is classed as beginner and runs for 2.3km. After 1.2km, the path begins to get a bit steeper, but it’s not too difficult and doesn’t require special gear. There’s a sign about Biseondae Rock at the end of the trail and you’ll see Biseondae Peak above.

The walk through the forest is an easy walk and pleasant. You will find shade under the trees and you can enjoy the sounds of nature all around you. The river will be on your left for most of the trail. If you’re visiting during winter, you might even be able to walk along the frozen river most of the way.

For visitors to Seoraksan who want to take in the valley views and incredible rocky peaks without hiking, this is a good place to turn around and head back to the entrance. You can complete the Biseondae Rock trail in a few hours and have time for a cable car ride or trek to see waterfalls.

If you want to hike further, the large bridge and information office at the end of the Biseondae Rock trail marks the start of the ascent towards the other hiking trails in Seoraksan. These include the Geumganggul Cave trail and the Yangpok Shelter trail, both of which will be covered next.

5: Geumganggul Cave Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4) | Length: 3.6km (1-way) | Time: 1:40 (1-way)

The Geumganggul Cave trail is an extension of the Biseondae Rock trail that goes up into a revered grotto that was once a place of worship for local Buddhists. This is a steep but short ascent and offers fascinating views inside the cave, as well as wide vistas of Seoraksan from the mouth of the cave.

The Geumganggul Cave trail begins at Sogongwon Park and follows the aforementioned Biseondae Rock trail along the valley floor. Once you reach Biseondae Rock, the trail moves from beginner to expert level due to the steep steps and stairways leading up to the Geumganggul Cave (grotto).

The cave’s entrance is roughly 600 metres from Biseondae Rock, meaning it’s only a short addition to the Biseondae Rock trail, but certainly a tough one that you should be prepared for. As you can see from the picture below, the path ascends quickly with a 35.2% incline. Take it slowly.

Despite the steepness and difficulty level of the hike between Biseondae Rock and Geumganggul Cave, it’s still possible for most people to complete it, as long as you take it slowly and cautiously. The steps are no different from walking inside a building, except that they come with a better view.

Once you reach the cave entrance, passing over some bridges along the way, you’ll learn why people push on up those steps and why monks and poets came here to worship, meditate, and contemplate. Spend as long as you need here, taking it in and resting before the tough descent down again.

Not ready to go back down and want to keep hiking further? After the Geumganggul Cave, the trail continues to be difficult, but offers a rewarding journey for hikers. If you plan to spend a weekend in Seoraksan National Park, book a night at the Hoeh-un-gak Shelter and hike more the next day,

6: Yangpok Shelter Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4) | Length: 6km (1-way) | Time: 3:50 (1-way)

The Yangpok Shelter trail is an extension of the Biseondae Rock trail and provides a long and rewarding hike, slowly ascending up to the shelter and passing into Seoraksan’s lofty heights. The shelter is located near several waterfalls, including the Yang Falls and the picturesque Oryeon Falls.

The Yangpok Shelter trail begins at Sogongwon Park and follows the aforementioned Biseondae Rock trail along the valley floor. Once you reach Biseondae Rock, follow the trail left towards Yangpok Shelter. The course moves from beginner to intermediate, ascending slowly during this 3.5km section.

The route is long and steady, passing through forests, over rocky trails and wooden staircases most of the way, as well as a few bridges. About an hour into this section, you will see the Gwimyeonam Rock sticking out of the trees like giants had piled up smooth stone slabs for safe keeping.

As you hike along the trail to Yangpok Shelter, the beauty of the Cheonbuldong Valley unfolds around you with an abundance of nature on show. Near the shelter, you’ll find Oryeon Falls, which is a short waterfall dropping into a round pond below, as well as the Yang Falls 30m from the shelter.

The trail to Yangpok Shelter is known as the Cheonbuldonggyegok Course (shown above) because it goes through the Cheonbuldong Valley. This is arguably one of the prettiest courses to take in Seoraksan if you want to be surrounded by nature with bare-faced rocks staring down from above.

The Yangpok Shelter is available for hikers who want to spend the night in Seoraksan’s peaks and continue hiking on one of the available 2 or 3-day courses, including the hike to Seoraksan’s highest point – Daecheongbong Peak (1,708m). Otherwise, turn around and head back to the park entrance.

What To Prepare To Hike In Seoraksan National Park

To be fully prepared for hiking Seoraksan National Park there are a few things you should get ready before you head out on your adventure. Some of these are essential considerations to be aware of before you hike, others are nice extras to think about and can improve your hiking experience.

Choose which trail to hike: Hopefully you’ve already decided which path you want to hike to the peak from the previous sections in this article. Consider the time and difficulty of your chosen course.

Work out how to get to Seoraksan: See the ‘How to get to Seoraksan’ section above. I also recommend downloading the Naver Map app as it’s essential for getting around Korea.

Decide when you will go hiking: There’s something to see in Seoraksan in every season. Visit on a weekday for less crowded hiking trails and avoid hiking in the rain if possible.

Consider what to wear when hiking Seoraksan: From hiking clothes to hiking accessories, it’s good to prepare in advance and make sure you have the right gear any time you hike in Korea.

Pack appropriately for your Seoraksan hike: As well as the right clothes, you’ll need a some hiking equipment, food, snacks, and other supplies to keep you safe and comfortable all day.

Think about what to do when you finish hiking: This final consideration could be the one that leaves a lasting memory and caps off a great day out in Seoraksan National Park.

These last 4 points will be covered in the next sections of this guide. This is really useful info that I’ve gathered through years of hiking, as well as from the odd mistake and accident. Take a note of these sections to make sure you have all you need to enjoy your hike in Seoraksan National Park.

One last thing, when you hike in Korea…

Don’t Forget Your Passport

You don’t need a passport to hike in Korea’s national parks. However, if you want a fun souvenir, or you plan to hike more of Korea’s national parks, why not pick up a National Park Hiking Passport like the one pictured. You can find them at the entrance to national parks in Korea.

This passport-style book allows you to collect stamps from all of the national parks across Korea, including Hallasan National Park on Jeju Island. If you live in Korea, this is a fun challenge to encourage you to hike all of Korea’s best national parks and see more of the country.

Best Time To Visit Seoraksan National Park

The best time to visit Seoraksan National Park is late September and early October when fall foliage begins to appear and spreads across the park. This is also one of the busiest times to visit Seoraksan, with weekends being extremely busy. Therefore, visit during the week if you can.

When to visit Seoraksan depends on what you want to see and do. The best times to go hiking in Seoraksan are from September to May when the weather is cooler and there’s less rain. The best time to visit Seoraksan for sightseeing & trekking are spring and autumn when there’s more nature.

In the winter the peaks are often covered with a layer of snow, which adds another dimension to the sharp mountain edges. As spring comes, you can see the trees come back to life and enjoy a hike with fresh spring air. During summer the mountains are covered in seas of green trees & bushes.

Finally, the most popular season is autumn. Seoraksan National Park is renowned for its montage of colour as the trees begin to shake off their leaves for winter. In every season you will be in awe of the views of the rolling mountains surrounding you and the long views out to the east coast of Korea.

Autumn Foliage Tours To Seoraksan National Park

If you want to visit Seoraksan during autumn, definitely book ahead for transportation, tours, and accommodation. October in Korea is peak season not only for international tourists visiting Korea, but also for local tourists. There are several public holidays at this time of year, including Chuseok.

The most convenient way to see autumn foliage in Seoraksan National Park is to either stay in Sokcho and travel on a bus from there, or book an organised tour from Seoul. These tours will bring you to Seoraksan without the hassle of using public transport and provide you with information, too.

What To Wear Hiking In Seoraksan National Park

Once you’ve figured out what time of year you want to hike Seoraksan National Park, you should pack the right clothes for the season. Of course, the weather in Korea can change day to day, so also bring appropriate clothes for the weather that day (i.e. a raincoat if it’s raining).

Here’s a rough guide to what to pack for hiking in each season:

Spring & Autumn: These seasons are warm with a few showers, but not heavy rain or snow. Dress lightly as you’ll be hot going up the mountain, but also pack a light jacket for the peak as it can get windy and cold up there. You’ll also be cooler going down after reaching the summit.

• Top: Light top. Jacket you can store in your bag.
• Legs: Light trousers to protect from insects.
• Feet: Regular hiking socks.

Summer: Summer in Korea is hot and humid and the wettest season. I recommend light clothes for hiking in hot weather. Cover your arms and legs to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the chance of sunburn. Pack a poncho (sold in the parks during summer) or light waterproof jacket in case of rain.

• Top: Long-sleeved thin hiking or cotton t-shirt. Rain jacket or rain poncho if raining
• Legs: Long shorts or trousers to protect against mosquitoes.
• Feet: Ankle socks.

Winter: The winter months in Korea can be very cold, well below freezing, so wrap up warm. However, you’ll heat up as you hike, so also wear clothes that you can shove in a bag or wrap around your waist. Insulated socks and inner wear are recommended if the weather is far below zero.

• Top: Layers that you can remove easily. Jacket with wind protection, thin fleece.
• Legs: Thick or lined trousers (with leggings if really cold).
• Feet: Woollen hiking socks.

Headwear: A cap or a wool hat can be important on a hike to protect yourself from the sun or to keep you warm as the temperature drops. This applies to all seasons as you can be get sunburn in any season, even winter. Bring a cap for summer and wool hat for winter to help keep heat in.

Hiking boots: A decent pair of hiking boots is the best investment you can make when hiking. I use the same pair most of the year round (except summer) and they keep my feet and ankles safe and protected from injury. They also help me in bad weather conditions as they provide sturdy grip.

