[Updated 16 September 2019]
Nothing sounds better to us right now than taking a lone stroll through the forest, immersing yourself in nature with the echoing sound of leaves crunching underneath your feet with every step. Now, what better place would you go to experience the fall foliage than in Korea?
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The forecasted period for autumn 2019 starts from late September and can be savoured till early November, so you have more than enough time to book that (spontaneous) flight. ?
Best time to visit
Credit: weatheri (via Korea Tourism Organization)
The following table is according to mountain regions across Korea and the dates are subject to change depending on weather conditions. Remember to pack for the cold weather especially if you plan on trekking up to see the gorgeous views. Taking windchill into account you could run into temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius!
| Mountain | First Appearance | Peak |
| Seoraksan National Park (NaeSeorak) | September 27 | October 16 |
| Bukhansan National Park (Dobong) | October 14 | October 29 |
| Odaesan National Park | October 1 | October 14 |
| Woraksan National Park | October 11 | October 23 |
| Songnisan National Park | October 15 | October 30 |
| Gyeryongsan National Park | October 17 | October 27 |
| Gayasan National Park | October 14 | October 27 |
| Jirisan National Park (Nogodan Peak) | October 11 | October 22 |
| Naejangsan National Park | October 17 | November 3 |
| Mudeungsan National Park | October 20 | November 2 |
| Hallasan National Park | October 15 | October 30 |
If you really want to experience the fall foliage in all its’ natural glory, we suggest visiting during the peak period, which starts from October 14 onwards depending on the location. Make your way down to Woraksan on the east coast on October 23 and be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of falling leaves. ? Of course, if you're planning on staying near Seoul, you can also visit the iconic Bukhansan National Park on 29 October to enjoy the beautiful orange and yellow leaves.
Best spots for autumn foliage across Korea
1. Seoraksan National Park (Seoul)
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One of the first places in South Korea to be greeted by fall's magnificent colors will be the northeast, at Seoraksan National Park (NaeSeorak) around 27 September. Rows and rows of bright red foliage line the paths leading up and around the mountain, which are perfect for a leisurely trek as you take in the beauty. Seoraksan is also great for a short day trip from Seoul, so why not spend 5D4N in Seoul and have the trip of a lifetime!
2. Gyeongbokgung National Palace (Seoul)
When on the hunt for gorgeous scenery, Korea's national palaces should be one of the first places you head to! Wandering the grounds of Gyeongbokgung is already romantic enough, but being surrounded by beautiful orange leaves just takes it up a notch. ?
3. Nami Island (Seoul)
Nami Island is a popular scenic destination year-round - so just imagine how beautiful it gets in the fall! Rows and rows of trees heavy with yellow, red, and orange leaves await you, and it'll feel just like you're in your favourite K-drama. To get the best out of your time here, pack a small picnic lunch and sit and enjoy the peaceful autumn atmosphere.
P.S. Don't forget to check out our ultimate Muslim-friendly guide to Seoul for a gorgeous autumn experience!
4. Yangju Nari Park (Gyeonggi-do)
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Autumn is associated with orange and yellow, but here's where you can snap a pic with a gorgeous PINK field of Muhly grass! Yangju is located in Gyeonggi-do and is a short journey away from Seoul which makes it perfect for a day trip. If you're interested in exploring more of Gyeonggi-do, here's a 5D4N itinerary that combines the best of Seoul and Gyeonggi-do!
5. Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
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Bulguksa Temple is more well-known for its colourful rainbow lanterns, but the landscape takes on a completely different feel in autumn! Visit during the sunset to catch the orange light dyeing the grounds a soft and contemplative yellow.
6. Daegu Arboretum (Daegu)
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Daegu is the 4th largest city in South Korea, but it's still not as popular as Seoul or Busan. Why not buck the trend and visit this stunning city as a day trip? Located between Seoul and Busan, it's accessible via the KTX cross-country rail and is home to some gorgeous sites such as the Daegu Arboretum. The Arboretum blooms with beautiful flowers year-round but the bright red and orange leaves that emerge during the fall will truly take your breath away.
7. Beomeosa Temple (Busan)
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Temples are some of the best locations for admiring the fall foliage. Korean temples are surrounded by greenery and open space, and the quiet tranquility of the area will allow you to admire the beautiful scenery in peace. Busan may be known for being a seaside town, but if you're visiting during autumn make sure to drop by Beomeosa Temple to admire the orange leaves across the temple grounds.
Credit: Anh Dinh on Flickr
With all of this beautiful foliage, we’re sure that everyone will be falling for autumn in Korea very soon?