Korea Travel Guide

Korea Fall Foliage | Best Places to See Autumn Leaves in Korea

Autumn is one of the best seasons to visit Korea.

Mountains, parks, and historic sites across the country turn red, orange, and yellow.

The Korea fall foliage season usually runs from October to early November.

In 2026, Seoraksan is expected to see its first foliage on October 3. Peak foliage will then move south through the country.

Planning your trip around the foliage forecast can help you catch the leaves at their best.

Seoraksan | See Korea’s Fall Foliage First

Seoraksan is one of the first places to see Korea fall foliage each year.

In 2026, the first foliage is expected around October 3. Peak colors are expected around October 19.

You can enjoy the autumn scenery without a long hike.

The Seoraksan Cable Car offers an easier way to see the colorful mountain landscape.

• Foliage season: Around October 19

Incheon Grand Park | Fall Foliage Near Seoul

Incheon Grand Park is a convenient fall foliage spot near Seoul.

The large park has walking trails, a botanical garden, a zelkova tree path, and a sculpture park.

The lakeside trail and metasequoia forest are especially beautiful in autumn.

You can also rent a bicycle and explore the park at your own pace.

• Foliage season: Late October to early November

The exact timing may vary depending on weather conditions.

Hwadam Forest | A Popular Fall Foliage Spot

Hwadam Forest in Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do, is a popular Korea fall foliage destination near Seoul.

The arboretum has 16 themed gardens and well-maintained walking trails.

Visitors can walk through the forest or take the monorail to enjoy the scenery.

Advance reservations are required during the autumn peak season.

In 2026, the peak season runs from late October to mid-November.

Late October to early November is expected to be a good time to see the fall colors.

• Foliage season: Late October to early November

Bulguksa Temple | Fall Foliage in Gyeongju

Bulguksa Temple is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Gyeongju.

In autumn, traditional temple buildings are surrounded by colorful foliage.

The foliage arrives later in Gyeongju than in northern Korea.

This makes Bulguksa a good option for Korea fall foliage in early to mid-November.

The area around Cheongungyo and Baegungyo is a popular photo spot.

You can also enjoy a quiet walk through the temple grounds.

• Foliage season: Early to mid-November

The exact timing may vary depending on weather conditions.

Plan Your Korea Fall Foliage Trip

Fall foliage in Korea starts in the north and gradually moves south.

The best places to see the leaves depend on your travel dates.

If you visit in early October, consider Seoraksan.

 For late October, Incheon Grand Park and Hwadam Forest are good options. Gyeongju is worth considering for early to mid-November.

Foliage dates can change depending on temperature, rain, and wind.

Check the latest forecast before your trip.

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