No matter the season you should wear hiking boots if you plan to take one of the intermediate or advanced hiking courses in Seoraksan. They provide better grip and safety when you need it. For the beginner courses and the cable car route, a good pair of trainers / sneakers will be fine.

• Recommended hiking boots for women.
• Recommended hiking boots for men.

For more info about what to wear, pack, and prepare for hiking in Seoraksan or other Korean national parks, check out this guide to hiking in Korea. There are more than 20 hiking tips that will make sure you have a great day out in the mountains (weather not guaranteed!).

The Benefit Of Boots

Bring a pair of comfortable hiking or trekking boots with you when you visit Korea. They can be useful for more than just hiking. Travellers end up walking a lot – around palaces, in hanok villages, outside temples, and along countless streets. Hiking / trekking boots will keep your feet cosy while you explore, too.

What To Pack To Hike Seoraksan National Park

What should you pack to hike Seoraksan National Park? As mentioned, for your Seoraksan hike it is important to take extra layers and clothes that will keep you warm. Depending on the season you will add different items to your bag, but extra layers are something you should always consider.

Food And Drinks For Hiking In Seoraksan

If you plan to hike one of the longer courses in Seoraksan, such as the Ulsanbawi Peak trail, the Yangpok Shelter trail, or the Geumganggul Cave trail, you should pack some snacks, water or other liquids, and possibly a lunch in your bag. You can buy snacks and drinks at shops in the park.

Water, or your choice of hydrating drink, is a must when hiking. Depending on the season, the amount you need to drink will differ. In winter a 500ml bottle may be enough, but if you hike in summer, you’ll need at least 1 litre or more as you’ll lose a lot of liquids through sweat in the high heat and humidity.

If you plan on sticking to the shorter courses or you’re taking the cable car, you don’t need to worry about bringing extra supplies as there are shops, cafes, and restaurants available in the main area around the cable car, as well as at the cable car station. Just bring some water with you.

My Hiking Supplies

Here’s what I usually pack in my bag when I’m hiking for four hours or more:

• fruit (apple or banana)
• vegetables (tomatoes, sliced peppers, sliced carrots)
• trail bars / energy bars
• small bag of nuts
• gimbap (Korean-style sushi roll)
• 1l of water
• 1 bottle of Powerade

Hiking Equipment For Hiking In Seoraksan National Park

Even though you’ll want a light backpack when you hike Seoraksan, there are some essential items that you should bring whenever you hike, such as hiking poles, tissues, a sweat towel, and gloves. These items can change depending on the season, but most are essential for the longer trails.

Backpack or daypack: You’ll need something light to carry your snacks, water, and equipment with you when you hike. For a day hike, you shouldn’t need more than a 25 litre backpack.

Reusable water bottles: If you want to reduce your environmental impact, bring some collapsible or reusable water bottles with you and fill them at the water fountains at the park’s entrance.

Hiking poles: These extendable hiking sticks are great for getting over rocky paths and for improving balance while reducing leg pressure when descending the mountain. Not essential for everyone.

Sun protection: Being outside means being exposed to sunshine, especially at the peaks and at the Gwongeumseong Fortress. Be sure to apply suncream and wear sunglasses to stay safe.

Sweat towel or handkerchief: Whatever season you hike Seoraksan in, you’re probably going to sweat a bit (or lots). A sweat towel or handkerchief is also useful for drying your hands.

Insect repellant: From spring to autumn, you will find mosquitoes in the mountains. Be sure to spray yourself when visiting Seoraksan. Summer is the worst period for insects while winter has none.

Hygiene supplies: This includes tissues, wet wipes, and hand sanitiser. Tissues and wet wipes have many uses, including cleaning your hands before you eat or if you need to use a mountain toilet.

First aid kit: This isn’t necessary, but can be useful if you’re concerned about cuts and scrapes while you hike. I usually have a few plasters in my bag in case I cut myself on a thorny bush.

Cash & Debit card: Bring some cash to use at the food stalls or vending machines at the national park entrances and other locations. Use a WOWPASS to pay for meals, souvenirs, and shop items.

If you only plan to explore Seoraksan National Park and stick to the shorter or beginner courses, you won’t need hiking poles, hiking boots, or proper hiking gear. However, I would still recommend the other items, especially if you’re travelling in summer when it’s hot and there are many insects around.

What To Bring For Hiking Seoraksan In Winter

The following items are hiking equipment you might need if you plan to hike in winter when snow and ice can build up on the hiking paths of Seoraksan. Even the river route to Biseondae Rock can be icy during winter and hiking sticks can help with balance. For hikes into the mountains, bring these:

Crampons / cleats: Even if the start point doesn’t have ice or snow, there certainly can be some at the peak. Pack some cleats to slip on when it gets icy to stop you from slipping and injuring yourself.

Windproof hiking gloves: Temperatures in winter get below zero and as you hike to Ulsanbawi Peak, the temperature will drop even more. Windproof, waterproof gloves will keep your hands safe.

Sunglasses: Winter in Korea is the sunniest time of the year and the sun can be blinding as it reflects off the snow or ice. Definitely bring shades if you plan to hike Seoraksan in winter.

Heat packs: Hand and foot warmers or heat packs to stick on your clothes are both really useful for hiking in Korea during winter. I always pack hand warmers for my pockets to keep my hands alive.

You can buy most of these items at the shops in Seoraksan National Park in case you don’t have them with you when you visit Korea. These will be fairly basic and if you plan to hike during winter more than once, it’s definitely worth investing in decent winter hiking gear for Korea or elsewhere.

Where To Eat At Seoraksan National Park

If you come to Seoraksan National Park for a stroll through the woods, a trip up to Gwongeumseong Fortress in the cable car, or a hike up one of its numerous peaks, then you will want to take a rest for some delicious Korean food or a coffee and cake. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for you.

Not far from the Sogongwon Park entrance of the national park is a rest area. Here there are several restaurants for you to choose from with most selling Korean food. I recommend 비선대 만난의 광장; here you can nibble on some delicious haemul pajeon and try corn makgeolli made in Sokcho.

Here are 3 restaurants to try in Seoraksan National Park:

비선대 만남의 광장

Rating: 4.07
Menu: Korean
Location

다래정식당

Rating: 4.09
Menu: Korean
Location

Queen Restaurant

Rating: 4.38
Menu: Western
Location

If you want to sample some traditional Korean dishes, a restaurant at Seoraksan National Park is a great place to sample haemul pajeon, bibimbap, gamjajeon, and more. There’s also Western food available at The Kensington Hotel, which is a large hotel in Seoraksan National Park.

Haemul Pajeon

Korean squid and green onion fried pancake.

Bibimbap

Mixed vegetables, rice, fried egg and spicy sauce.

Gamja-Jeon

Potato fried pancake with spicy soy dipping sauce.

Feel like a coffee with gorgeous views of Seoraksan’s rocky peaks and lush forests? There are several cafes in Seoraksan, including one close to Sinheungsa Temple. These cafes not only provide a coffee-fix, they also serve sweet Korean treats, including bingsu, a refreshing shaved ice dessert.

Dahyang Cafe

Rating: 4.11
Location

Seolhyang Cafe

Rating: 4.38
Location

Cafe Banghachak

Rating: 4.16
Location

Where To Stay To Visit Seoraksan National Park

While there are plenty of tour options to Seoraksan from Seoul that will allow you to experience the park in a single day, you might want to spend more time in the park and in nearby Sokcho. There are several options for places to stay to access Seoraksan National Park without a long journey.

Here are the accommodation options near Seoraksan Sogongown Park entrance:

The Kensington Hotel

4-star | 8.1 Rating

The Kensington Hotel is the best option for travellers who want to experience a night staying in a Korean national park with luxury accommodation, two restaurants, a bar, and a cafe. Upgraded suites include whirlpool tubs and saunas. Children under 11 stay for free with a parent. The perfect place to watch the sun rise in the park.

Check Prices

Sokcho White House

2-star | 8.0 Rating

Conveniently situated close to Seoraksan National Park, this guesthouse provides budget accommodation for single travellers, couples, and families with Korean and Western-style bedding. Recommended for those looking for a cheap hotel and have their own car.

Check Prices

Seorakdong Campsite

2-star | 9.0 Rating

Experience a night under the stars at the Seorakdong Campsite, which has 207 auto campsite units, 8 caravan campsite units and 16 caravan units. The campsite comes with showers, sinks, toilets, electricity, and tables. Campsite fees from 15,000 KRW. Caravan fees from 60,000 KRW.

Map Location

If you prefer to have the conveniences of a city, then Sokcho is the best place to stay to access Seoraksan National Park. When I visit Seoraksan for a weekend, this is where I prefer to stay as there are lovely sights to see in Sokcho, including a traditional market with great Korean street food.

Here are accommodation options in Sokcho on the bus route to Seoraksan National Park:

Lotte Resort Sokcho

4-star | 8.9 Rating

The Lotte Resort Sokcho is one of the best places to stay in Sokcho for families and travellers looking for high-quality accommodation with on-site dining options and incredible views. Built in 2017, this spacious hotel sits on a cliff edge and offers views of the East Sea, Sokcho Beach, and Seoraksan National Park.

Check Prices

Urbanstay Sokcho Haebyeon

4-star | 8.8 Rating

This is a great hotel for those looking for value for money and convenience. It’s situated close to the bus terminal, Sokcho Beach, and the beautiful Cheongchoho Lake. Perfect for hiking by day and exploring the city at night.

Check Prices

SeaCruise Hotel

4-star | 8.5 Rating

The SeaCruise Hotel offers lovely views over Cheongchoho Lake and Seoraksan’s soaring peaks. Located in the old downtown area of Sokcho, this hotel provides easy access to Sokcho Jung-ang Traditional Market – a lively place that has lots of great street food options available.

Check Prices

Hotel The Blue Terra

4-star | 8.3 Rating

Hotel The Blue Terra is one of Sokcho’s largest hotels and is conveniently located a few minutes from the bus terminal and Sokcho Beach. Rooms are spacious and modern and provide sunrise views over the East Sea in the morning. Perfect for all types of travellers.

Check Prices

If you plan to hike for more than one day in Seoraksan and want to stay over in the mountains, you can book a shelter from the Korean National Park Service website. Shelters are basic, providing just a place to sleep and a few refreshments. You’ll need your own sleeping bag and pillow.

Hiking Seoraksan National Park FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about how to hike Seoraksan National Park, 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.

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Expat Life In Korea

October is a wonderful time to visit Korea. The weather is warm and sunny, there are lots of fresh foods waiting to be eaten, a wide range of festivals (both traditional and modern), and nature is dressing up in golds, reds, and oranges for one last show before winter sets in.

However, because October is such a good month to travel in Korea, it’s also one of the busiest. Find out how to get around, avoid crowds, when to visit the top places, and how to plan your travels more easily with my essential travel tips. Discover the best that October in Korea has to offer right now.

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

Why Visit Korea In October 2024?

Why visit Korea in October? Simply put, it’s the best time of year to be in Korea. As someone who’s lived in Korea since 2015, I can say that October has the best weather, prettiest sights, and best food. Of course, there are many great months, but the autumn foliage puts October ahead.

Not only is the autumn foliage creeping across the country from north to south, there is a feeling of happiness and joy in Korea and Koreans that comes from the end of the brutal summer, which is horribly hot and humid. This joy is released in outdoor trips, festivals, and harvest celebrations.

If you’re like me and want to go hiking all over Korea’s 7,000+ mountains, October is definitely the best time to put on a pair of good boots and get outdoors. Even if you don’t want to hike, just see incredible autumn views on leafy slopes, there isn’t a better time than this cool autumn month.

Korea’s traditional food and destinations are also the stars of this busy month, with fresh harvest produce available to sample, such as succulent fruits and veg, crunchy nuts, and spicy chilli peppers. The best places to try these are in Korea’s historic cities, such as Jeonju, Gyeongju, and Andong.

Use the links below to jump straight to what you’re most interested in, or keep reading through to learn all there is about visiting Korea in October. I’ll introduce my personal favourite places, festivals, events, and foods, as well as give you a 1-week itinerary for October and my personal travel tips.

Popular Korean Festivals In October 2024

October is a great time to experience cultural festivals in Korea. Travellers to Korea in October can not only experience traditional Korean festivals, such as the Andong Mask Festival and Jinju Lantern Festival, but also discover modern Korean culture at the Busan International Film Festival.

Please note: The exact festival dates for October 2024 won’t be available until spring or summer 2024. The dates used are based on the dates for October 2023 until the new dates are available.

Here are some of the biggest and best festivals in Korea in October for you to enjoy:

Jinju Lantern Festival 2024

The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Lantern Festival is a city-wide celebration that see the historic fortress, main bridge, river, and surrounding areas covered with colourful lanterns of varying shapes and sizes. The lanterns are lit at night and are an incredible sight to see. There are also cultural performances, food stalls, and events during the day, such as lantern making and lantern sailing. Visit in late afternoon and stay until it gets dark for the best views.

Festival Dates:
Oct 8 – Oct 22 2024 (TBC)

Andong Mask Dance Festival 2024

Featuring more than a week of performances, festivities, and events, the Andong Mask Dance Festival is one of the best festivals in Korea for those who want to experience traditional Korean culture. There are many other Korean activities and performances to enjoy, too, such as Taekwondo, orchestras, plays, and traditional games. Performers from other countries join in with their own performances, too.

Festival Dates:
Oct 2 – Oct 9 2024 (TBC)

Busan International Film Festival 2024

The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) is the Cannes of Asia, featuring around 300 movies from around the world and red-carpet events. See major movie stars attending worldwide and international premiers of over 100 movies each year. Featuring a wide range of genres on show, you’re sure to find something to enjoy. Hosted in various sites across Busan.

Festival Dates:
Oct 4 – Oct 13 2024 (TBC)

Busan International Rock Festival 2024

The Busan International Rock Festival is a two day music extravaganza that features many Korean and international bands over a number of stages at the grassy Samnak Ecological Park. Unlike most other Korean festivals, camping is allowed here and the nearby campsite allows for an authentic festival experience. Muddy, messy, musical, and a lot of fun, the Busan International Rock Festival is great way to enjoy a weekend out in October.

Festival Dates:
Oct 7 – Oct 8 2024 (TBC)

Gangneung Coffee Festival 2024

The Gangneung Coffee Festival is a celebration of all things coffee. Located in the coastal city of Gangneung, a popular beach destination that also has many popular cafes, this festival hosts barista awards, excellent coffee, and the chance to see the sea with a hot brew. Coffee installations and demonstrations are available in the city, as well as the chance to experience some of Korea’s best coffee.

Festival Dates:
Oct 6 – Oct 9 2024 (TBC)

Baekje Culture Festival 2024

The Baekje Culture Festival is held in the two former capital cities of the Baekje Kingdom, one of the 3 major powers from Korea’s past. Located in Buyeo and Gongju, which are connected by the mighty Geumgang River, this 10-day celebration not only includes traditional Korean culture, but also modern K-Pop performances, lanterns, fireworks, food stalls, and lots more. The festival is held over 10 days, giving you the chance to visit both the Buyeo and Gongju celebrations.

Festival Dates:
Sept 23 – Oct 9 2024 (TBC)

Seoul Fireworks Festival 2024

The Seoul International Fireworks Festival is held in Seoul in early October each year and is the first of the major fireworks festivals in Korea. Located in Yeouido, thousands of locals and tourists descend on Yeouido Hangang Park to see the colourful fireworks shooting out over the riverside and illuminating the city. There are over 100,000 fireworks set off each year with teams competing from various countries to create the best display in the night sky.

Festival Dates:
October 7 2024 (TBC)

Regional Korean Festivals In October

Here are some smaller regional festivals that might be of interest to you if you’re visiting Korea in October. These festivals may occur in September in some years as they’re usually around the Chuseok holidays, which follow the Lunar calendar.

• Gimje Horizon Festival 2024 (김제 지평선축제)
  Oct 5 – Oct 9 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Wonju Dynamic Dancing Carnival 2024 (원주 다이내믹댄싱카니발)
  Sep 22 – Sep 24 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Bupyeong Pungmul Festival 2024 (부평풍물대축제)
  Sep 22 – Sep 24 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Bucheon International Comics Festival 2024 (부천국제만화축제)
  Sep 14 – Sep 17 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival Seoul 2024 (한성백제문화제)
  Sep 22 – Sep 24 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Sancheong Medicinal Herb Festival 2024 (산청한방약초축제)
  Oct 6 – Oct 10 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Korea Wine Festival Yeongdong 2024 (영동와인연말기획전)
  Oct 12 – Oct 15 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Seosan Haemieupseong Fortress Festival 2024 (서산해미읍성역사체험축제)
  Oct 7 – Oct 9 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Jinan Red Ginseng Festival 2024 (진안 홍삼축제)
  Sep 22 – Sep 24 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Nonsan Ganggyeong Salted Seafood Festival 2024 (논산강경젓갈축제)
  Oct 12 – Oct 16 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Gwangju Chungjang Festival 2024 (추억의 충장축제)
  Oct 5 – Oct 9 2024 (Dates TBC)
• Silla Cultural Festival Gyeongju 2024 (신라문화제)
  Oct 14 – Oct 16 2024 (Dates TBC)

These regional festivals don’t attract as many tourists, but can give you an interesting look at life in Korea and offer a chance to learn more about Korean culture.

Tours & Events In October 2024

The best way to explore Korea is to get out into the streets of Seoul and other cities and walk around to get a feel for the culture and atmosphere of that place. However, many of the best places to visit in October are outside of the big cities and best accessed with a guided tour from Seoul or Busan.

I take many tours during October and other months of the year as they’re reasonably priced, provide convenient transportation directly to each location, and come with a helpful guide. Having a tour guide in Korea is especially useful as Korean attractions don’t always provide much info in English.

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

Events In Seoul This October

October is a popular time not only for festivals and tours, but also lively and exciting events. Seoul is home to many cultural performances, both Korean and international, and adding one of these events to your Seoul itinerary is a great way to spend an evening out.

Here are some fun events you can check out in Seoul this October:

Please note: These events were for October 2023 and October 2024 events may differ. I will update what events are on in Seoul during October 2024 closer to the date. Some events, such as Nanta Cooking Musical, continue year round and should be on in October.

October Is Peak Season In Korea!

Due to the warm weather, public holidays, and autumn foliage, travelling in Korea in October is very busy with tours and hotels booked up in advance. October is peak season in Korea, along with April and May. April is busy due to the blooming cherry blossoms, which is another great reason to visit Korea.

Popular destinations such as national parks (autumn leaves), historic cities (Gyeongju), and tourist spots such as Seoul and Jeju Island will be particularly busy, especially on the weekends. I recommend booking as much as possible in advance (hotels, tours, transportation) to avoid disappointment.

Best Activities To Enjoy In October 2024

There are so many things to do in Korea in October that you might find you don’t have time to do them all. From autumn foliage spotting, to riding along riversides, sleeping in Buddhist temples, and exploring night markets, you’ll not get bored during this autumn month.

Below are some of the most popular things to do in October. Of course, there are many other popular activities that you can do at any time of year in Korea, such as wearing Korean hanbok, touring royal palaces, soaking in a Korean sauna, singing in a noraebang, and more.

See Incredible Autumn Foliage

Where: National parks, royal palaces, parks, and many other places.

The number one thing to do in Korea in October has to be visiting the autumn foliage that starts to appear at the start of the month. Seoraksan National Park on Korea’s east coast is where it all begins, with the leaves turning golden in early October. By the end of October, trees across the country will have started to drop their leaves. National parks are the best places to visit for autumn foliage in Korea.

South Korea Foliage Forecast 2024

To help you plan when to see the autumn foliage in Korea this autumn, here’s the most up-to-date fall foliage forecast. This forecast shows you the expected dates for the fall foliage in Korea in 2024. Start and peak foliage times typically stay within 1 week of the dates of the previous year.

The start of autumn foliage in Korea in 2024 is October 1st in Seoraksan National Park, with the foliage peaking from October 23rd there. Other places start and peak over the following five weeks.

Please note: This is currently showing the 2023 dates. I will update with the 2024 dates as soon as they’re available.

Go Hiking Or Trekking

Where: National parks, royal palaces, parks, and many other places.

Not only can you see beautiful autumn foliage in Korea in October, it’s also one of the best times to go hiking or trekking. Korea is blessed with hundreds of mountains with thousands of hiking and trekking paths, each offering amazing views of the Korean countryside. There are plenty of walking paths for those who don’t want to hike. Find out why hiking and trekking are such popular hobbies in Korea this October.

More Info: Check out my seasonal hiking guide for info about the best places to visit in each season, how to prepare, and where to hike. Want to hike Seoul’s highest mountain? This guide to hiking Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park will tell you all you need to know to hike.

Join A Temple Stay Program

Where: Yakcheonsa Temple (Jeju), Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju), Beopjusa Temple (Songnisan National Park).

The Korean Templestay Program offers you the rare chance to witness life inside a Korean Buddhist temple. Eat healthy vegan food, cleanse your mind, appreciate more, and chat with Buddhist monks during a traditional Korean tea ceremony. The best way to experience a temple stay is the overnight course, where you wake up before sunrise and join the monks in their morning rituals and worship.

More Info: I’ve been on several temple stays and shared my experiences in this article about temple stays in Korea, which tells you what to expect, what’s included, and how to book a temple stay.

Visit A Night Market

Where: Seoul (Bamdokkaebi Markets, Namdaemun Market), Daegu (Seomun Market), Seogwipo (Maeil Olle Market).

October evenings are still quite warm and there are plenty of night-time activities to enjoy in Korea’s cities, including a trip to a night market. Traditional markets host night markets in some cities and there are seasonal night markets, usually between spring and autumn when it’s warmer. Seoul’s Bamdokkaebi (night goblin) night markets are some of the best. There are stalls run by locals selling craft goods, jewellery, cosmetics, art, food and more.

Relax By The Beach

Where: East Coast – Sokcho, Gangneung, and Surfyy Beach. Busan – Haeundae, Songjeong, and Songdo Beach.

Summer in Korea may be over before October, but it’s still warm during the day with clear blue skies (unlike summer which is often wet). Korea has many great beaches to relax on in popular destinations like Jeju Island, Busan, and the south coast (Geoje, Tongyeong). These will be slightly warmer than the northern parts of Korea. If you’re hiking Seoraksan, Sokcho Beach is nearby and a good place to recover.

Rent a Bike And Ride

Where: Bikes can be rented in Seoul and other cities such as Daejeon and Busan.

October days are perfect for renting a bike and exploring more of Korea. Bike rental systems are in place in most major cities, as well as tourist spots like Nami Island. Costs for public bike rental are cheap, starting at as little as 1,000 per hour. Good spots to ride in Seoul are along the Han River parks, especially near Yeouido Island, Haneul Park, and Seoul Forest. There are wide lanes dedicated for cyclists with views over the Han River, parks and cityscape.

Take A Day Trip

Whether you’re in Seoul, Busan, Jeju or elsewhere in October, the blue skies and calm weather make this the perfect time to spend a day getting out and about. Grab a quick breakfast and take the train out to see an historic fortress, beautiful bamboo forest, green tea plantation, or even the world’s most dangerous border. While day trips can often be a bit more expensive than exploring by yourself, they’re usually the most memorable part of your journey.

October Day Trips From Seoul

Here are a few popular day trips from Seoul that you can enjoy in October (or any month). To book day trips and tours in Korea, I recommend using Klook, Get Your Guide, or Viator. They have a large presence in Korea and offer a wide range of easy-to-book tours in October and all months.

Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm

See the best of Gapyeong County with these charming spots of natural beauty. Nami Island hosts wild animals (rabbits, deer), tree-lined pathways, cafes, and cultural performances. The Garden of Morning Calm is one of the prettiest walks you’ll experience in Korea, passing through carefully curated displays of flowers, trees, and traditional Korean architecture.

For directions to these places, check out my guide to getting to Nami Island.

DMZ (Korean Demilitarised Zone)

Top on many traveller’s list of day trips from Seoul is the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ). There are so many reasons to visit the DMZ. Whether you want to learn about Korean history, experience a real-life war zone border, or simply want a chance to step over into North Korea, this is a uniquely Korean trip.

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

A short journey from Seoul, Suwon hosts the historic Hwaseong Fortress, complete with nearly 6km of fortress walls, palaces, fortress gates, and other buildings. Nestled amongst historic beauty is a pretty river, parks, cafes, and Suwon’s famous Fried Chicken Street – home to Korea’s best fried chicken!

Everland & Caribbean Bay

Theme park fans and thrill seekers will find this to be one of the best day trips from Seoul. Everland is Korea’s largest theme park and boasts the world’s steepest roller coaster. Caribbean Bay is one of the world’s largest water parks. With loads of rides, this is the best place to have fun this October.

Best Places to Go During October

Besides fun festivals and exciting events, there are lots of places to visit during October that will show you Korea’s natural beauty and traditional charms. Pink muhly in Gyeongju, golden ginkgo in Asan, silvery reeds in Seoul, fall foliage all around. Here are 5 great places to visit this October:

Beautiful Gyeongju City

Gyeongju is an historic Korean city that is known as Korea’s outdoor museum due to the large number of ancient buildings standing around the city and nearby, including Cheomseongdae Observatory, Wolji Pond, Bulguksa Temple, and dozens of tombs. The city is also famous for its nature, with an ocean of pink muhly bushes coming to life in October, as well as cosmos and autumn foliage. Visit Bomun Lake for scenic sights of fall foliage with reflections in the water.

Seoraksan National Park

One of the most popular mountains to hike in Korea during autumn, Seoraksan National Park has incredible views, Buddhist temples, cloudy vistas, and many other attractions. Thanks to its location close to the north-east coast, Seoraksan is one of the first places to see autumn leaves in Korea and makes for a great place to hike for people staying in Seoul, Sokcho, or nearby Gangneung. If you’re not a hiker, you can ride the cable car to the top instead.

Asan Gingko Tree Road

There are two trees that are perfect for seeing autumn leaves in Korea: 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. Imagine 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 many leaves that slowly drop their leaves, waiting for you to tread on.

Haneul Sky Park Seoul

Another natural wonder that you can experience in Korea in October is an ocean of tall silver reeds (Eulalia) gently swaying in autumn winds. The best place to see these reeds in Seoul is at Haneul Sky Park, which hosts the Silver Grass Festival in October. This festival lets you walk through a maze of reeds, take pictures at the photo zones, and look out over the beautiful Han River below. Mindungsan Mountain is another great place for silver reeds.

Naejangsan National Park

Literally meaning ‘concealed inside’, Naejangsan has a treasure trove of hidden wonders that offer awe-inspiring photo opportunities, beautiful backgrounds, and the chance to find spiritual calm among natural beauty. Late-October and early-November are the best times to visit Naejangsan as the autumn leaves start to turn fiery red and golden yellow. Truly one of the most iconic fall foliage spots in Korea, Naejangsan is a must for picture-postcard memories of Korea.

Korean Foods To Try In October

October in Korea is the best time to get fresh fruits, vegetables, and other locally grown produce when it’s ripest and ready to be plucked or pulled and then eaten. Korean foods you’ll find in October include chestnuts, slim chilli peppers, cabbages, jujube, persimmons, sesame plants, and lots more.

If you walk through a Korean village, or go mountain hiking, you’ll see an array of colourful foods on farms or for sale in traditional markets, street corners, or even from the back of a lorry. Some of it you can even pick up from the ground. Watch out for chestnut shells if you’re hiking in Korea’s mountains.

Korean Pancakes (Jeon)

If you’re visiting one of Korea’s gorgeous national parks, then you’ll definitely find somewhere to get some jeon (전). Jeon is a form of pancake that comes with various ingredients. Popular options include gamja-jeon (potato), kimchi-jeon (kimchi), or haemul pajeon (seafood & green onion). These are cooked fresh at the entrance to the park and are the perfect reward after a day of hiking. Grab a bottle of makgeolli to go with it.

Korean Rice Wine

Another staple of any trip to the mountains in Korea is a cup (or bowl) of traditional Korean rice wine. The most common forms of Korean rice wine are makgeolli (막걸리) and dongdongju (동동주), which are both made by fermenting rice. Makgeolli is like a mix between wine and yogurt (with lots of healthy bacteria), while dongdongju is not as creamy. Both are delicious on a hot day in October and come in a variety of flavours such as chestnut, sweetcorn, date, and banana.

Rice Cake Sweets

Rice cakes are used in lots of traditional Korean dishes, from tteokbokki to budae jjigae, as well as sweet snacks like the ones in the picture. These are called songpyeon (송편) and are rice cakes stuffed with sweet fillings such as red beans, sweetened sesame seeds, honey, or chestnuts. The cakes are steamed over a bed of pine needles, which is where they get their name (songpyeon means ‘pine tree’ in Korean). You can find these in temples, Korean tea houses, and other traditional locations.

Persimmons

Another autumn delicacy that you’ll spot stubbornly clinging to the trees in October are bright orange persimmons or gam (감). These are common in Korea and if you walk through the countryside, you’ll see hundreds stuck on trees or hung out to dry. The best way to eat them is to stick them in the freezer and then open it up and eat it with a spoon. If you’re not up for that, grab some dried persimmons (gotgam 곶감) instead. These are cheap and healthy snacks you’ll find all over Korea.

Jujube (Red Dates)

Jujube are red dates (Chinese dates), known as daechu (대추) in Korea, that look more like a small apple than traditional dates. These healthy fruit are used a lot in traditional Korean medicines and are said to reduce stress or prevent ageing. You can find them for sale in traditional markets in national parks after they’re freshly picked, or sold in many different forms in other places. They are used for teas and other drinks, including makgeolli and dongdongju.

Chestnuts

Chestnuts, or bam (밤) in Korean, are a staple snack that you’ll find throughout autumn and winter in Korea. These fall from the trees in their spiky shells throughout autumn, so watch out as you’re hiking. The nuts have a smoky flavour that’s not sweet. The best way to enjoy chestnuts in Korea is when they’re roasted, known as gunbam (군밤), in chestnut bread, or in chestnut makgeolli, which is popular in Gongju and can be found at the Baekje Culture Festival.

Weather & Public Holidays During October

What is the weather like in Korea in October? Absolutely amazing. The weather is still warm in most parts of the country during the day, but cold in at night. Jeju Island in the south is a few degrees hotter on average than Seoul, which is in the north. The skies are mostly blue, too.

Temperatures range from 15 to 25 (Celsius) during the day and 5 to 15 at night. It can get as low as 0 at night, but that’s not common. It’s best to bring warm weather clothes for late October, however, in 2023, the summer heat lasted longer than expected and it was still over 25 degrees in November!

October has less rain than July and August, the wettest months in Korea, and is less humid. There is still rainfall during October, but it’s not as common and doesn’t last more than a few days. Expect to see clear blue skies with thin, streaky clouds on many days in October, like in the picture above.

In my experience, there are more good weather days than bad in October, however, it’s not always perfect. One of the best things about visiting Korea in October is the lack of fine dust. Air pollution is at its lowest at this time of year. Air pollution numbers start to rise in winter and peak in spring.

Average Daily Temperatures In October

Here’s the range of temperatures you can expect during October in Korea. The daytime is warm and can range from 15 to 25 degrees, while nighttime is colder, ranging from 5 to 15 degrees. There can be lower temperatures when there’s bad weather, but it’s not that cold in October.

Typhoon Season In Korea

Technically, October is part of typhoon season in Korea. That means there can be some extreme weather, including strong winds, waves, and heavy rain. Typhoons don’t often hit mainland Korea and usually only affect the southern regions. Jeju Island, Busan, and southern areas are more at risk than places like Seoul and Gyeongju.

There’s not much that can be done about typhoons, and it’s very hard to predict where they’ll actually hit, but it’s good to keep an eye on the weather forecasts and to have backup plans.

Public Holidays In October

There are a couple of public holidays that fall in October each year, as well as a big holiday that is in October on certain years. It’s useful to know about these public holidays as they can affect your travel plans. Some places may be closed and popular places may be busier than normal.

Chuseok: Autumn Harvest Festival

Chuseok, also known as Korean Thanksgiving, is an autumn harvest festival that celebrates the bountiful harvest for that year. This is one of Korea’s biggest holidays and usually lasts for 3-4 days with millions of Koreans returning home to spend time with their family. The dates are based on the lunar calendar, and therefore change every year.

Chuseok Dates:
Sep 16 – Sep 18 2024

Chuseok Dates For 2024 & Beyond

Although Chuseok occurs most often in September, it can land in October, too. The next time Chuseok is in October will be in 2025. The last time Chuseok was in October was in 2020. Here are the dates for the Chuseok holiday for the next few years:

National Foundation Day: October 3rd

National Foundation Day, also known as Gaecheonjeol in Korean, is a public holiday at the start of October that celebrates the Korean creation story and founding of Korea in 2333 BC.

Hangul Day: October 9th

Hangul Day, or Korean Alphabet Day, is a public holiday in Korea designed to commemorate the creation of the Korean alphabet in the 15th Century by King Sejong the Great. If you’re interested in learning the Korean alphabet, here are some really useful free resources to learn Korean.

My Tips For Exploring Korea During October

This final section is a collection of my personal tips and recommendations for travelling in Korea in October and how to get the most out of this colourful month. There is a one-week itinerary for October which takes you to some of the best sights, including Seoraksan, Gyeongju, Suwon and more.

Next is a guide to what to wear in Korea during October, explaining how warm or cold it can get, what to pack to dress comfortably, and examples of what I wear at this time. Finally, there are a few of my own tips for travelling during October. October is a busy month and there’s a lot of be aware of.

Recommended Itinerary For October In Korea

Planning to visit Korea in October but not sure where to go for the best sights and experiences? This 7 day itinerary will help you get started planning your October adventure.

The itinerary uses 2 cities as a base (Seoul and Busan), but will take you far and wide across Korea; to mountains looking over the east coast, to Korea’s historic capital, to ancient fortresses, and to lots of beautiful autumn foliage spots.

Day 1: Seoul Sights

As most flights arrive to Korea via Incheon Airport, which is just outside Seoul, it’s usually best to spend a bit of time in Seoul getting over jet lag and embracing Korea’s capital. If you stay in Myeongdong, you can easily get access to the royal palaces, N Seoul Tower, Insadong Art Street, Myeongdong street food and markets, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Jogyesa Temple, and lots more. Spend the day walking, eating, and seeing the sights.

Here are some great Budget Hotels in Myeongdong that I personally recommend.

Day 2: Seoul River Parks

The Han River is a wide stretch of water that splits Seoul right in the middle. Check out Haneul Sky Park and Oil Tank Culture Park on the north side of the river, stop by Hongdae for some lunch, then head over the river to Yeouido Hangang River for more parks and natural beauty. Take the subway to Gangnam to see the massive COEX Mall, K-Pop sights, Bongeunsa Temple, and eat dinner in the Apgujeong area.

Day 3: Seoraksan Day Trip

Get up early and take a day trip to Seoraksan National Park, passing through the beautiful Korean countryside on the way. Follow the easy valley walking paths, past historic Korean temples and shrines, hike to the peaks, or take the cable car to the mountaintop. Try a traditional hiking dinner – pajeon and makgeolli for an authentic Korean experience.

Day 4: Suwon or Jeonju Day Trip

Take a day trip to Suwon or Jeonju and explore the historic areas in either city. Suwon is home to Hwaseong Fortress. Walk the walls in the morning, explore the fortress grounds in the afternoon, try your hand at Korean archery, stop off in a cafe, and enjoy Korea’s best fried chicken at night. Jeonju hosts Korea’s largest hanok village with more than 700 traditional Korean hanok houses. Dress up in hanbok, eat traditional Korean snacks and dishes, and discover Korea’s past.

You can get to both of these cities through a guided tour or on the KTX trains.

Day 5: Busan Beaches

Ride the KTX train from Seoul to Busan in under 3 hours and see a different side of Korea in its second largest city. Known for its beaches, seafood markets, and maritime history, Busan is less busy than Seoul, but just as fun. Haeundae is a good place to stay, as well as the central Seomyeon district. Spend the day visiting the beaches (Haeundae, Songdo, Gwangalli, Songjeong), exploring the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, riding the Haeundae Blue Line Train (a good way to get from Haeundae Beach and Songjeong Beach), or checking out Jagalchi Fish Market and the nearby Nampo shopping area.

Day 6: Gyeongju Day Trip

From Busan, take a short train ride to Gyeongju, the former capital city of the Silla Kingdom. Discover historic sights, including Bulguksa Temple, Wolji Pond, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Woljeonggyo Bridge, ancient tombs, and lots more. Eat dinner in the popular Hwangnidan Street, lined with old Korean hanok houses that are now cafes, restaurants, and bars. If you don’t want to travel all the way to Gyeongju, visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan – a stunning cliffside temple with waves crashing below and surrounded by rocks and trees. Guided tours available from Klook.

Day 7: Seoul Shopping

Head back to Seoul on the speedy KTX train from Busan and pack your bags with souvenirs to share with your family. Hongdae is a great place for last minute shopping and you’ll find gifts, clothes (modern, boutique, and street fashions), sweets, and lots more for sale here. There are lots of dining options in Hongdae, from traditional Korean BBQ to Michelin-starred international cuisine. After dinner, sing your heart out at a noraebang (Korean karaoke), or watch the street performers at night. Stay in Hongdae for your last night and then you can take the all-stop train directly to Incheon Airport .

Here are some great Hotels in Hongdae that are close to shops and entertainment..

This is a very simple itinerary that will give you a rough idea of where to go and popular sights you can visit that are best in October. There are plenty of other places that you could visit on a one-week trip, including Jeju Island, Gangneung, Sokcho, Jirisan National Park, and lots more.

What To Wear In Korea In October

October in Korea is warm during the day, but cold at night. Temperatures typically range between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius during the day and as low as 5 to 15 degrees at night, depending on the time of month and weather conditions.

Since the weather can vary, it’s useful to pack a range of clothes for cool and warm weather. Layering will help you stay warm in the morning and evenings, but try not to wear an overly large jacket or coat as you’ll probably want to take it off and carry it during the day.

October is quite dry, so you shouldn’t need to worry too much about bringing an umbrella. You can certainly buy one easily enough in Korea. It still rains, but not as much as summer. A jacket or coat that is waterproof could be a good option to prevent coldness and to stay dry.

A t-shirt and jumper / shirt should be good for most days to keep you warm. Some people still wear shorts and a t-shirt during October, but that depends on the person. If you’re comfortable with cooler weather, then you’ll not have any problems dressing like that.

What I wear in October

This picture was taken on October 10th in Gyeongju. It was raining that day, but wasn’t that cold. I was fine in a shirt and t-shirt with jeans. I typically start wearing a woollen jumper by mid-October with jeans and walking boots. I’ll pack a light jacket if I’m planning to be out at night or hiking (it gets cold at the top). I wouldn’t recommend sandals in October, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking.

Winter usually starts around mid-November and the warm autumn weather quickly disappears before the cold winter weather arrives to freeze everything in place. Predicting the weather is very tricky, so be prepared for the worst, which would include colder weather than expected.

Packing an extra jumper or jacket is probably best. If you’re stuck with the wrong clothes in October, you can always visit the markets in Seoul and find lots of cheap clothes to keep you warm.

Tips For Visiting Korea In October

Finally, here are some of my tips to help you travel Korea in October. October is the time I’m out travelling the most in Korea and you’ll find lots of other people doing the same.

Book ahead: As I’ve mentioned, October is peak season in Korea and many things will be booked up weeks or months in advance, especially around the public holidays.

Plan your route: Be careful when travelling on trains and buses. Use Naver Maps to help you plan your route and use the official Korail website – letskorail – to book train tickets.

Expect delays: Want to visit the best autumn foliage spot when it’s just about to peak? Well, so does everyone else. Expect traffic delays, crammed buses, and long queues. That’s part of peak travel.

Pack appropriately: October is a month that swings from warm to cool and the temperatures can vary depending on where you travel. Assume the worst and bring some cold weather clothes.

Get out of the cities: The best sights in Korea during autumn are typically outside of the cities and in the national parks. There are plenty of national parks in Korea, including Bukhansan National Park which is right next to Seoul.

Join a walking tour: Walking or social tours are a great way to meet other travellers and explore more of Korea with others. You can find lots of these in the Korea Travel Advice group.

Visiting Korea In October FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about visiting Korea in October, 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.

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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.

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

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 my Korean season guide. 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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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’.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Therefore, don’t forget to check out my other awesome seasonal guides for Korea to make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip to Korea whenever you travel, including a season guide to Korea which covers every month of the year. Be sure to check out the best Korean festivals, too.

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.

FAQ About Seeing Autumn Leaves In Korea

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.

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Verdant greens slowly melt into flickering yellows, dazzling golds, gooey oranges, and fiery reds over the autumn months, setting forests aflame with sunset hues that drop slowly from the tree tops to the ground below.

I hope this collection of Korean autumn leaves pictures inspires you to visit during this lovely season and lets you appreciate the majestic beauty of this fleeting season in the Land of the Morning Calm.

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

My Favourite Korean Autumn Leaves Pictures

I want to start with my top 3 Korean autumn leaves pictures before showing you the rest, because these have created some of the most memorable moments in my time living in Korea.

1: Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden, Seoul

Changdeokgung Palace is an incredible place to visit in Seoul for people who want the chance to explore a traditional palace, dress up in Korean hanbok (traditional clothes), and see lots of lovely nature.

If you’re lucky, you can also get access to the Secret Garden, which is restricted to a small number of guided tours each day. These royal gardens, which were kept exclusively for the royal family to unwind and relax in, offer a gorgeous glimpse into Korean royal life and display timeless sights of natural wonders.

2: Nami Island, Gapyeong

One of the must-see places in Korea at any time of year, Nami Island really comes alive in autumn due to its abundance of natural beauty and tree-lined streets that create the perfect areas to take sweeping shots of autumn colours.

If you want to see more pictures of Nami Island, check out my Transport Guide For Nami Island. You’ll see a few more Korean autumn leaves pictures from Nami Island in that article, too.

3: Naejangsan National Park

Naejangsan National Park in the south-west of Korea is one of the must-see destinations for Korean autumn leaves. This small but stunning national park is packed with photogenic spots, such as the Maple Tree Road, Naejangsa Temple, Uhwajeong Pavilion, and the observatory at the top of the mountain.

You’ll probably recognise some of these views from iconic Korean autumn leaves pictures. If you want to see more, check out my article all about Visiting Naejangsan In Autumn.

If you want to know more about where and how to see fall foliage in Korea, be sure to check out my detailed guide to Autumn Leaves In Korea.

Please note: The majority of these pictures are all photos I’ve taken during my time living in Korea. A few are ‘borrowed’ from free photo sharing sites.

Seoul Autumn Leaves Pictures

If you want to see autumn leaves in Seoul, then you’re in luck. Seoul is a very leafy city with lots of natural beauty to check out throughout the year, especially in autumn. Here’s some of the sights you can see in Seoul.

There are plenty of other places to check out autumn leaves in Seoul, such as Seoul Forest, along the Han River, Gwanaksan Mountain, Bukhansan National Park and Seoul National Cemetery.

Now, here’s a whole load of Korean autumn leaves pictures from the rest of Korea.

Korean Foliage Pictures From National Parks

Although there are lots of nice places to see autumn leaves in Seoul, the best places are outside of the capital, amongst the forests, mountains, and parks that Korea is packed full of.

If you’re visiting Korea in autumn, be sure to book a few trips out of the cities for the best views. Here are some of my personal favourite Korean autumn leaves pictures, but there are a lot, lot more that I haven’t covered here.

For info about how to get to the national parks, check out my guide about How To Go Hiking In Korea.

Other Autumn Sights To See In Korea

There’s not just autumn leaves to see during autumn, it’s also the best time to see these tall reeds, known as silver grass. Some great locations for this include Mindungsan (above), Haneul Park in Seoul, Seoul Forest, and along the shores of many rivers in Korea.

Finally, here are some pictures from the city I live in, Daejeon. Like many big Korean cities, Daejeon has lots of parks, tree-lined streets, and places to see autumn leaves. Daejeon is blessed with many surrounding mountains and Gyeryongsan National Park, too.

Take a look at these final Korean autumn leaves pictures and maybe you’ll understand why I enjoy living in Daejeon.

Here’s one final image from autumn that might surprise you…

This was taken in November 2017, just a few days after the picture above of the yellow ginkgo leaves. Yes, you can see snow during autumn in Korea.

It doesn’t happen often, but it makes a very surprising sight to see autumn leaves one day and then white blankets over everything the next.

Want To Know More About Autumn In Korea?

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit and if you want to take Korean autumn leaves pictures like these yourself, then I’d definitely recommend visiting during this season.

When: Autumn in Korea runs from September until early November. Peak autumn leaves season starts in mid-October (Seoul area) and ends in early November (Jeju / south coast).

Where: Korea is mostly mountainous and has dozens of amazing spots to see autumn leaves in national parks, as well as city parks and areas of natural beauty. Some of the best are Nami Island, Seoraksan National Park, Seoul’s royal palaces, Jirisan National Park and Asan Ginkgo Tree Road.

How: In Seoul and other cities, you can travel to autumn leaves sites on public transport. For Nami Island, you can take a day trip there from Seoul. For the national parks and other locations, you can book day trips from reputable tour companies such as Klook and Trazy.

October: Visit Korea in October for the best autumn leaves, fun festivals, delicious fresh foods, and great weather. This is my favourite month to travel in Korea.

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Naejangsan National Park is a treasure trove of stunning sights, uniquely Korean views, and peaceful spots to connect with nature and Korean culture. Literally meaning ‘concealed inside’, Naejangsan (Naejang Mountain) certainly has a lot of hidden wonders to provide visitors with awe-inspiring photo opportunities, unforgettable moments, and the chance to find spiritual calm among natural beauty.

Lush forests line the sides of the numerous small mountains, whilst the long, pleasant valley has been carefully crafted over the years with long, winding maple-tree lined roads. Follow slowly flowing streams through the valley, explore traditional Korean Buddhist temples, and marvel at the natural wonders on display in this beautiful national park. Find out why Naejangsan is one of the top 10 most beautiful places in Korea.

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How To Go To Naejangsan National Park

There are three main ways to go to Naejangsan National Park in Jeollabuk-do. You can get to Naejangsan National Park by car, train, or bus. If you don’t drive, taking the train is a faster option, but the bus will be cheaper and runs more frequently. Below are details about each of these travel methods.

How To Go To Naejangsan By Car

To get to Naejangsan National Park by car, head towards the park’s entrance at the Naejangsan Rest Stop (pictured above).

It should take under 3 hours to drive from Seoul to Naejangsan National Park, however, during peak fall foliage season it may take a lot longer.

It may be best to leave very early or stay overnight the previous night in nearby Jeongeup City to beat the traffic and get in before the crowds.

Naejangsan Rest Stop:
In Korean – 내장터미널휴게소

Time From Seoul:
2 hours 40 minutes
(longer during peak season)

How To Go To Naejangsan By Train

To go to Naejangsan National Park by train, you should take the KTX (Korea’s high speed train) as below:

Seoul Station
to
Jeongeup Station

Once you get to Jeongeup Station, walk outside the main entrance and catch local bus 171, which goes directly to Naejangsan National Park entrance.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the bus terminal to the Naejangsan Rest Stop (내장터미널휴게소).

Jeongeup Train Station:
In Korean – 정읍역

Time From Seoul:
1 hour 35 minutes
(then bus 171 – 30 minutes)

Cost:
39,000 KRW (Adult)
19,900 KRW (Child)

KoRail Booking Website

Please note: There are only a few KTX trains from Seoul to Jeongeup each day. Be sure to check travel times and book in advance.

How To Go To Naejangsan By Bus

To go to Naejangsan National Park by bus, you should take the intercity bus as below:

Seoul Central City Bus Terminal
to
Jeongeup Station

Once you get to Jeongeup Bus Terminal, walk towards Jeongeup Station main entrance and catch local bus 171, which goes directly to Naejangsan National Park entrance.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the bus terminal to the Naejangsan Rest Stop (내장터미널휴게소).

Jeongeup Bus Terminal:
In Korean – 정읍시외버스공용터미널

Time From Seoul:
2 hours 55 minutes
(then bus 171 – 30 minutes)

Cost:
Economy – 15,800 KRW
Luxury – 23,200 KRW

Korea Bus Website

If you’re visiting Naejangsan from other cities, check the times from the links above from your city to Jeongeup – this is the main transfer point to get to Naejangsan National Park.

When visiting from Daejeon, I take the Mugunghwa (slow train), ITX, or KTX to Jeongeup Station from Seo-Daejeon Station.

When To Visit Naejangsan For Autumn Foliage

The best time to visit Naejangsan for fall foliage is the first week of November. The leaves start to change colour from mid-October, with the final leaves falling by mid-November.

As this is the best time to visit Naejangsan, you can find all the restaurants and food stalls operating, as well as some pop-up stalls selling souvenirs and snacks. This occurs at the main entrance, as well as outside Naejangsa Temple.

The first week of November will also be the busiest, expect large crowds and heavy traffic during this week. Plan your trip in advance and be sure to leave plenty of time for traffic jams. Avoid leaving the park around 4pm as this can be the busiest time.

Other great times to visit Naejangsan National Park are spring (mid-March to early June) and from the end of summer (early September), when the heat has dropped a bit, until the end of fall (mid-November).

For more information about when to go hiking in Korea’s very different seasons, check out this guide about When To Hike In Korea.

For more information about where and when to see fall foliage in Korea, check out these articles:

Fall Foliage Spots In Korea: The best places to see fall foliage across Korea. From national parks to palace grounds.

Korean Autumn Leaves Pictures: 45 beautiful pictures of Korea’s colourful autumn leaves.

October In Korea: Find out what to do, see, eat, and experience in the best month in Korea. Lantern festivals, fireworks, holidays, fall foliage, and lots more.

What To See At Naejangsan National Park In Autumn

Being in Naejangsan National Park, especially during autumn, is a treat in itself. Of course, there are some attractions that you won’t want to miss as you explore this relatively small, but tranquil national park.

Some of the top sights include:

Maple Tree Tunnel

A true spectacle bursting with colour during autumn in Korea, the Maple Tree Tunnel is the first breathtaking sight you’ll experience at Naejangsan National Park.

You’ll pass under the rich reds, shining golds, and vibrant greens on display from hundreds of maple trees on the path connecting the park’s entrance and Naejangsa Temple.

Visitors can either walk along this path after arriving, or can take a shuttle bus to the temple area and watch it from the window. Walking is definitely recommended.

Naejangsa Temple

Nestled in the heart of Naejangsan National Park, surrounded by some of the oldest, wisest ginkgo trees, is the superb Naejangsa Temple. Inhabiting the area since the 7^th Century AD, this carefully reconstructed temple is beautiful inside and out.

Cradled among soaring peaks and leafy trees, the traditional Buddhist temple buildings feel like they’re a part of nature. Take a moment to sit by the small pond outside, close your eyes, and reconnect with your spiritual side.

2022 Update: Sadly, the main temple burnt down in 2021. The rest of the buildings are still in tact and hopefully the main building will be rebuilt in time.

Uhwajeong Pavilion

Providing picture-postcard style views, the Uhwajeong Pavilion is a traditional Korean-style rest station with a bright blue roof. It is uniquely placed in the centre of a lake, surrounded by willowy trees that gently brush the lake’s edge.

The imperious mountains covered with fall foliage finish the scene and create an impressive backdrop. The pavilion is best viewed from the edge of the lake, or on the stone walkway that leads up to it. This spot provides truly iconic scenes that show Korea’s true beauty.

Yeonjabong Peak Observatory And Naejangsan Cable Car

For those who want to see the wooded valleys and rocky slopes without breaking a sweat on the way to the top, there’s the Naejangsan Cable Car, which will whisk you all the way up to the Yeonjabong Peak Observatory. From here you can enjoy some of the best views of the park, where the fall foliage paints a mosaic on the valley below.

Hiking At Naejangsan National Park

For many visitors, seeing the sights of Naejangsan National Park is best enjoyed with a backpack and from the top of the small but challenging peaks that overlook the central valley.

The highest peak is Sinseonbong Peak, standing tall at 763m high. Most of the hiking courses are ‘intermediate’, which means they’re suitable for people in reasonable condition.

You’ll find plenty of Korean families hiking along the many well-maintained hiking routes in the park. The cable car will give people a good head-start should they not want to tackle the ascent at the start.

For some of my top hiking in Korea tips, check out these great Hiking In Korea Tips.

Below is a map of the main hiking trails in Naejangsan National Park.

Eating At Naejangsan National Park

Visiting a national park in Korea provides the opportunity to experience some of the best Korean traditional dishes, and Naejangsan has a great selection of delicious dishes to savor.

During autumn, there are dozens of extra food stalls offering up seasonal specialties, such as roasted chestnuts, as well as the usual street food snacks like hotteok 호떡 (sweet pancake), odeng 오뎅 (fish-cake in soup), and tteokbokki 떡볶이 (spicy fried rice cake).

Traditional restaurants line the entrance of the park where you can indulge in bibimbap 비빔밥 (mixed rice with veg), haemul pajeon 해물파전 (seafood pancake), and lots of other great dishes. There are other restaurants that sell popular Korean dishes, such as donkasu (pork cutlet), as well.

If you want a break in a cute cafe, check out the one near Naejangsa Temple (pictured above). You can sip a warming coffee whilst watching the leaves drop on the ground outside.

There are also lots of nice souvenirs for sale here, including these little Buddha dolls and postcards. Be sure to pick one up as a souvenir of your journey.

Slow Post From Naejangsan

If you travelled to Naejangsan through Jeongeup Station, there’s another fun souvenir that you can send from the station to yourself (or someone else living in Korea).

Called Neurin 느린 (slow) Post, you can mail a postcard with views from Naejangsan on it. However, the postcard is delivered a year later – hence the name ‘slow post’.

You can write a message for the future, to remind yourself of the fun and experiences you had during a day out at Naejangsan National Park.

FAQ About How To Go To Naejangsan National Park

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about how to go to Naejangsan National Park, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

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This guide provides a season-by-season guide to the kind of weather you can expect, as well as the potential problems (and benefits) the seasonal changes bring. Find out when to watch out for typhoons, when to wrap up warm, and when to bring waterproofs for rainy season.

Hiking in Korea is more than just watching the weather. There are so many incredible sights to see. From cherry blossom-lined streets to the stunning views of autumn leaves, silvery reeds, and snow-capped mountain tops, I’ll show you the best places to see them all. Never miss out on the best mountains at the best time with this essential guide to hiking in Korea’s magnificent mountains.

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

When To Go Hiking In Korea For The best Sights

The best seasons to go hiking in Korea are definitely spring and autumn, which both feature warm, sunny days and clears skies while you hike. Summer and winter are tougher, but you can definitely enjoy a day out hiking during these seasons.

Each season in Korea has its own charms – from winter snow to autumn leaves and a lot else in between. There’s not really a bad time to go hiking in Korea, but there are definitely better places to go during each season, and places to avoid.

This Korean seasonal hiking guide will give you a quick overview of the weather in each season, some of the best mountains to hike in each season, what you can expect to see, and how to prepare for hiking at that time of year.

Don’t forget to check out my top 21 Korean Hiking Tips to get even more advice about how to have a fun day out hiking in Korea’s national parks. Also, be sure to check my Complete Guide To Korea’s Seasons to know what to experience in each month. This covers a month-by-month guide to weather, events, activities, and festivals to enjoy throughout the year in Korea.

Spring Hiking In Korea

One of the best seasons to go hiking in Korea. Full of nature, new beginnings, bright flowers, and warm weather. After a long winter, spring brings positivity for the year ahead. The arrival of the cherry blossoms brings a lot of people out into the mountains.

Spring Weather

Still cold from winter in early March, quickly warming and quite hot by the end of May. There can be seasonal fine dust during early spring, but the weather is quite nice apart from that. There can be some showers in early April, but they’re not too strong and you can hike with waterproof clothing.

Best Mountains To Hike

Head to Jirisan or Hallasan (Jeju) for incredible views of Cherry blossoms. Hwangmaesan Mountain in Hapcheon (near Busan) has fields of pink flowers on the mountainside, old fortress walls, and even sheep wondering the hills – a nice secret spot away from the crowds.

Near Seoul, Bukhansan National Park is always good, and you can get views of the greenery returning to parks and palaces across the capital.

Chiaksan National Park near Wonju is packed with more trees and there is also the Wonju Rail-bike Park that offers a fun rail-bike experience along an abandoned train line, passing by lakes, cliffs, and lots of pretty sights.

What You Can See

An abundance of flowers, blossoms, and blue skies. The first blossoms of the season are the plum blossoms (maehwa) in early March, followed up by the Cherry Blossoms in mid to late March and early April. There are also magnolias, azaleas, forsythia, and lots more.

There are many Korean festivals celebrating spring and Buddha’s Birthday that are held in the national parks and mountains. The most popular festivals are the cherry blossom festivals, including the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, which attracts millions of visitors each year.

What To Watch Out For

Fine dust is the biggest issue in spring. Check the air pollution levels before hiking and bring a mask if you expect it. It won’t stop you hiking, but will often spoil the view.

Crowds can also be an issue, especially during cherry blossom season (late March to early April). If you can hike during the week, it’ll be much quieter than the weekends.

Summer Hiking In Korea

Definitely the toughest season to go hiking in Korea, but one where you can still enjoy getting out and seeing the sights. There are more than just mountains to see and the warm summer nights offer the opportunity for night hiking, particularly in Seoul.

Summer Weather

Hot! It doesn’t get cold during summer unless it rains, which it does a lot during July. This is rainy season, so definitely check the weather forecast and pack appropriately if you’re hiking in summer. Night time is cooler and good for special night hikes.

Best Mountains To Hike

I love Odaesan and Gyeryongsan for summer hiking. They have thick forests that provide shelter from the sun’s heat and aren’t too exposed at the top, protecting you from the sun. 

Geumosan Mountain in Gumi (near Daegu) is a nice hidden gem that has a large waterfall you can walk under and a pool to stay cool. You can ride a cable car up to the mountain top and hike back down.

If you’re in Seoul, hike Namsan Mountain at night or along the Seoul City Fortress Walls.

What You Can See

Greenery. After rainy season, plants and trees have a growth explosion and cover everything. Thick leaves, bushes, and plants are everywhere, along with more wildlife and flowers than in any other season.

What To Watch Out For

The heat. Stock up on water and be prepared to sweat. Also be prepared for mosquitoes. They are out in force during summer and you should wear long sleeves to protect against bites. Summer In Korea is tough, but there are many great places to check out, too.

Autumn Hiking In Korea

My favourite season to go hiking in Korea. Long, warm days. Blue skies. And the many colourful autumn leaves that are on display at this time of year. They all add up to one of the best times to be out in nature and hiking. It’s also the most popular time to go hiking in Korea.

Autumn Weather

Lower air pollution than other seasons, more blue skies, and warm (but not hot). The best weather of the year. There are the occasional typhoons, which can be an issue if you’re hiking on Jeju or along the south coast. However, there aren’t as many as in other countries in East Asia.

Best Mountains To Hike

Seoraksan is the most popular destination during autumn, as well as Jirisan, which has loads of maple trees. Naejangsan is considered one of the most beautiful spots for autumn leaves. 

Daedunsan Mountain near Daejeon also has incredible views, as well as a suspension bridge and stairway between peaks (with a scary view below).

If you want to find oceans of silver grass reeds, head to Mindungsan in Gangwon-do.

Check out this article for details about How To Get To Naejangsan. If you want to know more about the best time to travel in Korea, check out my Guide To October In Korea, which is packed with info about festivals, sights, must-do activities, and lots more.

What You Can See

Korea’s Autumn Leaves. These start in late September and run through to early November. There are also various cultural festivals celebrating the harvest and different locally produced products are on sale, such as chestnuts, persimmons, and jujube.

What To Watch Out For

Typhoons. Although they aren’t common, the strong winds and heavy rains make it very dangerous to go hiking. Also keep an eye out for snakes hiding in the fallen leaves.

Winter Hiking In Korea

The coldest season in Korea is actually still a good one to go hiking. Be prepared, wrap up warm, and you can see some incredible sights, including snow-capped mountain tops, snow flowers, and lots more.

Winter Weather

Cold! From mid-November the temperature plummets and is often below 0 degrees Celsius in January and February. This can bring snowy weather, but not all the time.

Hiking in the mountains gives you the best chance to see snow. It’ll also be a lot colder as you start climbing higher. The weather is generally dry during winter, which is good for hiking. Watch out for ice though.

Best Mountains To Hike

Deogyusan is my favourite mountain for winter hiking. There’s often snow and the connected ski-resort gives you an easy way down the mountain after hiking to the top. Jirisan also has great winter views.

If you want to experience snowy mountain views, head to Taebaeksan, it’s famous for its winter festival and snowy scenes. You can get a shuttle bus from Seoul during festival time.

Visiting Jeju Island in winter? Then be sure to try winter hiking on Hallasan for incredible snowy sights.

What You Can See

Snow! In the highest mountains (Seoraksan, Jirisan, Deogyusan, Hallasan), there’s a much better chance of seeing snow than in the cities. A lot of the big ski resorts are in Gyeonggi Province or Gangwon Province in the northern part of Korea, close to Seoul.

What To Watch Out For

Ice. If you’re hiking, make sure you pack some spikes (crampons) and hiking sticks. Wrap up warm because winter is cold and the mountains are freezing. You’ll warm up as you hike though. It gets dark quickly, too. Be prepared to end your hike around 5pm.

The Best Places To Go Hiking In Korea

There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of mountains to choose from if you want to go hiking in Korea. The country is 70% mountainous and knowing which ones are the best ones you should visit can feel a bit overwhelming.

The list below are for the best mountains you can visit from Seoul and then the best mountains you can visit across Korea in case you’re starting from other locations.

Best Mountains To Hike In Seoul

These mountains are all inside Seoul and accessible by public transport

• Bukhansan National Park
• Namsan Mountain (N Seoul Tower)
• Inwangsan Mountain
• Gwanaksan Mountain
• Cheonggyesan Mountain
• Ansan Mountain
• Achasan Mountain

Best Mountains To Hike In Korea

For other parts of Korea, here are some of the best national parks that are typically suitable for all levels.

• Chiaksan National Park
• Seoraksan National Park
• Odaesan National Park
• Jirisan National Park
• Hallasan National Park (Jeju)
• Gyeryongsan National Park
• Songnisan National Park
• Naejangsan National Park

These mountains are some of the Best Mountains To Hike In Korea.

How To Get To The Mountains In Korea

Here are a few tips about how to get to the mountains to start your hiking journey.

By Car

If you have car, then you won’t have many problems getting to the mountains. Look for the national park entrances, there are usually car parks right outside.

Be careful during the busiest times (cherry blossom & autumn leaves season) as traffic can be backed up. Arrive early and leave early to avoid the worst traffic.

By Public Transport

Korea has an amazing bus and train network that goes to the most remote national parks. I don’t own a car and have had to rely on public transport to get to most places.

You’ll need to do some research, and check the routes with Naver / Kakao map apps, as well as Korean bus apps, but it’s certainly possible.

A lot of the major hiking destinations have online guides and you can find out the best way to get there with a quick search. It’s often cheap but be prepared for long journeys. That’s not so bad as you can sleep on the way.

One word of warning: bus drivers in Korea love to turn the heating up to maximum during winter. It’s really, really hot on the bus (way too hot) and you should be prepared to take off most of your winter hiking clothes. The opposite is true in summer when it’s freezing cold with the aircon.

By Taxi

If you travel to nearby towns, getting a taxi is a reasonably priced and convenient option to get to the hiking routes.

For example, if you want to hike Daedunsan near Daejeon or Odaesan near Jinbu, you can get a taxi from these places and be there in 20 – 30 minutes. It’s a lot more convenient as the buses aren’t that frequent.

By Tour Operator

There are a number of great tour operators that provide tours for locals living in Korea or tourists visiting Korea. These can be more expensive than taking public transport, but also get your straight to where you want to go without detours and long waits between connections.

Furthermore, tour operators also provide insights from local guides, extra stops along the way with additional activities you might never get the chance to experience, as well as visiting several famous locations in the same area.

Online tour operators I recommend:

• Klook.com
• Trazy.com

Facebook-based tour companies operating in Korea:

• Seoul Hiking & Nature Group
• Tour 08 Foreigner Tours
• Korea Travel Easy
• WINK Travel

There’s also the option to hire a private driver to take you to various places and guide you around.

I hope these few sections of this guide to hiking in Korea have helped you to figure out when, where, and how to go hiking.

Why Should I Go Hiking In Korea?

Did you know that one translation of ‘Korea’ is ‘land of high mountains and sparkling streams‘? Whenever you go into the Korean countryside, you’re surrounded by mountains and awe-inspiring views. You’ll easily understand why it has that name.

I hope this guide to hiking in Korea has inspired you to get your boots on and go out and experience the incredible scenes you can find all across Korea. In case you’re not convinced about why hiking is a must-do activity in Korea, here are a few more reasons why you should try it:

• It’s great exercise – A day hiking in the mountains can burn hundreds or even thousands of calories and work many different muscles.
• To make friends – There are many social clubs where people go hiking together. It’s a great way to meet new people and find people who like to get out and enjoy nature.
• You’ll see incredible sights – There are incredible scenes waiting to be discovered out there. Waterfalls, friendly squirrels, forested valleys, frozen lakes, snowy peaks, autumn leaves, cherry blossoms, and so much more.
• It’s a cheap day out – Unlike a day at a theme park or visiting expensive attractions, hiking is really cheap. Park entrance fees are a few thousand won and food and snacks don’t cost much at all.
• Chance to see snow – if you’re looking for snowy sights, the mountains during winter are the best places to find them.
• The best Buddhist temples – whilst Seoul has some nice temples, the best ones are all hiding in the national parks. You can even do a temple stay and enjoy hiking in the mountains at the same time

For those living in Korea, I’d recommend joining a hiking Facebook group such as the Seoul Nature & Hiking Group or Hiking In Korea.

Hiking In Korea FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about how to go hiking in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

Support In My Korea

Thanks for reading. If you want to help me to create more great content in the future, why not buy me a coffee? A strong coffee helps me write more and is a simple way to show gratitude for this free content.

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